How to become a travel agent in New Mexico
Becoming a travel agent in New Mexico can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially given the state's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. As the travel and tourism industry continues to grow, with a focus on domestic leisure travel and safe, drive-market destinations, the demand for skilled and knowledgeable travel agents is on the rise.
To embark on this journey, it is crucial to understand the role of a travel agent. A travel agent's typical duties include researching and planning travel itineraries, liaising between clients and travel providers, and arranging tour packages. These responsibilities require a strong foundation in industry knowledge and excellent customer service skills.
In becoming a travel agent, it's important to know travel trends for customers in your area. Click here to learn more about travel trends in New Mexico.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a travel agent in New Mexico.
Read the FAQ
There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
The New Mexico travel agent industry, though stable, offers around 20 annual job openings primarily due to replacements. This stability presents a promising landscape for aspiring travel agents looking to make their mark.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Before diving into the specifics of becoming a travel agent, it is important to assess your readiness to start a business. This involves defining your business model, understanding your product offerings, and researching your customer base. Resources such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), and other local business support organizations can provide valuable guidance and assistance.
In New Mexico, aspiring travel agents can benefit from a variety of training programs. These include online courses, local programs, and specialized training that offer niche and destination-specific knowledge. Organizations like The Travel Institute provide certifications that can significantly enhance your marketability as a travel agent.
As you prepare to launch your career, remember that continuous learning, networking, and hard work are key to success. With the right mindset and resources, you can navigate the exciting world of being a travel agent in New Mexico and build a fulfilling and lucrative career.
A travel agent's role is multifaceted and demanding, yet highly rewarding. The key responsibilities include researching and planning travel itineraries tailored to clients' preferences and budgets. This involves finding the best flights, accommodations, and activities that align with the client's needs. Travel agents also liaise between clients and travel providers, ensuring smooth communication and resolving any issues that may arise during the travel planning process.
Another critical aspect of a travel agent's job is arranging tour packages. This can range from simple weekend getaways to complex, multi-destination trips. Travel agents must also handle travel-related paperwork, such as processing travel documents, managing bookings, and keeping records of client transactions.
Travel agents specialize in various types of travel arrangements, including leisure travel, corporate travel, and group travel. For leisure travel, agents plan vacations, honeymoons, and family trips, often incorporating activities like sightseeing tours, dining recommendations, and recreational activities. Corporate travel involves arranging business trips, conferences, and meetings, ensuring that all logistical details are taken care of efficiently.
Group travel is another significant area, where agents organize trips for larger groups, such as school field trips, sports teams, or social clubs. This requires meticulous planning to ensure that all members of the group have a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Client interaction is at the heart of a travel agent's role. Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for building trust and loyalty with clients. Travel agents must be adept at understanding clients' preferences, addressing their concerns, and offering personalized recommendations to enhance their travel experiences.
A good travel agent is not just a booker of flights and hotels; they are a travel consultant who can offer valuable insights, local knowledge, and personalized service that makes the travel experience unique and memorable.
In New Mexico, leveraging local knowledge can be particularly advantageous. Travel agents can plan trips to local attractions like Albuquerque's historic sites and White Sands National Park, providing clients with an insider's perspective that enhances their travel experience.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
By combining industry knowledge with excellent customer service skills, travel agents can create a positive and memorable experience for their clients, fostering long-term relationships and repeat business.
To become a travel agent in New Mexico, one of the primary legal requirements is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. This unique identifier is essential for conducting business as a travel business. Most travel advisors achieve this by joining a host business, which provides access to the IATA number. This number enables the business to earn commissions on the travel bookings made for clients.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Host agencies play a crucial role in the career of a travel agent in New Mexico. These agencies provide a range of resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and comprehensive training. A host business also offers the necessary IATA number, which is vital for earning commissions on travel bookings. For instance, host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro offer a one-stop shop with everything needed to get started with a travel advisor business.
A host business acts as a backbone for independent travel agents, offering the tools and support necessary to succeed in the industry.
