Thursday, December 31, 2009

Happy New Years! 8" Powder at Taos!

Skiing is the best of the season at Taos with 8" fresh last 24 hours and 12" total over last few days. That gives them a total of 42" base. That is better than the huge central Colorado resorts!!!

Learn to Ski Better week at Taos is a long time favorite with MANY returning skiers from around the world. Normal price is $234. Skier comments are exceptionally good on these ski school classes. January classes are specially priced at $99. There will be 5 ski week classes starting in January beginning the 3rd. Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza offers weekly rates that are the best you'll find in any ski area, any where! Singles from $305. Free upgrade to deluxe single king bed with gas log fireplace / heater.

Sipapu also received almost a foot of fresh powder. They've openned more terrain and runs. With 32" total, they too are better than all but a few area resorts. Remember, we have discount coupons at the front desk for a $5 savings at Sipapu (some limits apply).

Be safe tonight, New Years Eve!

Thanks for a very good year to each Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza team member and to every Guest of 2009. Visit our web site for more Taos and hotel information: www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Call direct for reservations: 800-444-2346.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Very Positive 2009 Results at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza

May I brag about our team of Associates just a little? We are going to end the year very close to even with last year sales. With this years national economic malaise, that is a very positive result. Why? How?

For November, we were virtually identical to last years November while the State of NM was down around 10 to 15% in rooms and dollars. Both our number of rooms and sales dollars were even with 2008 yet the town of Taos numbers dropped about 25%.

Thanks to each team member at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza for their efforts during 2009. Their attention to sales on the phone and at the front desk, to professional housekeeping, to maintenance with pride, to cleanliness and friendliness, etc. are all part of why and how we've achieved such positive results during very trying times for many people.

Guests who reserve for 1 night are adding more nights to their stay. Guests are telling us that we are providing them with the kind of friendly, helpful service that they don't often get. We hear from many who appreciate our helping with their area wander about plans (remember, we claim our team provide excellent "tour guide" like service). Give them a chance and they'll make certain you enjoy as many days as you'll allow us to guide your Taos area entertainment.

Again, thanks to both each of our team members and every Guest who's visited Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. You've got maybe 40 lodging choices in just the Taos area. We're very grateful you chose us! Make 2010 your best year yet!

Everything is Relative

When you step back a few paces, most things in life are somewhat relative. In this case, I'm speaking of skiing. Taos Ski Valley has about 35" of snow, is making snow nightly, the other neighboring areas have a little less total snow. One of Colorado's ski areas (that sells as many lift tickets as the entire state of NM does) has only 22". Although 35 isn't all that much, it beats the heck out of 22. Skiing this Christmas holiday is relatively good in Taos compared to central Colorado or even the Lake Tahoe areas. It's not too late to plan that trip up for the New Years celebration!

Speaking of NYE, Taos Ski Valley will do a torchlight parade with fireworks the 31st. If you've never attended such an event, make it this year! The parade starts at 6 PM. Fireworks between 7 and 8 PM +/-. and a party at the Martini Tree Bar at 8 PM ($20 cover, show starts at 9 PM). Remember to have a designated driver.

Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza has some rooms left through the 2nd of January. Book direct at our web site: http://mycrs.innpoints.com/book/book/Wizard?hotelCode=R2832. Visit our web site for more hotel information: www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Or call direct to book at 800-444-2346.

Friday, December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas Morning to You...More Partying

First, the entire team at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza wishes each Guest and reader the best of holidays to you and your family! Regardless of your religion or beliefs, this is the season to give thought to how you are living life and how your life fits into the bigger scheme issues of life. We pray that you'll be able to sleep well at night knowing you are a contributo to improving others place in the world.

Enough of that heavy conversation. Let's continue yesterday's party focus with your plans for New Years eve. Oh, haven't made them yet. One of the successful approaches to life suggest planning early in order to get the best of what might be offered. In other words, make your plans AND RESERVATIONS for whatever NY eve party you will attend EARLY.

Graham's Grill, just North of the Plaza entry, invites folks to their festivites which feature Taos' Premiere performer, Barbara Jones accompanied by Dan Lizdas. Their evening includes a full dinner plus ongoing entertainment. Dinners can be selected from Lobster, Salmon, Pork Tenderloin, or Beef Tenderloin, all loaded with side dishes including dessert. Cost is $55 per person plus tax and tip. Reserve early at 575-751-1350 #1 or http://www.opentable.com/ or view their website here: http://www.grahamstaos.com/dining/.

