Sometimes, you know when it’s right. I knew San Miguel would suit us on the drive from Leon Airport to San Miguel de Allende. I was right.
Our ears popped as we climbed higher and higher up the narrow road. We were in the Central Mexican Highlands, headed to an altitude of over 6200 feet. The view from the window will be etched in my mind forever; there were fields of colorful wildflowers, meandering streams, and row upon row of magnificent pine trees. It was like a fairytale; this was not the Mexico I had come to love. This was something new, and I was enchanted.
The setting sun treated us with a glorious sunset. I’ve always enjoyed the sunsets in Arizona, but this surpassed any I’ve seen in the Valley Of The Sun; or pretty much elsewhere.
I was smitten. Rounding a bend in the road, in the far distance, the lights from the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel shimmered; I knew this would be our home base in Mexico. Señor Harmon (aka Monsieur Harmon) was not yet convinced.
Nighttime: The Best Time to Arrive
Making our way down the cobbled main street, I glanced at Ray. He was smiling as we bounced along.
The endless number of restaurants on both sides of the road were doing a brisk business; their dueling music overflowed into the street. Everywhere we looked, people were strolling, laughing, dancing, and genuinely enjoying themselves. And this was on what I call a school night.’ What would the weekend bring?
The door of our suite at Villa Mirasol Hotel
After checking into our hotel (the cliché charming best describes it), we deposited our bags and headed out for dinner; steak for Señor Harmon and mussels in a divine broth for me. Let me tell you; the mussels were ‘straight outta France’ and the best I’ve eaten. Hands down.
After strolling around a bit, it was time for bed. I had big plans the next day (I’d spotted some FABULOUS shops begging for a visit; Señor Harmon was unaware of this) and needed some sleep. That first night I knew Travel & Leisure was spot on.
Travel & Leisure’s Number One City
There’s a reason San Miguel de Allende has topped T&L’s list of best cities two years in a row. This colonial city has personality in spades. It also has an architecture that will take your breath away and more restaurants than you could shake a stick at (Señor Harmon’s contribution to this post), including Five Star restaurants. San Miguel is a foodie’s paradise.
The people are helpful and friendly, the culture is fascinating, it has marvelous green space, there are wineries and the SHOPS… They are right up my alley, from the clothing style to home decor. Even Ray had to agree with that (albeit hesitantly).
So What Did We Do?
We visited an organic winery ten minutes from town and were the guests of Casa Dragones Tequila (# 1 Sipping Tequila in the world) for a private visit to the historic home and a tasting (insert goosebumps here). We ate some of the best food imaginable, met people, attended festivals, looked at neighborhoods (and rentals), and shopped. In short, we had a marvelous time.
Batman made many appearances; the Godwinks came fast and furiously. We know San Miguel has J.W.’s blessing as a base. That’s a nice feeling.
I think you’ll feel the vibe from the photos; I hope so, anyway. If not, skip to the bottom of the post.
Dos Búhos Winery is ten minutes from downtown.
Dos Búhos; green for days
Handmade Rugs at the market
After passing through the streetside blue door, keep walking. You are about to enter the Garden of Eden. Casa Dragones
Fantastic experience at Casa Dragones
So many festivals. Gorgeous dresses.
Parade approaching the Parish church
A quiet moment.
Parroquia San Miguel Arcangel. The symbol of San Miguel.
We love everything about the town; it suits us to a T. We are in the process of gathering documentation to begin the first step at the consulate in Yuma (road trip… We can’t go to the Phoenix consulate because they have other ‘things’ on their minds; just saying). The second step occurs once we are in San Miguel (when?).
Until then, business as usual. I am busy writing up a storm; I’m so grateful for opportunities that have come my way. I know my guardian angel is working on my behalf.
Right now, I am in the process of packing for the French Riviera. How cool is that? Seriously though, it is work-related, but I’ll be looking through the eyes of an expat on the side.
