Roswell

Roswell is a name that instantly conjures up images of flying saucers and alien mysteries. Located in the state of New Mexico, USA, this city has become a legendary destination for ufologists, sci-fi fans, and adventurers from around the world. It is here, amidst picturesque desert landscapes, that real history closely intertwines with urban legends, creating a unique atmosphere of mystery.

The city's main feature is undoubtedly the events of 1947, which transformed it into the unofficial world capital of UFOs. Travelers can expect an immersion into a unique culture: from the famous International UFO Museum and Research Center to alien-shaped streetlights and themed festivals. However, Roswell is not just about "little green men," but also possesses the special charm of the American Southwest, interesting architecture, and the opportunity to touch upon one of the most intriguing mysteries of modern times.

Getting to the "UFO Capital" by plane is much easier than it might seem. The city is served by its own regional airport — Roswell Air Center (ROW). It is located just 11 kilometers from the center, making arrival here extremely convenient for tourists.

Since the airport is small, there are no direct international flights. The main flow of passengers arrives via transit through major US aviation hubs. Convenient connections are most often available via Dallas or Phoenix. Flights operate regularly, ensuring stable connections with the rest of the country.

Upon arrival, travelers can use taxi services or rent a car directly at the terminal. The trip to the central streets of Roswell will take no more than 15–20 minutes, allowing you to almost immediately begin exploring the mysterious attractions of this unique place.

There is no direct rail service to Roswell, as the city does not have its own train station. Traveling by train through this region of the USA is suitable for those who are in no rush and are willing to combine different modes of transport for the sake of an atmospheric journey. The nearest major Amtrak stations are located at a significant distance, in cities such as Albuquerque or El Paso, so the final leg of the journey will inevitably have to be covered by bus or rental car.

A route involving a transfer to a car can be an excellent adventure, opening up views of the famous desert landscapes of New Mexico. For example, if you arrive by train in El Paso, the road to your destination may pass through Alamogordo, allowing you to see even more colorful places on the way to the mysterious UFO capital.

You can get to Roswell by bus using the services of major intercity carriers, such as Greyhound. Routes are usually planned through key transport hubs of the region: Albuquerque, El Paso, or Amarillo. This is the most reliable way to get to the city by public ground transport, avoiding the difficulties of navigating unfamiliar highways.

Traveling along the roads of New Mexico will provide unforgettable impressions from contemplating the endless desert expanses. A trip from Albuquerque, for example, will take about 3–4 hours. Comfortable buses allow you to relax and enjoy the views outside the window, preparing travelers for immersion in the atmosphere of secrets and mysteries for which this unique city is famous.

Traveling by car in New Mexico is a distinct pleasure, allowing you to enjoy the harsh and majestic landscapes of the desert. The scenic drive from Alamogordo will take about 2 hours (approximately 190 km), and if you start from the famous white dunes of White Sands, the journey will take only 15–20 minutes longer. These routes are often chosen by those who want to combine the trip with viewing the natural wonders of the state, watching the horizon merge with the sky.

From the direction of Hobbs, you can get to Roswell even faster: the distance of 160 km is easily covered in 1 hour 40 minutes on straight and, as a rule, traffic-free highways. Given the significant distances between cities, a trip by intercity taxi can cost between 150 to 250 dollars, so most travelers prefer to rent a car to avoid depending on rates and schedules.

A trip to Roswell is an exciting adventure in the heart of the New Mexico desert, requiring a little preparation for maximum comfort. To ensure your introduction to the world UFO capital goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is desert: it can be very hot in summer and cool in winter. Be sure to bring headwear, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. Keep in mind that temperature fluctuations can be significant, so even in the warm season, a light jacket or sweater will be useful for evening walks.
2. Transport. Public transport in the city is not very widely developed, so the optimal solution would be to rent a car. This will give you freedom of movement not only around the city but also allow you to visit natural parks in the vicinity. Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are also available.
3. Finances. The official currency is the USA Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in museums, cafes, and souvenir shops. However, it is recommended to carry some cash in small bills for tips or purchases at small local markets.
4. Health and Safety. Roswell is a safe and quiet city. The main threat to tourists here is dehydration and heatstroke, so always carry a bottle of water with you. Medical assistance is available and of high quality; the emergency number is 911.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Due to the proximity to the border and the historical features of the region, many locals also speak Spanish. People here are open to communication, so basic English will be sufficient.
6. Local Etiquette. Residents of the American Southwest are known for their friendliness. It is customary to greet shop assistants and smile when meeting people. Tipping is an important part of the culture: in restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount if service is not included in the check.
7. What to Avoid. Do not enter private territories and farmlands, even if you are looking for traces of aliens — private property rights are strictly observed here. Also, avoid long walks at noon under the open sun without protection.
8. Extra Tip. If you want to take a piece of the local atmosphere home with you, don't limit yourself to magnets. Take a look at local antique shops or stores at the UFO Museum — there you can find truly unique themed souvenirs and books that exist nowhere else in the world.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the secrets and mysteries of this amazing city. Roswell is waiting for you to provide unforgettable emotions and, perhaps, make you believe in the impossible!