Worlds Largest Hot-Air Balloon Festival
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world’s largest hot-air balloon festival and one of the most photographed events on earth. Each October, more than 500 balloons rise over the New Mexico desert, filling the sky with color and wonder. The Fiesta is a true bucket-list experience that combines art, adventure, and pure joy.
Overall Trip Highlights
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2 Days of VIP Access to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – Skip the crowds with exclusive entry and prime viewing areas.
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Two Fiesta Sessions Included – Experience both a pre-dawn Morning Glow and a dazzling Evening Glow event.
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Hundreds of Hot Air Balloons in Flight – Watch the world’s largest gathering of colorful balloons fill the New Mexico sky.
- Day Trip to explore Santa Fe
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Welcome Dinner & Group Bonding – Meet your travel companions with a festive kickoff meal.
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Private Transportation – Stress-free transfers to all Fiesta events and group activities.
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Explore Old Town Albuquerque – Stroll historic adobe streets, artisan shops, and cultural landmarks.
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Southwest Scenery & Sandia Views – Take in sweeping desert and mountain vistas.
October 1-5, 2026
5 Days / 4 Nights
2 DAYS OF VIP ACCESS
Group Size: 13-16 Guests
Your BB Hostesses: 2 Hosts
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
| Single Occupancy | Double Occupancy |
| $5,179 | $4,271 |
| Private Room with Private Bath | Shared Room, Separate Beds, Shared Bath |
| Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
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Click Here to Book Single Occupancy October 1-5, 2026 – Available |
Click Here to Book Double Occupancy October 1-5, 2026 – Available |
Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?
- Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
- Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable.
- Full Dining: Enjoy 2-3 daily meals carefully selected to reflect the local cuisine, inclusive of all tips. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a sumptuous dinner, we’ve got it all covered.
- Unique Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
- Curated Activities: We find the BEST of the best tours. Making the absolute most out of our time.
- Included Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of. We ensure that those who make your trip special are rewarded, without you needing to worry about the details.
- Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
- You won’t see “Free Days” on our itineraries: Our trips are made for a balanced experience. We carve out time to bond, laugh, shop and explore but we will never just send you out on your own and say “good luck” we do everything together or smaller group breakouts.
With Beatrice Bradley, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure you have a memorable and carefree travel experience. Join us and discover the joy of true hassle-free travel!
We Offer Flex-Pay! What is that?
Flexible Payments at Your Fingertips: You can use your invoice to pay any amount you choose, as frequently as you wish, until the full payment deadline.
Want to make a payment? Click “Review and Pay” on your invoice whenever you’re ready.
Pay Your Way: You can adjust the payment amount by selecting “Edit Amount,” allowing you to manage your budget flexibly.
Final Countdown: Ensure everything is paid up 60 days prior to your trip for domestic and 90 days prior for international. Don’t worry, we’ll send you reminders! If there’s any remaining balance, we’ll automatically process it, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!
| Arrival Information | Departing Information |
| Albuquerque Int’l Sunport | Albuquerque Int’l Sunport |
| October 1, 2026 | October 5, 2026 |
| Must arrive before 4:00 PM | Depart at your convenience |
Activity Level: Moderate
This trip is designed for women 50+ and includes moderate activities such as walking through towns, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods. Participate as much as you like, and feel free to take breaks when needed. Enjoy the adventure at your own pace!
Tracey Winter and Karen Schluchter are set to be your fabulous hosts—but stay tuned, as our dazzling hostess lineup is always subject to a little delightful change!
As your hostesses, we understand that traveling solo can be intimidating, but rest assured, making you feel welcomed and comfortable is our top priority. Our experiences are designed for building new and lasting friendships in a warm and welcoming environment.
From the moment you arrive until we bid you farewell, we’ll be right by your side. We meticulously handle all the details and manage the logistics seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring your journey is truly unique and worry-free. While we aren’t local experts or tour guides, we work with a network of local professionals carefully selected for each location to enrich your experience.
Read more about our Hostesses Here
Thinking about joining us?
If you’re on the fence or have any questions, we’re here to help. Simply fill out this form to get in touch. We can’t wait to assist you in planning an unforgettable adventure!
If you have any immediate questions, please feel free to get in touch: 763-864-8291 | Lindsay@bbgage.com
Ready to book? We’re happy to have you!
Day One: Arrival Day
Welcome to Albuquerque, New Mexico! For flight information please see “flight information” tab below.
Highlights
- Welcome Dinner at the Hotel, where we will get acquainted and go briefly over the trip
Day Two: Let’s Explore Santa Fe!
We are off to Santa Fe for the day! Nestled in the breathtaking high desert of New Mexico, Santa Fe is a city unlike any other. With its rich history, vibrant art scene, and stunning natural landscapes, Santa Fe is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and explore the countless art galleries, museums, and historic sites that make Santa Fe so unique. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of the city’s historic downtown, where you’ll find incredible architecture and some of the best shopping and dining in the Southwest.
Highlights
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Scenic drive through New Mexico’s high desert with sweeping mountain views along the way
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Guided exploration of historic Santa Fe Plaza – adobe architecture, centuries-old churches, and colorful streets
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Dive into the city’s world-famous art scene at galleries, artisan markets, and museums
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Unique shopping – from Native American jewelry to Southwest textiles and one-of-a-kind art pieces
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Savor Santa Fe flavors enjoy local dining
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Cultural immersion in a city where Spanish, Native American, and Anglo traditions blend seamlessly
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Leisure time to wander – stroll at your own pace through winding alleys, boutiques, and courtyards
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Breathtaking backdrop of Sangre de Cristo Mountains framing the city’s skyline
Day Three: Morning Glow: VIP Section of Balloon Fiesta – Experience Balloon Fiesta in Style & Sandia Tram
EARLY MORNING: 3 AM wake up call
We start the day early with a 3 AM wake-up call to head to the Balloon Fiesta grounds. From our VIP section, you’ll experience the Dawn Patrol followed by the Mass Ascension, when hundreds of balloons rise into the morning sky as the National Anthem plays. It’s one of the most recognized events of the Fiesta and a true bucket-list moment.
