A mural by Mexican painter Pedro Martínez in the Ignacio Ramírez cultural centre The city’s central market is home to many food stalls serving simple dishes such as soups and tacos Mesón Hidalgo is a boutique hotel and design store housed in a 17th-century building The Casa Ballista gallery sells pieces by designers with Mexican connections such as Henry Peters’ ‘Sunset’ stool Daniel Uranga’s ‘Warm Dreams Between Us’ lamp and Victor Barragán’s ‘Bolas’ coffee table Snacks and flowers for sale at the city’s Ignacio Ramírez market Mestiz founder Daniel Valero in his studio with some of his colourful creations Mestiz’s oversized woven lampshades come in bright colours Maye Ruiz moved from Mexico City to San Miguel del Allende to establish her interior design studio Taking centre stage in her living room is a ‘Conchita’ coffee table by Mestiz a studio founded by her partner Daniel Valero Designed by Andrés Gutiérrez of AG Studio Casa Hoyos is a boutique hotel in a former colonial-era grain store and bank that features a palette inspired by the colours of Mexican corn some rooms come with sculptural outdoor bathtubs vermouth and celery bitters at boutique hotel Casa Hoyos’ rooftop bar Bekeb Crab chilpachole at the Casa de Sierra Nevada hotel’s Restaurante del Parque San Miguel de Allende is home to a bold young crowd of talent that’s thriving off the city’s brightly-hued heritage Along the cobbled streets of San Miguel de Allende vibrant colours seep from every corner; from homes painted in bright shades of blue and red to La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel a 17th-century church with a dusty pink neo-Gothic façade created in 1880 by self-taught architect Zeferino Gutiérrez Bright hues can be found in less obvious places too: a sunny yellow courtyard tucked behind old wooden doors or a geometric mural by Mexican painter David Alfaro Siqueiros who moved here from the capital five years ago is one of the many creatives injecting new life here there has been a wave of young designers and artists refreshing things,’ says Laura Kirar a US- and Mérida-based designer who opened hotel and design store Mesón Hidalgo in a 17th-century building in the town centre ‘There’s something magical about the city that draws creative people.’ partially drawn to the magnificent Spanish baroque architecture erected after its founding in 1542 One of the most influential to arrive in town was the American painter Stirling Dickinson who co-founded the Instituto Allende and Escuela de Bellas Artes in the late 1930s These two art institutions attracted American veterans who were given the opportunity to study abroad under the GI Bill ‘Not many people know how important San Miguel was for culture and arts in the 20th century,’ says curator Mario Ballesteros who moved here from Mexico City and launched Casa Ballista which showcases pieces by designers with a Mexican connection such as Fabien Cappello and Fernando Laposse a group of intellectuals and artists started promoting the town but it wasn’t really on the radar,’ he says luring celebrated Mexican artists such as David Alfaro Siqueiros Walt Disney and Jack Kerouac were known to visit The city’s popularity has seen much waxing and waning can radically change a small community,’ says Kirar which became the city’s first design hotel ‘It was the best-kept secret in San Miguel,’ says Laposse who went on to open bakeries and restaurants around the city After splitting his time between Mexico City and San Miguel for years he finally chose to spend most of his time here opening Mediterranean restaurant Hortus in a heritage building on the central plaza The walls are lined with wood to mimic the trees in the park outside marble slabs leftover from a previous project form the bar and the handmade floor tiles were made by a specialist artisan ‘Here you have the luxury of working hand-in-hand with craftsmen,’ says Laposse who work with everything from textiles to copper and ceramics is another reason why creatives are increasingly drawn here ‘There’s a wave of people focused on craft,’ says Ballesteros adding that ‘there is an incredible production muscle in San Miguel’ who creates playful rugs in pops of emerald green and hot pink as well as oversized woven lampshades in collaboration with master craftsmen his pieces have become synonymous with a new San Miguel aesthetic – one that is still colourful but also contemporary ‘It has always been a town that’s in contact with Mexican craft and art,’ he says where the art and design scene is currently booming felt initially like a risky choice for Valero But being away from the noise of the capital has meant he’s not only closer to artisans but can carve out a distinctive space in the design scene ‘There’s a lot less distraction than there is in a big city,’ says Kirar who also has a studio in San Miguel de Allende ‘You just get a lot more done.’ Maye Ruiz is another creative who moved here from Mexico City She did so to be with Valero (they are partners) and to establish her own interior design studio she has started working more with natural elements such as wood ‘I’ve learned so much from them,’ says Ruiz who is known for her bold style and use of bright shades – the rainbow-like city suits her well ‘I love colour and I appreciate that San Miguel is open to this.’ Since arriving she has designed many interiors in the city people were afraid of me designing a home because my aesthetic is colourful,’ says Ruiz which is located on a cobbled street in the Santa Tere neighbourhood with its yellow walls with a primary blue door and red handle Ruiz has designed an open kitchen with bold red tiles and sunny yellow cabinet curtains transformed by Andrés Gutiérrez of Mexico City’s AG Studio the space pops with glazed Talavera tiles and tapestries by Meli Ávila is on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list and overlooks the entire city its muted façade is partially made from a textured red stone that blends into the surrounding landscape while the lobby is lined with green tiles featuring a pattern by Mexican artist Omar Barquet Further outside the city is boutique hotel Quinta Amores designed by Mexican Architect Ian Pablo Amores with a pink façade and a courtyard punctuated by trees and cacti escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox Responsible for the interiors were curator Ana Elena Mallet and designer Raúl Cabra who included contemporary design pieces from Héctor Esrawe and Angela Damman an art and design centre housed in a former textile factory alongside antique shops a new bakery opened by chef and sourdough aficionado Paulina Carreño inside Belmond’s Casa de Sierra Nevada hotel where guests are served Mexican cuisine and mezcals in a courtyard overlooking the garden But for all the people that San Miguel is attracting Unlike places such as Mexico City and Guadalajara which are more obvious choices for those in the design and art world ‘It’s not a place where young Mexican creatives necessarily think of working,’ says Ballesteros And the fact that it’s a less obvious destination with a small-town feel ‘makes the way you work a lot freer’ Its remoteness has also helped to maintain its heritage ‘People from here love that it’s a bit isolated,’ says Valero it preserves the essence of the town.’ Mary Holland is a South African writer based in New York T+L readers selected their favorite cities in the world in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024 — here are the top 25 Jul 10, 2024 5:57 PM EDTFar from the bustle of metropolitan Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende presents itself as the charming heart of Mexico's central highlands this UNESCO World Heritage site is like a time capsule in the best sense—replete with winding cobblestone streets and bustling plazas covered with colorful blooms which has earned the small city a reputation as a haven for creatives and artisans and workshops showcasing everything from traditional folk art to contemporary masterpieces offering visitors the chance to sample some of Mexico's finest spirits against the backdrop of colonial splendor La Casa Dragones: The renowned tequila distillery in the heart of San Miguel de Allende is headquartered in a historic stone stable that once housed the famed Dragones Calvary during Mexico's War of Independence.  “La Casa Dragones is a former 17th-century stable that housed the elite Dragones Calvary of the Mexican Independence and is an incredibly significant piece of Mexican history,” says founder Bertha González Nieves “San Miguel is so special because it holds so much history and is one of Mexico’s most beautiful cities.” Whether you're intrigued by its storied past San Miguel de Allende promises a one-of-a-kind journey that also doesn’t require more than a few days' time Here’s how to make the most of a long weekend spent exploring central Mexico's most vibrant with some key insider tips from González Nieves San Miguel de Allende's colorful core of colonial-era buildings is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.  How to Get to and Around San Miguel de AllendeFor international travelers the closest major airport is Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) located approximately 1.5 hours away by car the larger Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) near León is about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive away or rent a car to reach San Miguel de Allende navigating the town is a breeze due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout and shops are concentrated in the historic city center For longer distances or exploring the outskirts of town Bicycle rentals also offer a fun and eco-friendly way to explore but be warned that much of the city’s streets are cobblestoned and shops are concentrated in central San Miguel de Allende's iconic cobblestone streets beckoning visitors to explore the historic city on foot.  The best times of the year to visit San Miguel de Allende are during spring and fall especially around March to June and September to November The weather is mild with comfortably warm temperatures and minimal rainfall making it ideal for exploring the walkable city You might also want to consider timing your visit to San Miguel with one of the city’s popular annual events such as the Cervantes Festival in April or Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early November Hotel Matilda draws savvy visitors to its stylish accommodations and one of the town's great courtyard watering holes One of González Nieves’s favorite hotels in town, “Hotel Matilda celebrates the lifestyle of today’s international travelers and the contemporary Latin art scene all while offering the best in Mexican hospitality,” she says Hotel Matilda offers 32 luxurious rooms and suites adorned with contemporary artwork and high-end amenities where you can enjoy a Casa Dragones cocktail at the bar or by the pool,” González Nieves says Casa Hoyos features 16 uniquely designed guest rooms in a restored colonial building.  Casa Hoyos, housed within a restored colonial building features unique Mexican design and boldly colored tile accents Each of its 16 rooms has its own aesthetic featuring handcrafted furnishings and locally sourced artwork that capture San Miguel de Allende's distinctive vibe Guests can savor Mexican-Indian fusion cuisine at the hotel's onsite restaurant featuring bold flavors and local ingredients Casa Hoyos also boasts a rooftop with a small pool and a renowned bar offering panoramic views of the skyline and the perfect setting to enjoy cocktails at the end of the day Where to Eat: Best Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in San Miguel de AllendeOne of the best ways to start your day in San Miguel is with breakfast at Garambullo Fonda Gourmet an open and airy cafe-restaurant with a plant-filled courtyard backed by a bright magenta brick wall or heartier breakfast dishes like chilaquiles or poached eggs on polenta For lunch, tiny, unassuming Tostévere makes some of the best tostadas in town and get ready to indulge in pulpo (octopus) tostadas piled sky high or opt for their popular short rib sandwich if tostadas aren’t your thing as Tostévere is known for its delicious cocktails A local favorite, and one of González Nieves’ top spots in town, Bovine Brasserie is actually an Australian steakhouse “[Bovine] has a sophisticated atmosphere that embodies both simplicity and contrast," she notes For a truly unforgettable dining experience five-course pairing dinner at La Mesa Dragones exclusively created to pair with Casa Dragones "La Mesa Dragones is beautifully designed with walnut cabinets made of laton and wire mesh where our sipping tequilas are displayed,” González Nieves adds.  Visitors can arrange rooftop tequila tastings paired with gorgeous views of central San Miguel de Allende.  Where to Drink: Best Drinking Experiences in San Miguel de AllendeLa Casa Dragones Tasting Room is located in a stunningly restored colonial building—some parts of it dating all the way back to 1671 Visitors can take part in one (or more) of the property's guided experiences from a tequila tasting that also includes a tour of the historic home to a tasting focused on the premium brand's barrel-aged expressions you can reserve a tasting on the rooftop with views of the city or an after-dinner mixology experience that will teach you how to make dessert-inspired cocktails A quick 15-minute drive out of the city center, Cava Garambullo is a small natural winery—and one of the first to take root in Guanajuato when it started production over a decade ago garambullo is a tiny purple berry native to Mexico and some winemakers incorporate it into their process From its picturesque location in the Mexican highlands and occasional workshops and events on Thursdays Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel ​​Don't-Miss: Top Attraction in San Miguel de AllendeRight in the heart of the city stands as the iconic centerpiece of San Miguel de Allende The historic neo-Gothic parish church captivates with its pink towers and intricate facade showing off the city's unique colonial architecture Originally constructed in the 17th century the Parroquia underwent a significant redesign in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and a visit inside is a must while visiting the city—featuring stunning altars San Miguel's arid climate is ideal for hiking and walking cobblestone lanes rife with charms Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende Over Three DaysDay 1: Ogle Art and Local History—and Go Treasure HuntingBegin your day at the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel which towers over the main square of El Jardín Take in the intricate facade adorned with pink stones and venture inside to admire the intricate altars and stained glass windows As you wander around the cobblestone streets surrounding the square you'll encounter a ton of small boutiques and galleries housed in centuries-old buildings Next, delve into the artistic soul of San Miguel by visiting the Instituto Allende a renowned art school housed in a former 18th-century convent Marvel at the striking architecture while strolling the galleries with works by both local and international artists Take time to venture to Casa de Ignacio Allende the birthplace of one of Mexico's key figures in the struggle for independence you can explore a museum dedicated to Allende's life and legacy Other handmade wares can be found aplenty at the Mercado de Artesanías (artisan market) Cap off your day with a sunset stroll to El Mirador an overlook offering panoramic views of the city's terracotta rooftops and surrounding hills Locals and visitors alike love coming to this spot at sunset for a stunning scene Towering over its namesake colonial town 1,421-foot Peña de Bernal is one of the world's tallest monoliths—and the area's bucket list summit trek.  located near the town of Bernal in the state of Querétaro is one of the tallest monoliths in the world rising 1,421 feet above the desert terrain but conquering Peña de Bernal offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit—well worth it if you're up for the steep two- to three-hour climb Bernal is also a charming colonial town with cobblestone streets Start your journey from San Miguel de Allende early in the morning to make the most of the day here you’ll arrive in Bernal and head toward the base of the monolith Then ignore the burn as you take in the stunning landscape around you: rugged cliffs Stop at the summit to catch your breath and take in the panorama—one of central Mexico's finest A two-hour drive from San Miguel de Allende leads to the charming colonial town of Bernal—and the gateway to Mexico's mightiest monolith.  take some time to explore the town of Bernal known for its handicrafts and local cuisine Enjoy a meal at one of the town's many restaurants serving savory Mexican dishes such as gorditas Remember to indulge in a refreshing agua fresca or traditional cajeta-filled churros Before departing back for San Miguel de Allende take a leisurely stroll through the town's picturesque plaza Don't leave San Miguel Allende without sipping its top local tequila Another favorite of González Nieves Doce 18 offers a wide variety of fashion and home decor pieces It helps that it’s located in the same building as Casa Dragones Tasting Room Pop in there next (make sure to reserve this experience ahead of time) to embark on an exclusive tequila tasting experience led by experts who will guide you through the nuances of Casa Dragones tequilas Learn about the intricate process of crafting tequila from the cultivation of blue agave to the art of distillation Indulge in the smooth and refined taste of Casa Dragones Joven known for its distinctive flavor profile and smoothness Doce 18 (top) offers a wide variety of fashion items The city's ubiquitous colorful textiles are another popular keepsake.  By Austa Somvichian-Clausen is a journalist and hospitality entrepreneur who specializes in spirits and travel content The UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Miguel de Allende has been voted this year’s best city in the world by Travel + Leisure’s readers Travel + Leisure asks readers every year to weigh in on their top travel experiences around the globe, including their favorite hotels, resorts, cities, spas, airlines and more. More than 186,000 readers completed the survey this year casting over 700,000 votes for over 8,700 places and experiences Cities were specifically rated on criteria that included sights and landmarks Respondents could choose a rating of excellent with one reader describing it as “unbeatable in every category.” Another voter noted that “the food was totally amazing the city was clean [and] the people were very friendly and helpful.”  “Known for its stunning architecture — most notably the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel — food the city is a cultural hub that marries old and new,” Travel + Leisure wrote Upon receiving the recognition, the Guanajuato Tourism Ministry released a statement congratulating all residents of San Miguel and its tourism sector #Entérate 🏆 Por su encanto atemporal, su acogedora comunidad, su hermosa arquitectura colonial, y por ofertar una gastronomía increíble, SMA fue elegida por los lectores de @TravelLeisure como “La Mejor Ciudad para Visitar 🛩️ Sigue leyendo ✨ https://t.co/g7mYYWdZT8 pic.twitter.com/qv6belj1bV — SECTUR Guanajuato (@SECTURGTO) July 10, 2024 the top five best cities in the world for 2024 are Udaipur Readers also chose San Miguel de Allende as the best city in Mexico, followed by Oaxaca, last year’s winner for best city in the world One reader described Oaxaca as an “incredible place with incredible people,” while another called the city “beautiful and historic.” Mérida was praised as an LGBTQ+ friendly destination also famous for its cenotes and Maya culture Mexico City was recognized for its mix of history while Guadalajara was hailed for its culture According to Travel + Leisure Mexico is hard to beat for readers when it comes to popular vacation spots “The country is famous for its warm hospitality and crave-worthy cuisine — backed by a complex history and beautiful natural landscapes from ancient ruins to pristine beaches.”   