The hot spring city of Truth or Consequences is an oasis of relaxation in the rocky Sierra County on the edge of the lush Rio Grande valley and the Elephant Butte Reservoir. Capture photographs of the picturesque backdrop of red mountains as you explore this interesting city with some 8,000 locals.
Wander through the historic centre and meet some of the locals, who affectionately call their home “T or C”. Ask them about the unusual name of their city. In 1950, the city changed its name from Hot Springs in honour of a popular NBC radio, and eventually TV, programme. The show’s presenter then visited T or C every year for 50 years on the first weekend of May. His visit, often accompanied by other celebrities, was marked by a celebration called “Fiesta” which continues today and includes beauty pageants and parades.
Watch an episode of the Truth or Consequences TV show in the Geronimo Springs Museum, on the city’s Main Street. The museum also presents collections that document the history of the county. Follow this heritage through displays from Hispanic and Apache artifacts to a re-assembled miner’s cabin.
Other interesting sites in the downtown area include Las Palomas Plaza, through which water from the hot springs flows. Admire the plaza’s colourful art installations that resemble the surrounding terrain.
Take some time out at one of the many spas spread out across the town. Venues include La Paloma Hot Springs and Spa and the Indian Springs Baths and Apartments. The water in Truth or Consequences is free of the unpleasant odour that often comes with natural hot springs.
Head southeast by car for 40 minutes to reach the impressive Spaceport America and learn about its goal of making space travel possible for everyone. Take a tour of its futuristic terminals and ride the G-Shock Trainer for a glimpse into the strenuous training of astronauts.
Truth or Consequences lies in a sparsely populated area in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin of southern New Mexico. Arrive at Albuquerque International Airport or El Paso International Airport, both of which are approximately 130 miles (210 kilometres) from the city. Expect hot, sunny weather in summer with cold winters, when temperatures fall below freezing at night and snow covers the peaks of the mountains of Sierra County.