Marla Finley
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
While not mandatory, certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) can significantly enhance your credibility and marketability as a travel agent. These certifications are offered by The Travel Institute and demonstrate a high level of professionalism and expertise in the field. The CTA certification is an excellent starting point, while the CTC certification is more advanced and requires additional experience and knowledge.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| CTA (Certified Travel Associate) | An entry-level certification that covers the basics of the travel industry. |
| CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) | An advanced certification requiring more experience and knowledge, reflecting a higher level of expertise. |
The Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Test is another important certification that can bolster your career as a travel agent. Administered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), this test assesses your skills and knowledge in areas such as travel agent basics, customer service, and booking systems. Preparing for the TAP Test involves thorough study and practice, often facilitated by the training programs offered by host agencies or travel schools.
Working with a host business is a crucial step for aspiring travel agents in New Mexico. One of the primary benefits is gaining access to an IATA number, a unique identifier that allows the business to conduct business and earn commissions on travel bookings. Host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro and Disney Magical Vacations provide this essential resource, enabling you to operate as a legitimate travel agent.
A host business also offers a range of other benefits, including access to booking systems and partner programs, which are vital for managing client bookings efficiently. Additionally, host agencies provide marketing support, helping you to promote your services and attract clients. This comprehensive support system is designed to help you succeed in the competitive travel industry.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
Host agencies in New Mexico offer a wealth of resources and support to help you launch and grow your travel agent business. These resources include comprehensive training programs that cover everything from the basics of the travel industry to advanced sales and marketing techniques. For example, Disney Magical Vacations's free online training course includes over 15 hours of video content and extensive text materials, covering topics such as travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, and how to provide concierge services to clients.
In addition to training, host agencies provide access to Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and proprietary booking engines, such as FastBook, which simplify the process of managing client bookings and interactions. They also offer guidance on travel agent accounting and fraud and scam detection, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle the financial and security aspects of your business.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Training Programs | Covering industry basics, sales, and marketing techniques. |
| CRM Systems | Managing client relationships and interactions. |
| Proprietary Booking Engines | Simplifying the booking process, such as FastBook. |
| Travel Agent Accounting and Fraud Detection | Guidance on financial management and security. |
When choosing a host business in New Mexico, it is important to compare the different options available. Each host business offers unique benefits and support structures. For instance, Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro provides a one-stop shop with everything needed to get started, including access to booking systems, marketing support, and comprehensive training programs.
Disney Magical Vacations, on the other hand, offers a free online training course that is highly detailed and includes practical exams. They also provide a supportive community of luxury travel agents and ongoing education courses to help you stay updated with industry trends.
It's crucial to evaluate the specific resources, training programs, and community support offered by each host business to ensure it aligns with your career goals and business needs.
Online training courses are a convenient and flexible way to begin your journey as a travel agent in New Mexico. Programs like those offered by Penn Foster and the University of New Mexico provide comprehensive online training that can be completed at your own pace. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including international travel, tour and vacation packages, and computerized reservation systems.
For example, Penn Foster's Travel Agent Career Diploma program can be completed in as little as 8 months and includes detailed lessons on key tourist destinations, tour packages, and how to start your own travel business. Similarly, the University of New Mexico offers an online travel and tourism training course that prepares students to assist clients in researching, planning, and booking their travel.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Host agencies in New Mexico offer extensive training programs that are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a travel agent. For instance, Disney Magical Vacations provides a free online training course that takes around 50-70 hours to complete. This course is divided into several modules, including travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, and concierge services. The training also includes practical exams and feedback sessions to ensure you are well-prepared for your role.
| Module | Description |
|---|---|
| The Industry | Covers travel agent basics, industry terminology, and best practices. |
| The Systems | Includes training on using CRM systems and booking engines like FastBook. |
| Practical Exam | A role-play exam with feedback to prepare you for real client interactions. |
Disney Magical Vacations's training program also includes ongoing education courses, such as a travel agent marketing course, to help you continuously improve your skills.
