Why we love Durango!

by Shaheen Hangval, Buyer Specialist at Blue Ribbon Properties:

"What is so special about Durango?," my family asked me after I told them I had decided to move to from a big city to a small mountain town. Growing up in a large city in Texas, I had acquired many "city life" comforts, why all of a sudden was I drawn to a small Colorado town?

The first time I experienced Durango was when I was driving through on a road trip to California with a dear friend. It was late and we needed to stop and rest. "We'll stay at cheap motel once we get to the next town" suggested my friend. As we turned down the winding road, the town lights of Durango popped out of the town nestled between the surrounding hillsides. "Wow, this must be Durango". We stopped at what seemed like one of the most affordable motels to get a good nights rest. In the morning we got a wake up call at 8:00am and were asked if we wanted to get on the 9:00 free raft ride through town. "What?! Free rafting with a cheap hotel stay? Sure!" The next thing you know we are enjoying an adventure down the Animas river and we hadn't even had breakfast yet. The first lesson I learned about Durango was if you are here, adventure will find you. One year later I was an official Durango resident.

The memories I have acquired in the 6 years I have been in Durango are full of wonderful friendships and great adventures. There is a strong sense of community for all ages. It seems as though any time you have a question or need a hand there is always someone right there ready to help.

Outdoor activities have always interested me and Durango offers a wide variety of options year round. There are paved walking trails along the Animas river that runs through town and miles of mountain biking and hiking trails up by the college. In the summer, all ages and lifestyles can enjoy the river. Here you will see families in rafts riding along extreme kayakers and in the low season you will see people in inner tubes soaking up the sun. In winter you can snowboard or ski at the resort that is only 25 miles from town or snowshoe on the hiking trails. Snowmobiling or cross country skiing is also accessible. Sledding is also a favorite past time of mine, all you need is a little hill with snow on it and a cardboard box!

Geographically the four corners area is truly unique. If you need a change of scenery, like mountains to desert, it's not too far away. The town is only 4 miles across which makes commuting a breeze. It's only a short car ride anywhere in town, fun bike ride, accessible walk or bus ride. We are also known for our wide variety of restaurants from steakhouses to middle eastern cuisine. Fun events like the Film Festival, Taste of Durango and Tour De Fat are celebrated in Durango each year. There is plenty of entertainment and food even for a "city girl" like myself.

Being in real estate I see all types of people with different interests coming and going here.
I have seen Durango draw the young and adventurous, people getting ready to retire, ambitious students beginning a college career, families and single business professionals.
Even coming from a large city, I know everything I need right now in my life is already here. I love this town, this community and all of the adventure that comes with it.

Shaheen Hangval
shaheen@blueribbondurango.com