Since we can’t go over everything, we thought we’d focus on a couple shopping destinations that are worth a visit regardless of your shopping needs. The best part about finding these great gifts to share is that 9 times out of 10 you’ll be shopping local, and as a locally owned hotel we can’t stress just how important this is, not only in Albuquerque, but every community.

Our first stop on the list would be Old Town Albuquerque, really a community hub since 1706. Old town is now home to dozens of shops and galleries. This is the spot to be, especially if your shopping in the evening time, as old town lights up with a large Christmas tree and luminarias (or Fajarlitos) lining the walk ways and adobe rooftops. Old Town Albuqueruqe is your best bet when looking for art and handmade Navajo and Zuni Jewelry. With dozens of decades old trading posts, you’ll find a souvenir gift for just about everyone on your list. Visit http://albuquerqueoldtown.com/

For a more contemporary take on local holiday gift giving… then head just up the street from Hotel Andaluz to Albuquerque’s hip and trendy Nob Hill. Along the famed route 66 lines dozens of shops and restaurants, making it ideal for a Saturday stroll and perhaps a lunch break during your search for gifts. On Nob Hill you’ll find contemporary and local Jewelry at big names like Gertrude Zachary. Clothing for everyone at Lilly Barrack, Elsa Ross and other local boutiques. The style of Nob Hill is undoubtedly New Mexico and Nob Hill is a must see if your visiting. Visit http://rt66central.com/

Where ever you may be doing you Holiday Shopping this year be sure and think local first. This effort not only helps a local economy, it’s really about bringing identity back to communities and keeping places like Albuquerque unique. Until next week… Happy Holiday’s from New Mexico!

Our mezzanine has been transformed into a local artist’s gallery that has art from corner to corner. Be sure to save a little time next time you’re in to walk through and enjoy these pieces by an array of local artists.

In addition to our mezzanine being transformed, “Art in Action” allows the community to have a behind-the-scenes look at local artists creating their art in the lobby of Hotel Andaluz each month. Eliza Schmid will be featured on Nov. 13^th and J. Waid Griffin, also a painter, will be featured the following evening. Both shows will run from 5 – 8 p.m. Hotel Andaluz will donate a percentage of sales that occur during “Art in Action” to Harwood Art Center, a community outreach program of Escuela del Sol, an independent, non-profit Montessori school founded in 1968. harwoodartcenter.org

“Hotel Andaluz has always had a focus on local artists, which is evident in our mezzanine gallery,” said Howard Jacobs, General Manager of Hotel Andaluz. “This program takes it a step further and our ongoing partnerships with local organizations will give our guests a taste of Albuquerque’s thriving arts scene.” We are really excited about this new partnership and want to invite the community and guests to come experience this with us. Hope to see you on November 13 & 14!