Snap Shot

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

In this new series, I try to bring you just a peek into destinations that should be on your bucket list. Not an in depth guide, just some luscious pics, tips and interesting facts to highlight why I love the place and you might too!

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San Miguel de Allende is well known to the expat community that has put it on the map as the place to be. Maybe you too will think it warrants at least a visit if not consideration for a FRP (Final Resting Place) after reading the Snap Shot on this beautiful city.

Go for the lovely architecture and fabulous food you will experience there. Stay longer than you thought you would for the simple charm and authenticity of the people and the Mexican traditions still practiced today. There are many discoveries to be made as this city opens it’s doors and it’s heart to you. Ready to learn more about this wonderful spot?

Go

San Miguel de Allende is in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico and lies 74 miles east of the city of Guanajuato. It is centrally located forty miles northwest of Queretaro and 179 miles northwest of Mexico City. There are two major airports to use to access San Miguel; Leon and Mexico City. The ticket to Leon will be more expensive but it is a little over an hours drive to the city while Mexico City will be a cheaper ticket but a little over two hours away.

When

Temperatures stay in a very acceptable range with the coldest in December, January and February averaging 57 degrees and the warmest in May, June and July at 70 degrees. That is pretty standable making this travel destination a good year round choice

Snap

The films Once Upon a Time in Mexico and The Mask of Zoro II were both filmed in San Miguel de Allende.

See

La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, is the current parish church of San Miguel. It is one of the most-photographed churches in Mexico and the two tall towers of its Neo Gothic façade can be seen from most parts of town. The church was built in the 17th century but the current Gothic façade was constructed in 1880 by Zeferino Gutierrez, an indigenous bricklayer and self-taught architect.

In front of this façade is a small atrium which is guarded by a wrought iron fence. There is a monument in the atrium dedicated to Bishop José María de Jesús Diez de Sollano y Davalos. The San Rafael or Santa Escuela Church is located to the side of the parish. It was founded by Luis Felipe Neri de Alfaro in 1742.

It is a lovely tour with terrific photo ops so don’t miss it!

Take time to visit the Mercado del Carmen where gourmet food meets fabulous drinks with just the right music to wash it all down.

The Casa de Allende (Allende House) museum was the home of Ignacio Allende, who was a principal figure in the early part of the Mexican War of Independence. The structure was built in 1759 with Baroque and Neoclassical elements.

The museum itself houses what is officially called the Museo Histórico de San Miguel de Allende, and it is one of many "regional museums" of Mexico. This kind of museum focuses on the history of the local area from the prehistoric period to the present, especially the area's role in Mexico's national history.

Eat

The Restaurant was voted one of the best of 2018 in San Miguel. Under the steady stewardship of Chef Donnie Masterton since 2008, this cozy little place manages to maintain a Zen like ambiance in the middle of the busy downtown area around La Parroquia. A mix of American and European dishes, don’t miss this one for a high end experience.

El Pescau is a much more affordable choice where you will get more authentic fresh seafood dishes in the Mexican style. The vibe is a little cool and modern and the fun is always there.

Stay

An 18th century boutique hotel in a great location Dos Casas has been renovated with an eye for detail in the art and design of each room. Comfortable but with modern styling this place also offers a top notch restaurant called Aperi which is thought to be one of the best in San Miguel de Allende right now.

Guides

Known for it’s over 2,000 brightly colored doors, San Miguel’s colonial style and architecture got it named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Hang out at Calle Umaran in downtown to catch the street life vibe, find some fresh fruit and vegetables and grab a quick drink or espresso.

The beauty of the neighborhoods and wondering the narrow cobble stoned streets will charm you into falling in love with this quaint city of expat choice.

Smile! You just got your Snap Shot of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. When are you going?

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