Visit Albuquerque, New Mexico for a true taste of America's Southwest

As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Albuquerque boasts a unique multicultural heritage and history where Native American, Latino, Hispanic, Anglo and other cultural influences are ingrained in everyday living. Set against a backdrop of the ancient Sandia Mountains, a visit to Albuquerque allows visitors to experience a true taste of the authentic Southwest, while basking in the region's spectacular weather.

With 310 days of sunshine, Albuquerque makes an ideal destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Whether your penchant is for golf, biking, pony trekking or skiing, Albuquerque - with its endless blue skies - provides the perfect environment to indulge in your hobby. As such, it comes as no surprise to learn that Albuquerque was named by Men's Fitness magazine as one of the top ten fittest cities in the U.S.

Albuquerque's golf courses are perhaps one of the sport's best-kept secrets, with several of the region's courses having been ranked among the best in the country by golfing publications. With courses ranging from desert links to parkland and mountain courses, Albuquerque offers one of the most diverse golf experiences available. What's more, green fees in Albuquerque are considerably less expensive than at comparable courses elsewhere in the country so you'll be able to play more often, especially as Albuquerque also boasts a moderate winter climate, with 14 golf courses available to play all-year round.

For cycling enthusiasts, Albuquerque has earned numerous rankings as a great cycling city. In fact, the city was named the third-best place to bike in the U.S in 2006 by Bicycling Magazine; and with trails ranging from flat, winding routes through the city to intense, rugged mountain trails nearby, cyclists need look no farther for thrills. The Sandia foothills to the northeast of the city offers miles of gravel and single-track trails leading to National Forest and Wilderness land which overlooks the city, and provides stunning views for onlookers.

Alternatively, if you prefer something a little more sedate, Albuquerque is home to the world's largest hot air balloon festival, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which takes place every October. Albuquerque is the balloon capital of the world, and during the festival you'll see more than 700 balloons in the sky at a time. The festival draws a huge international crowd of balloonists and spectators each year, and is considered to be one of the most photographed events in the world. If hot-air ballooning is something you'd like to try for yourself, Albuquerque has many local hot-air balloon companies which provide rides for visitors on a daily basis, while the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum features one of the world's finest collections of hot-air ballooning equipment and memorabilia and is a world-renowned authority in the art, culture, science and history of hot-air ballooning.

Not to be outdone, Albuquerque also boasts an extensive array of shopping options to explore. From Native American jewellery and produce to authentic Southwestern pottery, weaving, art and more besides, you're sure to find a delightful treasure that will bring back cherished memories of your visit to Albuquerque for years to come.

And if that isn't enough, Albuquerque is also home to one of America's most unique and cherished regional cuisines, so it's no surprise to know that food is one of the things that people remember most about a trip to New Mexico. The regional cuisine is based on native ingredients such as corn, beans and chillies and incorporates Mexican, Native American and Spanish flavours. Away from the local cuisine, Albuquerque has a hugely diverse choice of culinary options: sushi bars, pizzerias, Mexican taquerias are all available, along with traditional restaurants offering a wide range of dishes.

Whether you stay in an authentic Southwestern bed and breakfast, a luxurious guest resort or a downtown hotel in Albuquerque, you're sure to find Albuquerque is a city with something for everyone, and a place where you can immerse yourself in a sublime mix of culture and heritage that is entrenched in centuries of history.

Elisha Burberry is a freelance writer who loves her job and the occasional glass of red wine.