Not being a popular tourist town like Tafi or Amaicha, you can find good prices for accommodation and food.
If you go to Salta, you have a 3.5-hour drive. This is the best option. You can take also a bus, but it makes to many stops so your trip never ends.
Santa Maria is a beautiful valley with a nice weather. Best time to go is spring/summer. Sun is king there and it is an excellent place to relax and for a change of scenery.
Sorrounding the town you can find many archaeological ruins and small vineyards and wineries where you can get excellent wine.