ADVERTISE WITH MND COMMUNITY GUIDELINES Subscription FAQ's Privacy Policy Mexico News Daily - Property of Tavana LLC Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time but one thing I can confidently predict is a tourist boom in Canada and Mexico When we need our sugar hit for North America we can simply divert to the two countries in closest proximity to the US – the hot one or the cold one even though Smartraveller continues to advise that we “exercise a high degree of caution” there “due to the threat of violent crime” But travellers find there’s little risk in most areas especially if you follow a few precautions such as not travelling at night outside the major cities It’s a bit like not going to New York because of the pickpockets in Times Square La Fragua Restaurant and Bar in San Miguel de Allende.Credit: Alamy The UNESCO-listed city of San Miguel de Allende was voted the best small city in the world in respected US magazine Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards The picturesque baroque outpost now has a luxury Rosewood hotel It’s also known locally as the city of gringos for the Americans and Canadians (and the smattering of Australians) who have moved there Often a destination’s popularity can be assessed by how many people are willing to relocate to it to live once they’ve visited as a tourist a writer and editor who has lived in New York for more than 25 years has just finished building a house in San Miguel A mariachi band strolling the streets.Credit: Alamy “San Miguel ticked the boxes for me – climate “Its location in central Mexico is convenient for the New York time zone But its proximity to the Pacific coast also means I can get to Australia more easily than if I’d moved to some other popular expat destinations He says a big factor in relocating was the changing mood in the US “Halfway through (former president Joe) Biden’s term I just sensed a political and cultural tsunami warning – quite literally So I bought land in Mexico and started building.” The Hotel Amparo in San Miguel de Allende There is some petty crime and much of the real violent crimes affect Mexicans has one of the highest murder rates in the country There was a double fatal shooting about 500 metres from my house a couple of weeks ago – but then there were two or three murders in the park across from my Harlem apartment in the 11 years I lived there moved to San Miguel with her mother in 1968 and has returned after years in New York “There are so many interesting people here,” she says “People who have remade their lives in a different culture and have the guts to move to Mexico.″⁣ the city attracted artists throughout the 20th century Diego Rivera worked there as well as beat generation poets William Burroughs Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady (who died here on a drug-fuelled bender) Roberts says people visit and then return to build or buy a house Legend says there are pink crystals under the ground that make people feel good An estimated 20,000 expats have put pressure on house prices and rents a vegan restaurant run by two friends who make glass hummingbird feeders They grow all their own produce and if you go for breakfast you can see the patio is full of little hummingbirds The recent change she’s noticed is that it has become quite a foodie scene People from Mexico City are flocking here to dine in high-end restaurants that have flourished Widdicombe says the city’s many picturesque churches make it a mecca for couples all over the world who want Instagram-able weddings “I occasionally hear a best man’s speech in an Australian accent amplified from a rooftop bar’s PA system.” But wedding guests and tourists should be careful if they’re thinking of only passing through Those subterranean pink crystals may make it impossible to leave Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now we can simply divert to the two countries in closest proximity to the US \\u2013 the hot one or the cold one even though Smartraveller continues to advise that we \\u201Cexercise a high degree of caution\\u201D there \\u201Cdue to the threat of violent crime\\u201D But travellers find there\\u2019s little risk in most areas It\\u2019s a bit like not going to New York because of the pickpockets in Times Square The UNESCO-listed city of San Miguel de Allende was voted the best small city in the world in respected US magazine Travel + Leisure\\u2019s 2024 World\\u2019s Best Awards It\\u2019s also known locally as the city of gringos for the Americans and Canadians (and the smattering of Australians) who have moved there Often a destination\\u2019s popularity can be assessed by how many people are willing to relocate to it to live once they\\u2019ve visited as a tourist \\u201CSan Miguel ticked the boxes for me \\u2013 climate culture and cost of living,\\u201D he says \\u201CIts location in central Mexico is convenient for the New York time zone But its proximity to the Pacific coast also means I can get to Australia more easily than if I\\u2019d moved to some other popular expat destinations \\u201CHalfway through (former president Joe) Biden\\u2019s term I just sensed a political and cultural tsunami warning \\u2013 quite literally So I bought land in Mexico and started building.\\u201D There was a double fatal shooting about 500 metres from my house a couple of weeks ago \\u2013 but then \\u201CThere are so many interesting people here,\\u201D she says \\u201CPeople who have remade their lives in a different culture and have the guts to move to Mexico.\\u2033\\u2063 The recent change she\\u2019s noticed is that it has become quite a foodie scene \\u201CWe\\u2019ve been a bit Veniced,\\u201D she says Widdicombe says the city\\u2019s many picturesque churches make it a mecca for couples all over the world who want Instagram-able weddings \\u201CI occasionally hear a best man\\u2019s speech in an Australian accent amplified from a rooftop bar\\u2019s PA system.\\u201D But wedding guests and tourists should be careful if they\\u2019re thinking of only passing through Herons boss Javier Mascherano went with a 4-3-3 formation in consecutive games after experimenting with a 4-4-2 Luis Suarez and Tadeo Allende looked threatening all night and could've had more goals with better finishing and decision making Orlando opened the scoring in the first half through Martin Ojeda beating Oscar Ustari with a strong finish Their lead lasted only seven minutes before Allende scored his second goal of preseason sloppy Miami defending resulted in another Orlando goal in the second half with Ojeda assisting Ramiro Enrique Just as it looked like the preseason would end with a disappointing loss Fafa Picault rescued the Herons in stoppage time The result was Miami's third draw of preseason including results against Universitario and Club America Player ratings from Miami's final preseason game below MAX MALLOWMax Mallow is an editor for Sports Illustrated Soccer. Somehow, he has just enough time every matchday to tweet when an Arsenal player scores a goal. You’ve jetted through the sprawling Istanbul International Airport and fallen in love with historic yet innovative cities like Copenhagen Read on to start planning your next round of travels—these are the best cities in the world View the Readers’ Choice Award winners for the best cities in the United States here. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date there’s something for everyone to love among these small international cities Wander the limestone streets and walk along the ancient city walls or take a short ferry ride to the island of Lokrum and climb to the top of an abandoned 11th-century monastery for stunning panoramic views MexicoPuerto Vallarta is often associated with cruise ships and bars hosting rowdy groups of spring breakers—but there’s so much more to this Pacific coast town than its immediate associations Though Old Town certainly has its charms (think winding cobblestone streets lined with bougainvillea) it’s once you venture a bit off the touristed path that you’ll really discover the treasures of this city reservations-only lunch spot built into a rocky cove and serving up grilled lobster Or head to Yelapa Beach—another only-accessible-by-boat gem—to fill up on fish tacos and spend the afternoon lounging in a hammock on the beach and designers are bringing a new spirit to its old-world appeal That blend of the modern and traditional is deliciously personified at Casa de Chá da Boa Nova where sea urchin crème brûlée is served with floor-to-ceiling ocean views in a building designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Álvaro Siza Vieira a Condé Nast Traveler Hot List winner that stuns with art nouveau architecture and lake views from every single room Florence’s center for contemporary culture save room for a panino al lampredotto—this stewed tripe sandwich is a Florence must with grand rooms featuring hand-carved furnishings and 360-degree views of the skyline from the rooftop tapas bar book the chef’s table at Aperi for one of the best dining experiences in the city and you’ll find no shortage of options in central Parte Vieja head to Playa de la Concha to lounge on the beach or take in surfer culture in Gros A favorite vacation spot of Queen Maria Cristina in the late 1800s San Sebastián has retained much of its splendor which you’ll find in the breathtaking views from the top of Monte Igueldo Some are classic travel spots that many have visited multiple times while others are slightly less-touristed—but all equally deserve your attention we dare say there’s never been a better time to visit the Danish capital there’s no way you’ll be able to fit everything in one visit—but you’ll already be dreaming about your next trip before your departure plane leaves the tarmac There’s something wonderful about visiting a city where you can be in the heart of a metropolis eating a five-star meal one day and enjoying the skyline from the seat of a kayak the next day There’s perhaps no better place in the world for lovers of classical music—the city nurtured the talents of Haydn after all—and visitors can find a constant string of performances at the Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein all year long make time to get a figurative taste of royalty at Schönbrunn a chocolate cake that is one of the city’s culinary specialties Just be sure to ask for it mit schlaag (with cream) where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in prison (You can also get a taste of the capital’s entire arts and culture calendar during Vivid Sydney typically held between May and June.) Whatever the season get spectacular 360-degree views of the city from Sydney Tower Eye’s glass viewing platform up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world This story was co-published with National Geographic. They put them inside a storage shed filled with hay They doused them with fuel and lit them on fire In 2011, a DEA operation touched off a massacre in a Mexican town, yet the agency never investigated what went wrong. Read the story. Sign up to get ProPublica’s major investigations delivered to your inbox Their savagery in Allende was particularly surprising because the Treviños not only did business there — moving tens of millions of dollars in drugs and guns through the area each month — they’d also made it their home gunmen from the Zetas cartel began pouring into Allende looking for the people who had done them wrong At 11 at night there was no traffic on the streets ‘And don’t go in our truck.’ He told me to ask my cousin to take our daughter He told me he was going to try to sneak onto the ranch through the back He was speaking so softly I could barely hear him ‘Tell your cousin to take you to Eagle Pass He said that he felt terrible about what had happened to us It wasn’t until I woke up at two in the morning that I noticed Edgar wasn’t home ‘How strange that he hasn’t called.’ Edgar always called and all I could think about was where Everardo might be All day Saturday I spent searching and calling people to ask ‘There’s something bad going on at the ranch We don’t know what’s happened to all the people.’ I asked He said that several of the men who worked with my husband had not arrived home the previous night The image of one thing that happened is still with me: people breaking into supply stores and carrying away sacks of animal feed They were taking lamps and dining room sets There were a lot of questions about what we should do but I thought at the very least we should stay in our offices so that people would see that we had not abandoned them Everyone was focused on their own families We realized that there was a two-sided government the official one and the criminal one that was in charge We knew that the police were controlled by criminals ‘These are their affairs.’ He didn’t say any more I understood: ‘Don’t investigate or intervene Vasquez slipped across the border to Allende where he sought protection from members of the cartel’s inner circle What Martinez wanted were the trackable PINs Vasquez had left the agent plenty of leverage His wife and mother were still living in Texas My wife calls me at like 6 o’clock in the morning Just make sure you don’t tell them nothing ‘Break the phones.’ We had toilets in the house that flush real strong so she broke them and flushed the phones down the toilet Then Richard [Martinez] called me from there and we saw that he was willing to sacrifice his wife we knew we needed to turn the screws even harder the only way your wife doesn’t do no jail time or your mom doesn’t do no jail time is if you cooperate with us.’ There’s going to be a lot of murders that come behind this.’ ‘All I have to tell you is if you don’t cooperate I figured that those numbers gave us the best chance to get them I saw it as an opportunity to stop the Miguel and Omar Treviño reign When soldiers were going to come to the area someone from the military would notify us in advance Sometimes planeloads of federal police would arrive But we’d get a call a week ahead of time: ‘Are you stashing anything in such and such a house?’ because there is a search warrant for that location and agents are going to arrive on Thursday.’ So I knew that if the government got those numbers The day Héctor was supposed to give me the numbers You said you were going to give them to me.’ ‘These numbers could get us in a lot of trouble I told them I was going to give them the numbers I talked him into driving back to the road where he threw the numbers out We drove up and down that road for like an hour or two Then the traffickers embedded themselves in society — buying businesses recruiting from or marrying into local families But that peaceful coexistence ended when Lafuente was murdered He said [the Zetas] had offered him money for his ranch He had complained to the mayor and the governor and he gave me a handwritten letter for the president ‘Why in the hell did you let those assholes beat my son?’ I took the keys to their patrol cars ‘What good is it to have officers on the streets who won’t protect people?’ ‘They’d have killed us if we’d tried to stop them.’ Later I went out and had too much to drink ‘Tell the [Zetas] boss I want to see him.’ and I saw a line of cars heading toward me The cars pulled in front of me and stopped ‘The boss wants to speak with you.’ They walked me over to one of the cars how would you feel if someone beat the shit out of your kid as long as you mind your affairs and let us handle ours their children began attending schools with your children Don’t think they were living on the outskirts in some ranch They lived right here in front of city hall from this balcony I can point to one of the houses where they lived The biggest impact on society was on our sense of freedom or even to the corner without fear that someone would mistake me for someone else even if we weren’t involved with [the cartel] it wasn’t hard for them to identify who within the cartel may have betrayed them since very few people had access to their PIN numbers the damned frogs had me shot.’ ‘Frogs’ is their word for snitches I called Richard [Martinez] and said I told you what would happen if those numbers came to Mexico.’ thinking they had a friend over there they could trust.’ I knew well that there were issues with secrecy in Mexico When information was passed on previous occasions it always seemed that something would happen But it was squandered because it wasn’t done correctly Things should have never happened this way We had information that could have helped us capture these guys Relatives were left on their own to try to piece together what had happened and to rebuild their lives In May 2011 Héctor Reynaldo Pérez filed a missing person report with state authorities. His sister, who had married a Garza, had disappeared along with her entire family. Less than a year later, Pérez himself disappeared. A report by independent human rights investigators at the Colegio de México found evidence that Pérez was last seen in the custody of Allende police officers few victims’ relatives dared to turn to authorities for help much less talk publicly about their ordeal Andrea says they drove to a place where the houses didn’t have roofs The men kept them there and told them to stay quiet Andrea said she changed the baby’s diapers and made his bottles She doesn’t remember how many days they were there before the men took her Andrea said the men dropped her and Arturo in a park She said that she begged them to leave the baby with her But the men told her that the baby was too little and cried too much to leave him there with them Andrea blames herself for what happened to him I told him he had lied to me about keeping my name a secret and that I wanted to withdraw my complaint I never asked the government for anything again They told me Gerardo had been taken to a ranch and killed Gerardo was so strong that if only he could have gotten away and made it to the highway he would have easily managed to make it home They said that the answers might be hard to hear I told them nothing could be worse than the 20,000 things I had already imagined on my own How would the suspects know my husband’s name We had believed all this time that the people who did this had been brought from another state In the end we learned they were people from here The monsters we thought had come from who knows where were monsters who had lived among us I hadn’t heard anything from them in five years; then I bet that if you were able to get a look at my husband’s case file I could finally speak openly with my daughter about what had happened I hadn’t been able to tell her that her father was dead I think in some ways she had already figured it out Knierim has since been promoted and is now the agency’s deputy chief of operations in Washington The goal was an honorable goal: to try to get these guys arrested and put in jail so that they would stop killing people I don’t have anything to do with anything else If I just sat on a number — what am I going to do with them here in Dallas The wiretap is not as easy as people say it is I had the opportunity to get the intelligence and pass it on I can’t very well go into Mexico and try to handle it myself of the violence perpetrated by the Treviño brothers and the Zetas But this is not a story where the DEA has blood on its hands Interviews for this story have been condensed and edited for space and clarity Ginger Thompson is a senior reporter for ProPublica Thompson was previously a national and foreign correspondent for the New York Times contributed research and reporting for this story Photos by Kirsten Luce, special to National Geographic and ProPublica. Audio production by Adriana Gallardo. Design and production by David Sleight, Rob Weychert and Jillian Kumagai he began selling drugs in high school and went on to become the Zetas’ leading cocaine distributor in East Texas each month he moved 3,000 to 4,000 kilos of cocaine — valued at $12 million to $16 million — through Dallas to different points across the country gave the DEA the Zetas leaders’ trackable cell phone PIN numbers Cuellar controlled most of the Zetas’ operations in and around Allende and Piedras Negras which sits across the border from Eagle Pass he was the Treviño brothers’ right hand and even godfather to some of the traffickers’ children managing day-to-day trafficking operations in and around Piedras Negras One of his responsibilities was handling the cartel’s communications which gave him access to the trackable cell phone PIN numbers for the group’s leaders He was involved with providing those numbers to the DEA Martinez obtained the trackable cell phone identification numbers for the leaders of the Zetas cartel and gave them to his superiors He is a Texas native and has family in Coahuila He worked closely with the DEA on Too Legit to Quit and later prosecuted several Zetas operatives in a case tracing the cartel’s drug supply chain from Mexico through Guatemala to Colombia He previously worked along the U.S.