We are going to the Chile Festival in Hatch, NM, this August 30-31. Its north of Las Cruces, and we are flying into El Paso. I was actullay looking forward to seeing El Paso, until I saw this thread!
El Paso's a fine place. I've lived here my entire life. Has good Dubya support. He even appointed a former mayor to his cabinet. Pay no attention to the superfical snobs on this thread.
HATCH! Oh boy, bring plenty of napkins to wipe off the sweat from those Chiles.
Nothing quite like green chile stew ...
I think I must be deranged, because I actually kinda like El Paso and would consider living there. I doubt you would catch me living anywhere within driving distance of Houston, but I'm more of a desert rat anyway and can't stand humidity.
Hatch is beautiful --- don't miss the Chili festival. It's not very hot in August anyway.
I lived on our horse ranch (Radium Springs) just 5 miles south of Hatch, NM. Drive South from Hatch toward Radium Springs and look for where the Rio Grande river gets pinched between two hills. You will recognize it, when you see it.
To the left is a roping area, and to the right was my ranch.
This is a fantastic time of the year to visit this most wonderful part of our country.
HINT: This thread was based upon an article which was totally false. The average humidity is 30%. Even with temperatures well over 90 deg F, it is never a problem. The people know all about "swamp coolers."
I strongly advise that you to take a warm jacket! This area can get cold in the evenings this time of the year.
El Paso has a high elevation and it actually cools down somewhat at night -- unlike other parts of Texas.
I'm a native El Pasoan and I am not scarred for life. Mom still (happily) lives there.
Just avoid certain parts of town - central and south El Paso, for instance. Stay on the west side and you'll be fine.
Look on the bright side - there's excellent, affordable Mexican food on just abour every street corner!