2026
Global Meetup
Albuquerque
8-11 OCT 2026
Get out and see the world with other amazing traveling women.
If you’ve always wanted to go somewhere but didn’t want to go alone, here’s your chance.
At Wanderful’s Global Meetups, we visit new places together.
You’ll have access to lightly curated activities with the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own (or with your new favorite travel buddies).
This is NOT a group trip.
Lightly curated.
We organize 1-2 activities per day, usually around a meal.
The rest is up to you. We do NOT plan your travel, accommodations, airfare, or ground transportation. Outside of specific excursions, there are no tour guides.
Explore on your own.
You’ll get favorite recommendations from local Wanderful members or partners on places to go and things to see.
In collaboration with locals.
For this meetup, we’re partnering with local communities to preserve the cultural and environmental richness of Albuquerque.
Experience the Magic of Albuequerque
Imagine the crisp desert air as hundreds of vibrant hot air balloons ascend into the dawn sky. Now, imagine experiencing it with your incredible Wanderful community! Join us for an unforgettable long weekend in New Mexico, where we'll explore local culture, support inspiring female entrepreneurs, and witness the magic of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta—twice!
Why Travel with Wanderful?
Community-centered and woman-led
You’ll travel in a small group of 25-40 Wanderful women who will feel like besties by the time the trip is over. Plus, our trips are focused on hearing the stories of women and connecting with locals.
Connection before and after the trip
All Wanderful travelers are added to an exclusive chat group and invited to two virtual pre-trip meetings in order to build even stronger connections and a valuable support network.
Wanderful guides along the way
A Wanderful team member will always join to help center your experience and provide all the support you need (whether logistical or emotional!).
Special perks for Wanderful members
Get an exclusive new charm for your Wanderful bracelet, just for being a Wanderful member. Learn more about joining our community here.
The itinerary.
We’ll regroup with an activity together each day.
The rest is up to you!
Thursday, October 8 —
Welcome to Albuquerque!
Kick off the weekend with a welcome cocktail reception and meet fellow members on our first night in the city..
Friday, Oct 9 —
Albuquerque Old Town Art & History Tour + surprise Art Workshop
With its historic charm and numerous artists studios and galleries, Old Town Albuquerque is a delight for those who love art and local history. On our Old Town walking tour, you’ll discover why this historic neighborhood is the heart of Albuquerque’s dynamic art scene. This tour will be led by a woman-owned company.
Learn about the fascinating history of Old Town Albuquerque, visit the Albuquerque Museum. We’ll discuss the history of Old Town and how significant events shaped the area’s artistic heritage, as well as its evolution from dusty historic plaza to bustling arts district.
Additionally, we'll host a Surprise Art Workshop! It's a chance for all of us to tap into our creativity, find inspiration, and share an amazing experience as a community.
Saturday, October 10 —
Balloon Festival Evening Session
The magic isn’t just in the sky! The festival also comes alive with performances from talented local New Mexicans, showcasing a vibrant mix of music, dance, and entertainment across all genres.
In the evening, we'll experience the magic of the "Twilight Twinkle Glow™" and the dazzling "AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show."
Sunday, October 11 —
Balloon Festival Morning Session
Rise early to witness the breathtaking "Mass Ascension," where hundreds of balloons take to the dawn sky in a truly unforgettable spectacle before saying farewell to beautiful Albuquerque.
Where to Stay
We've designed this meetup to be both accessible and impactful. By giving you the flexibility to choose your own accommodation, you can tailor the trip to your budget and style.
We are currently working on getting a room block at a fantastic woman-owned business for those who want to stay at our recommended hotel. Please stay tuned for details and a booking link.
Don’t forget your Wanderful member perks!
Wanderful members get special perks on every Wanderful trip, including:
First dibs on new Wanderful trips
The opportunity to stay with a Wanderful roommate to keep costs down.
2 virtual pre-trip meetings to chat face-to-face with other travelers before you depart.
Access to an exclusive WhatsApp Group so you can chat and plan with other Wanderful travelers, starting 2 weeks before your trip.
A special gift to remember your time in Albuquerque (spoiler alert: it’s a custom charm for your Wanderful bracelet or keychain).
Curious about membership?
Join the coolest group of women traveling the world.
The comfort and support of a Wanderful group leader in addition to your tour guide for any additional support you require.
Friendships that will last a lifetime.
Reserve your spot.
Pricing and Inclusions
Wanderful Member Pricing:
$699 for meetup activities
Non-Member Pricing:
$828 for meetup activities + 1 year of Wanderful membership
Reserve your spot with only a $300 deposit
FAQs.
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Sometimes you’re looking for a travel experience without having someone plan out absolutely everything. That’s where Wanderful’s Global Meetups come in.
We coordinate a group of Wanderful members to travel to a place at the same time where we have a local hub. We’ll recommend some local hotels and set up 1-2 activities per day to do. The rest is up to you.
We’ll give you access to a private group in the Wanderful member portal so you can find and meet other travelers in advance and set up activities to do together. -
Unlike a typical group trip where everything is covered in advance, we organize 1-2 activities per day and everything else is up to you.
Everything else, including airfare, accommodation, ground transport, and any other activities or meals not included in our primary planning, are costs that you can expect to spend independently.
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Look no further! We’ll have two group meetings to help you meet other travelers and also connect with our partner so you get all the information and advice you need.
We’ll also have an exclusive group in the Wanderful member hub where you can continue to ask questions as you get into travel planning mode.
Just remember that transportation, accommodation, and additional activities not listed above need to be booked on your own.
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You don’t need to be a member yet — we have options for everyone! Choose a member ticket if you’re already part of our community, or select the non-member ticket to join this trip and enjoy a full year of Wanderful membership included.
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Global meetups are for Wanderful members only. You’re welcome to arrive or stay with a partner or travel companion, but only Wanderful members who have purchased a Global Meetup ticket can participate in official Global Meetup activities.
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We strive to make sure that all of our Global Meetups are as accessible as possible. We seek out restaurants that can offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal options and will check in with you on any dietary needs.
If you have any mobility or other accessibility concerns, we’ll be as accommodating as we can and are delighted to help you feel comfortable and supported!