By Michele Angello
The wind blows differently here—redolent of roasting chiles and piňon wood burning in a crackling fireplace. The light is different, too—a soft, amber glow that has long captured the eye of artists. The warm earth smolders red—reflected in the adobe that seems to pop up in the most meaningful and the most mundane places, from the oldest church in America to the town strip malls. The desert sky feels closer, brighter, and clearer.

Experiencing Santa Fe can feel a little bit like falling in love. You know you’re dazzled, but you can’t put your finger on exactly what it is that lights your fire.