Ongoing training is essential in the travel industry, where trends and technologies are constantly evolving. Host agencies and organizations like The Travel Institute offer advanced certifications that can enhance your expertise and marketability. Certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) demonstrate a high level of professionalism and can open up more career opportunities.
Specialized training programs in niche markets, such as golf, honeymoons & destination weddings, and luxury travel, can also provide a competitive edge. These programs include targeted marketing strategies and industry-specific knowledge that can help you stand out in the market.
For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry, degree programs can be a valuable addition to your training. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) offers a Hospitality and Tourism program that covers essential coursework such as operations, marketing, and event planning. This program can be particularly beneficial for those interested in group travel and luxury travel, as it provides hands-on training and the opportunity to build a network of industry professionals.
Building a strong client base is crucial for the success of your travel business in New Mexico. This can be achieved through effective networking and marketing strategies. Attend local business events, join travel and tourism associations, and participate in community gatherings to connect with potential clients. Building relationships with local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, can also lead to valuable partnerships and referrals.
One of the unique advantages of being a travel agent in New Mexico is the ability to leverage your local knowledge. Plan trips that highlight the state's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. For example, you can organize tours to Albuquerque's historic sites, Santa Fe's art district, and White Sands National Park. This insider knowledge can make your travel itineraries stand out and attract clients looking for authentic experiences.
Local knowledge is a powerful tool in the travel industry. It allows you to create personalized and memorable travel experiences that clients won't find elsewhere.
Social media and email marketing are essential tools for promoting your travel business and attracting clients. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share engaging content, such as photos and videos of New Mexico's attractions, client testimonials, and special travel deals. Email marketing campaigns can help you stay in touch with clients, offer exclusive promotions, and provide valuable travel tips and advice.
| Platform | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Share high-quality visuals of travel destinations and use relevant hashtags. | |
| Post client testimonials and special travel deals to engage your audience. | |
| Email Marketing | Send regular newsletters with exclusive offers, travel tips, and industry news. |
Attending industry events and conferences is a great way to stay updated on the latest trends and network with other professionals in the travel industry. Events like the New Mexico Tourism Association's annual conference and the ASTA Global Convention offer opportunities to learn from industry experts, meet new suppliers, and build relationships with other travel agents.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.
Earning money as a travel agent in New Mexico is primarily based on commission-based earnings from travel bookings. When you book flights, hotels, and other travel services for your clients, you earn a commission on these bookings. This commission can vary depending on the type of booking and the agreements you have with travel providers. For instance, booking airline tickets, hotel stays, and package tours can generate significant commissions, especially if you are affiliated with a host business that has strong partnerships with major travel suppliers.
In addition to commission-based earnings, many travel agents in New Mexico charge planning fees for their services. These fees can be flat rates or based on the complexity of the travel itinerary. For example, you might charge a planning fee for customized travel itineraries or for handling special requests such as booking exclusive tours or arranging unique experiences. This fee structure allows you to earn income even if the client does not book through you but still values your expertise and time.
| Revenue Stream | Description |
|---|---|
| Planning Fees | Charged for customized travel itineraries or special requests. |
| Consultation Fees | Charged for expert advice on travel planning. |
| Package Deals | Earning commissions on bundled travel packages. |
Offering additional services like travel insurance, visa assistance, and travel gear recommendations can also add to your revenue streams, making your business more diverse and lucrative.
To succeed as a travel agent in New Mexico, having access to the right technology platforms and booking systems is crucial. Host agencies like Disney Magical Vacations and Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro provide their agents with advanced booking systems such as FastBook, a proprietary booking engine that simplifies the process of managing client bookings. These systems are designed to be user-friendly and efficient, allowing you to book flights, hotels, and other travel services quickly and accurately.
| Platform | Description |
|---|---|
| FastBook | A proprietary booking engine provided by Disney Magical Vacations for efficient booking management. |
| CRM Systems | Customer Relationship Management systems to manage client interactions and bookings. |
| Computerized Reservation Systems | Systems like Sabre, Amadeus, and Galileo for managing travel bookings and itineraries. |
These technology platforms not only streamline your work but also enhance the overall client experience by providing seamless and efficient travel arrangements.