I know Batman is smiling down on his mama.
Just beautiful! Thank you Barb, however I will miss not having you as a neighbor in France. I’m happy you found you slice of paradise.
Hi Sally,
OMG, it’s lovely! Your friend was right on. Don’t write me off as your neighbor, yet. We are still planning to spend a portion of the year in France. Where you lead, we will follow.
I hope to meet up with a company like our friends in Montpellier. I’ll let you know. You’d love all of the cities I’ll be revisiting. They are calling your name…
XX
Lovely. An “undiscovered” gem, to be sure. Last spring I attended a painting workshop in Oaxaca City and had a bit of the same experience.
Hi Eric,
Thank you for dropping by and leaving a comment; I appreciate it. I’ve heard Oaxaca is beautiful; we’re looking forward to visiting. I think you would find many angels to paint in San Miguel (your paintings move me like nothing else). You have a gift, my friend.
XX
I can’t tell you how happy I am for the both of you!!!!! The photos drew me in, I felt as if I was right there. The lands are colorful and relaxing. I’m so glad J.W. found your new abode for you. Love, Jackie
Hi Jackie,
Thank you for visiting and commenting. You know I appreciate it. You would love San Miguel; the vibe is one of love. J.W showed up on a regular basis in unusual ways. No doubt, he approved.
Now the difficult part begins. I’ve been donating belongings for a couple of years in preparation for ‘a move’. Unfortunately, we will require a moving company (there are a lot of things we are not willing to part with). Good news, I have that covered. Now, Ray needs to go through ALL of his stuff (daunting). Thank goodness, we’re only taking clothes to France.
Please come to visit us. This place will get into your soul.
Love you, Jackie XX
Barb,
So happy for you and thanks so much for sharing this story and your beautiful photos! Will be watching to see how this progresses!
Best,
Nancy
Hi Nancy,
I’m so excited about San Miguel; it’s heavenly. Now, to find that sweet spot in France (to be honest, I’m pretty sure where that is)!
Thank you for stopping by and commenting.
XX
So happy for you both. It looks like Batman used his supernatural powers to steer you in the right direction. I love your imagery, coupled with related photos. I live vicariously through your adventures. Carry on my friend ❤️
Hi Lori!
Thank you for reading my post and commenting. It is always appreciated. Batman was very busy while we were in San Miguel. He seriously approved. Now, he needs to assist in finding a home, helping us sell our house here, etc.
Have fun at the Clinique reunion. I am in NYC in spirit. Give all a hug from me.
XX
Oh Barb! A magnificent post as usual! You always make me feel as if I am right there with you! Beatiful writing and gorgeous pics. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Suze! I appreciate you taking the time to read the post and comment. Please come to visit; the door is always open.
XX
Dearest Barb,
In July of 1994, my husband Pieter has been to San Miguel de Allende as a consultant, without me at that time as it was about the purchase of a Green Giant plant.
But we both know the region and it is breathtaking.
As for delicious dinners, México is heaven too!
Sending you hugs,
Mariette
Hi Mariette,
You are so right, San Miguel and the entire region is stunning. It has that Toledo feel; the hills contribute to that!
We loved the people we met (friendly and honest). I dropped a US$, and the person who picked it up chased after me. I’ve never had that happen at home.
The food was delicious. So many restaurants, so many types of food. I don’t think we’d run out of restaurants to visit. The markets, can’t wait to shop those regularly.
Smitten with San Miguel.
Thank you for visiting and commenting. Reading your comments is always lovely.
Hope you and Pieter are well. Sending love and hugs, my friend.
XX
B
P.S. Please visit us in SMA
LOL Mariette. I believe you sent a rose, but of course, it is not visible. Thank you for trying dear lady.
XX
HAHA, I forgot they don’t show hearts nor roses…
It’s the thought that counts. Thank you, Mariette.
XX
Exactly!
Absolutely Mariette!