Albuquerque is the gateway to northern New Mexico. The metropolitan area has a population 712,738 and includes the city of Rio Rancho, one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Home to a sunny and dry climate, Albuquerque is nestled between the Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande river

The city provides spectacular scenery - from the rocky crest of Sandia Peak at sunset; the wonderous sight of the skyline in the evening; and the reflection of sundown off the Rio Grande.

Albuquerque's waterway is the bloodline for the entire area, which allows the city to spring up in this vast desert. The city continues to grow, as farming villages that line the waterway's banks are being stampeded by expansion. The city is also home to Sandia National Laboratories, and was the former home of Microsoft

A distinctive architecture which celebrates the Pueblo tradition characterizes many buildings in the city. Attractions of the city includes the University of New Mexico, the Kirtland Air Force Base, and Old Town, the most touristy part of town, it's also a unique Southwestern village with a beautiful and intact plaza. Also in this area are Albuquerque's aquarium and botanical gardens, as well as its zoo.