Heather Huber
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
Effective marketing and community support are vital for the success of a travel agent. Host agencies often provide a range of marketing tools and resources to help you promote your services. For example, Disney Magical Vacations offers marketing support through social media, email marketing, and other digital channels. Additionally, being part of a community of travel agents can provide valuable networking opportunities and support.
When considering the resources and tools provided by host agencies, it's important to understand the subscription plans and associated costs. Different host agencies offer various subscription models, each with its own set of benefits and costs. For instance, Disney Magical Vacations's free online training course is part of their comprehensive package, which includes ongoing education courses, access to booking systems, and marketing support.
| Feature | Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly/Annual Fees | Varying costs depending on the host business and services included. |
| Access to Booking Systems | Often included in the subscription plan. |
| Marketing Support | Provided as part of the subscription package. |
| Ongoing Education Courses | May be included or available at an additional cost. |
| Community Access | Typically included in the subscription plan. |
Becoming a travel agent in New Mexico is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers a blend of personal fulfillment, financial stability, and the opportunity to explore the world. With the right training, certifications, and support, you can navigate the travel industry with confidence and success.
The stability of the travel agent industry in New Mexico, with around 150 employed travel agents and approximately 20 annual job openings, presents a promising landscape for aspiring agents. By leveraging local knowledge, specializing in niche markets, and utilizing advanced booking systems and marketing tools, you can create a unique and valuable service for your clients.
As you embark on this journey, keep in mind that becoming a successful travel agent is not just about the technical skills; it's also about providing exceptional customer service, building strong relationships, and staying updated with the latest industry trends.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuous Learning | Engage in ongoing education and certifications to stay competitive. |
| Networking | Join professional associations and attend industry events to build your network. |
| Local Knowledge | Leverage your knowledge of New Mexico to plan unique and memorable trips. |
| Marketing and Technology | Use advanced marketing tools and booking systems to enhance your services. |
With determination, hard work, and the right resources, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career as a travel agent in New Mexico. Embrace the journey, and let your passion for travel guide you towards a successful and rewarding career.
Luxury Travel Advisor specializing in Europe, Mexico, Caribbean and Hawaii
My Name is Meghann! Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations!
We can't confirm or deny the incident, but if aliens did crash their UFO in Roswell, they certainly picked the right state: New Mexico is knee-deep in the mystical and the mysterious. Disappearing civilizations, secret atomic test sites, Native American healers, divine dirt and miraculous staircases are just some of the things you'll find that are hard to explain.
The unknowable can be fun, but it's only a part of New Mexico's allure. Whether or not they hold powerful energy vortexes, the mountains and desert are beautiful to look at and thrilling to hike, bike, ski or raft through. Whether or not Pueblo people have the remedy for the ills of civilization, their art is engaging and their communities fascinating. We think you'll have a completely enjoyable time taking New Mexico's scenery and activities at face value. If you happen to gain some spiritual insight (or meet an alien) along the way, so much the better.
One of New Mexico's oldest mysteries is the fate of the Ancestral Pueblo people (sometimes called the Anasazi, although that term has fallen out of favor), who developed an advanced civilization beginning about AD 800. Their famous multitiered adobe dwellings housed as many as 1,500 people, and some were constructed in breathtaking settings atop cliffs and mesas. (You can see several of these structures at Chaco Canyon and Bandelier National Monument, among other places). Yet by about 1200, their dwellings were abandoned. Various explanations have been offered for the sudden end of the Ancestral Pueblo culture, including drought, warfare among communities and the rise of a new religion.
