Understand

This region, known as the "empty" corner of New Mexico, is bounded by the Colorado state line to the north, the Oklahoma and Texas state lines to the east, Interstate 40 (following the historic Route 66) to the south, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and their foothills to the west. With its low population density and few attractions, this region may seem overlooked, but it holds cultural affinities to the "panhandle" regions of Oklahoma and Texas. Geographically, it forms the western edge of the Great Plains and gradually rises to meet the majestic Sangre de Cristos, with a scattering of ancient and more recent volcanoes providing scenic variety to the northeastern corner of the state.[/ITEM_TEXT][/ITEM_ID] [ITEM_ID=159732][ITEM_TEXT]The Tomsk region, once an important center of Western Siberia, lost some of its importance after the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway. However, the region experienced an economic boost in the late 20th century due to the discovery of oil, reclaiming its status as an important Western Siberian region. Visiting Tomsk Oblast will fulfill any Siberian expectations. With its sparse population, vastness, flat landscape, and dense forests, it truly embodies the Siberian experience. The city of Tomsk, the region's main attraction, is worth veering off the Trans-Siberian Railway for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and embodiment of Siberian culture.[/ITEM_TEXT][/ITEM_ID] [ITEM_ID=159772][ITEM_TEXT]During the early Middle Ages, Podlaskie was a disputed region between the Kingdom of Poland, Ruthuania, and Baltic tribes. After the Union between the Kingdom of Poland and the Duchy of Lithuania in 1385, Podlaskie became the central part of the Jagiellonian state. Trade routes from the Vistula towns to Vilnius crossed this region, resulting in the construction of breathtaking Baroque palaces, churches, and synagogues during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The diverse community of Roman and Greek Catholics, Orthodox Christians, Jews, and Moslem Tatars settled here over the centuries. In 1795, after the Third Partition of Poland, most of Podlaskie's territory was annexed by Prussia and Russia. However, a portion of it remained part of the independent Duchy of Warsaw between 1807-1815. After the Congress of Vienna, it became part of the Russian empire. It became part of the Second Polish Republic after World War I, but was subsequently occupied by Nazi-Germany and the Soviet Union between 1939 and 1944. After World War II, it became part of Poland once again. Currently, it is situated in the easternmost part of the country, although it was historically situated between the capitals of Krakow and Vilnius during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Get in

The region is conveniently accessible by air through the nearest major airport in Albuquerque, located just beyond the southwest corner. Interstate highway 40 forms the southern boundary, and I-25 runs through the region from north to south, providing easy highway access. Additionally, the primary Amtrak line, the Southwest Chief, follows I-25 through this region, with limited stops in Las Vegas and Raton.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing