Thank you for the question! I love this one.

First, I want to highlight a couple of places close to home here in Tanoan. I have to start by saying… take advantage of walking our beautiful community. The landscaping is so thoughtfully maintained, and we truly live in one of the greenest communities in the city. There are also great little pocket areas to sit and relax, plus enough hills to get a really good workout in.

We’re also lucky to have access to some incredible trails nearby. La Luz Trail is one of them—it’s very intense, but if you go all the way to the top (over 13 miles), it’s absolutely worth it. On the other hand, Elena Gallegos Open Space is much more beginner-friendly and just as beautiful. If you want more information on either, feel free to scan the QR code.

If you haven’t experienced a Himalayan salt cave, I highly recommend it. The Salt Cave is centrally located, the space is beautiful, and the staff is incredible. If you’re wondering what it is—it’s a halotherapy experience where fine salt particles are dispersed into the air, creating a calm environment where you can relax and breathe in mineral-rich air. The biggest benefit for most people is deep relaxation, which can help reduce stress and improve sleep.

If you want to venture a little further out, White Sands National Park is one of my favorite places in the state. It’s such a unique and stunning landscape—perfect if you want to romanticize your life and get incredible photos. I recommend going in the late afternoon or evening, and definitely bring a sled.

The last place I’ll highlight is Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can easily spend four hours just exploring the main areas. If you’re up for more adventure, there are guided cave tours as well. One of the most unique experiences is watching the bats emerge in the evening—it’s truly something special.

I would love to hear your favorite places and any recommendations you have!

Your Neighbor,

Val Almanzar

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