-Mexico border but had to move in 2004 after traffickers threatened to kidnap his wife and child a high school football player who had nothing to do with the Zetas or the drug trade Before authorities told her that eyewitnesses confirmed Gerardo’s death she had fallen prey to scam artists who offered to track down her son for a fee Sanchez staged prayer rallies at a local stadium calling for an end to cartel violence as the massacre began and have never returned to live in Allende but Lira said he didn’t work for the Zetas like some family members She said she warned him that his relatives’ ties to the cartel could prove deadly Nearly 20 members of the Garza family are dead or missing Rodriguez’ husband raised fighting cocks for the Garza family He was at one of the Garza ranches when the massacre began She has traveled to the United States and Europe to denounce drug violence and to seek support for Mexican crime victims was watching a soccer match on television at a friend’s home when Zetas gunmen arrived looking for the friend’s brother Vela was pregnant at the time with the couple’s second child In March 2011 the Zetas cartel conducted a brazen campaign of violence from Allende to Piedras Negras that killed dozens — possibly hundreds — of people and destroyed scores of homes and businesses Cartel Leaders ordered the massacre as revenge against operatives they suspected were collaborating with the U.S Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Comments powered by Disqus Photography provided by Rosewood San Miguel de Allende who spent a great deal of time here and encouraged their friends to join them open-air courtyards and panoramic city views it is tempting to spend all day basking in the sun it’s easy to get cozy in the well-appointed suites Many treatments incorporate indigenous botanicals and aromas that are known for their healing properties While strolling through the various open art studios you can witness the creative process firsthand Photography provided by Tequila Casa Dragones Snakes in relief slither up a wall of the courtyard and a majestic lion’s mouth serves as a fireplace you can still drink in the breathtaking opulence Read this article as it appears in the magazine. I recently traveled to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for a long weekend. I already reviewed the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende and I wanted to share some basic impressions about our time in the city This blog is primarily about airlines and hotels rather than destinations so I didn’t go around the city trying to photograph everything in order to review it because I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect going into this trip San Miguel de Allende is the oldest city in central Mexico and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site The city’s history dates back to the 1500s For those who like architecture and history In a way the city reminded me of Cartagena Colombia (there are of course tons of differences but that’s the closest comparison I can come up with based on where I’ve been) San Miguel de Allende is also extremely approachable — it’s safe there are tons of expats (about 10% of the population) and it’s reasonably priced if you’re coming from the United States We were in town for a family friend’s “round birthday,” though we only stayed for the first four days of the eight day trip Since we were there at the beginning of the trip we spent almost all of our time in the city outside the immediate city there are also hot springs which we didn’t have a chance to explore As someone who is married to someone who is obsessed with getting their steps in San Miguel de Allende is simultaneously one of the most and least walkable cities out there We didn’t take a car once while in the city unfortunately the walking isn’t particularly easy and most of the roads aren’t quite wide enough for two cars and then sidewalks aren’t even wide enough for two people to comfortably walk by one another the streets and sidewalks are mostly cobblestone So it’s not exactly the most relaxing place to walk and I also couldn’t imagine jogging here In the center of town you’re basically constantly stepping on and off the sidewalk trying to avoid other people while not getting hit by cars I found the mix of tourists in San Miguel de Allende to be interesting A vast majority of tourists seemed to be domestic which I always enjoy when in a foreign country (I’m sure there were some from neighboring Spanish-speaking countries as well but it didn’t seem to be a majority) it seemed like most other tourists were from the United States split up pretty evenly between two groups (obviously I’m generalizing here There weren’t many American families or people who didn’t give off strong coastal vibes there’s nothing wrong with that one way or the other but the people watching sure was… entertaining and I’m grateful I had the chance to visit and for people into architecture and history I don’t necessarily need to return anytime soon (and to be clear San Miguel de Allende isn’t actually that easy to get to Flying into BJX or QRO requires connecting from most airports in the United States and then it’s still a 90 minute drive on top of that So while it’s not actually difficult to get to for me it’s not like a quick 90 minute nonstop flight from Miami to Cancun We basically had two (mostly) full travel days to get there and back One good strategy could be to combine San Miguel de Allende with a trip to Mexico City since it’s a roughly 150 minute drive away Then you could fly into MEX and out of BJX or QRO of course I didn’t get to see everything The reality is that there are many places I still want to see (with Kyrgyzstan being in the top five on my list currently) so it wasn’t that I felt that there was so much more I absolutely needed to explore before checking out other places on my list I’d happily return if a family member or friend wanted to go there Readers often ask what coronavirus precautions are like at destinations I can say that San Miguel de Allende is roughly the inverse of Florida when it comes to mask usage I’d estimate 80%+ of people wore masks while walking around outside Masks are expected to be worn just about everywhere as well approachable city with amazing architecture it is a bit of a haul to get to from many points in the United States so ideally I’d combine this with a trip to Mexico City as the two cities are great complements and so different (yet amazing in their own ways) If you’ve visited San Miguel de Allende Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" I'm recording an album about its effect on me now and have seen little else of Mexico except for Mazatlan Something calls to me even in my home of North Carolina I could see living there a few months a year I'm recording an album about its effect on me now and have seen little else of Mexico except for Mazatlan I could see living there a few months a year Much different than the isolation and lonesomeness of efficient but sterile American cities and one of the most beautiful inhabited spots on Earth You did miss some great sites and some lovely sights Most of the mexican tourist guides i have used,, Hands Down San Miguel de Allende is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in Mexico I have been several times so much to see ! Had a great time (stayed in a beautiful home on an exchange) but agree that it is quite “touristy.” We really enjoyed the “Fat Bastard” art walks I felt Guanajuato was more authentic- a great combination of more locals We did add on 10 days in CDMX and would highly recommend that option Definitely go to Kyrgyzstan- we did a horseback.. It has history but only you can visit one time "we only stayed for the first four days of the eight day trip." Or had you planned another destination for the last four days Judging a city in one weekend is totally ridiculous If you can’t come for at least a week to write a more accurate article My husband just spent a month in SMA and my daughters and I joined him for the last week of his trip He expressed that it was necessary for us to experience the city firsthand and he was right We completely fell in love and can't wait to return especially walking them all day(we did an average of about 7 miles per day) but even my 8 year.. especially walking them all day(we did an average of about 7 miles per day) but even my 8 year old was able to appreciate that our leg pain was worth exploring such a beautiful gem of a city If you have a strong passion to promote San Miguel maybe you should use your energy more constructively and tell us why you love it?!? And let's be real...most Americans don't have time for a week in one destination let alone a small regional city/town....so it's completely fair to provide an opinion based on a few days If you have a strong passion to promote San Miguel maybe you should use your energy more constructively and tell us why you love it?!? If we did subscribe to your proposition of minimum a week visit then San Miguel would also lose a lot of tourist dollars for their economy My husband and I were in SMA three weeks ago and agree with your assessment Friends of ours just purchased a home there so we decided to check it out great restaurants but after a week we were out of things to do at least within the city We stayed in a lovely apartment with a rooftop deck which was a perfect place for a glass of wine in the evening Friends of ours just purchased a home there so we decided to check it out We stayed in a lovely apartment with a rooftop deck which was a perfect place for a glass of wine in the evening The ride from BJX was more than two hours which made a long day after departing Palm Springs at 6 am and connecting through IAH A four day visit is plenty of time to experience the city You need to go back the wineries and the hot springs are so amazing To me that's why I am going back also I want to go during Halloween and the mexican celebration of the dead We are full time traveler's and have spent 6 years jumping from place to place When we arrived in San Miguel we'd averaged 10 Days per location for the past 2 years I'm sorry but there's no way you can appreciate the city the culture or the true heart of SMA in just 4 days The cobblestone streets are part of the incredible beauty of the city I'm going to guess you're the type that got annoyed by the noise of the fireworks Its 4 hours but you get the benefit of exploring the city and a lovely journey in super comfortable business class type seats I am considering renting a furnished apartment for 3 - 6 months in SMA Any information would be helpful and so appreciated Ala Kul and Altyn Arashan are highly recommended when visiting Kyrgystan The remote natural attractions are the jewels of Kyrgystan and to be admired I have led multiple hikes and treks across Central Asia including a five month trek across the remotest areas in Kyrgystan Kyrgystan is a country for remote nature lovers Bishkek is just like any other post-Soviet city I don't find it particularly note-worthy to spend much time in There are a couple good restaurants you can try in Bishkek; Arzu and Vinoteka I would suggest traveling to the remote settlements to try the flavorful steamed and boiled mutton dishes and other declicacies from the nomadic tribes which attract tourists for a more palatable experience Or you can get in touch with the likes of me for reliable local contacts San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city and one especially suited to discovering on foot at a leisurely pace I did not find the city difficult to navigate by foot and certainly did not find the vehicles obtrusive It is not that different from the Walled Town of Cartagena with respect to the streets and vehicular traffic La Alborado is one of the finest restaurants we have visited,.. La Alborado is one of the finest restaurants we have visited I would recommend a visit to this restaurant for trying their authentic and their innovative culinary creations As a Gringo who calls San Miguel de Allende home I think the author of this article is missing so much We aren’t sorry you don’t enjoy walking our streets which are small What do you expect from a city from the 1500’s with ask our history We love to walk our streets and as a community you will generally find everyone walking them all the time.. We love to walk our streets and as a community you will generally find everyone walking them all the time as unlike cities in the USA… we have a community and city we enjoy and take pride in We take time to enjoy our community and those that live in it and visit it sit in your house and have no connection with your community outside of your 4 lane each way highways and little communication with those around you You really missed out on realizing you had access to our slice of Heaven on earth I am thinking of visiting SMA after the holidays to see if I would like to stay indefinitely Complaining about streets in a 600 year old city not being wide enough for two cars and the pavement being (uneven) cobbles.. A 600-yr old city that is a Unesco world heritage city should have motor traffic banned from the old town it helps to preserve the heritage and makes it more friendly for tourism which was a world heritage site is ultimately after Normal set up in Europe where there are plenty of world heritage towns check out Carcasonne in France just to mention one I was just in San Miguel last week and we stayed at a hotel outside of the town with hot spring pools I enjoy bicycling but within the city it is bone jarring due to the cobble stone streets Unfortunately some of the areas near to the city are also paved with cobble stones I visited several of the hot springs and while they are nice I enjoy bicycling but within the city it is bone jarring due to the cobble stone streets Unfortunately some of the areas near to the city are also paved with cobble stones masks are rarely worn and not even required when entering shops Oh to address your questions about shoes.. it was common to keep your shoes on inside because of scorpions So I understand why they want to ensure shoes are cleaned when entering hotels because you might keep your shoes on in your room longer than you would in the US or Japan (always check shoes before putting them on) We have just returned from SMA and I must say it was the most pleasant experience we have ever had Lots of walking and it really was a treat to be able to get out and enjoy the city Looking forward to our future visits and extended stay in this lovely city I’ve had trips to both Mexico City and Guadalajara I the last few weeks COVID precautions such as mask wearing are taken much more seriously in Mexico than in the US Those shoe sanitation mats you noted in the hotel review are everywhere I was wondering how you got to SMA from Queretero That is probably the biggest thing that has kept me from visiting there,.. Those shoe sanitation mats you noted in the hotel review are everywhere That is probably the biggest thing that has kept me from visiting there I rented a car for 2 days in Guadalajara and wow but the only place I have ever seen the term “round birthday” is on this blog So I googled it and turns out it’s a German term My wife and I just returned from SMA last night My parents lived there for 14 years in the ‘80 and ‘90s and we went there every year when they were there so go there for the atmosphere rather than for specific things to see except that it is much more affluent and much more food-oriented (which can be said for pretty much everywhere though) One of our favorite things about SMA was the walking Your description of walking conditions is pretty accurate forced in part by many speed bumps (topes) and drivers are considerate to pedestrians (the complete opposite of Mexico City!) while you need to constantly move on an off the sidewalk to pass other pedestrians the walking conditions are pretty comfortable We ended up up walking around the city about 10 miles every day it was $80US for a 70 minute trip from Queretero and $25US pp for a really comfortable nearly four hour bus ride to Mexico City I can’t say for sure whether it was or not just saying that in comparison to many places we’ve been that weren’t safe and didn’t feel safe or people who didn’t give off strong coastal vibes Antigua in Guatemala is much nicer and manageable If you just want to see the main sites you can do that in 3 to 6 days Most people i meet in San Miguel are there for 1 to 3 months which is a whole different experience And they return each year and learn some Spanish to increase the enjoyment by spending some time with locals We are glad that most people don’t move here or like yourself are so Americanized don’t really care one way or another if they ever come back Glad though that the time you spent in our beautiful city was enjoyable Cheers and look forward to your next review Agree with the folks recommending Guanajuato I will forever be grateful to Mexico for opening to us last year and staying open We spent four great months from coast-to-coast with the majority spend in the central mountains but I prefer the other three cities that I mentioned The hills in San Miguel are formidable and make it difficult to get around on foot.. The hills in San Miguel are formidable and make it difficult to get around on foot unless you are sticking around the city center Happy am I that you could spend a couple days in SMA and I love it as a place to visit for 2-3 days I enjoyed the