New Mexico: Land of Enchantment

New Mexico, in the Southwest, is the "Land of Enchantment" with stunning desert landscapes, rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, and unique tri-cultural blend of Native, Hispanic, and Anglo influences unlike anywhere else in America.

Santa Fe, the capital, is America's oldest state capital with distinctive adobe architecture, art galleries, and culinary scene. Albuquerque is the largest city and hot air balloon capital. Carlsbad Caverns has massive underground chambers. White Sands National Park features gypsum dunes. Los Alamos developed the atomic bomb. Roswell claims UFO encounter. Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

New Mexico's economy includes federal government (national labs, military bases), oil and gas, tourism, and film production. The state has highest percentage of Hispanic residents and significant Native American population (19 pueblos, Navajo Nation). Green chile is essential to cuisine (red or green?). Despite poverty challenges, New Mexico offers stunning beauty, unique culture, and artistic communities. Breaking Bad filmed in Albuquerque.