Afterward, we return to the hotel for downtime. This is a great opportunity to rest, enjoy the property, or book an optional hot air balloon ride (not included in the itinerary). We’ll have several hours of relaxation before the afternoon outing.
Later in the day, we head to the Sandia Peak Tramway, one of the longest aerial trams in the world. The ride takes you up the side of the Sandia Mountains, offering sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding desert. At the top, you’ll have time to take in the scenery, explore the area, or grab a bite at the mountaintop restaurant before returning to the city.
Highlights
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VIP Morning Glow & Mass Ascension – Front-row access as Dawn Patrol lifts off in the dark, followed by hundreds of balloons filling the sky with color while the National Anthem plays.
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Once-in-a-lifetime photo ops – Capture the most iconic shots of the Balloon Fiesta from the comfort of the VIP section.
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Optional hot air balloon ride – Free time mid-day for those who wish to add their own flight experience (extra cost).
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Relax & recharge – Return to the hotel for a well-deserved break after the early morning magic.
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Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway – Soar 2.7 miles up the dramatic Sandia Mountains on one of the world’s longest aerial tramways.
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Breathtaking views – Panoramic vistas of the Rio Grande Valley, rugged canyons, and endless desert horizons.
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Dinner Together
Day Four: Old Town New Mexico & VIP Evening Glow and Firework Show!
We begin the morning with breakfast before heading out to explore Albuquerque’s highlights. Stroll through historic Old Town, see the adobe architecture, browse unique shops, and enjoy the blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Western cultures that make the city so distinctive. There will be time for light sightseeing, shopping, and a relaxed lunch before returning to the hotel to freshen up.
In the evening, we transfer to the Balloon Fiesta grounds for our VIP Evening Glow experience. As night falls, tethered balloons ignite their burners in unison, creating a spectacular field of glowing color. The atmosphere is festive and vibrant, and the evening concludes with a fireworks finale—the perfect way to end an unforgettable day in New Mexico.
Day Five: Departure Day
Easy morning at the hotel after we had so much fun watching the firework show. Breakfast together. Departure times will vary. Multiple shuttles to airport.
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
All Inclusive – Cya there!
You Might Be Wondering…
Read through our frequently asked questions.
I've never traveled solo; Is this travel group for me?
Yes! In fact, many of our guests are first-time solo travelers. Beatrice Bradley is designed exactly for women like you. Those ready to explore but not alone. From the moment you arrive, you'll be welcomed into a fun, supportive group of like-minded women. We take care of the details so you can relax, make fast friends, and enjoy the adventure. You may come solo, but you’ll never feel alone.
Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?
Included:
- Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
- Tours / Activities: We curate only the best of the best experiences to make the most of our time together. Please note that tours and activities listed on the website are subject to change based on availability, group size, and weather. If adjustments are needed, we’ll always replace them with something equally special
- Food / Beverages: Meals eaten with the group are fully covered by Beatrice Bradley. Typically this includes 2 meals a day.
- Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
- Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
- Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable. Please remember Your BB Host is not your tour guide.
- Included Gratuities: Tips for local tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of.
not included:
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Airfare to and from the destination – You’ll arrange your own flights based on our suggested arrival and departure times.
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Hotel incidentals and personal expenses – Things like room service, minibar items, or personal shopping aren’t included.
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Meals eaten outside the group – If you choose to skip a group meal or explore on your own, those meals are at your own expense.
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Activities done outside the group itinerary – Any optional excursions, spa treatments, or activities not part of the planned group experience will be at your discretion and cost.
- Tips for your Beatrice Bradley Host
We keep things simple and transparent—so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Are the deposits refundable / What is the cancellation policy.
What if i want to skip an activity? - How important is it to be on time?
You are never required to do all activities! Sometimes you need a little downtime, and you’re welcome to skip an activity if you'd prefer to rest or recharge. Just keep our hosts in the loop.
Being on time is also very important. We run a thoughtful schedule to make sure everyone gets the most out of each day. Out of respect for your fellow travelers and our guides, we ask that you arrive on time and ready to roll so we can keep the adventure smooth and stress-free for all!
What can I expect from a Beatrice Bradley Host?
Our Beatrice Bradley hosts are the glue that holds each trip together. They understand how intimidating solo travel can feel, and they’re dedicated to making your experience warm, welcoming, and full of laughter. From the moment you arrive, they’ll be there with a smile—helping you settle in, making introductions, and setting the tone for a fun and connected adventure.
Our hosts aren’t just handling logistics—they’re the heart of the journey. They create a sense of community, offer support, and help every woman feel seen, included, and valued.
Please note: our hosts are not local tour guides—we hire local experts for that. In some cases, it may even be their first time in the destination, just like you! While they’re often going above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly, we kindly ask that you treat them with respect. They are not personal assistants or luggage porters—they are your fellow travelers, dedicated to making this trip unforgettable for everyone.
How does tipping work?
We take care of all standard tips for included meals, local guides, and drivers—so you don’t need to worry about those details.
If you’d like to show appreciation to your Beatrice Bradley host, gratuities are always welcome but never expected. A general guideline is $5–$10 per day, per host, depending on your experience. Most guests find it a meaningful way to say thank you for the care, energy, and fun our hosts bring to each trip!
Thinking about it? Let Us Know!
If you're considering joining one of our trips but need more information or time, fill out the form below, and we can help!