When the Spanish explorer Coronado first came through the region in 1540, he found sizable communities dispersed along the upper Rio Grande. The inhabitants of these settlements likely were the descendants of the Ancestral Puebloans. Spain's first settlement, at San Juan Pueblo in 1598, was followed 12 years later by the founding of Santa Fe. From the outset, relations between the colonists and the Native Americans were strained and, at times, brutal and bloody. In 1680, the oppressed pueblos staged a successful revolt. Although the Spanish would eventually regain control, the pueblo uprising was one of the most substantial resistance movements among Native Americans. It deterred Spanish colonization for 12 years.
The Spanish territory became a possession of newly independent Mexico in 1821 and was passed to the U.S. after the Mexican-American War. New Mexico grew more slowly than other western U.S. territories (it didn't become a state until 1912), but the discovery of uranium and other energy resources stimulated growth and revenue for the state and gave it a prominent place in the nuclear age.
As with other major cities in the Southwest, Albuquerque has grown steadily in the past 30 years, while Santa Fe and other mountain areas have become popular travel and retirement destinations. Down south, the climate and border location of Las Cruces make it a popular choice for both retirees and new businesses. The state continues to attract investment attention, with moviemakers focusing on the mountains and cities of New Mexico because of tax breaks and other incentives. Aviation, technology and increasing trade with Mexico are all part of New Mexico's modern mix.
New Mexico's main attractions include Native American and Hispanic culture, adobe architecture, spectacular mountain and desert scenery, festivals (celebrating everything from hot-air balloons to grand opera to folk art), Santa Fe, art galleries, Carlsbad Caverns, ghost towns, Taos, Native American pueblos, ancient ruins, Albuquerque, casino gambling, skiing and distinctively spicy cuisine (often made with green and red chilies).
New Mexico will satisfy any traveler interested in the Southwest. An American locale with European and Native American roots, the state gives tourists a sense of place and community lacking in many other parts of the U.S. Those who are looking for watersports, big-city entertainment or short drive times between attractions may find the state less to their liking.
If you want to ride a steam train through beautiful alpine scenery, make reservations for the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad from Chama, New Mexico, to Antonito, Colorado. It has been called the most spectacular mountain railroad in North America. The line operates late May-late October, with occasional rides in wintry December.
New Mexico is the oldest wine-growing region in the U.S. and has 21 vineyards and wineries. Many offer tours and tastings. We're especially fond of a sparkling wine made in Albuquerque called Gruet.
Drive about 50 mi/80 km west of Socorro on Highway 60, and you'll see the shape of a large "Y" in the far distance. It's the Very Large Array (VLA) Radio Telescope: Some 27 huge dish antennas (each of them 82 ft/25 m in diameter) lined up across the desert. (It was seen in the film Contact, starring Jodie Foster.) The telescope is used to photograph distant galaxies. A visitors center is open at the site, and tours are available.
Lew Wallace, author of Ben Hur, was once New Mexico's territorial governor.
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, is the only town in the U.S. named after a game show. Its name was officially changed in the 1950s as part of a publicity stunt that benefited both the TV show and the town.
The Lightning Field, in southwestern New Mexico, is an internationally recognized piece of art by sculptor Walter de Maria. Viewing its gridlike pattern (advance reservations and an overnight stay are required) amid a vast expanse of sky can be life-changing.
Smokey the Bear was New Mexican, found as a cub in 1950 after a forest fire in the Capitan Gap. He later lived at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and became the beloved firefighting symbol of schoolchildren across the U.S. He died in 1976 and is buried near Capitan.
New Mexico's second and final statue for U.S. Statuary Hall, is of Pope (pronounced poh-pay), who led the successful Pueblo Revolt in 1680.
Virgin Galactic and New Mexico have teamed up to build a Spaceport near Alamogordo.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson holds the world record for most hands shaken in a day: 13,392.
No trip to New Mexico is complete without a visit to at least one of the state's 19 Native American pueblos. Although they are centuries-old dwelling sites, they are also modern communities whose residents deal with modern issues. One of those issues is gambling: In addition to the attractions that focus on traditional culture, many of the pueblos operate gaming casinos—complete with entertainment and high-stakes play.
