SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO
San Miguel de Allende is known for its well-preserved Colonial and Spanish architecture. Many religious and civic buildings were built in the style of Mexican Baroque.
The shops in San Miguel de Allende are a mix of art and sculpture galleries, furniture shops, artisanal souvenir emporiums, modern boutiques.
The Handicraft Market, located only a few blocks away from El Jardin, the main square, showcases the crafts of some 45 vendors. Mercado de Artesanias (The Artisan Market) is open daily from 9 am until 7 pm. Each stall is overloaded with hand-crafted items. Jewelry stalls sell pendants and rings, some of which are made from local stones such as Mexican jade or shaped like skulls. Hand-painted, traditional Mexican ceramics are piled high alongside hanging lamps and Oaxacan rugs and clothing. Even the souvenirs at touristy stalls are hand-painted.
Because San Miguel de Allende is so popular with tourists, there has been a proliferation of foodie destinations, from street foods to gourmet restaurants. With temperate weather and wonderful light, described by some as “eternal spring,” many of San Miguel de Allende’s restaurants and bars are located on rooftops, offering beautiful city views, especially at night. This is Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at the Rosewood Resort, perfect for a drink before or after dinner. Le Restaurant for dinner , 1826 for breakfast, the BLT at the Fabrica Aurora restaurant or for Mexican food in Volcano bowl with entertainment, Los Milagros.
The Fabrica La Aurora is a center of art and design center housed in a former textile factory where you can watch artists at work. It’s centrally located, only a 15-minute walk from the Main Garden . Additionally, the streets are lined with inviting shops selling all kinds of one-of-a-kind crafts.
The state of Guanajuato is the fourth largest wine producer in Mexico attracting more wine lovers each year. The region produces some 700 thousand bottles annually with 135 labels. The most commonly used grapes to make these wines include shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, tempranillo, and malbec.
Renting a car to drive to the nearby cities of Guanajuato, Dolores Hidalgo, Old mining towns explorations, or Queretaro Another option is to take the local bus. Each of these small towns has its own unique flavor.
