Las Cruces, NM & bonus stops

After a much-needed rest & relaxation, we were off to Las Cruces. On the way, we hit a few must sees!

The drive was probably the prettiest of the entire trip. The pictures don’t do the vast desert justice. We drove on the open road until we hit the mountains. We drove the windy road up the mountain going through Lincoln National Forest. Near the top, we ended up at a roadside petting zoo. It was my favorite day I’ve ever lived thus far, and we hadn’t even seen the half of it yet!

After giving our farewells to the zebras, we hit our 2nd National Park. This time, no rocks…just lots and lots of sand. We slid down the hills of White Sands National Park and I was converted. You couldn’t convince me going into this trip that we’d become nature gals, but my gosh were we. We spent hours in the 100+ degree weather. We had the park to ourselves in and endless sea of white sand. It should be noted, something we barely escaped was the road closures. The road leading up to the Park is sometimes closed for bomb testing (casual), so make sure to check online before going.

This stay was our first unique Airbnb. Originally, this trip was filled with airstreams and school buses and tiny homes. However, when my mom decided she’d be joining the trip, we switched those in for more practical stays. Looking back, I’ll admit this was a smart move. A unique stay is fun for a week. Two months of ‘unique stays’ lacking central AC and a full kitchen…not so fun.

So we arrive at our Container Airbnb (Airbnb made out of an old shipping container). It was, quite literally, in the middle of the desert. It wasn’t luxury, but it was cool. We did only end up staying one night, instead of two, when we saw a spa town was close by. What can I say? Take the girl out of luxuries but can’t take the luxury out of the girl.