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- Take it easy. Santa Fe's high altitude (7,000 feet above sea level) means air is rarefied, thinner. It usually takes about 48 hours to adjust.
- Watch your alcohol intake. One drink is the equivalent of three at sea level.
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat. There are no beaches, but Santa Fe is closer to the sun, and the sun shines 300 days of the year.
- It's dry, sometimes less than 20 percent humidity. Nights and early mornings are coolish even in July and August.
- Santa Fe is in mountain and ski country, so expect six to eight major snowfalls from November to April.
- Make hotel reservations in advance. Weekends in the summer are usually booked near capacity, and rooms during Santa Fe's Indian Market (third weekend in August) are booked up to a year in advance.
- If you're staying outside the downtown area, your best bet is to have a car. There is city-wide taxi service and a public bus system, Santa Fe Trails, that serves the city with six routes. Buses operate from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays. There is no service on Sundays or holidays. Schedules are available on each bus, at libraries and at locations throughout the city. For schedule, rate and fare information, call 984-6730.
- Parking can be tight in Santa Fe in June, July and August, though most attractions are within walking distance of downtown hotels. There are convenient city-owned parking lots in the downtown area.
- Be patient in traffic and mindful of pedestrians.
- Reservations are always recommended for upscale restaurants. Busiest dining hours are from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Casual dress is acceptable in most restaurants.
- Standard tipping is 15 to 20 percent of bill. Some restaurants will add a service charge up to 18 percent for parties of five or more.
- Seniors: Check with your doctor regarding any physical condition that could be affected by Santa Fe's high altitude. Wear sturdy walking shoes and be aware of uneven floors when entering historic buildings. If you have dietary concerns, call the restaurant ahead of time for information.
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