Exploring the Heart of the Southwest: My Santa Fe Travel Guide

The American Southwest is a favorite destination for many travelers, but Santa Fe, New Mexico is a hidden gem. Recently, I was able to explore what makes it a destination unlike any other. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a quick guide to experience the best of this city.

Start at the Santa Fe Plaza, the historic city square surrounded by traditional adobe buildings. Local Native Americans sell handcrafted jewelry and pottery here in front of the Palace of the Governors.

Be sure to explore the extensive arts scene! Make a stop at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, stroll down Canyon Road with its many galleries and shops, or visit the Tumbleroot Pottery Pub for a fun combination of crafting your own pottery with a cocktail.

Take a hike at Bandelier National Park, just north of the city, to climb into cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

And don’t forget the food! Enjoy authentic New Mexican cuisine from local favorites such as The Pink Adobe, Kawaka Chocolate House, or the Santa Fe Farmers Market.

If you’re looking to relax, there are plenty of spas to choose from. Ten Thousand Waves is a unique Japanese-style spa and resort where you’ll have no problem unwinding.  

Santa Fe is more than a destination – it’s an experience steeped in culture, art, and history. Whether you’re wandering through galleries, enjoying a margarita, or hiking mountains, this city will leave you enchanted. Ready to explore the heart of the Southwest? Santa Fe is waiting. Contact us at Witte Travel to plan your trip!


Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

The Pacific Northwest: Highlights From My Trip to Seattle, Vancouver, and Victoria

Have you ever had a place you’ve wanted to visit for years and finally made it happen? For me, that place was the Pacific Northwest—Seattle and Vancouver in particular. After thinking about it for so long, I finally went, and it was a trip I’ll always remember.

I started in Seattle, a city full of interesting things to see and do. One of my first stops was Chihuly Garden and Glass, which was unlike anything I’d seen before. I also spent time at the Seattle Art Museum, took in the views from the Space Needle, and wandered through Pike Place Market, where the mix of food, flowers, and local vendors made it a fun spot to explore. The Museum of Pop Culture was another highlight, especially if you enjoy music and film. Between sightseeing, I had great meals: fresh seafood along the waterfront and breakfasts in small, diverse restaurants around the city.

Getting to Vancouver was easy with a smooth border crossing. Vancouver felt like a big city but still close to nature. I visited Granville Island, checked out the Museum of Anthropology, and spent time at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. That park was one of my favorite experiences. Walking through an old-growth rainforest with towering Douglas firs and western red cedars was incredible. Some of those trees have been standing for over 1,500 years. Even though it rained, the mist in the forest made it feel peaceful and quiet.

To finish the trip, I took a ferry to Vancouver Island. Butchart Gardens was beautiful, especially in the fall when the trees were full of color. I also explored Victoria, the capital city, which had a relaxed vibe and great views along the water.

Looking back, this trip was worth the wait. The Pacific Northwest has so much to offer: art, culture, nature, and good food. If you’ve ever thought about going, I’d say do it. Whether it’s sunny or raining, Seattle and Vancouver are places you’ll enjoy.


Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113