Also located near Indian Hills Inn, you'll find the Downtown Bistro. In fact it's next door. Not certain of their NYE plans but Guests tell us their food is terrific.

Ogilvies is located at the entry to historic Taos Plaza. Don't know of their NYE party plans but they've been there for many moon and welcomed many a new year into life. Web site: www.ogilvies.com. Or 575-758-8866.

In any event, the point is to plan ahead. Don't wait until the last minute (they may not have space available). Please don't visit Taos just for the New Years party night. Plan to stay, ski, shop, explore, gamble a few days. Make Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza your Taos home away from home. Our team of Associates invites and welcomes you in our warm and comfy lobby. They are possibly Taos' best tour guides for advice of what to do, where to go, what to see, how to get there, etc. You'll sleep like a baby on our memory foam mattress topped beds (Taos' best sleep according to Guests). Check us out at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Then call for reservations (holidays fill fast!) 800-444-2346.

Have a great Christmas holiday and an exceptional New Year! Thanks for reading. Sign up and post your comment. Follow our blog.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

HOLIDAY PARTY HEARTY in Taos!

If you need to sit back, relax, dance, have a toddy, and just enjoy the end of 2009, you can do that in Taos. There are always musical menus to select from. For the party animals, Eskes Brew Pub is a good choice for Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza Guests. It's just a block walk up the road (North) and the same crawl back. Try the green chili beer (I suggest sample size only). Here's their web site for music details: http://eskesbrewpub.com/.

Another short walk (South) from your convenient downtown hotel at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza is Shadows Lounge and Grill. They too are just about a block from your warm and comfy lodging at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. They are Taos' sports bar with 8 flat screen TVs to watch your fav event. They also offer music from live to DJs to karaoke. Details at: http://www.shadowsloungeandgrill.com/.

Alley Cantina is on the NW corner alley of historic Taos Plaza. BTW, our lobby artist, Sam Del Russi, is their kitchen manager. It's a great fun place to listen, dine, and dance. Infor at their web site: http://www.alleycantina.com/.

Just North of Taos Plaza, you'll find the historic Taos Inn with the Adobe Bar. For dozens of years, this has been the place to unwind after a great day of shopping or skiing. Music, drinks, food, more. Here's the link: http://www.taosinn.com/adobe_bar.html.

The best reason to visit those entertainment places is you can walk from your affordable hotel room at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Yes, they are all within 2 or 3 blocks (or less). Don't risk a DWI (a certain way to spoil your holiday).

Taos offers many other further places to dine, tickle your ears, tap your toes, and slide your feet. In any event, make Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza your head quarters for Living Life at a Higher Level while you explore the environs surrounding Taos.

We always offer downtown Taos's most affordable hotel rates, include complimentary continental breakfast, have free WIFI, have some of Taos' best tour guides working our front desk. Many properties are full for the holidays. We still have rooms some nights. Visit our web site today: www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn then call direct to book your room: 800-444-2346.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Sipapu is ALWAYS in the Christmas giving mood!

We've worked with sipapu for many years. It is an awesome, friendly, family oriented ski area that can boast about being the first to open and last to close in NM (almost every year). So why do I say they are always in the Christmas giving mood? Here's 10 reasons for you to ski Sipapu:

1. Active military ski and ride for FREE. Show active ID and ski on. Good almost all season (some blackout dates). Remember our 50% off for military and veterans? We love folks who support and honor our brave soldiers. Details: http://www.sipapunm.com/index.php?option=com_lodge_management&task=special_detail&id=16&startdate=&enddate=&Itemid=71

2. All kids 6 and under ski FREE. Any day, every day, no blackout dates! Yes, you can afford to take the kids skiing!

3. First time skiers and boarders (7 years and up) get their first 3 lessons FREE. Details: http://www.sipapunm.com/index.php?option=com_lodge_management&task=special_detail&id=23&startdate=&enddate=&Itemid=71

4. Over 70? You still ski FREE at Sipapu. Did you note the key word? FREEEEEEEEE!

5. They have several other great value specials listed at their web site.

6. If you don't get or qualify for one of the "deals", their basic lift ticket is still only $39. That is one of the least expensive and affordable lift tickies anywhere!

