On the morning of November 30th, after a short drive from Santa Fe, my wife and I reached Taos Pueblo. I knew all the particulars about price, pictures, and the general rules. However, I was pleased to learn the photo policy has changed recently. There are no longer any restrictions or fees about general use of cameras within the Pueblo. It is expected that if you wish to take photos of any people, asking permission first is highly recommended. A guided tour is optional, but is certainly worth it. You can explore the pueblo at your leisure before or after.

There has also been other positives for the Taos Pueblo community recently. The pueblo has seen a recent increase of inhabitants living full-time inside the pueblo. Restricted portions of the pueblo are primarily areas that lead to 4 traditional kivas that are only accessible to tribal members. There is also a elementary school in the rear of the North section of Taos Pueblo. This school does teach the local language of Northern Tiwa.

The Taos Pueblo used to be guarded by a more defensive wall, but today it is a very short enclosure. The North side of the Pueblo (Hlaauma) is divided by the Red Willows Creek from the South side (Hlaukkwima). Most of the pictures tend to be of Hlaauma, but using small bridges one can visit the older Hlaukkwima area of the pueblo. (Up tp 1000 years old) My picture is of this area, one can see the general condition of this area is slightly more degraded.

The 19th century church near the entrance of the pueblo is a common, but elegant mission. There are several far older and more celebrated missions throughout New Mexico. The original is located near the cemetery and was ruined during the Pueblo revolt in the early 19th century.

Most residents within the pueblo make a living as craftsman and artisans. Some homes also sell various food and drinks, such as fry bread. These "shops" are generally located in the front portion of the home, which traditionally was used for the kitchen and storage, the living quarters remain separated. It should be noted, the Pueblo is NOT overly commercialized and these shops are almost indiscernible from other homes, except for an "open" sign in the door and perhaps a small tasteful sign.

The entrance for the pueblo is $16 and is very reasonable, despite a small minority of visitors being outraged by this. If the pueblo wants to be economically viable there needs to be a reasonable admission fee. This also helps control visitors. Foreigners expecting Taos residents to be garnered in "traditional" clothes will be disappointed, but this is an unrealistic and largely pointless expectation. Native Americans are not interested in being "displayed" in such a manor. Traditional clothing is reserved for ceremonies, feasts, and for the annual events held at the pueblo. It should be noted that all US Native Reservations follow a similar practice. The gaudy expectation that the locals should be wearing what their ancestors wore 120 years ago on a daily basis is highly inaccurate. In fact, some of the "white" ideas of Native Americans dress were only worn during ceremonies anyway. Daily living clothing was far more simple and unassuming.

There are 19 pueblos in New Mexico, Taos being the most Northern and the best preserved. Perhaps the 2nd most notable pueblo is Acoma, also known as "Sky City". This pueblo is a national historic landmark and it beautifully located on a mesa fairly high up. Taos Pueblo is truly an amazing place. I have to disagree somewhat with other reviewers. I felt Taos Pueblo was equally worthwhile to visit in comparison to Chaco or Mesa Verde. My wife and I enjoyed exploring the pueblo, taking pictures that are impossible to not look exceptional. The pueblo and the nearby mountains (particularly in Winter) are very photogenic. The shops are also worth stopping in. The quality of the wares are high, and store owners are very polite and unassuming.

In the Southwest there are 3 Native American world heritage sites. Mesa Verde, Chaco, and Taos Pueblo. It is my view that these 3 WHS are "world class" outstanding sites. Furthermore, I believe there are other sites in the region deserving of world heritage status. The premier example being Wuptaki, which is located just outside of Flagstaff and is representative of the Sinagua culture.

For those based in Santa Fe, enjoy one of America's most charming small cities. The rich history of the city dates well over 400 years. Santa Fe plaza and the cities several high quality museums are the major draw. But I would also recommend a walk in the BARRIO DE ANALCO HISTORIC DISTRICT just 5-10 minutes walk South of the plaza. Here you will find the oldest church in the United States and some 300-400 year old adobe homes.

In regards to the town of Taos and Rancho de Taos there are two worthwhile activities. Firstly, there are a number of high quality galleries and historic homes located on Ledoux Street, 10 minutes walk from the relatively cliché plaza. This historic district is the origin of the artistic community that sprung up in Taos at the turn of the century. At Rancho de Taos one should visit the San Francisco de Assisi Mission Church. This mission is found in countless paintings, particularly the austere and geometric back portion of the mission. One of Georgia O'Keeffe's most celebrated works is of this mission. The church is great for photos, and definitely worth a short visit. The site is considered one of the most beautiful missions in New Mexico, and is a National Historic Landmark.

I would highly recommend any traveler to visit Taos Pueblo, and to enjoy the nearby locations as well. In particular, Santa Fe and Bandelier National Monument.