Virtuoso Insights - February/March 2009 - (Page 44) new Mexico | Sweet Relief in the land of enchantment Pueblo-style stays, posh pampering, and high adventure at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa. By Anita Carmin a S I ARRIVE ON THE SACRED LANDS of the Hyatt Regency Tamaya, a palpable sense of calm descends upon me. In the tradition of the native Tamayame people who are known for their hospitality, the resort’s hosts welcome me with a warmth and grace that instantly makes me feel at home in this high-desert oasis. I had planned my solo, three-day getaway to this retreat, located within the Native American Pueblo of Santa Ana, months before as a carrot — my future reward for summer weekends hunched over a computer. But with recent, ubiquitous news of bank bailouts, a stock market nose-dive, and a reeling real estate market, the need for my serenity-seeking respite became all the more apparent. After settling into my room, I first head to the terrace of the Santa Ana Café for a light lunch of fried green chiles, tortilla soup, and homemade bread baked that morning in the outdoor hurana ovens just a few feet away from my table. Sipping a glass of fresh lemonade and taking in the surrounding cottonwoods and sage, I read over the itinerary that the resort has created just for me. It includes the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and lavish (as in five spa treatments) pampering. A HOT-AIR BALLOON RIDE has been on my must-do list since I can remember. Finally, during my first morning at the resort, I have my chance. I don’t complain (much) about my 5:15 a.m. wake-up call, and after meeting my pilot Brook, follow him to our launch pad, located right on the resort. Moments later, safely nested within our wicker basket, I hear the loud whoosh of a propane-fueled flame as we begin our ascent. Floating silently above the Rio Grande Valley, I savor my hour aloft, mesmerized both by the enormity of the rainbow-colored “envelope” above and the spectacular Southwestern landscape below. When we return to terra firma, my fellow passengers and I toast our capable pilot with a glass of champagne — a tradition as old as the sport. My day began on a high note and I see no reason to bring it down to Earth. This afternoon, I have a five-hour date at the Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon. At the recommendation of Stephanie 44 Virtuoso insights
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