7. Their equipment rental costs, miscelaneous store sales prices, and foods are also affordably priced. A family can still get the whole bunch on the hill and no put yourselves in the poor house!

Check em out: www.sipapunm.com. Tell them Indian Hills Inn sent you!

Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza is only about 20 miles from Sipapu. You'll really enjoy being located in the heart of downtown Taos. Note: we also offer Guests Sipapu discount coupons to save $5 off their already low tickets. Our rates are usually amongst the most reasonable in Taos. Christmas week, we are a bit higher than normal for us BUT still far lower than ours and most other ski areas. I just checked one Colorado area for Christmas lodging rates. The LOWEST per night was $209. Average was around $400. Christmas week, you'll stay alomost 2 nights with us for each night there! View our web site for loads of Taos area and hotel information: www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Then call direct for the best up to the minute data and rates - 800-444-2346.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. Thank you for your business. Although many lodging markets are down significantly (Taos is no exception), we are proudly virtually identidcal to mlast years sales. The ONLY reason we are counter economy is our team is focused on providing YOU great service from our convenient location with comfortable, quality rooms, all with GREAT value pricing!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Snowshoe Taos and Taos Lodging over the Holidays

Most downtown Taos lodging is nearing full capcity for the holidays. We called around last week checking the others availability and found that most hotels were from 85 to 95% reserved from the 26th thru the 2nd. Fortunately, Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza still has a few rooms during those dates. Many of the further out hotels are also nearing full.

Price wise, the holidays are always a time for higher rates. Yet Taos in general is much more affordable than any other ski aea around. Some Colorado ski are motels are from $200 a night to who knows the top. Taos does have rooms over $200 but very few and then just a little over $200. Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza remains amongst the most affordable downtown in any resort. Holiday rates are yet from $139 for a single.

Some folks want other outdoor activities while visiting Taos. Snowshoeing popularity has been growing over the last few years. Taos Snowshoe Adventures is a part the Llama Adventure and is now offering witner excursions from beginner 2 hours to full day snowshoe trips. As usual for them, the trips are professionally guided and Guests are loving the experience. It is another great means of Experiencing Life at a Higher Level in Taos! Check out their web site: http://www.snowshoetaos.com./

Several local firms offer snow mobile tours for another added wineter Taos experience. Ask at the front desk or check our web site. I think we've listed a couple providers on the site.

A drive tour around the surrounding areas offers incredible vistas during all seasons. Winter mountains are my favorite. Dress with preparedness in mind and drive safely. A trip around the Enchanted Circle is always fun, over to Raton is beautiful, down to Las Vegas (the old LV, not new), over to Ojo Caliente hot springs, down to Los Alamos, or even to Santa Fe are avenues for you to see more of Northern NM while you visit Taos.

Rates this week at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza are still very reasonable ranging from $79 a night for a single. We'll do a multi night special of Pay 3 Nights, the 4th is FREE. The holiday rates increase on the 26th and return to lower rates Sunday January 3, 2010. January rates begin at $69 with lower rates for longer stays. As usual, we invite weeklies from as little as $305 single. Visit us soon at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Then call to reserve to 800-444-2346.

Enjoy the decorations of Taos, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas! New Mexico and Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza appreciate your spending time in the Land of Enchantment!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Taos Pueblo Winter Schedule

As always, it is best to check with the Pueblo Tourism office at 575-758-1028 prior to finalizing your travel plans as their schedules may change. Also, please note that the Pueblo does not allow cell phones, cameras, recording devices, and no pets (for some events).

December 24, 2009, Childrens dances starting around noon, Vespers (mass) at 4 PM, and bon fires at dusk.

December 25, 2009, Deer dance begins at 1 PM.

January 1, 2010, Turtle dance begins at sunrise.

January 6, 2010, Kings Day, Buffalo dance at 1 PM.

March - April the Pueblo will be closed for religious activities.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Robert Mirabal presents Pueblo Christmas

Taos is fortunate to have a very capable and well kown musical artist in Robert Mirabal. Robert is a two time Grammy Award winner and Taos Pueblo tribal member. Plus, he's been nominated for a third Grammy by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for his latest CD, 'Johnny Whitehorse Riders of the Healing Road". The new CD is a message of spirituality and focuses on healers and those seeking healing. The awards ceremony is January 31, 2010.

Want to listen to Mr. Mirabal live? His holiday concert is next weekend, Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 7:30 PM. Presented at Taos Community Auditorium, I'd suggest purchasing your tickets early as Robert's concerts often sell out. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. www.tcataos.org. 575-758-2052. www.mirabal.com. Robert invites you to bring a child's gift or cash donation for the Middle Road Foundation's annual Christmas Giveaway at Taos Pueblo.

Early ski season lift and lodging rates end this comming Thursday, December 17, 2009. Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza rates will remain probably the most reasonable in Taos (or any other ski area) starting at $69 for singles. We'll also welcome extended stay Guests with multi night discounts for those booking direct or at the Inn's web site. www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. 800-444-2346.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Annual Lighting of Ledoux this Saturday, the 12th

If you don't know Taos well, the title is somewhat meaningless. Let me entice you into a weekend in Taos!

The Ledoux Street Association has been an informal group of businesses, galleries, museums, and residents of Ledoux Street. For the last 10 years, they've made a point of planning, organizing, and paying for food and entertainment on one Saturday in early December during which they'll all light their luminarios. The result is a couple of block long awesomely lit (faralito, not brown bottle) party for both locals and visitors.

For 2009, This Saturday, December 12, 2009 is the day for the festive activity. Skiers are welcome as the beauty glows after sunset (apres ski).

Ledoux Street is just a couple blocks towards hisotric Taos Plaza from Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Turn left, West, on Placitas (the first light), veer left onto Ledoux and enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone reading. Each team member at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza wishes you and your family the best during the holiday season and throughout 2010. We all wish to thank the 1000's of folks who've visited Taos and spent time with our small family Inn duing 2009. We know you have many choices for vacation places and lodging when you choose Taos. We sincerely appreciate your choosing us!

Remember, you still have a week on our popular Pay 2 Nights, the 3rd Night is FREE promotion. It ends for the year after December 17, 2009. Visit our web site to learn more about Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Call to reserve 800-444-2346.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Taos Sacred Places 2010

Part of the effort to help visitors connect with exploring the Taos area environs, is the annual "theme". Last year, 2009, it was Taos Summer of Love. Although some questioned that idea, turns out it was a good thing and got folks buzzing about Taos.

Recently, the 2010 theme was announced. Taos Sacred Places 2010. That will mean different things to different people much like last years topic.

Although very early in establishing activities, the them web site is up and gaining events, activities, and information. Check it out at www.taossacredplaces.com. If you haven't already done so, book market our blog as we'll post many activities as time goes on.

There's been some talk about Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza having some historical significance although sacred is probably a stretch. First built in the very early 1900's, one crew member during our 1996 construction, told the story of his father working on the older (now replaced) adobe building in the 1930's. We've also heard stories of cultural clashes in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. Stories of haunted experiences in and around the Inn have been told.

Sitting around the courtyard, relaxing in front of a fire in the horno firepit, sipping a toddy of choice might raise to the level of almost a sacred experience. Plan a visit to Taos and Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza soon.

You'll find us conveniently located in the heart of downtown Taos, close to historic Taos Plaza, staffed by a dedicated team of Guest service oriented people, offering clean and comfortable accommodations and lodging, with Taos best values year round!

Check out our web site: www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Then call to book: 800-444-2346.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Rocky Mountain Youth Corps & Habitat Taos

For those of you who read this blog and need to find another donation place to help in 2009, may I suggest two local groups who do great things for the Taos community. First is Rocky Mountian Youth Corps. They've been a growing local organization for 14 years, have helped over 2,000 local youth, and like most such organizations, are always facing financial challenges.

My only personal experience with graduates has been only positive. I believe part of their program is to guide youth towards becoming competent adults. I've worked with a couple of their grads and am very impressed with the positive nature of those couple of youth! Hence, I ask you to seriously consider helping this group. Donate today at their web site: www.youthcorps.org.

The other group we offer for your support is Taos Habitat. We've made special rate rooms available to their volunteers for many years. We've hosted groups from across the country who've traveled to Taos to assist in building a home for a local in need of help. Taos Habitat has built 26 homes to date. Any help you can provide will be well utilized. You may donate at their web site: www.taoshabitat.org.

If you are traveling to Taos to volunteer for one of those fine organizations, email me for the best rates we can provide during your stay and volunteering! Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza is always centrally located for all your Northern New Mexico travel and exploration experiences.