similarity of your reaction to the damn cobblestone streets to my own I HATE them and they have been there since I left in 1965 The sidewalks are narrow but were fine BEFORE modern.. I HATE them and they have been there since I left in 1965 The sidewalks are narrow but were fine BEFORE modern times when there are so many people around Did you happen to see the original gasoline pump (for cars) right outside the market It was there when I was an adolescent and it was the ONLY ONE in town Now one of my brothers owns most of the PEMEX gas stations around SMA and yet we all want to keep the old one there to remind us of former days There was only one two-floor cinema before...and you had to choose where to sit on the main floor CAREFULLY Otherwise you would get urinated on by guys in the balcony You are right about facemasks' being used faithfully Here in México City it's about 90-95% of the people thanks for visiting and I agree that it's not a place to visit often or multiple times....but then it is not what it USED to be I did see the old gas pump and thought it was really cool that it was still there my partner and I were there at exactly the same time as you just prior to TG I couldn't be certain and I wish we had said something - it wasn't until the QRO arrival review that I realized it was you both and many of your observations are true - however I couldn't be certain and I wish we had said something - it wasn't until the QRO arrival review that I realized it was you both we also noted a much higher mix of domestic tourists On this last trip we spent a few days in Queretaro as well and we really enjoyed it - this was the first time we had been there and it offers a more immersive traditional experience lower prices and in general is a larger city that offers a broader array of diversions than craft shopping and dining that is the mainstay of SMA The photo of the Starbucks at the street corner says it all to me but it all felt gentrified for the American ex-pat community and tourists or go south and visit the city of Oaxaca...and so many other options Maybe you should combine with Querétaro as well which is also a very pleasent city in the centro histórico and goos restaurants as well Also I noticed you did not comment on the parades that practically are every weekend and which are also very interesting I probably read too many articles about violence in Mexico particularly out of the main tourist areas of Cancun and Cabo We just returned from SMA and to be perfectly honest I felt more comfortable in SMA than I have ever felt in Atlanta We used a very prominent shuttle company that went out of their way to make the brief trip enjoyable I have traveled to over 35 countries and lived in the US I love San Miguel because is a small safe and beautiful city meeting my priorities such as cultural activities (classical music nature activities and fantastic restaurants and bars it's perfect for those that are looking for similar things The ride from the airport at Querétaro to SM is just 45 mins to me is a place that offers always something new every time I go We have been spending two months there every winter for ten years Before Covid-19 there were so many cultural activités These photos of empty streets are so unsusual Not sure there is a single young finance professional in nyc or texas that has not visited San Miguel in the past couple of years Feel like I know someone there for a wedding every single weekend Glad you enjoyed it but i dont have any desire to go back There is no realistic -nor safe- way to drive from Mexico city into SMA in less than 4 hours You can fly also from SLP airport with also US direct flights to DFW and IAH it sort of draws a similar demographic of tourists as SMdA does except from Europe as opposed to North America If you liked the charm and you're ready to delve deeper into Mexico (fewer Americans) I can report that I enjoyed the following more than I did San Miguel: Zacatecas We visited 9 cities and we agreed that SMdA and Puerto Escondido were less satisfying to this gay 40s non-drinking foodie couple than the ones I listed above... We visited 9 cities and we agreed that SMdA and Puerto Escondido were less satisfying to this gay 40s non-drinking foodie couple than the ones I listed above BTW sadly chain hotels were rare and where they were available they weren't the smart choice SMA is quite popular amongst retired Americans as it has a balance between modern amenities and a small town feel I much prefer the city of Guanajuato nearby I feel the colors and layout of the city are more charming while prices are lower and BJX is much closer I hope you get to check it out if you haven't already Your feedback is important in helping us keep our community safe The comments on this page have not been provided approved or otherwise endorsed by any advertiser and it is not an advertiser's responsibility to ensure posts and/or questions are answered it's perfect for those that are looking for similar things You have successfully joined our subscriber list Editorial Disclosure: The editorial content on this page is not provided by any entity mentioned herein. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. See more about our ethics policies here. 2024Courtesy Paradero Todos SantosSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links View all of the 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards winners here Looking for an unforgettable Mexican getaway Here are the top five places to go in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024 and the people were very friendly and helpful especially since some Mexican and even foreign residents accept these accolades with a “Really?” blush of incredulity But even without these international recognitions the State has earned its 21st-century overseas living cred based on some simple Guanajuato was one of the first areas of Mexico colonized by the Spanish the state’s rich silver deposits lured the Spanish crown to develop settlements that grew into centers of wealth and influence nearly one-third of the world’s silver came from the mines of one city — Guanajuato This fertile region was also Mexico’s “breadbasket” — its farms orchards and ranches feeding the emerging New World cities The mining wealth enabled the economic and social emergence of Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries It has an average altitude of 2,015 meters (6,611 ft) above sea level with temperatures from 11 to 26 degrees Celcius (52 to 80 Fahrenheit) while the summer rainy season lasts from June to September — though with the uncertainty wrought by Mexico’s changing climate this is becoming less certain with every passing year but mining needed wood fuel and sheep grazing pastures the central area is home to most of the state’s agriculture and industry since the terrain allows for highways and large farms This farmland is considered some of Mexico’s most productive Guanajuato State is perhaps Mexico’s grandest colonial-era showcase in a region referred to since colonial days as El Bajio Guanajuato is bounded on the north by the State of San Luis Potosí It has an area of 30,491 square kilometers (about 11,800 square miles; the size of Massachusetts) It derives great advantage from these surrounding states In 2020 the state had an estimated population of 6.1 people and no one’s quite sure how many more foreign transplants Two cities (Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende each around 180,000 residents) earn high marks in our series’ ratings (see below) Some will lament how these places have been “loved to death” or how rising prices and weekend “invaders” have fundamentally altered each icon’s livability The state is not all “pina coladas and getting caught in the rain” as a persistent criminal element in the state’s southern region has put once visited places (Irapuato Most foreign tourists and expat residents concentrate their Guanajuato visits to the state’s most famous colonial cities: Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende visitors will want to consider visits to León and Dolores Hidalgo Prominente Pueblos Magicos include Jalpa de Canoves so you might actually get the chance to practice your Spanish Visitor infrastructure in Guanajuato State is a step above other Mexican interior states There’s a rich assortment of historical attractions and the chance to participate in small town Mexican life Several super-highways cross the State; there’s Guanajuato’s international airport outside of León; and intercity bus service is frequent and inexpensive Guanajuato State is also host to some of Mexico’s most renowned festivals including the International Festival Cervantino in October and the Fiesta de Los Locos in San Miguel de Allende held in June To help disseminate traditional cuisine and new dining trends the state hosts culinary events throughout the year in different municipalities encounters with national and international chefs I meet in Ajijic with San Miguel “refugees” who have been priced out or driven away from what they thought would be small town living — especially on weekends when SMA can become saturated with CDMX experience seekers still deliver a very pleasing mix of multiculturalism interesting folks with global perspectives SMA’s municipal governments have for years kept the wheels on by balancing gentrification with authenticity the town is sloped and parking can be a nightmare though sidewalks and streets are immaculate in the city center Lodging in San Miguel offers Mexico’s most esteemed inland collection of luxury brands (Belmond Live Aqua and Small Luxury Hotels among others) some exquisite and historic small inns — even a property named the world’s best hotel by Travel + Leisure in 2021 If you’re hoping you’ll find a “fixer-upper” What the city lacks for living — an airport high quality medical care — all found 45 minutes away in Queretaro truths and myths of San Miguel living than Mexico News Daily owner Travis Bembenek who has this to say: “Rarely if anywhere in the world have I seen such a beautiful mix of people from all walks of life enjoying living as much as I do in San Miguel de Allende and expats from around the world all coexisting happily is a sight to see.” This might be your Mexico living highlight for Guanajuato State is one of Mexico’s most beguiling and beautiful cities The best way to explore this city is literally to lose yourself in it The city’s impossible topography gave Guanajuato one of the world’s most unusual In what was once a riverbed and later the city’s flood control canals cars now swoop through stone-arched tunnels that meander under the city The city’s centuries-old veneer conceals the fact that Guanajuato is a pretty hip town and Mexico’s most renowned cultural celebrations Strolling estudiantinas — local singers dressed as 19th century Spanish troubadours — serenade listeners on nighttime callejoneadas Several acclaimed painters come from Guanajuato including the great muralists Diego Rivera The city’s downtown university campus draws foreign and Mexican students city center noise travels up into the hillsides where you’ll likely be living and there’s nothing approaching the same levels as San Miguel de Allende for living the high life comparatively speaking and the demographic skews younger and has a sort of magical ambiance that’s never boring A full breakdown of our rating system can be found here You can see more of our Where to Live in Mexico 2024 series here, including ratings for Yucatán, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, the Baja California peninsula, Jalisco, Northern and Mid- Pacific trios of beachside cities and three major Bajío metropolitan areas. Author Greg Custer lives in Mexico. He’s worked for over 40 years in international tourism, educating travel advisors around the world about Mexico and other Latin American destinations. He helps folks explore Mexico for living at www.mexicoforliving.com. Historical circumstance left this colorful city remarkably intact who arrive in search of its ineffable magic Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world They've visited small towns and big cities With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas and inspiration at every point of a journey ShareSaveReal EstateForbes Global PropertiesProperty Agents Share Why San Miguel De Allende Is The Best City In The WorldByLisa Chamoff Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I tell stories about real estate with a focus on the New York market.for Forbes Global PropertiesNov 24 12:30pm ESTShareSaveThis article is more than 3 years old.An aerial View of the landmarks and gardens of San Miguel de Allende with more than 63 nationalities represented “It is a fascinating place to visit,” said Dolan “You’re culturally stimulated at every turn The Parroquia de San Miguel Archangel church tower decorated with Day of the Dead banners Particularly popular are the year-round festivals including one for Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) in October/November CDR San Miguel also runs the San Miguel Life blog, which has information on restaurants, galleries and other things to do. Aside from Spanish Colonial architecture and cultural celebrations, as well as galleries, vineyards and equestrian centers, the mild temperatures are also a draw. Luxury properties in San Miguel de Allende range from large equestrian estates to smaller colonial ... More properties in the city core. This traditional residence called Casa La Monjas is listed for $1.2 million. “The weather is perfect year round,” notes Jim Dolan. “We’ve never had heat or A/C.” Querétaro Intercontinental Airport and Guanajuato International Airport are both about an hour and a half away, while Mexico City International Airport is a three-hour drive. Luxury real estate starts at a fairly low price point. In the spring, Dolan sold an 18,000-square-foot home that came with a staff of seven for $3 million.  “You couldn’t do that in New York City or California,” Dolan said. a spectacular compound owned by television producer Thom Beers Currently, Casa las Monjas three-bedroom traditional Colonial home featuring a covered open-air terrace with sitting area and fireplace and a separate guest studio is asking $1.2 million On the higher end is Casa Tres Cervezas a fully-furnished nine-bedroom home located two blocks off the main plaza asking $6.25 million and a rooftop deck with an outdoor kitchen CDR San Miguel is a founding member of Forbes Global Properties a consumer marketplace and membership network of elite brokerages selling the world’s most luxurious homes Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards has recognized San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, as Mexico’s best tourist destination, according to media reports on the awards that took place during the Tianguis Turístico 2024 in Acapulco The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title recognizes the highest level of excellence in travel fewer than 1% achieve this milestone,” Tripadvisor says on its website which has yet to show the new award information The accolade is awarded to “those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period,” the platform says Tripadvisor’s award adds to praise heaped on San Miguel de Allende throughout the years — it is a five-time winner of the world’s “Best Small City” award by Condé Nast Traveler, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Travel + Leisure magazine’s Best City in the World. “It’s the type of place that our readers come back to and a destination where many travelers want to put down roots,” T+L said of San Miguel de Allende which surpassed cities on the ranking like Florence (No Located in the far eastern part of Guanajuato in the Bajío region San Miguel de Allende stands out for it’s cultural and culinary offerings and  is a popular destination for wellness tourism it is a historical city that combines Spanish heritage with Indigenous traditions Because of its location in central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende acted as a “melting pot” where Spanish immigrants, Mexicans of Spanish heritage and the Indigenous communities “exchanged cultural influences” and “human values,” UNESCO says Moreover, the city is a perfect example of buildings in the style of the Mexican Baroque “Some of these buildings are masterpieces of the style that evolved in the transition from Baroque to neoclassical,” according to the UNESCO website San Miguel de Allende saw over 2 million visitors in 2023 surpassing the numbers from 2022 — when it received 1.8 million tourists — and setting a new record for the small city “This consolidates San Miguel de Allende as a world-class tourist destination and without a doubt one of the most important destinations in the country,” San Miguel de Allende’s Mayor With reports from Milenio Already a member? Log in Not a member? Sign up Explore our Food Tours → serving customers pan chino out of a display case grown foggy from the warmth of the fresh pastries inside gesturing around the cafe.  “Now it’s my life.” moving in with a sister 20 years his senior and her husband a Chinese immigrant and the owner of Cafe Allende Roberto worked at the cafe and spent many evenings with Jesús learning Mexican-Chinese recipes like the varieties of pan chino Denser versions of the typical sweet Mexican breads you would find at most bakeries pan chino is a reminder of the history of Mexico’s Chinese community and of the history of joints like Cafe Allende itself The now 80-year-old Jesús takes us back to the 1950s when he first arrived in Mexico City from China Something in his story echoes Roberto’s plans gone sideways I didn’t like it [here],” Jesús tells us who had arrived a few years earlier hoping to earn his fortune across the ocean eventually purchasing Cafe Allende from a fellow Chinese immigrant in the 50s There was no love lost between father and son “I didn’t have the opportunity to study but at the house there were a lot of Chinese books – very old – literature I would come home and take down a book and look for the words that I didn’t know and That’s how Jesús learned to read Mandarin and Cantonese while also studying Spanish It took him three years to master Spanish well enough to interact with customers When he felt his son could manage the business on his own Jesús’s father eventually returned to China my brothers and my father.” Jesús continued sending money to his family across the Pacific which sits on a bustling street behind Garibaldi Square in downtown Mexico City Recently arrived immigrants made Mexican cuisine their own adapting local recipes with touches of Chinese influence This story is not unlike that of many other Chinese immigrants to Mexico City in the first half of the 20th century arriving after earlier waves of migration in the late-1800s connections or the ability to speak Spanish Many found work in places like Cafe Allende part of a trend of cafes Chinos (Chinese Cafes) that were small cheap diners run by recent Chinese arrivals The cafes served as havens for the working-class poor of Mexico City anyone needing a cheap meal in a friendly setting the cafes weren’t Chinese restaurants per se Their most popular items were Mexican favorites like huevos a la Mexicana or chilaquiles “It was something you could do without having to talk,” another cafe Chino owner tells us when explaining why much of Mexico’s Chinese immigrant community took to cooking and baking recently arrived immigrants made Mexican cuisine their own Their pan Chino became the most famous offering and it’s still debated among scholars and cafe owners themselves what exactly makes it special some say it’s the excellent Chinese bakers but they were already very old,” Jesús says about the early days at the cafe “The baker was 78 years old [and worked without] mixers – he worked with his hands So I would run the cash register and at the same time help make the bread and cook But we started to make a little more money and I was able to send a little more money to my mother and father.” both his younger brothers were able to get an education first in China and then in the United States One went on to become a scientist with NASA to work for MIT.    