I had the opportunity of traveling to the beautiful city of San Miguel de Allende in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. San Miguel was named by UNESCO; World Heritage City in 2008 and was selected the number one best city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler readers in 2013. [Condé Nast Traveler wrote, “San Miguel de Allende nabbed the No. 1 spot thanks to its ‘great atmosphere, excellent restaurants, culture and ambiance galore.’ The ‘lack of street lights and billboard’s makes the region romantically and historically beautiful, and the city itself offers a ‘traditional feeling of a small town in the heart of Mexico’.” “An amazing place to be.”] I couldn't agree more with Condé Nast Traveler Magazine, this is one of the most beautiful and colorful cities I've ever traveled to.
1. Take the Tour Bus
Like I've always said, if you want an easy, fast and non-expensive way to learn about a city, make sure to take a tour bus first. The tour bus will explain historic events and landmarks. Plus you can take great pictures.
Jardín Principal [Main Plaza] |
Make sure to take a selfie at El Mirador. |
Oldest drug store in San Miguel established in 1864. |
2. Go to the Main Plaza or "Jardín Principal"
You must visit the Main Plaza or Jardín Principal. It's the heart of he city. The cathedral of San Miguel Arcángel is located there and it's one of the main attractions and the emblem of this town. Make sure to go in the cathedral, have breakfast in one of the corridors and walk around, there is always something going on in the plaza.
Mojigangas, these giant dancing puppet figures are used to evoke joy during important religious pilgrimages, weddings, parades and other important events. |
Breakfast at El Rincón de Don Tomas Restaurant-Bar, located in one of the corridors. |
3. Visit the Local Market "Mercado Artesanal"
Make sure to pay a visit to El Mercado Artesanal [Artisan Market], you will find delicious food, artisan goods, souvenirs and more. What I most love about buying in this market is that everything is hand made and every piece is unique. I bought a Huichol artisan beaded bracelet and a beautiful handmade embroidered blouse.
4. Have Tapas and Drinks on a Rooftop
Rooftops are very popular here, since the city has a beautiful scenery. There are rooftops everywhere. After 1 pm you can have some drinks and tapas at Pueblo Viejo rooftop. This restaurant provides a delicious tapas menu, my favorite item was the Jicama Taco. You MUST try it, you will not regret it! Another excellent rooftop is Luna, located in the Rosewood Hotel, the view is amazing and it has a trendy atmosphere. Must order the Soriee de Luna, this is a mouth-watering drink.
Pueblo Viejo Rooftop- Jicama Taco [jicama tortilla, battered shrimp, grilled onions, toped with chipotle mayo and tamarind sauce]. My mouth is watering while I type this. |
Sunset at Pueblo Viejo Rooftop. |
Luna Soiree in my hand and in the back, beautiful view of San Miguel. |
5. Walk Around & Eat Ice Cream
What a better way to learn about a city than by walking. Walk and enjoy the beautiful baroque/neoclassical colonial architecture and callejones [small allies].
Important Note: [Ladies please do not bring any type of heels, streets are cobbled and it's almost impossible to walk if you are wearing them. You've been warned.] Try to crash a "Callejoneada" although it may sound like you are being a creep, I'm pretty sure people will not notice your presence. Just do it for the experience, this is so much fun. "Callejoneadas" are preformed before or after a wedding. Bride and groom along with guests stroll through the callejones, drinking and singing along with mariachis.
And of course you can't leave this town without trying their famous ice cream. There are ice cream carts in every corner, with very unique flavors such as; corn and cheese, red wine, spearmint, Baileys, CarlosV, Gansito, among others.
There are so many more things to do in this beautiful city. Unfortunately I did not have time nor stomach to do and eat everything. Here are a few more things to do that I missed and that were highly recommended to me.
6. Eat Churros
7. Visit Museums
8. Eat at Café Rama
9. Rent motorcycles and tour the city
10. Visit a nearby vineyard
11. Instituto Allende
12. Moxi Restaurant
The list continues... I will have to go back soon. For more information about San Miguel go to, www.visitmexico.com
Very nice pictures! Everything looks colorful! :)
ReplyDeletevery nice! the pictures are great!
ReplyDelete