Taos Area Tourist Attractions

The State Parks of Moreno Valley just sent a newsletter out that might be of interest to some of our readers.

Elk migrate to lower elevations for winter. They are often sighted around the South side of Eagle Nest Lake, around Ute Park, and other Enchanted Circle areas. Large herds are often seen above Tolby Campground and can be easily seen from the highway. That is part of Cimarron Canyon State park, along US 64, just East of Eagle Nest, along the Cimarron River. For those staying in Taos, a drive to Cimarron is well worth the day needed for a good overall viewing. For those arriving from the East or departing that direction, plan some extra time to enjoy the many sights along that path! Here's their web site: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/PRD/CimarronCanyon.htm.

Eagle Nest State Park is undergoing continued improvements. The new visitor center is being well enjoyed by visitors, the parking lots are much improved over prior years, and the highest elevation Polar Bear plunge is scheduled for, you guessed it, January 1, 2010. This second annual affair includes registration at 10 AM at the visitor center, the plunge at 11 AM at the North boat ramp, an after the splach bash at Laguna Vista Saloon, and a Snowman building conteststarting at 3:30 PM in and around town. BTW, I will not be participating! More information at: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/prd/EaglesNest.htm.

They also want to remind folks that sun screen is an absolute MUST around the Enchanted Circle. The sun's intensity increases by up to 60% at 10,000 feet over sea level. That means you should either bring or buy a high SPF sun screen and remember sun glasses too.

The Viet Nam Veterans Memorial is also undergoing vast improvements. Part of the work involves expanding the gift shop to almost double the old space. A new theater is also being added. If you're haven't been, you must plan time for a visit to this historic facility. I've personally sent many Guests over the years and have yet to hear a single complaint or negative comment about me insisting they visit the memorial. Visit their web site: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/PRD/VietnamVets.htm.

Frankly, you can make exploration of the Enchanted Circle more than a day trip from Taos. Specially if you add the Philmont Scout Ranch which I've posted earlier. In any event, we hope you make Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza your headquarters for these and other Northern NM adventures. Email us any questions.

Museums to Skiing to Spa-ing

The Museum Association of Taos marketing byline is "Taos Past & Present". Their Taos museums offer views into the history, culture, and art of Taos' long history. The museums in the association are Blumenschein, Hacienda Martinez, Harwood, Rogers, and Taos Art Museum. The BEST means of viewing all is the $25 combo ticket which is good at all 5 museums and is valid for 1 full year. More information at http://www.taosmuseums.org/. What an awesome Christmas gift for the Taos explorer!

Didn't mention it yesterday but Angel Fire opens this coming weekend. With 12" fresh powder yesterday, their openning will be epic! http://www.angelfireresort.com/ for details.

Just got an email from Ojo Caliente Spa. They are offering some specials that past Guests of ours suggest you take a look at. They are offering a free spa visit with on site and online purchases in their gift shop. They offer 20% discounts for returning hotel Guests. They're even matching our popular Pay2, the 3rd is FREE promotion (but we don't want to you stay there).

Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza is about 25 miles from Angel Fire or Sipapu and 20 from Taos Ski Valley. Our central location is perfect for those who want to explore more than just 1 area ski resort. If you have a skier who wants to explore the environs of historic Taos, we are again the perfect location: downtown Taos, convenient to all historic district sights, easy access to groceries, galleries, and other goodies.

Until December 17, 2009, we're offering our exceptional special of Pay 2, the 3rd Night is FREE. After that, we'll usually have our Pay 3, 4th is Free deal. Our base rate for those specials is just about always the best in Taos! Right now, we're priced at only $76 for two. Visit us at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Then call direct for reservations 800-444-2346.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

It's a Powder Day At TSV

What do you call a day with 16" of fresh white frozen H2O? That qualifies as a powder day. Taos is enjoying such a day today. Lift tickets are reduced to $45 thru December 18, 2009 at TSV.

Sipapu also sports 7" of fresh snow and discounted lift tickets too.

It is time to plan your ski trip. Lodging is super discounted at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza thru Thursday night, December 17, 2009. Our current special is Pay 2 nights, the 3rd night is FREE. View our web site at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn but call direct for specials and details at 800-444-2346.

Keep New Mexico green, Ski you in Taos!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Yuletide in Taos & Bent Street Block Party

This weekend is the start of Yuletide in Taos. Luminarias lighted, decorations hung, special store activities. The beginning of the Taos Christmas celebration! An awesome time to visit Taos.