Jesús may have barely had enough to survive I made a few pesos and I sent them to my mother to feed my two brothers But I was making so little money that it cost three pesos to go get a haircut and … I didn’t have it She was working as a waitress at her family’s restaurant in the St “I went into a cafeteria to drink a coffee and saw a really beautiful girl at the cash register and … I started to go see her every day,” Jesús says they were married and began to run the cafe together Jesús raised his own three children along with his brother-in-law Roberto sending them to college with money made at Cafe Allende the cafe has become a neighborhood staple and Jesús knows everyone that walks through the doors Customers come by to greet him on Saturdays the only day that he comes to the cafe now due to Covid The pan chino here continues to be renowned and even folks that have moved out of the old neighborhood come back for a concha or a biscuit to-go With a menu that no longer includes Chinese dishes new customers might have no idea of the diner’s history – one of the last remnants of the 20th century wave of Chinese immigrants to Mexico But sit for a spell and it’s easy to feel the sense of community and family that still permeates this cafe loading map - please wait...Map could not be loaded - please enable Javascript!→ more information A-List travel advisor Zach Rabinor shares his tips for a perfect vacation in the city Kobby Dagan/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine have chosen San Miguel de Allende as 2020’s Best Small City in the World as part of the magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards (RCA) This is an award the city has won twice before is described as a “hub for expat artists” and is acclaimed for its colonial streets and stunning architecture one of the most photographed churches in all of Mexico San Miguel was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 “Considering the current situation of the tourism industry we are overjoyed with this recognition,” said Laura Torres Septién president of the San Miguel de Allende Tourism Board “We welcome any and all good news that gives a sense of normalcy.” “We are more than proud to return to the RCA list this year and I am more than proud to thank the readers of Condé Nast Traveler for this honor that is a reflection of the welcoming nature of our residents and the hard work our tourism infrastructure does on a continuous basis,” Mayor Luis Alberto Villarreal said Another Mexican city that made the list was Mérida The Best of 2020 awards were voted on by more than 715,000 readers who also named the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende as the Best Hotel in the Americas Readers chose the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen Earlier this year San Miguel’s Hotel Amparo a five-room boutique hotel in the center of the colonial city 2 spot in Travel + Leisure magazine’s 25th annual World’s Best Awards and was also named the top city hotel in Mexico Six other Mexican hotels made that magazine’s World’s Best list and the Rosewood Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in Baja California Sur made No followed by Mexico City’s Saint Regis at 73 The Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort and Spa in Mazatlán Source: Yahoo (en) Considering the city’s size and remoteness it punches well above its cultural weight Outside of the Americas, San Miguel de Allende might just be the best kept secret in Mexico Nestled deep in the Guanajuato central highlands of this vast country surrounded by semi-arid desert and with no airport of its own it takes some zooming in just to find it on Google Maps So it’s little surprise it often slips through the knowledge cracks for those who’ve flown over an ocean Time hasn’t quite forgotten San Miguel de Allende since but it’s what every curious traveller dreams of: somewhere that’s enduringly one of a kind Considering its size and remoteness, San Miguel de Allende punches well above its cultural weight Rarely have I found so many diverse artistic attractions in such a compact metropolis atmospheric streets home to numerous museums From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox a mazey former textile factory now home to a colony of local artists and curators all displaying and selling work that defies any kind of collective description an influential visual arts school housed in a splendid haçienda on Ancha de Antonio which is free to enter and an absorbing introduction to the city’s historical significance Even if the city entered a period of decline after the Spanish departed (assisted by two San Miguel natives the city was later renamed after) Quite the opposite: the cityscape is an enchanting tapestry of ornate baroque villas imposing haçiendas and – most recognisably – rambling terraces of low-slung all of which may not have survived an earlier revival with quite as much grace and integrity The aesthetic uniformity of these houses is its own poetic spectacle, a major reason why its historic core was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008 days in San Miguel de Allende can be enjoyed freely roaming its cobbled back streets that slope up and down behind the main avenues of the city lined with inviting artisanal shops all deserving of your business Five minutes northeast of La Parroquia are two well-hidden but fascinating markets: Ignacio Ramírez and San Miguel Together they form a rambunctious labyrinth of passageways and tunnels bristling with local vendors selling everything from wrestling masks to obscure herbal remedies but a loosely defined section of the market is devoted to artisanal crafts It’s here where your bags can quickly fill with lovingly handmade ceramics jewellery and gifts perfect enough to counterweight the avalanche of photos and stories to unload on your nearest and dearest when you get home is a premium spot to observe this phenomenon suites employ fine period furnishings with modern elegance tobacco-hued leather upholstery and exposed stonework are offset by marble and an opulent sense of volume Service is polished but with comforting familiarity as if you’re a regular guest in the most palatial of family homes All categories come with terraces to conduct the earliest beams of Guanajuato sun but the hotel’s achingly fashionable pool area rooftop bar and courtyard are among the most blissful outdoor spots anywhere in San Miguel De Allende Conducted by the hotel’s ebullient sommelier you’ll be educated on Mexico’s most famous export and sample bottles from 1826’s A-list top shelf with carefully paired snacks A flawlessly clear Casa Dragones Blanco with a delicate raw salmon cornetto is the gateway Ricardo will enthusiastically describe the esoteric properties of each that follow but fortune favours the curious: ask many questions to unlock a new frontier of agave-based knowledge so you’ll find the fragrant notes of za’atar and harissa with Mexico’s more recognisable zing and fire The Crudo de Camarones – raw shrimp ceviche with apple grapes and ginger – is outrageously piquant a name that commemorates the most formative year in the city’s history unfurls from a plushly upholstered dining room into the courtyard and beyond giving you the freedom to enjoy elevated regional specialities like crisp-skinned striped sea bass with shrimp mole under its beautiful chandelier or in a nook of the exquisitely manicured grounds of the hotel The eponymous spirit is purveyed with encyclopaedic range from all regions and agave types but don’t miss anything made “ancestrally” an ancient and nearly extinct production method making it a convenient and wholly worthwhile detour for road trips involving the capital Dominic Kocur was a guest of Rosewood San Miguel De Allende. Nemesio Diez 11, Colonia Centro, San Miguel de Allende, GTO 37700 Mexico; rosewoodhotels.com A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com Because the weather in San Miguel de Allende is temperate year-round, there’s no bad time to visit, according to Travel + Leisure. There are also festivals year-round, the city’s tourism site says, including a jazz and blues festival in November a puppetry festival in April and a June parade of the “locos” (meaning fools) where people dress up in creative costumes as celebrities and politicians and everything in between It’s a walkable city, and is filled with small shops–from sellers of arts and crafts to colorful kitsch shops to high end interior design stores Directly behind San Miguel de Allende on the list came Charlestown, South Carolina. Another Mexican city — Oaxaca — also made an appearance. See the full list of the World’s Best Cities here readers rated experiences across 86 categories on a secure website and scores were averaged in order to determine the Travel + Leisure awards for 2017 Contact us at letters@time.com Issue 282 In this Indypendent-Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung special we look at how New Yorkers responded to the 1973 coup in Chile Mariana Fernández Sep 21 co-sponsored by The Indypendent and the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung New York Office we delve into the landscape of the New York City movement in solidarity with Chile in the tumultuous aftermath of the Sept coup that saw the overthrow of President Salvador Allende’s democratically elected government and the rise of General Augusto Pinochet’s oppressive dictatorship we honor the sacrifices and draw inspiration from the enduring legacy of New York’s solidarity actors in their pursuit of justice and democracy amid one of Chile’s darkest chapters The global movement standing in unity with Chile initially surfaced while Salvador Allende’s Unidad Popular democratic socialist government (1970–1973) was in power The UP’s victory in the 1970 presidential election and Allende’s unwavering commitment to forging a democratic path toward socialism garnered substantial attention and empathy worldwide The government’s imperative to build a more equitable society led by the working class served as inspiration for countless individuals beyond Chile’s borders during the short period of Allende’s administration The military coup that overthrew Chile’s democratically-elected socialist government on Sep The news of the military coup led by General Augusto Pinochet on Sept which subjected thousands of Chileans to torture ignited international resistance to his illegitimate government New York City became one of the centers for exiled Chileans seeking safety and support Various solidarity initiatives blossomed throughout the city artists and exiles emerged in this context as key protagonists in a multifaceted movement that sought to amplify the voices of those suffering in Chile and challenge the human rights abuses perpetrated by the Pinochet regime The solidarity movement with the Chilean people also played a crucial role in enlightening Americans about the extent of U.S These groups exposed the immoral strategies employed by the U.S government and corporations to safeguard their economic and political interests and the consequences of U.S interference in foreign governments.  This special section looks into these New York’s networks and the pivotal role they played in raising awareness As we uncover stories of solidarity in action we witness how the boundaries of nationality and a profound sense of interconnectedness took root New York’s response to the Chilean coup epitomized the true spirit of internationalism showcasing the power of collective action in advocating justice on a global scale An Evening With Salvador Allende Benefit Concert was one of the main international acts in support of Chilean exiles the first to attempt to rally global rejection of the established dictatorship in the country and the first to openly criticize and confront the intervention of the U.S government in the military coup that had overthrown Salvador Allende a year earlier.  protest singer Phil Ochs and Chilean actor and poet Claudio Badal motivated by his interest in Latin American political processes had visited Chile in 1971 to closely experience the labor and university movements A close friend and admirer of popular Chilean communist singer Ochs was moved to organize the benefit concert after the Pinochet regime kidnapped and executed Jara in the aftermath of the coup The evening featured an eclectic and wide-ranging lineup with Arlo Guthrie staged a vivid reenactment of the tortures described by former prisoners of the Brazilian dictatorship (1964–1985) which was also devastating that South American country at the time.  artists and other cultural workers organized  a solidarity initiative to replicate a mural originally created by the Brigada Ramona Parra (BRP) in New York The original mural had been destroyed by the dictatorship upon taking power BRP was a muralist brigade associated with the Chilean Communist Party the BRP was responsible for producing murals in various public spaces throughout the country the regime launched a concerted effort to eliminate all forms of leftist art and culture which included the whitewashing and erasure of BRP murals In a show of solidarity with Chile’s resistance movement a group that included important figures of New York’s cultural scene issued a call to join a protest against “censorship and the arrest of artists and intellectuals in Chile.” Organized under the name Concerned Artists from the US and Latin America the group invited New Yorkers to recreate a 100-foot-long mural that had been destroyed by the regime originally located at the Mapocho River in Chile was reproduced on West Broadway between Houston and Prince Street.  he was appointed ambassador to the United States by Salvador Allende Letelier assumed various key roles within the government he was swiftly apprehended by the military authorities He was among the initial members of the Allende administration to be detained and subsequently incarcerated in a political prison he endured imprisonment in different concentration camps and was subjected to torture After mounting international diplomatic pressure that included the mediation of the governments of Venezuela and the U.S. the regime agreed to release him on condition that he leave the country There he became a fellow of the Institute for Policy Studies.  Letelier  was killed in a car bombing in Washington in a politically motivated assassination orchestrated by agents of the Chilean military regime Letelier and his IPS colleague Ronni Moffitt were tragically killed Pinochet’s regime demonstrated the lengths it was willing to take to suppress opposition a group of artists from the US Ad Hoc Committee of the Museo Internacional de la Resistencia “Salvador Allende” organ-ized an art exhibition and benefit event at Cayman Gallery in New York for the “Chile Committee for Human Rights” in memory of Letelier showcasing artworks from American and Latin American artists.  co-founder of El Museo del Barrio and member of the political-artistic collective Taller Boricua The Chilean naval ship “Esmeralda” was slated to participate in the July 4th Bicentennial parade of tall sailing ships on the Hudson River in 1976 The vessel had previously been highlighted in a report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights of the Organization of American States as a floating detention facility where political prisoners were subject to torture by electric shock — The New York Times: ‘Four Master From Chile Is Called Torture Ship’ June 20 ‘Fete for Chilean Naval Ship Faces Protest’ June 26 Chilean photographer Marcelo Montealegre has been living in New York City since 1968 Montealegre joined the movement denouncing Pinochet’s dictatorship in the city and documented a large part of the political and artistic activities that took place in that context along with other Chilean artists such as filmmaker Javier Barrios (who arrived in NYC in 1977) he began organizing monthly meetings at his loft in Soho recent exiles and activists shared and discussed news about the current situation in Chile They called the space the Pablo Neruda Cultural Center.  As the news of the activity started reaching other groups and other Latin American exiles joined the meetings eventually transforming them into a political and art center for Latin American solidarity in New York City — Iglesias Lukin, Aimé. This Must be the Place: An Oral History of Latin American Artists in New York, 1965-1975. New York: Americas Society/ISLAA, 2022.—Power, Margaret. “The U.S. Movement in Solidarity with Chile in the 1970s.” Latin American Perspectives, vol. 36, no. 6, 2009.