RECEPTIVE TOUR SERVICES
EDEN GROUP
2015 ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA
October 9 – 10, 2015
Up, up and away the balloons go into the New Mexico sky each October. Few
spectacles on earth rival the Mass Ascension, as hundreds of multi-colored balloons
lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park to drift in the crisp early-morning high-desert air.
This memorable tour also features an evening balloon glow with fireworks, a trip
to Santa Fe, a ride on one of the world’s longest free-span aerial tramways and
the culture and history of the Land of Enchantment.
DAY ONE – Friday, October 9, 2015
Late this morning, your Destination Southwest tour director and your coach will
meet you at Hotel Encanto in Las Cruces. They will then transfer you to your
Albuquerque hotel for check-in. Enjoy a gourmet box lunch on the drive to
Albuquerque.
Late afternoon, you will head to Balloon Fiesta
Park for the spectacle of the evening Glowdeo®.
During the glow, balloons inflate at dusk, remain
tethered and light their burners in a synchronized
fashion. The “glow” effect is created by the same
burner system used in flight; however, pilots use
various means to bypass the “pre-heat” coils on
the burner. These coils help the burner work
efficiently, but the flame is a dull blue and does not emit a lot of light. The first
Balloon glow was held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of New Mexico’s statehood.
Guests will enjoy the exclusive Gondola Club, where comfortable seating,
luxurious bathrooms and a buffet-style dinner await. After the glow, the AfterGlow
Fireworks Show will dazzle and delight you! Meals included: Box L, D
DAY TWO – Saturday, October 10, 2015
Leave the hotel bright and early for the Mass
Ascension at the Albuquerque International
Balloon Fiesta®. Few spectacles on earth rival
the Mass Ascension of the Albuquerque
International Balloon Fiesta, as upwards of 600
balloons lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park to drift in
the crisp high-desert air of New Mexico.
Ballooning enthusiasts from around the world converge on the Duke City each year
to delight in the amazing range of balloons in every color, size and shape
imaginable.
The thermal currents above Albuquerque make for some
of the finest ballooning conditions in the world. The
famous "Albuquerque Box" effect enables pilots to
ascend from the field, move with the air currents at
different altitudes and in different directions, and even
backtrack along their original course to land in the spot
they took off from.
This is easily one of the most photographed spectacles anywhere and it is also a
great place to people watch, enjoy delicious foods and shop for souvenirs at a
wide range of vendor booths. Enjoy exploring the extensive grounds of Balloon
Fiesta Park and chatting with the pilots and crews as they prepare the balloons for
flight. You will also have access to the Chaser’s Club, so you can enjoy this
experience while sitting in a private outdoor patio located next to the launch field.
Hot breakfast and other snacks will be provided. October mornings in the high
desert of New Mexico can be chilly so be sure to dress in layers for warmth and
bring sunscreen for when the sun comes up.
Depart Balloon Fiesta Park and return to your hotel to check-out before continuing
on to Old Town.
Next, take a brief walking tour of the historic
Plaza area of Old Town, the original center of
Albuquerque, which was founded in the early part
of the 18th century and includes San Felipe de Neri
church and many historic buildings that form an
architectural record of this city’s unique past. There
will be time to explore hidden courtyards, stroll
under covered portals and shop on your own at the
many fine specialty stores and galleries around the Plaza. Lunch today will be at
a local favorite in Old Town.
After time in Old Town, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a Duke City
landmark dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of Pueblo Indian culture,
history and art. The Center is committed to educating all generations of visitors
and is your gateway to the lifeways and culture of the indigenous inhabitants of New
Mexico. Native American dance performances are held throughout the day during
Balloon Fiesta.
This afternoon, return to the Hotel Encanto in Las Cruces. We hope you had a
memorable visit to the Land of Enchantment! Meals included: B, L
RECEPTIVE TOUR SERVICES
EDEN GROUP
2015 ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA
October 9 – 10, 2015
PRICE PER PERSON
$615.00
Single
$568.00
Double
$555.00
Triple
Price is based on 20-24 paid guests and is net, non-commissionable.
Includes one single comp for escort
PRICE PER PERSON
$556.00
Single
$506.00
Double
$495.00
Triple
Price is based on 25-29 paid guests and is net, non-commissionable.
Includes one single comp for escort
PRICE PER PERSON
$517.00
Single
$466.00
Double
$454.00
Triple
Price is based on 30-35 paid guests and is net, non-commissionable.
Includes one single comp for escort
PRICE INCLUDES: Round-trip transportation between Albuquerque and Las
Cruces; professional tour guide, one night hotel accommodations; one breakfast;
two lunches; one dinner; admission to two ABQ International Balloon Fiesta
events; admission to the Group Tours hospitality tent for morning event; admission
to the Chaser’s Club for morning event which includes breakfast; admission to the
Gondola Club for evening event which includes a buffet dinner; admission to the
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center; walking tour of Old Town; welcome gift; bottled
water and snacks on coach; all applicable taxes.
NOTE: A $5.00 per person per day gratuity for the guide and a $4.00 per person
gratuity for the driver is considered standard, but not included.