Just back from my first trip to ABQ. Thoughts and impressions. (Columbus: apartments, home)

[Grass4]

Overall, I liked ABQ a lot. It did remind me of Tucson, which is the only other city in the southwest that I've spent considerable time in. However, it seemed a bit greener and a bit more upscale. Overall a better place for someone my age (23).

Food was great. Got my first taste of green chili and loved it. Ate out about 3 times a day so I don't really recall each one, but some memorable spots were Ruben's Mexican Grill, El Pinto, Range Cafes and various Flying Stars. I really liked Flying Star and there whole concept of free magazines. Don't find that much here in Long Island, NY.

Nob Hill was cool, but the core of it was smaller than I expected. Still seems like a fun place to relax and grab some coffee or food during the week.

Didn't really get a chance to check out any of the bars or nightlife, but I'm not a huge fan of that scene anyway so no biggie.

Was surprised by just how many hispanic people there were in some parts. Definitely not used to being the minority. Call it "racist" or whatever you'd like, but I think I'd be more comfortable in the northeast heights. Saw some great and affordable housing and apartments in that area. The Mountain Run apartments are currently at the top of my list. Are there any other comparable complexes in the area?

Went hiking twice, once on the Embudito trail and once on the Tramway/Luz trail. Not sure if I spelled those right. Didn't get very far on either but I was impressed with the proximity. Can't wait to get more accustomed with the local hiking and biking hotspots.

Also visited the zoo, aquarium, and botanical gardens, which I was impressed by. The tram was closed for maintenance so we missed out on that. Also missed out on Old Town.

Overall, I was definitely impressed with the city and am strongly considering making the move sometime this summer. Hopefully the job situation is okay, but since I plan on eventually working from home I'm not TOO worried - although it would be nice to have a job while smoothing out the transition.

[derekbill]

Interesting analysis. I don't often get to read impressions like these from a non-travel-writer. You are obviously someone who looks before you leap.

I'm sure you realize that there have been hispanics here since not long after Columbus made his voyage, and a hundred years or so before the Mayflower. I'm fascinated that some of the families here can trace their histories back to some of the those first explorers. When I was in school on the west coast we had plenty of discussion of Coronado and all those guys, but the emphasis was still very much on the people who settled New England.

And that's not even taking into account the true natives......

Also, this time of year here is probably the least attractive from a landscape standpoint. Ten thousand shades of tan. If you're lucky you left before our March winds started up. Also, I guess you know it has been warmer and drier than usual these last several weeks.

Visit again in May or September and I bet you'll be sold.

[Poncho_NM]

Originally Posted by Grass4

Also visited the zoo, aquarium, and botanical gardens, which I was impressed by.

I've been to large zoo's and Aquariums, I prefer the ones here in ABQ, there is enough to keep me busy...

Thank's for you feedback, it's nice to hear some realistic comments which aren't hatelful, sarcastic etc. Just an honest opinion is nice...




Rich

[spyderman]

Which airport did you come in to ? what is the prefered ? Sounds like you did alot, 23 and not into bars....Im impressed

[WasSoggyInSeattle]

Good comments, thanks for you honesty and kindness. Glad you enjoyed your trip. Good luck on your decision and hopeful move.

[Grass4]

Originally Posted by spyderman

Which airport did you come in to ? what is the prefered ? Sounds like you did alot, 23 and not into bars....Im impressed

Came into the Sunport...I guess that is preferred? I don't even know where any other airports in NM are.

We were there for 5 nights/6 days and got a lot done!

There's a lot more to do than bars depending on what you're into, which was a big plus for me personally. I could probably stay content with hanging out at the coffee shops near Nob Hill every night! Factor in all the different restaurants and outdoor activities, as well as places to visit in a 100 mile radius, and I imagine you can stay pretty busy.

[Mike Horrell]

Originally Posted by Grass4

Factor in all the different restaurants and outdoor activities, as well as places to visit in a 100 mile radius, and I imagine you can stay pretty busy.

It's been working for us...

[rybert]

Originally Posted by spyderman

Which airport did you come in to ? what is the prefered ? Sounds like you did alot, 23 and not into bars....Im impressed

I don't think Southwest/Frontier/Delta/American fly into Double Eagle. lol

[rybert]

Originally Posted by Grass4

Overall, I liked ABQ a lot. It did remind me of Tucson, which is the only other city in the southwest that I've spent considerable time in. However, it seemed a bit greener and a bit more upscale. Overall a better place for someone my age (23).

Food was great. Got my first taste of green chili and loved it. Ate out about 3 times a day so I don't really recall each one, but some memorable spots were Ruben's Mexican Grill, El Pinto, Range Cafes and various Flying Stars. I really liked Flying Star and there whole concept of free magazines. Don't find that much here in Long Island, NY.

Nob Hill was cool, but the core of it was smaller than I expected. Still seems like a fun place to relax and grab some coffee or food during the week.

Didn't really get a chance to check out any of the bars or nightlife, but I'm not a huge fan of that scene anyway so no biggie.

Was surprised by just how many hispanic people there were in some parts. Definitely not used to being the minority. Call it "racist" or whatever you'd like, but I think I'd be more comfortable in the northeast heights. Saw some great and affordable housing and apartments in that area. The Mountain Run apartments are currently at the top of my list. Are there any other comparable complexes in the area?

Went hiking twice, once on the Embudito trail and once on the Tramway/Luz trail. Not sure if I spelled those right. Didn't get very far on either but I was impressed with the proximity. Can't wait to get more accustomed with the local hiking and biking hotspots.

Also visited the zoo, aquarium, and botanical gardens, which I was impressed by. The tram was closed for maintenance so we missed out on that. Also missed out on Old Town.

Overall, I was definitely impressed with the city and am strongly considering making the move sometime this summer. Hopefully the job situation is okay, but since I plan on eventually working from home I'm not TOO worried - although it would be nice to have a job while smoothing out the transition.

Sounds like you had a busy time! Welcome to the forum!

Too bad about the Tram. Next time, right?

My sister lives at the Mountain Run apartments. Smith's Grocery is behind Mountain Run and there is a great park on the other side of Eubank. She had trouble with her washer and drier when she first moved-in, but they have since fixed the problem. Otherwise I don't think she had any major complaints. The wood-burning fireplace is a nice bonus as well.

[Towanda]

Thanks for a good post, Grass4.

I hope everything works out well for you and if you decide to move here, it is good to know you have done your homework first.