—The New York Times Archives Chile Shows How Social Movements Can Win Elections David Duhalde Mar 11 Gabriel Boric was sworn in today as Chile’s most leftwing president since Salvador Allende Chileans’ commitment to replacing the country’s neoliberal constitution shaped last year’s presidential election Green Tide Rising in Latin America Laura Carlsen Aug 19 has much to learn from new feminist movements that spurred Argentina Colombia and Mexico to dump traditional abortion laws Cuba Journey: A Society Rooted in Solidarity Feels More Human Amba Guerguerian Aug 19 Life in Cuba is in many ways the inverse of life in the United States Travel + Leisure just released its World's Best Awards for 2017 The awards are based on a survey that includes responses from thousands of experienced travelers Mexico, was voted the best city in the world for the first time — beating out major travel destinations like Florence and Capetown With San Miguel de Allende's charming streets and vibrant color, it's no wonder travelers ranked the city so high Click here for more information about Hotel Matilda >> Click here for more information about Canada de la Virgen >> Click here for more information about Plaza de Toros Oriente >> Click here for more information about Rancho Zandunga >> Click here for more information about La Parada restaurant>> Click here for more information about Cumpanio Bakery >> The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve World Heritage partnerships for conservation Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development Our Partners Donate Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information first established in the 16th century to protect the Royal Route inland reached its apogee in the 18th century when many of its outstanding religious and civic buildings were built in the style of the Mexican Baroque Some of these buildings are masterpieces of the style that evolved in the transition from Baroque to neoclassical is one of the finest examples of Baroque art and architecture in the New Spain all decorated with oil paintings by Rodriguez Juárez and mural paintings by Miguel Antonio Martínez de Pocasangre San Miguel de Allende acted as a melting pot where Spaniards Creoles and Amerindians exchanged cultural influences while the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco constitutes an exceptional example of the exchange between European and Latin American cultures Its architecture and interior decoration testify to the influence of Saint Ignacio de Loyola’s doctrine établie au XVIe siècle pour protéger la route intérieure royale a atteint son apogée au XVIIIe siècle quand de nombreux édifices religieux et civils ont été construits dans le style baroque mexicain Certains de ces bâtiments sont des chefs-d’œuvre de ce style qui a évolué durant la transition du baroque au néoclassique est un des plus beaux exemples de l’art et de l’architecture baroques en Nouvelle Espagne Il est constitué d’une grande église et de plusieurs chapelles plus petites toutes décorées avec des peintures à l’huile de Rodriguez Juárez et des peintures murales de Miguel Antonio Martínez de Pocasangre San Miguel de Allende a fait office de creuset où se mêlaient les influences culturelles espagnoles constitue un exemple exceptionnel d’échanges culturels entre l’Europe et l’Amérique latine Son architecture et sa décoration intérieure sont des témoins de l’influence de la doctrine de Saint Ignace de Loyola أنشئت المدينة المحصَّنة في القرن السادس عشر لحماية الطريق الملكية المؤدية إلى الجزء الداخلي من البلاد، وبلغت أوجها في القرن الثامن عشر مع بناء العديد من صروحها الدينية والمدنية الرائعة تبعاً للأسلوب الباروكي المكسيكي يشكل بعض هذه المباني روائع قائمة بذاتها، تتسم بأسلوب يمزج بين الفن الباروكي والكلاسيكي الحديث وعلى مسافة 14 كلم من المدينة تقع كنيسة اليسوعيين العائدة إلى القرن الثامن عشر تشكل الكنيسة أحد أبهى أمثلة الفن الباروكي والفن المعماري في "إسبانيا الجديدة" وهي مؤلفة من كنيسة كبرى ومجموعة من الكنائس الصغيرة، وقد زيِّنت بلوحات زيتية لرودريغز خواريز ولوحات جدارية لميغل أنطونيو مارتينيز دي بوكاسانغري ونظراً إلى موقعها الجغرافي، كانت مدينة سان ميغل نقطة التقاء الإسبان والكرييوليين والهنود الأمريكيين الذين كانوا ينهلون منها التأثيرات الثقافية على نحو متبادل، في حين أن كنيسة خيسوس نازارينو دي أتوتونيلكو تشكل مثلاً استثنائياً للتبادل الثقافي بين أوروبا وأمريكا اللاتينية وتشهد هندستها المعمارية وزخرفتها الداخلية على تأثير مبادئ ومعتقدات القديس إيغناسيو دي لويولا الدينية في هذا السياق الإقليمي построенный в XVI веке для защиты Королевской дороги внутри страны своего расцвета достиг в XVIII столетии благодаря строительству большого числа храмов и жилых зданий в стиле мексиканского барокко промежуточного между барокко и неоклассицизмом представляет собой образец барочной новоиспанской архитектуры состоящий из большого собора и нескольких малых церквей все они украшены живописными работами Родригеса Хуареса и настенными росписями Мигеля Антонио Маринеса де Покасангре Благодаря своему расположению Сан-Мигель де Альенде был своеобразным культурным перекрестком местом взаимопроникновения традиций испанского в то время как храм Иисуса из Назарета является уникальным примером смешения европейских и латиноамериканских культурных традиций Архитектура и внутреннее убранство последнего отражают влияние идей Святого Игнасио де Лойоло Fundada en el siglo XVI para proteger el camino real del interior del país la ciudad de San Miguel de Allende alcanzó su apogeo en el siglo XVIII época en la que se construyeron numerosos edificios religiosos y civiles de estilo barroco mexicano Algunos de ellos son obras maestras del estilo de transición entre el barroco y el neoclásico el santuario de Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco construido por los jesuitas a unos 14 km de San Miguel data también del siglo XVIII y es uno de los ejemplos más hermosos de la arquitectura y el arte barrocos de la Nueva España Comprende una gran iglesia y una serie de capillas pequeñas ornamentadas con óleos de Juan Rodríguez Juárez y murales de Miguel Antonio Martínez de Pocasangre San Miguel de Allende fue un verdadero crisol de influencias mutuas entre la cultura española y constituye un ejemplo excepcional del intercambio cultural entre Europa y América Latina Su arquitectura y ornamentación interior patentizan la influencia de la doctrina de San Ignacio de Loyola San Miguel de Allende is an early example of a rational territorial and urban development in the Americas related to the protection of one of the main Spanish inland roads The town flourished in the 18th century with the construction of significant religious and civil architecture which exhibits the evolution of different trends and styles from Baroque to late 19th century Neo-Gothic Urban mansions are exceptionally large and rich for a medium-size Latin American town and constitute an example of the transition from Baroque to Neo-Classic The Sanctuary of Atotonilco is a remarkable architectural complex that illustrates a specific response inspired by the doctrine of Saint Ignacio de Loyola makes the Sanctuary a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque played a significant role in the process of Mexican independence Criterion (ii): San Miguel de Allende constitutes an exceptional example of the interchange of human values; due to its location and functions the town acted as a melting pot where Spaniards Creoles and Amerindians exchanged cultural influences something reflected in the tangible and intangible heritage The Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco constitutes an exceptional example of the cultural exchange between European and Latin American cultures; the architectural disposition and interior decoration testify to the interpretation and adaptation of the doctrine of Saint Ignacio de Loyola to this specific regional context Criterion (iv): San Miguel de Allende is an exceptional example of the integration of different architectural trends and styles on the basis of a 16th century urban layout Religious and civil architecture exhibit the evolution of different styles well integrated into a homogeneous urban landscape Urban mansions are exceptionally large and rich for a medium-size Latin American town The Sanctuary of Atotonilco is an outstanding example of a specific religious settlement containing exceptional decoration that makes it a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque The required conditions of integrity and authenticity have been met; both the town and Sanctuary have been subject to few significant alterations over time urban changes have been adapted to the town’s features and scale and restoration works have been carried out according to appropriate theoretical and technical principles The legal system in place ensures the adequate protection of the property and the town and the Sanctuary exhibit an acceptable state of conservation structures and plans in place are adequate to ensure the preservation of the property’s values Mexico (AP) — Mexico’s president says he wants to fight drug cartels with “hugs not bullets,” but after 23 people were killed in a weekend gunbattle in the border state of Coahuila some communities want a more forceful strategy to prevent cartel assailants from reimposing a reign of terror Residents of the small town of Villa Union said Tuesday that they fear a return to the days of 2010-2013 the Cartel del Noreste — an offshoot of the Zetas — invaded Villa Union to try to reassert a claim to the turf Villa Union is 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the town of Allende the site of a 2011 massacre in which the Zetas killed at least 70 people Residents said they have learned from experience that the Zetas must be fought “You can’t give a drug trafficker a hug and not expect to receive a bullet in return,” said a former policeman in Allende who would not give his name for fear of reprisals to prevent them from returning to our towns and ruling them The ex-policeman and his family had to flee Allende for a while in 2011 in the face of Zeta threats We are afraid they will return.” The atmosphere of dread was underscored by the funeral procession held Tuesday for a local firefighter who was abducted and killed by the gang “The firefighter paid for something that he didn’t have any part in.” Another resident who asked that his name not be used said old fears were stirred up by the weekend invasion in which dozens of Cartel de Noreste pickup trucks shot up the town hall killed two municipal workers and four state police officers before battling soldiers and police and fleeing Some of the suspected gunmen were later arrested and described the incursion as a hit-and-run operation aimed at staking a claim to the territory for use as a drug-trafficking route to the U.S But many thought the gang wanted to rule the border area “This is going to get worse,” said the man who lived through the previous round of violence Miguel Riquelme is planning to fight the cartel’s move into the state is based in the border city of Nuevo Laredo “This isn’t a question of issuing a challenge to the criminal groups,” Riquelme said following a meeting with army officers in Villa Union “It is about protecting the civilian population.” Riquelme announced plans to set up at least three military posts with about 40 soldiers apiece and said more would be added if necessary He said with apparent satisfaction that some of the 10 suspects detained in the weekend attack — several of whom are adolescents — said they had been forced into participating and said they feared the Coahuila state police While President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador wants to avoid confrontations with drug cartels And although the president claims the policy of detaining drug lords and the 2006-2012 government offensive against the cartels were failures those initiatives weakened the Zetas and reduced violence in some parts of the border states of Coahuila Now locals fear the cartels may be resurgent Some long for the days when Mexican marines successfully patrolled the area until Lopez Obrador reassigned them to other duties They were known for not getting corrupted by the cartels and not yielding in battle with them “The marines are the only ones I trust,” said one local mechanic Villa Union bears the scars of the hourslong gunbattles Saturday and Sunday The fight that unfolded between a cartel force estimated at 100 to 150 men and state police left 23 people dead At least 50 homes and buildings were riddled with bullet holes authorities found about 20 abandoned vehicles some with machine-gun turrets and welded armoring The doors of many were professionally printed with the initials of a drug cartel At least four had .50-caliber mounted machine guns Three Mexican cities have made the list of the world’s top 15 cities for 2018 and San Miguel de Allende has ranked No moved into second place from last year’s sixth and Mexico City returns to the list The annual awards program is operated by Travel + Leisure magazine whose readers choose their favorite cities based on sights and landmarks and a harmonious relationship with nature are equally essential.” Travel + Leisure said it was “no wonder” that San Miguel flower-festooned architecture and cobblestoned streets but its large population of artists lends it a cosmopolitan air.” “This is one of the best cities in the world There are lots of stores selling local artisan crafts On the list of the world’s best hotels 10 are in Mexico led by the Viceroy Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen leading in 20th place The other nine were Cala de Mar Resort & Spa in Ixtapa San Miguel de Allende; the Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués Cancún; Chileno Bay Resort & Residences MexicoChevron GuanajuatoChevron San Miguel de AllendeChevron MestizSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors San Miguel de Allende has historically been such a magnet for expats of a certain age that Mexicans have come to refer to it jokingly as Jurassic Park. The colonial town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site has long seduced visitors with its caught-in-amber allure and robust traditional gallery circuit But a boom in commercial and residential development coupled with an emerging young arts-and-crafts scene were pioneers when they arrived from Mexico City in 1996 “It wasn't on the map; there was no design community,” recalled Almada The duo quickly became darlings of that international scene Casamidy still maintains a by-appointment showroom here and just opened Tiendita easily transported pieces made in the area: decorative pillows and jackets hand-beaded by a Wixárika artist Valero “loves that this is a walkable city with a history that is very much alive,” he says “And the incredible amount of color inspires my practice.” One of three guest rooms at designer Laura Kirar’s Mesón Hidalgo a three-room hotel in a 17th-century building that she restored and furnished with a goal of letting guests “wake up in the city they've traveled to”—rather than in could-be-anywhere rooms and contain some pieces that can be purchased in the on-site shop which showcases Kirar's line of locally made home furnishings This article appeared in the September/October 2023 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here. San Miguel de Allende is the world’s best small city according to readers of Condé Nast Traveler The magazine announced the winners of its 35th annual Readers’ Choice Awards on Tuesday. San Miguel Allende, a colonial city in the Bajío region state of Guanajuato, was also crowned the world’s best small city in 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2021 Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, won the same award in 2019 but appeared in the big cities list for the first time this year Announcing the results of its latest reader survey Condé Nast Traveler described San Miguel de Allende – a UNESCO world heritage site since 2008 – as a “jewel” and a “hub for expat artists.” “This highland city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and colorful facades You could spend hours browsing the galleries and pop-up shops at Fábrica La Aurora a former textile factory that is now home to local artisans,” the magazine said calling it a “hidden oasis in the heart of the city,” and the restaurant Áperi “for one of the best dining experiences in the city Other small cities popular with Condé Nast Traveler readers include Oxford United Kingdom (voted 10th best); Salzburg Singapore was voted the best big city ahead of Bangkok “The streets of Mérida are bursting with the colorful facades of Spanish colonial architecture but the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan state is also steeped in Mayan history,” Condé Nast Traveler said “Centrally located on the Yucatán Peninsula the city is an easy day trip to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ancient cities of Uxmal and Chichén Itzá and the beaches on the Gulf shore in Progreso.” The magazine said that locals of the ciudad blanca (white city) recommend visiting Fundación de Artistas a nonprofit featuring art exhibits in a 19th-century home and the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya a modern cultural museum in the city’s north Mérida Mayor Renán Barrera acknowledged the city’s new accolade in a social media post “You’re great #Mérida!” he wrote on Facebook “We’ve become the fourth best city in the world in the ‘Best Big Cities’ category … in the 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards of the Condé Nast Traveler magazine We’re still working to be among the best tourism destinations in our country,” Barrera said Another Mexican award winner was Isla Holbox which Condé Nast Traveler readers deemed to be the “top island” in North America outside the United States The popular tourism destination is located just off the northern coast of Quintana Roo in the “rest of North America” category for “top islands.” Condé Nast Traveler readers ranked Mexico as the 36th best country in the world to travel to Japan and Thailand taking the top three spots in that category However I’m a bit dubious when a list broadly declares a place to be the best city in the world It’s like trying to choose your favorite Backstreet Boy or Spice Girl (impossible!) the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine seem quite clear on their favorite city in the world I wondered how a city of 60,000 in the center of Mexico could one-up London and culture that you can find while globetrotting I needed to see San Miguel de Allende for myself here’s my take on the Travel + Leisure list: San Miguel de Allende is not the best city in the world easy-to-digest lists and surveys is that they are purely subjective One traveler’s San Miguel de Allende may be another traveler’s Oslo After my trip I certainly understood why T+L readers went bonkers for it It’s dripping with Spanish colonial-era charm and it has a vibrant arts and culinary scene At the center of it all is Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel neo-Gothic cathedral that gives the city an unexpected level of grandeur as its spires rise majestically like the nearby mountains The UNESCO-protected city is so authentic that the jagged cobblestones give your calves a better workout than any CrossFit program I learned this my first day when I went for an art tour through the city with visual artist Jose Luis Arias Art is an integral part of the city’s history Foreign artists arrived en masse in the late 1930s pulled in by the grapefruit-hued twilight and gasp-worthy scenery drawn by schools such as Bellas Artes and Instituto Allende It no longer possesses the same bohemian spirit but the artistic legacy continues with plentiful galleries selling work created in and near the city over the past 100 years I also got a look at the courtyards and cloisters of the historic art schools Not only are they peaceful and immaculately groomed they’re also splashed with striking murals The galleries are thriving in San Miguel de Allende Thanks to the low cost of living and temperate climate expat retirees seem to be as abundant as the souvenir shops around the main square of the city Go to the Mercado de Artesanias for gifts instead For the sake of tasting a broader cross-section of eateries in my limited time, I took the Taste of San Miguel Food Tour ($80) but I found this one to be helpful in learning about the history of the city It was also helpful because a woman on my tour with a Kathie Lee Gifford-like thirst for wine was ready to order a bottle of vino at every stop And while we’re speaking of the Casa Sierra Nevada, I’d also recommend it for your accommodation Not only did I appreciate the central location but the hotel also gives a sense of the colonial Spanish architecture that’s prevalent throughout the center of the city Open the massive 18th century wooden doors and you step into a courtyard with a fountain it’s slightly more expensive than other options in town but I was a fan of both the location and the dining options Learn the Spanish for “What’s your favorite restaurant?” (¿Cuál es tu restaurante favorito?) and start quizzing the locals You’ll spend your days here touring the baroque and renaissance churches This city is not the easiest to reach from Boston so do as much as you can while you’re here and it’s more than a three hour drive from Mexico City Even the nearest airport in Leon (Del Bajío International) is more than an hour away don’t think of where you’d rank San Miguel de Allende in a list I forgot about all the top city in the world malarkey after my first day I simply thought of it as a special place that I was fortunate enough to visit and soak in the views Christopher Muther can be reached at muther@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @Chris_Muther and on Instagram @Chris_Muther. Home Delivery Gift Subscriptions Log In Manage My Account Customer Service Delivery Issues Feedback News Tips Help & FAQs Staff List Advertise Newsletters View the ePaper Order Back Issues News in Education Search the Archives Privacy Policy Terms of Service Terms of Purchase Work at Boston Globe Media Internship Program Co-op Program Do Not Sell My Personal Information In the wake of Mexico’s restoration to an FAA Category 1 aviation safety rating there has been a flurry of new flight routes announced to the U.S While the colonial city and international travel destination San Miguel de Allende does not have its own airport the two nearest international airports will now offer more connectivity to U.S Viva Aerobus will offer a new non-stop flight to the city of Querétaro from San Antonio International Airport (SAT) Querétaro is 66.5 kilometers away from San Miguel de Allende The low-cost carrier will fly the route on Mondays and Fridays operating an A321 aircraft with a capacity for 240 seats “Querétaro is an important destination when it comes to both business and leisure travel,” said Jesús Saenz head of airports for the San Antonio Airport System head of Querétaro’s Sustainable Development Ministry (Sedesu) announced that Querétaro International Airport will offer two new daily routes to Atlanta Mexican carrier Aeroméxico will operate these routes in partnership with Delta Airlines Viva Aerobus will also expand its existing flights from San Antonio to the Bajío International Airport (BJX) Guanajuato (86.6 kilometers away from San Miguel de Allende) to three flights per week This new route joins the existing nonstop flights from San Antonio to Guadalajara Aeroméxico announced plans to open two new routes between BJX and the cities of Atlanta and Detroit According to the state’s Ministry of Tourism “Guanajuato is on the right track” to attract more international travelers to the most important airport in Mexico’s central region Travel + Leisure magazine chose San Miguel de Allende as the top city travel destination in Mexico which are chosen by surveys of over 17,000 Travel + Leisure readers San Miguel placed second in the World’s Best Cities section The colonial city that is home to a large expat community won World’s Best City in 2017 and 2018 The magazine describes San Miguel as “a glamorous and sophisticated city in the heart of Mexico surrounded by wonderful vineyards and beautiful landscapes to do some adventure tourism without losing its traditional touch One reader called it ‘a unique art community in the mountains with a mix of rich history and amazing food.’ Another fan of the city praised its architectural diversity: ‘Gorgeous sumptuous modern interiors are mixed with 500-year-old façades You never know what delights you’ll find behind one of the beautifully carved doors.’” Mexico City jumped from 11th place to fourth place this year “One of the most exciting cities in North America and every time I do it’s a new and exciting experience.” Oaxaca earned kudos for its food scene and cooking schools Mexico was the only country with three cities among the world’s top 15; Italy the United States and Thailand each had two San Miguel’s Matilda Hotel & Spa came in 18th place in the World’s Best Hotels rankings Matilda was one of eight Mexican hotels in the world’s top 100 The World’s Best survey was designed by Travel + Leisure and the research firm M&RR islands and various travel services in an online questionnaire the magazine screens for and eliminates false responses Source: Publímetro (sp), Travel + Leisure (en) The major tourist destination of San Miguel de Allende could have new airports in the near future according to the Ministry of Infrastructure The SICT has requested over 15 million pesos (US $860,415) from the Finance Ministry to conduct feasibility studies as part of a plan to strengthen the country’s airport network “These studies will include surveys to determine the groundwater level and soil layers’ capacity to support the buildings as well as carrying out foundation solution proposals,” the Minister of the SICT Jorge Nuño announced during his appearance in the Chamber of Deputies on Dec “Both projects include a study that outlines the development of airport infrastructure in short The feasibility studies are expected to be completed by August Both cities have been on the radar for their own airports since earlier this year Ensenada’s close proximity to the United States means it could benefit from the nearshoring boom the region is experiencing and while it does have a military base for civil aviation the site is unsuitable for larger aircraft San Miguel de Allende is a major national and international tourist destination whose air connectivity is mostly limited to the Querétaro and Bajío airports independent aviation analyst Juan Antonio José told news outlet T21 that neither of the projects has potential for profitability since San Miguel de Allende is close to two existing international airports while Ensenada is located near the international airport in Tijuana With reports by Milenio, Reforma and T21 The city came top in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice San Miguel de Allende in Mexico has been named the best small city in the world in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards. Described in its award entry as a “hub for expat artists”, the city is four hours northwest of Mexico City, in the Mexican state of Guanajuato, and is known for its Spanish Colonial architecture and colourful facades.   Recommendations for places to visit include Fabrica La Aurora, a former textile factory now home to local artisans, the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende hotel, and the chef’s table at restaurant Aperi. “Considering the current situation of the tourism industry, we are overjoyed with this recognition,” said Laura Torres Septién, president of the San Miguel de Allende Tourism Board.   “We welcome any and all good news that gives a sense of normalcy.” More than 715,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers voted for their favourite travel experiences across the globe to compile the 2020 rankings. Chiang Mai, Thailand, came in second place, followed by another Mexican entry, Mérida. Monte Carlo in Monaco came fourth, while the capital of Malta, Valletta, was awarded fifth place. There was one UK entry, with Edinburgh in Scotland just squeezing into 10th position. In the publication’s “best big cities” list, the world’s biggest hitters – London, Paris, New York, Rome – were all absent.   Instead, Kyoto in Japan was crowned the winner, followed by Lyon in France, Singapore, Sydney in Australia and Vienna in Austria. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies ®PAPERCITY ©2025 urban publishers, inc. all rights reserved terms & condition // privacy policy // sitemap San Miguel de Allende is brimming with culture Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is at the heart of the global cultural hub (Photo courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende) Rosewood San Miguel de Allende has an impressive roster of bespoke experiences bringing the deep-seeded culture to their guests (Photo courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende) Rosewood San Miguel offers a Mojigangas Workshop to get a first hand look at the history and innovation involved in the famous giant papier-mâché puppets that are a part of so many San Miguel celebrations Unique experiences like a tour of the intricate doors of San Miguel de Allende can be set up to give visitors a taste of the artistic details at every turn An Introspective Artist Workshop by Lucas Rise will give guests a taste of the immersive artisanal influence of San Miguel de Allende The streets of San Miguel de Allende are lined with colorful walls and doorways opening up to charming courtyards and exceptional experiences Luna Rooftop & Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende boasts unprecedented views of the European-esq town A Rosewood Spa bring bespoke workshops and treatments using local ingredients put sustainable wellness to the forefront 1826 Tequila Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende offers more than 120 labels of tequila and over 20 different mezcals (Photo Courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende) The hacienda style rooms at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende are filled with luxury amenities and authentic colonial decor The deep seeded culture of San Miguel de Allende runs longer and wider than its charming cobblestone streets European-like roads that wind through the Mexican mountain town are lined with colorful walls and intricate doorways Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site San Miguel is a historic escape in every sense Founded by a monk in the 1500s as a missionary town as part of Spain’s silver route San Miguel de Allende went on to become a vital location in the Mexican War of independence The European influence is evident in the Spanish Colonial Baroque architecture and religious wonders with countless jaw-dropping churches and cathedrals dotting the skyline San Miguel de Allende is a global mecca for art you can hear passersby speaking different languages from the 35 different nationalities that call the city home For visitors looking for a dose of this unique community four hours north of Mexico City Rosewood San Miguel De Allende is a unique hotel at the heart of it all Just a quick walk from the picturesque town square in downtown San Miguel De Allende the quaint hacienda style hotel boasts just 67 rooms Rosewood San Miguel brings the city’s artisanal influence into all aspects of the hotel From forward-thinking food to artistic decor The hotel’s walls are filled with an impressive collection of Mexican artists Rosewood San Miguel even boasts its own art concierge who leads tours of the hotel’s collection and can curate an art focused itinerary both on and off property for guests I took the Introspective Art Workshop with local artist Lucas Rise It turned out to be half therapy session and half art lesson I was challenged with a blank canvas and a variety of shaped stencils The reflective artist walked me through a meaningful journey of personal exploration based on the patterns With a mile-long list of bespoke experiences, Rosewood San Miguel de Allende seems to offer it all Concierge-created shopping routes are charted to explore the Mercado de Artesaniás galleries and showrooms that line the streets Architecture and historical tours come highly recommended and for those wanting to zero in on the details the hotel can even set up a door tour to see the elaborate doors and special fixtures that speak to the historic craftsmanship of San Miguel Rosewood will put together a Cantina Tour on horseback old world take on the classic bar crawl done in true Mexican cowboy style If you’re in San Miguel even for 10 minutes, you’ll likely see a parade taking place. Rosewood San Miguel offers a Mojigangas Workshop to get a first hand look at the history and innovation involved in the famous giant papier-mâché puppets that lead many celebrations around town Celebrations of any kind in San Miguel (even the celebration of a long weekend getaway) are not complete without some soulful Mexican food You’ll be mesmerized by meals like a Chilaquiles breakfast under the tree-filled courtyard canopy a cocktail hour highlighting aguachile and refreshing margaritas at the scenic Luna Rooftop & Tapas Bar a garden lunch with farm fresh vegetables a la parrilla and a decadent tasting menu at Rosewood’s signature 1826 Restaurant That showcase meal comes complete with wine and tequila pairings from the hotel’s Tequilier (tequila sommelier) The mountainous town of San Miguel de Allende is surrounded by nature which means hiking and touring diverse plant life in the surrounding gardens after all that walking you may need  a spa day Rosewood San Miguel de Allende’s spa tries to bring local healing traditions to its services Workshops and treatments using local ingredients put sustainable wellness at the forefront. Wellness devotees can discover the healing powers of the bougainvillea flower and bath with handmade soaps and lotions bursting with aroma from locally sourced lavender as part of the hotel’s Lavender Project The Go-To Event Calendar for Texas’ most glamorous parties & charitable events AmaWaterways Celebrates Travel Advisor Appreciation With Incentives and Rewards Bowman’s Travel Brief: Avoid Newark Airport Mastering the Art of Group Travel Bookings Fiesta Americana Travelty Celebrates Travel Advisors The Top 24 Most Powerful Travel Agencies of 2024 The Strategic Art of Pre-Planning Luxury Vacations: A Perspective for Travel Advisors will have one of the most representative festivities comprising cultural concerts Considered an iconic tourist destination immersed in culture and traditions San Miguel de Allende will celebrate this year-in a unique way-the Day of the Dead a celebration recognized at the international level for its colors The Day of the Dead is the most representative tradition in Mexico immersed in cultural symbolism to remember those who are no longer with us providing a great festivity that makes the heart of Mexico and the world beat Preserving traditions is paramount for the local government of San Miguel de Allende ranked as the number one destination on the list of the "Best Cities in the World" in Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2021 and 2022 it will be celebrated this year with a diverse billboard of activities for the public The celebrations will begin on October 28 and 29 a visual show referring to this Mexican tradition that will be accompanied by a DJ and lighting "San Miguel de Allende is a still top-of-the-line destination due to its great infrastructure as well worldwide recognized restaurants and chefs We have great options for visitors to enjoy what has to offer," said the Secretary of Tourism of Guanajuato the presentation "Tell the legend Catrina" in the Plaza de la Soledad will take place at 7:30 p.m this city will hold the event "Death daily companion music and poetry" in the Main Garden from 6:00 p.m; on October 31 the film "Coco" will be screened at the House of Culture at 5:00 p.m the traditional offerings immersed in color and flavors will begin to be placed to carry out during the day with different related activities instrumental music to liven up the celebration; ending with the distribution of bread of the dead for all attendees there will be a special concert at 6:00 p.m in the Main Garden with the choir of children and young people of the Public Library having as a backdrop the iconic Parish of San Miguel Arcangel there will be an extensive diversity of activities for the whole family the offerings will begin to be placed in different parts of the city For the enjoyment of all San Miguel families the classical ballet by Selene García and Dainfi will be presented in the Main Garden with "En México la Muerte está Viva," in addition to having in the same venue the concert of the choir of children and young people of the Public Library with songs referring to the festivity To close the commemorative events to the Day of the Dead there will be a universal prayer for the deceased with a recital of traditional Mexican music For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. Collette - Expertly Crafted Tours for the Modern Traveler Cross Border Xpress Mexico: What Travel Advisors Need to Know The TravelPulse staff is comprised of experienced journalists and award-winning editors and writers. The team has traveled the... Copyright © 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000 MexicoPhoto: AlamySave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors she says it was the independent spirit and courage of the city’s legendary Dragones cavalry that drew the brand there (Some background: The cavalry played an integral role in precipitating Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1810.) Casa Dragones’s headquarters plays host to a tasting room that is situated—perfectly enough—in the former 17th-century Dragones stables but even the less agave-obsessed will appreciate San Miguel and chic shopping destinations have impressively enmeshed themselves into the city’s elegant and historic landscape And the secret’s out: This year the UNESCO World Heritage site was ranked the number one city in the world by Travel + Leisure here are some of González Nieves’s top picks: Find Your Footing“I love to walk the streets of San Miguel starting at the Jardín (a tree-filled square in the town’s center) From there you can discover the quiet beauty and elegance of the town Walking around the Jardín at night is also a town custom Many local couples sit there and talk for hours—it’s very romantic.” And each has its own unique style that integrates organically with the character of San Miguel de Allende.” This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from His menu is very rich and flavorful—and not fancy—but it truly captures the spirit of the ranchero.” “Chef Donnie Masterton’s The Restaurant feels really special because it’s located in a beautiful old building with an open patio but prepared with seasonal Mexican ingredients which has a lot of fashionable pieces from all over the world.” which houses a variety of shops and purveyors which is delicious and elegant yet authentic to Mexican street food.” visits this Mexican hideaway and shares what you simply must seeJuly 13 2017Photo by Sarah ElliottSave this storySaveSave this storySaveLocated in the highlands of central Mexico far away from the coastline many of us imagine when we picture the country artist-haven jewel of a city—San Miguel de Allende and colorful façades in a palette of golden yellows and ruby hues San Miguel’s striking light and you have a city that can cast its spell over you and capture your heart This artistic enclave and food-focused haven is not easy to get to which has helped the area remain insulated and authentically Mexican The culture and surroundings are enough to seduce visitors Twenty percent of the San Miguel’s population is expats from the U.S. and Europe; the region became an expat hub for American and Canadian artists in the1950s San Miguel is of great significance to Mexicans It was the first town to declare independence from Spain during the Mexican War of Independence in the early 1800s The city is the birthplace of Ignacio Allende (for whom the city was named) an officer in the Spanish army who switched sides and fought for Mexico unspoiled charm of yesteryear as you traverse the narrow streets—the preserved old-time feel is part of the area’s allure San Miguel was declared a historic monument city and laws were passed to safeguard it from modernism meaning no traffic lights and no neon signage to this day I spent about 48 hours in San Miguel de Allende and while there is so much to see With just a few moments until sunset, I arrived at the luxurious and grand colonial hacienda that is Rosewood San Miguel It’s just steps from the city center and yet it feels like a hidden oasis I was told that I must whisk myself up to the rooftop tapas bar a venue that boasts 360-degree views of the San Miguel skyline There I sipped on a hibiscus mescal cocktail as I watched the most magnificent sunset The ever-changing light show shifted from dusty pink to ocher reflecting against precious monument Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel Rosewood San Miguel de AllendePhoto by Sarah ElliottThe next morning I feasted on a modern interpretation of a traditional Mexican breakfast which was made entirely from locally sourced ingredients I had the distinct pleasure of devouring chef Carlos Hannon’s