“Excellent choice”
When booking, I was concerned about the reported construction work being undertaken. In fact there was no impact at all. I knew the refurbished bar and new restaurant would not be open for our trip (they opened the day after we left); after a tour we saw that they will be a lovely addition.
The location can't be beaten: three minutes from the Plaza and yet very quiet (perhaps more so than some of the more expensive hotels on the other side of the Plaza).
Our suite-king deluxe - was very spacious and comfortable. The bathroom was small, but nicely furbished; the 'sofa bed' might be quite hard for some people. It was great to return to after a long day out and sit out on either of the balconies. There were steps up to our suite, so people worried by that should request the ground floor.
Overall staff were very helpful and friendly, although there were some insider tips that they didn't know: ie if you can't book The Shed restaurant (highly recommeneded), there is a good system for walk-ins. They said they would make a note on this. I suspect that is the same with some other popular places. Otherwise, they were very very good at directing us to places and services, booking things, etc.
I almost booked another hotel - much more expensive - with spa facilities, large public areas, etc Very very glad we made the choice we did. Perfect for our needs. Very pleasant ambience. Now called Hotel Chimayo
Area recommendations
It is great to stay near the central Plaza. We explored other areas, including Canyon Road and the Railway (?), but found staying near the Plaza very convenient for the activities on the Plaza (music and craft fair while we were there). restaurants, churches and museums, although you need to take a bus or drive/get a cab(not easy to do) to the other museum complex on Museum Hill.
Getting around
The centre is very walkable and pleasant even in the dry heat. Drivers are exceptionally nice to pedestrians!
Taxis were not easy to book. We got caught in a long thurnderstorm while visiting Canyon Road and could not get a taxi. Buses are not that frequent for some areas, eg Museum Hill, but seemed fine for getting to/back from the Railway District.
It is very easy to drive out from Santa Fe: trips to Taos and Taos Pueblo, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch (the getting there more rewarding than the being there) were very straightforward. We didn't travel to Bandelier, White Rock or Puye Cliffs because they remained closed due to the fires and fear of flooding.
Dining
Highly recommend The Shed. Great food, great drinks and all very reasonably priced. Great service despite the numbers dining. If you can't get a reservation, do a 'walk-in': register, return in the time they set and get a table shortly.
Il Piatto had good Italian (American style-but a very good range) food; more expensive than the Shed but good value for the quality of what is offered. Nice service and ambience.
Not very impressed with Santa Cafe in comparison. The conception of some things on the menu sounded better than their execution. Lovely setting. good service but the food was disappointing.
Tia Zia is good and fun for breakfast.
Events and shows
Santa Fe Opera is a must. It is easy to book seats. shuttle, meals online or via the phone before you go. If you want to get the best value seats or join the buffet, you need to book early. All seats have great views. We opted for rather expensive ones, but that is not really necessary, given that the sight-lines and acoustics are terrific.
