What is Albuquerque like?
Lived in Albuquerque from ’87 to ’98, and before that, lived in Gallup for 12.5 years (K-12th grade). I graduated from UNM in ’91. One of the best things about Albuquerque is the great daytrips in just about every direction. You can do the Turquoise Trail trip (mentioned here) in a day, go to Santa Fe (bring your wallet), hit the hot springs (warning: hippies), or take in the Malpais. Overall, Albuquerque is relaxed and unpretentious, with a wry sense of humor. I would l
North of campus actually isn’t that bad. South of campus is the student ghetto — lots and lots of undergrads down there, a little scuzzier in my opinion. Stuff is rather cheap, especially compared to California. Not much for nightlife, honestly, but there are a few bars downtown. If you are going to drive to school, I’d recommend getting a pass for the north lot; it’s off of university and there are shuttles that take you down to the campus. Walking is cool, too. Public transit is really pretty much nonexistent. I mean, there are buses, but it’s nothing like what I’ve gotten used to here in Chicago. Be prepared to drive, a lot. There’s lots to do within a day’s drive. If you get a chance, go down to Carlsbad Caverns (you’ll want to make it an overnight trip, I think.) If you like Mexican/New Mexican food you’ll be in heaven. Honestly, I miss the food the most. But it’s really a laid-back kind of place. Manana, and all that. The weather is nice. In the summer, especially, you might not
