If you have the opportunity to rent a car, the scenic 1 1/2 hour drive from Santa Fe to the Municipality of Taos, north of Santa Fe, should be on your list. Surrounded by incredible landscapes, the town offers endless recreational activities.

Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus here is on treating leather in its natural state; the dyeing happens elsewhere. Visiting the site can be a bit tricky due to the presence of unofficial 'guides' demanding payment. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a certified guide as part of a medina tour. Otherwise, prepare to navigate past these unofficial attendants by offering a small tip and insisting on entering without their assistance.

When the chaos of the city becomes too much for you to handle, the one-hectare botanical Majorelle Garden is a perfect refuge. Stroll in the shade of the palms and watch beautiful plants, fountains and birds and when you're tired you can sit down at the garden café. The iconic Villa Oasis — the private residence of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge — is a must-see. Its vividly blue walls are a perfect match with the verdant greenery of the garden.

The museum Cité de l’Océan et du Surf can answer questions like: where does the water in the oceans come from? Did Atlantis really exist? Would we be here if the ocean never existed? More than one of your senses will be engaged in the fun journey toward learning about the depths of the ocean. 3D animations and interactive devices will guide you along your way.