Perhaps the best introduction to the pueblos can be found at two of the state's better museums, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe (the majority of pueblos are fairly close to these two major cities). Both museums will give you a good introduction to pueblo beliefs and history, as well as demonstrate the varied craftsmanship of both ancient and modern Native Americans.
One of the more fascinating aspects of visiting the pueblos is learning about the particular traditions that have shaped the techniques and styles of local craftwork. If you can visit a pueblo on its feast day (usually tied to a Catholic saint—a remnant of Spanish colonialism), the dances and ceremonies will only heighten your appreciation of the communities.
In addition to the Acoma and Taos pueblos, consider the following:
Cochiti, southwest of Santa Fe, is famed for finely crafted ceremonial drums and "storyteller" figurines. Don't miss the Tent Rocks, a spectacular canyon and geological formation near the pueblo. Its feast day is that of San Buenaventura, held on 14 July.
Isleta, just south of Albuquerque, is the largest of the Tiwa-speaking pueblos. The feast days of St. Augustine are celebrated there on 28 August and 4 September.
Jemez, northwest of Albuquerque, is the only tribe that still speaks the Towa language. You'll find a number of recreational areas open to the public, as well as offerings in sculpture and polychrome pottery. The Feast of Our Lady of the Angels is held on 2 August.
Laguna, on the eastern border of the Acoma reservation, is actually six villages where residents produce pottery resembling that of the Acoma Pueblo. The feast of St. Joseph is observed on 19 September.
Nambe, north of Santa Fe, is known for its exquisite jewelry, employing turquoise and silver, but you'll also find sculpture, beadwork and micaceous pottery (containing flecks of mica that cause the pottery to glitter in the light). Nambe celebrates the Feast of St. Francis on 4 October.
Picuris, southwest of Taos, was a hotbed of resistance during the pueblo revolt of the 1600s. Today, it's known for its micaceous pottery. The Mission of San Lorenzo, whose feast day is celebrated on 10 August, is located there.
The craftspeople of Pojoaque, northwest of Santa Fe, produce pottery, embroidery, jewelry and beadwork. The Poeh Cultural Center in Pojoaque tells the story of the Rio Grande Pueblos. They celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on 12 December. The Poeh Museum features the story of the Native world from the Native American perspective in one of the few tribal-run museums in the country.
Sandia, just north of Albuquerque, operates the Bien Mur Indian Market Center, one of the better places to shop for Native American crafts in New Mexico. The Feast of St. Anthony is held on 13 June.
San Felipe, which is north of Albuquerque, produces fine beadwork and heishi (jewelry made from strings of small tiles of semiprecious gems). The feast day of St. Phillip is celebrated on 1 May.
San Ildefonso, northwest of Santa Fe, is a complex of some 200 buildings, including a reconstructed church from the 1600s. This pueblo was the home of Maria and Julian Martinez, who were famous for their rendering of the distinctive black-on-black pottery. (The Martinez family continues the tradition.) The Feast of San Ildefonso occurs on 23 January.
Among the 700-year-old buildings of San Juan, also northwest of Santa Fe, you'll find the headquarters of the Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Council, which includes Nambe, Picuris, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, San Juan, Santa Clara, Taos and Tesuque. The council publishes an excellent guide to the northern pueblos (write ENIPC, P.O. Box 969, San Juan Pueblo, NM 87566). It's home to the O'ke-Oweenge Crafts Cooperative, featuring crafts from each of the eight pueblos (San Juan itself is known for redware pottery). The Feast of San Juan is held on 24 June.
Santa Ana Pueblo is known not only for its polychrome pottery but also for the recreational offerings available at the Santa Ana Golf Course and Jemez Canyon Dam. The pueblo itself is open to the public only a few days each year—one of the best times to visit is on the Feast of Santa Ana—26 July.
