Lying 274 km / 170 mi northwest of Mexico City, in the province of Guanajuato, is the city of San Miguel de Allende. A town steeped in history, today much of it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite with travellers, with some opting to stay much longer than planned.
Dating back to the 1500s CE, San Miguel de Allende has a deep history. From early events of Spanish colonial resistance to industrial growth and construction of splendid Mexican baroque buildings, to the decline of industry and population, to the unexpected artists revival, the town is not only historic but culturally beautiful.
Today it is a vibrant and colourful place that offers not only history and art but a place that one can both slow down and stay awhile or fill your days with activity, food, and colour. San Miguel de Allende has become a popular destination for many expats from both North America and Europe, resulting in publications such as Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler naming it the best city in the world in recent years.
Alas, it is no longer considered an inexpensive place to live, yet it still draws many visitors. With its reputation of delicious gastronomy, an abundance of vineyards, and a vibrant night life filled with rooftop bars and live music at every turn, one can expect their taste buds and feet to be dancing. With the colourful buildings and the history to go with it, it strikes me as a town worth wandering. Add in the shopping, galleries, day trips to nearby locales, a thermal spa and even a hot air balloon ride, it seems this Mexican town offers a well-rounded experience. Seems like it is another destination to add to a must-visit list.
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