A RELAXING WEEKEND IN THE LAND OF ENCHANTMENT - NEW MEXICO
- THE COSMIC VOYAGER
- Feb 21
- 4 min read
Updated: May 16
This trip to New Mexico actually started as a work visit on Friday, but instead of flying back right away, I decided to stay through the weekend. I didn’t plan a packed itinerary this time, so no rushing between attractions, no strict schedule. I just wanted to slow down, relax, explore a little, and enjoy the calm atmosphere New Mexico naturally offers. Sometimes the best trips aren’t about doing everything, they’re about doing just enough to feel refreshed.
After finishing my work in Albuquerque, I stopped by "The Artichoke Cafe" for dinner before heading to Ten Thousand Waves. I ordered a drink and a pasta dish, simple but really delicious, and honestly, the perfect way to wind down before the quiet weekend ahead.
Day 1 Itinerary
Ten Thousand Waves Bathing & Spa
Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site
Izanami Restaurant
Day 2 Itinerary
Ten Thousand Waves Bathing
Santa Fe Plaza
Day 1: Relaxation Highlights
Ten Thousand Waves - Map
Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-style spa and lodging retreat tucked into the hills outside Santa Fe. The property features natural-wood architecture, outdoor soaking tubs, and peaceful mountain surroundings. It feels secluded and quiet, perfect if you’re looking to slow down.
Interesting things about this place:
The resort was founded in the 1980s by two Santa Fe residents inspired by Japanese hot spring culture.
The name “Ten Thousand Waves” comes from a Japanese phrase referring to countless ripples of water in a hot spring.
The property sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet, giving it cooler mountain weather and fresh air.
Many of the soaking tubs are outdoor baths surrounded by trees, making it feel very secluded.
Some rooms include private outdoor hot tubs, inspired by traditional Japanese ryokan lodging.
They are known for their onsen-style bathing experience, which includes:
Communal outdoor soaking pools
Cold plunge pools
Sauna
Private soaking tubs
Massage and facial spa services
I slept in until around 11 AM. Breakfast had already been delivered outside my door earlier, so I grabbed it and took my time easing into the day. Since the weather was cool and pleasant (thankfully not too sunny), I put on my swimsuit and headed up the hill to the outdoor soaking baths. The climb itself made me realize the elevation here is no joke; I was definitely breathing heavier than usual.
Before settling in, I checked with the front desk about spa availability and booked a facial for later in the day. That gave me plenty of time to enjoy the baths. I spent about an hour and a half rotating between the warm open-air pools, the cold plunge, and the sauna. It was an incredibly calming, quiet atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and everyone there seemed focused on relaxing rather than socializing.
By the end, my body felt completely relaxed, almost sleepy. After drying off and changing, I went for my facial appointment. It was a 60-minute session, decent overall, though I personally felt my skin a bit dry afterward.
Later in the evening, I drove up to Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site. It was peaceful, barely anyone around. I took a few photos, sat on a bench, and just enjoyed the mountain air for a bit before heading back.
I drove back to the hotel and relaxed for a bit. When I was ready for dinner, I headed to "Izanami", the restaurant on the property. The menu is fully Japanese-inspired. I ordered a few dishes and finished with dessert, a simple and perfect way to end the day.
NOTE: Dinner reservations are recommended here, especially on weekends.
This was one of the best days of my life, a much-needed, long-awaited break. Sometimes the best travel experiences aren’t packed with activities; they’re the ones where you simply slow down and enjoy the moment.
Day 2: From Soaking Baths to Santa Fe Streets
Ten Thousand Waves - Map
I woke up the next day feeling sober and didn't want to get out of bed. But today is my checkout day, so before I leave the hotel, I want to try the open bath again. They provided the same breakfast as yesterday, so I just had it quickly. I did check out the small shop in the reception area, but I didn't buy anything. Started off with a Sauna, then alternated between a cold plunge and a warm bath for an hour. Finally, took a shower in the room, packed everything, and checked out of the hotel.
Santa Fe Plaza - Map
Since my flight wasn’t until later in the evening, I decided to take my time and drive into Santa Fe Plaza to explore the shopping streets and enjoy the atmosphere. I visited The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Santa Fe’s most recognizable landmarks. The Romanesque-style architecture stood out beautifully against the blue-gray sky, and the whole area around the cathedral felt lively yet relaxed.
For lunch, I stopped at French Pastry Shop & Restaurant and ordered savory crepes, which I really enjoyed. I wasn’t expecting Santa Fe Plaza to be so busy, but the energy made the experience even better. The streets were filled with unique local shops, art galleries, handmade jewelry, pottery collections, and Southwestern-style artifacts. I kept admiring the pottery pieces in several stores, though the ones I liked most were definitely expensive. There also happened to be some kind of local event going on in the plaza. Kids and adults were performing on stage, and I spent some time just sitting there watching and enjoying the atmosphere. Another pleasant day filled with happiness, good food, and simple moments.
My Final Thoughts
This New Mexico trip wasn’t about checking off a long list of attractions or rushing from one place to another. It was simply about slowing down, relaxing, and enjoying the moment. From the peaceful baths at Ten Thousand Waves to the lively atmosphere of Santa Fe Plaza, every part of the weekend felt calm, refreshing, and exactly what I needed.
Have you explored New Mexico or stayed at Ten Thousand Waves? I’d love to hear about your favorite relaxing spots, hidden gems, or memorable experiences in the Land of Enchantment. Every journey has its own story, and sharing them is part of what makes travel so special.
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