Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe isn’t just a destination it’s a mood. A slow‑down, breathe‑deep, adobe‑glow kind of place where history, culture, and charm blend into one long exhale. This trip wasn’t just a getaway… it was a vibe reset.

In Honor of The Original Settlers

Historic. Charming. Warm. Staffed by people who make you feel like you’ve been visiting for years.

Fun fact: La Fonda isn’t just old it’s officially historic!

• The Historic Santa Fe Foundation recognizes La Fonda as worthy of preservation.
• It’s also a Historic Hotel of America, designated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
• And here’s a road‑trip gem: La Fonda sat right on the original Route 66 alignment when the historic Road passed through downtown Santa Fe from 1926 to 1937. And since Route 66 was born in 1926, the historic Road turns 100 years old in 2026 — a full century of neon signs, road‑trip legends, and Americana vibes. Santa Fe was one of the only state capitals Route 66 ever touched, and La Fonda was part of that golden‑age travel chapter.

Route 66 Was A 1960s Destination

Route 66 wasn’t just a road, it was famous. In the 1960s, the historic road had its own moment in the spotlight:

• A hit TV show called Route 66 ran from 1960–1964, following two guys road‑tripping America in a Corvette. Pure wanderlust energy.
• The show’s theme song by Nelson Riddle even hit the Billboard charts.
• And the classic tune “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” got a 60s revival thanks to Chuck Berry (1961) and The Rolling Stones (1964) — turning the road into a rock‑and‑roll icon.

So, when you’re standing in Santa Fe, one of the only state capitals Route 66 ever touched you’re literally standing in a place that was part of America’s golden‑age road‑trip culture and 1960s pop fame.

La Fonda; a hotel with history, credentials, a Route 66 cameo, and a pop‑culture résumé? That’s a quadruple FUBIOV! vibe.

The Admiral’s Logbook:

What was your FUBIOV! vacation destination? Santa Fe, New Mexico

Where did you stay? La Fonda on the Plaza in a concierge level suite

When did you travel? Spring 2026

How long did you stay? 4 days

Who did you travel with? My wife

FUBIOV! Favorites

These were the moments that delivered; the ones that made the stay feel warm, easy, and full of Santa Fe charm.

• The concierge‑floor
• The hotel is right on the plaza
• The historic architecture
• The lobby bar
• The staff (more on that magic below)
• The walkability to everything
• The art everywhere
• The energy of the plaza at night

FUBIOV! Recommendations

Not complaints; just things that could make the next stay even better.

• No night light
• No comfortable TV sitting chair
• Yes, the coffee on the Concierge floor ran out two mornings in a row but La Plazuela restaurant downstairs had it ready to go.
• Patio lacked privacy
• Shared balcony with other suites
• Parking‑lot view

Important Note About the Patio Door. The patio wasn’t private as it was a shared balcony with other concierge‑floor suites. That means anyone staying in those adjoining rooms could walk right up to your patio door. Because of that setup, it’s important to keep the patio door locked at all times for privacy and security. A note on the door recommending this would be appropriate.

Must See & Must Do: The Santa Fe Edition

These stops deliver the full Santa Fe vibe:

• Canyon Road Art District A mile of galleries, courtyards, sculptures, and adobe charm. Even if you’re not an art person, you’ll feel something here.
• The Plaza at Sunset Street music, soft light, and that warm Santa Fe energy. It’s the heartbeat of the city.
• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum A beautifully curated look at the artist who defined the Southwest aesthetic.
• Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi Peaceful, historic, and stunning — a perfect slow‑down moment.
• La Plazuela at La Fonda Breakfast here is a vibe. The courtyard, the light, the food — all of it.
• The Railyard District Markets, food, art, and a different side of Santa Fe’s personality.

FUBIOV! Magic – Delivered by David Benard & Roberta Simoni