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Travelers on a tight budget will have to resist many temptations when vacationing in the Albuquerque/Santa Fe area, including wonderful boutique hotels and inns, enticing Southwestern-style restaurants and local art works you'd love to take home. But by searching for deals on air travel and car rental, staying at inexpensive motels and campgrounds, and keeping the urge to shop under control, it's possible to enjoy the region's many attractions without breaking the bank. In general, late winter and early spring are the best times to shop for travel bargains, while the peak periods from June to November and over the Christmas/New Year holidays are best avoided by budget travelers.

As for golf, green fees at Paa-Ko Ridge are surprisingly affordable given the quality of the course, especially if you steer clear of the somewhat higher weekend rates. The weekday rate for 18 holes is just $47, plus $18 for cart rental, and at twilight you can play for just $34 any day of the week. Discounts are available for seniors age 60 and over and for juniors age 17 and under. Bring your own clubs and you can save the $30 rental fee.

At the Black Mesa Golf Club, out-of-state players of any age pay a very reasonable flat rate of $50 for 18 holes any day of the week, plus $16 for cart rental. Discounts are available for New Mexico residents only. As with any golfing trip, the extras really can add up, so bring your own clubs if possible, and keep your spending under control at the pro shop, bar and restaurant.