Santa Clara, another of the northern pueblos, is known for both black-on-black and redware pottery. The Santa Clara Recreation Area (with streams, lakes and trails) and the impressive Puye Cliff Dwellings, which date back to AD 1250, also are nearby. The cliff dwellings are a national landmark owned and maintained by the pueblo: You can explore dwellings both along and atop a cliff face. Self-guided tours are available, and in summer, you can take guided tours that include a pueblo feast (book at least five days in advance). The Feast of St. Claire is on 12 August.
Santo Domingo, north of Albuquerque, is known for jewelry, silverwork and heishi. Its feast day is held on 4 August. It also hosts a popular arts-and-crafts festival on Labor Day weekend.
Tesuque is the smallest of the villages where the Tewa language is spoken. It is located just outside Santa Fe. The craftspeople there are known for rain-god figurines, micaceous pottery, sculpture and painting. The Feast of San Diego is celebrated in Tesuque on 12 November.
The traditions of Zia Pueblo have contributed to the state's symbol, the stylized sun you'll see all over New Mexico. Zia is also known for its polychrome pottery. The Feast of Our Lady of the Assumption is held on 15 August.
The original Zuni Pueblo was the largest in the region when the Spanish arrived, and its size probably helped inspire the myth of the fabled Seven Cities of Cibola—the tale that inspired Francisco Coronado to explore the area. The inhabitants abandoned their original pueblo in 1670, but you can still visit it with a Zuni guide. Today, the Zuni people are known for stonework, jewelry, needlepoint and fetishes (animals carved out of stone and semiprecious gems). Shalako, the most important Zuni feast, occurs in late November-early December.
Other Native American groups in New Mexico include the Jicarilla Apache of northern New Mexico, who are highly regarded for their basketry and beadwork; the Mescalero Apache of southern New Mexico, who own and operate the Ski Apache ski area and the Inn of the Mountain Gods resort near Ruidoso; and the Navajo people, famous for their rugs and silverwork.
Please remember that the pueblos are not theme parks or living-history museums—they are real communities, where families live and work. Their requests for a few basic standards of behavior are reasonable and easily observed. Do not photograph or videotape residents of the pueblos unless you have first obtained permission from the pueblo's administrative offices. There is sometimes a small fee involved. There may be certain ceremonial occasions when cameras (even sketchbooks) are not allowed at all. It's a good idea to call in advance of your visit to confirm the hours that the pueblo is open to visitors: They sometimes close for special religious occasions or for funerals of tribal members, and most ask visitors to leave by around sund
Vincent Vacations - Authorized New Mexico Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 883-0460
For Groups of 10
or more rooms, or 8 or more Cabins, please use of Group Form
Click Here for our Group Department
Vincent Vacations is an award winning travel agency. We serve clients all over the US.
Learn more about:
How to become a travel agent!
We are an IATAN, CLIA, ASTA, IATA Accrediated Travel Agency
See all awards & certificates.
4/28Hi, I am Chali Francis — a Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, and a mom who knows the ins and outs of making Disney vacations magical for families! One thing I h...
Read more
4/23Hola friends, It’s Christina and I just have to tell you, the buzz is real—Unico Puerto Vallarta is officially the hottest new opening on Mexico’s Pacific coast, and I’m already obsessed. If you’r...
Read more
1/23As a travel agent, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that offer not just a luxurious escape but also a unique and unforgettable experience for families. This past year, I had the pleasure of ...
Read more
10/24Why Taking a Trip Over Thanksgiving or Christmas is a GREAT Idea The holiday season is often synonymous with family gatherings, packed schedules, and a touch of chaos. But what if you swapped the s...
Read more
10/23Exciting news for Disney fans! The 2024 Candlelight Processional Dining Package prices and details have just been released! 🎄✨ This beloved holiday tradition at EPCOT combines a festive mea...
Read moreClick on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
All of these are signs that you are a great fit to become an independent travel agent, and turn your love of travel from passion into profit!
Learn MoreOur motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
We know Europe! Paris, London, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Swiss Alps, Prague, Amsterdam, Venice, Athens, Vienna, Madrid, let's go!
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Get A Free QuoteWe serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
Free Vacation Package Quote