chilaquiles with green sauce each and every morning of my stay The hotel’s amenities are just as indulgent as their food and vistas and for those serious about their swimming I treated myself to the San Miguel Fusion massage which was basically a tension-relieving “greatest hits” mix of Swedish Rosewood San Miguel de AllendePhoto by Sarah ElliottAnd that brings us to the accommodations themselves each room is designed to provide a fine hacienda experience They’re filled with colonial details — rich hues From the rooms to the food to the views to the amenities San Miguel de Allende is rich in history and culture and unbelievably sophisticated in its cuisine. If you only eat at one local restaurant, make it the city’s beloved, high-end treasure Aperi who is of both Mexican and Italian heritage and as one of the top three chefs in the country AperiPhoto by Sarah ElliottMy meal was full of flavor bombs that opened my senses or the unexpected texture of frozen and shaved foie gras AperiPhoto by Sarah ElliottAs the chef casually sat at the end of the table and explained his food with poetic focus and passion when I became aware of the vision behind the dishes I gained a whole new understanding and appreciation for what I was experiencing I encourage you to indulge in the four-course tasting menu with wine and tequila parings at the chef’s table where you can see the chef working his magic Drink: Tequila at the Casa Dragones Tasting Room Casa Dragones Tequila small-batch liquor created by Bob Pittman and Bertha González Nieves in San Miguel de Allende is the smoothest sipping tequila I have ever encountered Everything this brand produces is steeped in quality and craftsmanship the crystal vessel that houses the tequila—one look at the delicate hand-etching around the curvature of the bottle and it is obvious you are in for a treat before the tequila even touches your lips Have lunch or meander through the archways, which make way to galleries and classrooms. They’re filled with both young students learning ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, and printmaking, and older expats learning age-old weaving techniques for making Mexican blankets on a loom. And along the north wall of the cloister, in a space that was once the nun’s refectory, is the most famous, albeit uncompleted, work of art in all of San Miguel de Allende—a powerful abstract mural by both David Alfaro Siqueiros, one of Mexico’s most famous muralists, and his students. The colorful work gives the illusion that the room is larger than it is, and you can experience it from every vantage point in the cavernous space. One of my favorite and most authentic experiences was visiting local and lively Mercado Ignacio Ramírez. This vibrant market is located in Centro, not far from the large equestrian statue in Plaza Cívica. Mercados are not where the tourists visit but where the locals gather produce and Mexican delights. These markets are not merely a novelty to be enjoyed every once in awhile, they are very much a part of everyday life in San Miguel de Allende. The colorful Ignacio Ramírez market reflects the rich culture and gastronomy of the city and will without a doubt spur sensory overload, in the best of ways. The market is both indoors and outdoors and is predominantly food-focused. There are rows and rows of orderly displays of fruits and vegetables piled high, likely 30-plus varieties of chilis, more types of peppers and grains than you ever knew existed, and butchers and floral vendors. Mercado San Miguelle de AllendePhoto by Sarah ElliottIn a side annex of the market, you will find traditional home-cooked, ready-to-eat foods. Here, women are making tortillas and gorditas, shucking and grilling corn over an open fire, and slicing mango and jicama and dusting them with chili and fresh lime, which they’ll scoop into a plastic bag for you to take. I was entranced as I watched a group of women carefully removing the prickly thorns off of the shockingly green cactus. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon The best of Time Out straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Mexico City Indulge in the breathtaking sunsets of San Miguel de Allende or opt for a stay in a historic hacienda steeped in tradition Here are our top recommendations for hotels with spas and restaurants to ensure you make the most of your experience Enjoy one of the best Resort experiences in San Miguel de Allende with Live Aqua a place that captures the natural beauty of this tourist destination inspired by minimalism and the warmth of this place in addition to the fact that throughout the hotel there are works of art that inspire This hotel offers a complete sensory experience that ranges from the relaxation spa this place can become the perfect atmosphere if you are looking for a romantic plan as the hotel has unparalleled views towards the dam if you bring children and want to enjoy this plan a place where they will be safe and learning while you rest Photo: CourtesyThe most privileged rooftop terrace in the area located in the heart of San Miguel de Allende you will have the chance to see the architectural landscape of the city from above where art and culture are the main characters you can also enjoy the refined gastronomy of the region in one of its four bars and restaurants You will also be delighted to know that this place exhibits a variety of works of art in the corridors Foto: lavalisesma.comAn enchanting secret garden awaits you two minutes from the Parish of San Miguel Arcángel The 6 suites of this luxury boutique hotel overlook the charming and relaxing courtyard oasis This makes it perfect for a wedding or an intimate couples trip Although it does not have its own restaurant they offer a menu of delicious nearby restaurants that you can order to the room If you're looking for the perfect venue to have your wedding in this magical and mystical city we believe this space will captivate your senses the view this space offers feels perfect for your outdoor wedding or event Reservations this hotel has become a great accommodation in the city Take a moment to relax in their frecuently yoga classes or in the pool they have a spa with a variety of massages Photo: CourtesyA boutique hotel option if you are looking for a relaxing break on your next trip to San Miguel de Allende The location is centric but Casa Quebrada presents itself as an oasis among the high affluence of tourists It is a colonial house in which each room has a unique design inspired by a Moroccan style The concierge and reception staff will make you feel very comfortable while its gastronomic proposal inspired by Greek culture will take your stay one step further perhaps the best option is to get to know Casa Grande Luxury Boutique Just a 15-minute walk from Benito Juárez Park as well as the opportunity to visit other attractions like the El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden This is the kind of hotel that aims to meet your basic needs so that you can venture out and enjoy San Miguel de Allende on your own terms this will be your favorite hotel in San Miguel since its interior houses a fantastic collection of contemporary art by various artists We cannot fail to mention that here is Moxi the restaurant whose menu was in charge of Vicente Torres Foto: casablanca7.comThis hotel in a colonial building in the center of San Miguel has a decoration inspired by Arab Spain and Moroccan style details such as rugs and textiles in its ten comfortable rooms. Take the opportunity to pamper yourself with a holistic treatment and discover the proposal of chef Mike García one of the promises of the new generation of chefs who praise local ingredients Foto: Golpe de VistaIf you're going to San Miguel de Allende and you can find it at Hotel Golpe de Vista you can find beautiful views from the terraces experience the warmth in the bedrooms with the fireplaces that the Master Double Suite offers Rest is a priority in this place because the hotel has the "ZENTIDOS" SPA a space designed to recharge new energies with its body treatments it is located 10 minutes from downtown San Miguel de Allende and a 14 minutes walk from the Museo de la Esquina making it a perfect place if you also want to discover this magical town in Mexico Foto: Golpe de VistaThe Selina hotel in San Miguel de Allende is a charming destination that combines modern comfort with an authentic atmosphere Located in the heart of this historic city in Mexico perfect for relaxing after exploring the cobbled streets and rich local culture Its vibrant and creative common spaces foster interaction among guests With a variety of cultural activities and events the Selina hotel is much more than just a place to stay offering possibilities like yoga classes or relaxing with friends playing billiards as well as being a perfect place to bring pets with its pet-friendly service Zona Centro,San Miguel de Allende Guanajuato.$1,451-1,795 Foto: CortesíaTwo blocks away from the parish church of San Miguel de Allende is a hotel with great dishes for breakfast and is full of nature An old house which used to be a convent now is Hacienda el Santuario a place with rest assured rest in confortables bedrooms.  The hotel organizes a festival with a variety of workshops It has four eclectic rooms each one named in honor of an artist there a Khalo in the chimney and bathrooms have tile decoration.  This is an excuse to meet new people.  Foto: CortesíaWith stunning European-inspired architecture and unparalleled views of downtown San Miguel de Allende Casa 1810 stands as the perfect choice for those who appreciate tradition without sacrificing comfort and and its decorations go beyond the merely conventional.Hidalgo 8 Doña HurracaNestled in San Miguel de Allende historic and cultural district Hotel Boutique Doña Urraca & Spa offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat the hotel features a world-class outdoor swimming pool a hot tub and a spa for a complete relaxation experience The family-friendly accommodation policy allows children up to the age of 11 to stay free of charge with an adult Ideal for those seeking a luxury getaway in San Miguel.  Thanks for subscribing! 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Founder of Nomad Capitalist and the world’s most sought-after expert on global citizenship Our flagship service for entrepreneurs and investors Create your Action Plan directly with the Mr Claim a second passport based on familial connections Click here to see all our products and services Offshore Banking Offshore Company Offshore Trust Offshore Gold Storage Offshore For Americans Second Passport Citizenship By Investment Citizenship By Ancestry Dual Citizenship Benefits EU Citizenship Second Residence Golden Visas Residence By Investment EU Residence Tax Residence Tax Reduction International Investment Cryptocurrency Foreign Real Estate Asset Protection Flag Theory Lifestyle Design Plan B Strategy Hiring Overseas Living In Eastern Europe Discover the world’s best passports to have in an ever-changing world Explore the citizenship options using our interactive citizenship map Explore the tax details for countries using our interactive tax map Click here to see all of our research and interactive tools Learn from a curated “Who’s Who” of business speakers from around the world and rub shoulders with successful people from all corners of the world Mexico has always held a special allure for travellers and investors alike vibrant local Mexican culture or serious real estate potential this country has a way of turning short-term stays into long-term commitments From buzzing beach towns to quiet mountain retreats Mexico draws expats from around the world with its lifestyle and value You’ll find real community here – not just friendly faces And with well-connected airports across the country staying close to family or bouncing between continents is easier than you’d think The opportunities for investors are just as compelling Whether you’re eyeing a chic city apartment or a seaside villa Mexico’s property market is full of promise the country offers lower entry points and a higher quality comfortable life than many of its global counterparts You just have to decide what you’re looking for It’s little wonder that so many expats have found their Mexican paradise. If you’re thinking about exploring residency visas, second citizenship and international investment opportunities, reach out to us at Nomad Capitalist and we’ll help make your search smoother and more rewarding Choosing the right Mexican City to call home is about finding the right balance of lifestyle That’s why we’ve handpicked cities that tick all the key boxes for modern expats and savvy investors Each city on our list offers relative peace of mind compared to national averages and global expat hubs.  These cities are equipped with quality medical facilities many of which attract health-conscious retirees and medical tourists alike Whether you’re after the energy of a big city a relaxed beach vibe or a charming colonial-style town Mexico offers surprisingly affordable options across the board – without compromising quality of life there’s a city here that fits the bill.  Here are our picks for the top expat cities in Mexico – no prizes for guessing the first one Mexico City is a lively and multicultural metropolis renowned for its vibrant atmosphere the cost of living is higher than in the rest of the country.  with the cost of living being around 60% cheaper than in London For a single person renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city basic monthly expenses are estimated to be around US$1,700 per month there’s a lot of room to elevate your quality of life in Mexico City you’re getting pretty much all the amenities and comforts you would find at home as well as a wide range of cultural events quality healthcare facilities are plentiful The presence of an international airport facilitates convenient travel for expats If you want to discover the best neighbourhoods for expats in Mexico City, see our guide to expat life in the Mexican capital Playa del Carmen is a charming resort town known for its nightlife expect to pay around US$1,500 monthly to live comfortably here you’ll enjoy beautiful beaches and excellent healthcare taking full advantage of the resort lifestyle will cost you more especially those looking for coastal views and white-sand beaches Cabo San Lucas is a popular resort city situated at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula Cabo San Lucas’s popularity as a tourist resort means the cost of living is somewhat higher than other locations on this list especially if you want to live the good life on the beach you could still get by on US$1,500 per month as a single person.  you’re paying for the location and quality of services.  Its expat group and the bay’s northern point provide a stunning backdrop for those seeking a spectacular destination it’s also far more affordable than better-known tourist destinations Living here is around 57% less expensive than in New York.  If you’re a single person renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city you can expect basic monthly expenses of around US$1,600 and up Monterrey is recognised for its array of health and wellness services and is just a few hours away from the charming beach towns of Mexico’s Pacific coast.  It’s an ideal base for those who want to be close to many of the best things that Mexico has to offer Guadalajara is a city famous for its lively local culture and frequent events It allows expats to experience an authentic Mexican lifestyle at an affordable monthly cost starting at an estimated cost of around US$1,200 for a single person living in a central one-bedroom apartment.  Guadalajara also has a strong healthcare system with modern and fully equipped hospitals providing all types of medical care a UNESCO World Heritage site and a Spanish colonial city With an average monthly cost of living of around US$1,800 and up per month for a single person San Miguel de Allende is moderately affordable.  There’s also lots to experience as it hosts a variety of events throughout the year such as music and theatre festivals.  A safe and affordable city in southern Mexico Mérida offers a basic lower cost of living starting around US$1,000 for a single person renting a central one-bedroom apartment.  Mérida is a cultural centre that hosts frequent events such as its classical theatre festival and the September Fair and proximity to the sea make Mérida a practical and popular choice among expats An estimated 1.6 million US citizens live in Mexico There are several paths for an American expat to earn permanent residency in Mexico including by buying real estate or showing a certain level of financial solvency Many cities in Mexico have gained popularity among expats for their unique blend of culture Some of the best cities include Mexico City These are also popular tourist destinations during the tourist season Reports suggest that the neighbourhoods surrounding Lake Chapala have the world’s highest concentration of US expats Most expats are also drawn to San Miguel de Allende’s rich cultural life and large expat community Others choose the uniqueness of Mexico City While safety can be subjective and vary across regions many expats find Mérida and San Miguel de Allende particularly safe These cities are well-known for their friendly locals Tijuana and Acapulco regularly rank high in lists of the world’s most dangerous cities based on homicide rates The cost of living can vary significantly between cities small towns like San Miguel de Allende and Mérida can be more affordable while other cities like Mexico City might have a higher cost of living living expenses in these cities are often much cheaper for many expats compared to their other countries Mexico City offers a range of attractive neighbourhoods The weather is warm without getting unbearably hot and there are excellent transport links to easily enjoy other parts of the country While obviously Mexican people speak Spanish This depends on where you’d like to live in Mexico and the quality of life you’d like to experience it would be possible to enjoy a nice retirement in some parts of Mexico with as little as USD$1,000 per month Some of the disadvantages or potential downsides of living or becoming a permanent resident in Mexico include language barriers a lack of conveniences that expats are used to at home and tap water that is not drinkable in most parts of Mexico amenities and potential challenges vary significantly from one region to the next Mexico is a vast country with diverse landscapes and vibrant cities weighing up the pros and cons is essential as everyone’s situation is different.  Mexican residence and citizenship come with many advantages such as travel privileges or giving some a chance to connect with their cultural background It’s also important to consider how you will adapt to expat life there including cultural differences and even potential tax issues Are you an entrepreneur or investor looking to start an exciting life overseas? To start planning your new adventure and to discover more about living, working and investing as a global citizen, get in touch today holistic strategies for successful investors and entrepreneurs to legally reduce their tax bills become global citizens and maximize their freedom ABOUT         CONTACT         +1 (979) 966-6623 Copyright 2012-2025, Nomad Capitalist Limited. - Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy"Nomad Capitalist" and "Go Where You're Treated Best" are registered trademarks.