Let San Miguel seduce you on your next trip to Mexico

If you’re sitting at home in the United States reading this article, wondering where to travel on these difficult times of global pandemic, prepare to add a great destination to your travel bucket list because there’s a reason why San Miguel de Allende was named Travel and Leisure’s top city of 2017 and 2018.

This picturesque destination is located 150 miles north of Mexico City so it’s easily accessible, but once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled much further.

For those looking for a cultural trip with a rich small-town vibe, this is the Mexican hot spot you need to check out.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (Archive)

From the breathtaking colonial architecture and food scene to the year-round festivals and consistently warm weather, you won’t be surprised if you run into Americans among the locals who were bewitched by this charming city and never went back.

Here’s what you need to know about before roaming the cobblestone streets and eclectic shops in San Miguel Allende.

Archaeology

Located just 15 miles from San Miguel de Allende, you can explore the impressive Cañada de la Virgen pyramid and archaeological zone. Breathtaking canyons surround the four ancient pyramid complexes and make up this unique 40-acre nature preserve. Even if you aren’t into taking a walking tour of the historic site you can check out horseback riding, camping, or even astronomy tours.

Cañada de La Virgen archaeological site (Photo: travel.usnews)
Cañada de La Virgen archaeological site (Photo: travel.usnews)

The City’s Heart

Take in the bustling community’s vibe as you mix with locals at El Jardin, the city’s main plaza. Also known as the “Main Garden,” this charming central square hosts a mix of locals socializing and sellers vendors offering colorful goods.

Jardin Central SMA (Photo: archive)
Jardin Central SMA (Photo: archive)

Stay in Personal Villas Instead of Chain Hotels

Whether you opt for a centrally located Airbnb or spurge or a romantic villa, you’ll find boutique and personal options in San Miguel de Allende instead of an abundance of chains.

Towering Mexican Fence Post cacti frame a doorway.
Towering Mexican Fence Post cacti frame a doorway in SMA (Photo: Archive)

And more recently, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico has been named the best small city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards (once again).

Described in its award entry as a “hub for ex-pat artists”, the city that has been an ex-pat haven for decades in the Mexican state of Guanajuato, and is known for its Spanish Colonial architecture and colorful facades.

Recommendations for places to visit include Fabrica La Aurora, a former textile factory now home to local artisans, the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende hotel, and the chef’s table at restaurant Aperi.

Source: San Miguel Times

San Miguel Post