San Miguel de Allende a true bucket-list destination

by: Carla Pallares

an Miguel de Allende has been on my bucket list of places to visit for several years now. I was so glad I could finally visit because it was such a dream. Especially since it’s been named the best and kindest city in the world by Conde Naste

With its cobblestoned streets dripping in flowers and colorfully painted walls, intimate boutique hotels, the chicest of rooftop restaurants, art galleries, and local design shops just give you all the feels.

San Miguel de Allende is a small, charming, hilly town in Mexico (population of about 150,000) that is located 270km northwest of Mexico City. Unlike other more popular Mexican beach destinations, San Miguel de Allende is entirely landlocked and is at a very high elevation. In the early 20th century the small town of San Miguel was in danger of becoming a nonexistent town,but thanks to the opening of the renowned Instituto Allende (a visual arts school) in 1950, the city developed a booming art scene that drew in people from all over the world.

Today, the city continues to thrive and its flourishing art scene has become a place for bohemian expats and artists who want to settle in Mexico. In recent years, gastronomy has also started to take centerstage in San Miguel aided by the town’s lush surrounding farmlands and vineyards. Today, San Miguel is a popular weekend retreat for Mexicans, a hot spot for weddings, and an attractive destination for international visitors

Having traveled all over the world, I have never experienced such a small town with so many options for boutique hotels, resorts, and places to stay throughout the city. While in San Miguel I stayed at Casa Quebrada Boutique Hotel, a quaint 4-star boutique hotel with only 10 rooms. Each room is unique and different, some with fountains and the cutest balconies. The hotel was the perfect place to enjoy a stay of peace, comfort, and excellent quality. It has a perfect location where you can enjoy the cultural diversity and characteristic traditions of the city. A short walk to the center and/or square and everything you may need or see is just steps away.

It used to be an old family home that was transformed into a boutique hotel, each room is completely different with the same Moroccan-colonial touch. They also have a

Boca Ciega Greek restaurant inside with a beautiful atmosphere and an amazing menu.

San Miguel de Allende, being Mexico’s bestkept secret, you’ll be able to soak it all up in 2 or 3 days. There are many magical things to do in San Miguel de Allende but the best is definitely just wandering around, exploring, and seeing what you manage to find on every corner. To get you started here are some of the best things to do in San Miguel, our favorite activities that you don’t want to miss.

Admire the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel & the Central Square: One of the true architectural gems of San Miguel de Allende if not the whole of Mexico is the stunning,neo-gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Stare at it and take it all in. It’s breathtaking from afar and up close. Make sure to see it when it’s nighttime and everything is lit up. It will take your breath away.

Walk around the city center: One of the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende is to simply go everywhere and explore without a plan or a map. It’s hard to get lost in the relatively small central area, and it’s the perfect city to poke your head in and be in awe of what you see and discover.

Visit the Local Markets: For discount souvenirs and encounters with the locals, head to the very authentic local markets of San Miguel and Ignacio Ramirez. Here you’ll see the locals going about their daily lives and ladies selling food like fruit and vegetables. You’ll also find shoes, hats, cheeses and more.

Explore the best rooftop bars: San Miguel de Allende is definitely top fiver for having the best rooftops I’ve ever been to. Getting a drink or a bite to eat in this city while watching the sun goes down, is hands down, MAGICAL. Lavanda Cafe: If you want some good vibes, the best coffee in the city and live music, go here.The vibe was to die for and I definitely recommend the Lavender Latte which once again, was ‘chef’s kiss’. Cool thing to note is that they work with a number of different national roasts and beans from Veracruz to Oaxaca as well.

Fly over the City in a Hot Air Balloon: Even though we did not do this, it is extremely popular thing to do in this town. Find yourself a global company in the area that offers exclusive sunrise flights over the fairytale landscape at the most amazing time of day. After the magical experience, you can then have a bite to eat at Rosewood Hotel- the best hacienda turned hotel in the city. An experience of a lifetime, at least it was for me.