Compare Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta by Best Single Travel vs California Panorama by Omega Tours

Day 1: Arrive Albuquerque, New Mexico

Your Singles Vacation begins when you arrive in Albuquerque and are transferred to our hotel. Meet your Singles Hostess at 7 pm in the lobby and walk over to a local restaurant for dinner (not included)

Day 2: Santa Fe, New Mexico

This morning we head to Santa Fe by way of the Rapid bus and train. All aboard our 1 1/2 hour train ride to Santa Fe. We’ll head north along the picturesque Jemez Mountains to Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. You can visit one of the wonders of Santa Fe’s historic district, Loretto Chapel. Constructed in 1873, this striking Gothic chapel houses the Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of architectural ingenuity that some claim was designed and built by St. Joseph himself! For the shoppers, Santa Fe is a South Western haven. Governor’s Plaza is home to various shops and artists studios.

Albuquerque Hot air balloon glowWe board our returning train at 4pm. Upon arrival in Albuquerque we will be met at the train station and transferred to our hotel in time to change for tonight's festivities.

Tonight we enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that’s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.

Day 3: Albuquerque Balloon Festival

Wake Up Early! Today we attend the Balloon Fiesta Opening Ceremonies and “Mass Ascension” at sunrise. A sight not to be missed.

Up, Up, and Away! imagine a blue sky filled with a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors and shapes. That’s what you’ll experience at the world’s largest balloon event, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Your spirits will soar as you watch more than 700 balloons from all over the world ascend into the skies over Albuquerque. Rise bright and early to witness the Opening Ceremonies, which are followed by a grand “mass ascension,” as hundreds of balloons – some vibrant, some whimsical – fill the skies over the grounds.

Albuquerque Sandia TramwayAfter the balloons are gone... By popular demand: the Sandia Peak Tramway! Sandia Mountain dominates the east-side of Albuquerque with its 5,000’ vertical rise. A visit to the top of this mountain is a much sought after experience by visitors. The tram ride itself is 15-minutes and travels through a few biological life zones, revealing deep canyons and an awe-inspiring view not soon to be forgotten. Notes: Due to the elevation, 10,378’, individuals with heart conditions or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before riding the tram. Dress in layers; the temperature can be 20 degrees cooler than in the city.

Tonight it is time to relax after our wonderful day. Order a pizza or walk to a local restaurant for dinner

Day 4: Old Town Albuquerque

Albuquerque Old TownMorning free to take a hot air balloon ride, relax or explore on your own. Then it is time to journey back in time in old town, established as a colonial farming village in 1706, Albuquerque’s Old Town neighborhood still bears the mark of its Spanish founders. Through narrow brick pathways to Spanish-style plazas and 18th-century adobe architecture, explore the heritage of Albuquerque’s varied past.

Tonight enjoy our Farewell to Albuquerque Dinner at El Pinto Mexican Restaurant. Established in 1962, El Pinto has been featuring traditional New Mexican recipes from grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs ever since.

Day 5: Depart Albuquerque

Time for breakfast before our wonderful singles weekend in Albuquerque comes to an end. You will transfer to the airport according to your indiviual flight schedules. Have a safe flight home.

DAY 1: LOS ANGELES ARRIVAL

Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport and transfer independently to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport, Los Angeles, or similar

DAY 2: LOS ANGELES > MOJAVE DESERT > LAS VEGAS

Meet your Tour Director and depart for Las Vegas, the glittering “Entertainment Capital of the World,” for non-stop fun, gambling, and world-class entertainment. Your tour stops at the iconic Las Vegas Welcome Sign where you may wish to capture your photo memory of Las Vegas.

Accommodation at the Luxor Las Vegas, Las Vegas, or similar

DAY 3: LAS VEGAS > DEATH VALLEY > MAMMOTH LAKES/FRESNO

Having enjoyed glamorous Las Vegas, it will be a sharp contrast this afternoon to enter the quiet and extreme environment of Death Valley. Stop at Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek Ranch/Visitors Center before continuing across the valley and ascending the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the alpine resort town of Mammoth Lakes. The area gained prominence as a gold mining town in the 19th century and today is renowned for its superior skiing terrain and staggeringly beautiful mountain vistas.

Important note: Winter Routing The Tioga Pass may be closed due to weather or road conditions, in which case you will overnight in Fresno or Visalia and a visit to Mammoth Lakes will not be possible (winter routing applies to all departures between October and May under normal snow conditions).

Accommodation at the Mammoth Mountain Inn, Mammoth Lakes, or Piccadilly Inn, Fresno

DAY 4: MAMMOTH/FRESNO > YOSEMITE > MODESTO

Your journey today brings you to the Tioga Pass (please see important note on day 3) into the scenic wonderland of Yosemite National Park. Here, you will experience the valley floor and its splendors including the glacial-shaped granite formations of El Capitan, Half Dome, the magnificent Bridal Falls, and Yosemite Falls. Overnight in Modesto.

Accommodation at the Doubletree by Hilton Modesto, Modesto, or similar

DAY 5: MODESTO > SAN FRANCISCO

Depart early this morning to arrive in San Francisco, one of the most beloved cities in America. Enjoy a comprehensive sightseeing tour before arriving at your hotel. This evening take a memorable City by Night Tour (optional).

Accommodation at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, San Francisco, or similar

DAY 6: SAN FRANCISCO (NAPA VALLEY OPTIONAL)

Day at leisure! Your Tour Director is on hand to assist with making your plans for the day: perhaps a cable car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf where one may enjoy a “Taste of San Francisco”: local seafood, famous sourdough bread, or decadent Ghiradelli’s Chocolate. Or take a stroll by Sea Lions’ Marina to watch them frolic.

Be sure to gaze across the bay to Alcatraz Island where “America’s Most Wanted” such as Al Capone and ”Machine Gun” Kelly were incarcerated. Or visit Union Square for a shopping stop at Macy’s Department Store. You also may choose to embark on a wine-tasting tour to Napa Valley, world-renowned for its fine wineries and beautiful scenery (optional).

Accommodation at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, San Francisco, or similar

DAY 7: SAN FRANCISCO > MONTEREY/ CARMEL > CENTRAL COAST

Depart San Francisco this morning for the drive to the Monterey Peninsula, known for its magnificent homes and lovely beaches. In Monterey, visit Fisherman’s Wharf and famous Cannery Row Then tour charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, noted for its quaint houses, upscale art galleries, and unique stores. In the afternoon your tour continues through Paso Robles, home of fine wineries. Overnight in a quaint Central California Coast town.

Accommodation at the Radisson Santa Maria, Central Coast, or similar

DAY 8: CENTRAL COAST > SANTA BARBARA > SANTA MONICA > LOS ANGELES DEPARTURE

Journey south through the Santa Ynez Valley into Santa Barbara where palm-lined walkways border white sandy beaches. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, an orientation tour commences to include Hollywood, portions of Beverly Hills, and Century City before arriving in Santa Monica, home to the finish line of Historic Route 66, where you may enjoy an optional lunch on the pier before departure or arriving at your hotel.