The Bent Street merchants are holding a special block party at the same time. Check out the details here: http://secure.chambermaster.com/FCKeditor/UserFiles/chambers/80/File/BentHoliday.pdf.

Skiing at Taos and Sipapu are great with this weeks fresh snows. Discount lift ticket rates for early season.

Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza is always the choice for downtown lodging. We too are offering special rates. Pay 2 nights, the 3rd night is FREE. That means $69, $69, -0-. Thats an average of less than $50 a night! Visit our web site at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn. Book direct to save both of us $$$: 800-444-2346.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Taos Chamber Music Group December 5 & 6, 2009

Tickets are now on sale for the Taos Chamber Music Group's next concerts "Basically Baroque" on December 5 & 6. You can purchase them at the Harwood Museum of Art Museum Gift Shop (Tues.-Sun., cash or check) or charge at taoschambermusicgroup.org. Also you can click on this link to read more about the program in recent press releases.

The Harwood is located just about 2 blocks from Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Many Guests walk and some drive. Numerous intersting galleries, museums, and shops along the way to and from plus Taos Plaza is a short walk from the Harwood. The Harwood Museum is part of the University of New Mexico's Taos presence.

We at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza hope to help each traveler experience Life at a Higher Level in Taos, New Mexico. The many special shows and performances we blog about may well enhnace that Taos Experience! Visit us and Taos soon! You'll always find Taos best lodging values at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Visit our web site at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn or call 800-444-2346.

Taos is THE BEST TRAVEL DESTINATION!!!

Taos has been a great value for travelers for a long time and remains so today (maybe an even better value). Let me share with you just a few points as to why I pose that statement.

First, lets look at the basic hotel costs. Although I hope you choose Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza, let's suppose you select one of Taos' higher priced choices. For most dates, you can choose one of Taos' best for maybe $250 to $350 at the busiest peak time period. Compare that to Las Vegas, or some other big city or Vail or some other big time ski area where the busy weekend may set you back $500 to $1,000 or more a night! If you choose us or another mid range hotel, you'll find our normal rates are extremely reasonable at an average of $69-79 (sometimes lower). Taos is an excellent value.

Like to have internet access? If you choose the bigger cities, free is often a word they've never used. We just paid $14.99 a day for internet access (Las Vegas). What a RIP OFF! As a quick remidner, that amounts to $450 a month! Mind boggeling. Indian Hills Inn would love to be able to charge for such service but we GIVE IT TO YOU FREE!!! Taos is the better travel value.

Most of us eat and when traveling that is usually dine out. Taos offers a number of choices where you can dine for under $10 a plate, many from $10 to $20, and also some higher. Some of those other cities ding you for $10 for a continental breakfast. Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza includes the continental for FREE. Want a full breakfast, you may pay $15 to 20 in many vacation spots. Lunches are hard to do for under $20 a person. I don't want to talk about dinners. Taos is the affordable choice.

Are you a skier? One of the least costly ski areas ANYWHERE is right here in Taos. That's Sipapu, about 20 miles South of Taos. Known by locals for being the first area in NM to open and the last to close, Sipapu lift tickets cost only $39 a day with many early and late dates even lower. Compare that with big Colorado areas at $65 to $95 a day. You, the Mom, and the kid can ski at Sipapu for the cost of just one of you eleswhere. Lessona nd food make the Taos value better yet!

If you like shopping, lets talk economics 101. Part of the cost of goods is the cost of the store's rent. Big traffic tourist areas have rents as high as $50 per square foot per year and higher. The higherst in Taos is about or under 30% of that. Someone pays the difference! That someone is the customer. Shop Taos for much better values!

Another means to saving money is to book direct. Onlne systems cost both you and the hotel money. Heard of Priceline? Their sales and profits and stock are soaring. It isn't just the hotel who pays that cost. It's you and the hotel! Call direct, seek the best value you can. Compare online, book direct. That will save you anwhere you travel!

Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza offers a direct special now thru December 17, 2009. Pay 2 Nights, the 3rd Night is FREE. That makes for some straight forward serious deals! Call today to reserve your room! Whether skiing, shopping, or just relaxing, you can NOT stay for less! Reservations at 800-444-2346. More hotel information at www.newmex.com/indianhillsinn.