Exploring the Charm of San Miguel de Allende with Friends

First Impressions: San Miguel's Embrace

After a long journey from the UK, touching down in Mexico City and then making our way to San Miguel de Allende with my friends, I was eager to dive into the heart of Mexico. The air was warm, a delightful change from the British weather we'd left behind. I was ready to soak in the culture, the sights, and, of course, the food. I couldn't wait to see what adventures awaited us in this charming colonial city.



Our first day in San Miguel de Allende was nothing short of magical. The city welcomed us with open arms, and I quickly understood why it’s renowned for its beauty and vibrant culture. As a construction project manager, I'm usually surrounded by blueprints and building sites, but today, I traded that for cobblestone streets and stunning colonial architecture. The change of pace was exactly what I needed, and I was excited to share this experience with my friends. I did miss Olivia and Ethan, though, and promised myself to bring them here one day. Maybe next year for Olivia's 40th birthday, I thought.



We started our exploration in the heart of it all: the Centro Histórico. Walking through the streets, I was immediately struck by the colorful buildings, each one seemingly more vibrant than the last. The architecture was a delightful mix of Baroque and Neoclassical styles, a testament to the city's rich history. It felt like stepping back in time, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The temperature was perfect, hovering in the mid-70s, making it ideal for strolling around and taking in the sights. I made sure to pack my comfortable walking shoes as I knew we would be doing a lot of walking today, and I was glad I did! I even made a mental note to buy Olivia a pair when I got back to Hawthorne.


Explore the vibrant Centro Histórico of San Miguel de Allende, a cultural gem known for its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and rich heritage.

Our first stop was the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. This neo-Gothic church is the symbol of San Miguel, and it’s easy to see why. The pink spires towered over the city, creating a breathtaking sight. The church wasn't built in a single era, which makes it hard to classify its architectural style, but that's what makes it so unique! As we approached, I couldn't help but snap photos from every angle, trying to capture its grandeur. Inside, the church was just as impressive, with intricate details and a serene atmosphere. I learned that the church was initially built in 1709, but its famous pink facade was added much later, between 1880 and 1890, by Zeferino Gutiérrez. I was fascinated by the history and the blend of architectural styles. It reminded me of some of the historical renovations I've overseen back in the UK, but with a distinctly Mexican flair. It's amazing how buildings can evolve over centuries, reflecting the changing tastes and influences of different eras.


Explore the enchanting Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a stunning architectural marvel and historical landmark in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

After the Parroquia, we strolled over to Jardín Allende, the main square. This bustling plaza is the heart of San Miguel, and it was alive with activity. Locals and tourists alike gathered to chat, relax, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Street vendors sold everything from refreshing drinks to handmade crafts, and mariachi bands filled the air with music. I loved the energy of the square, and it was the perfect place to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere. I even managed to pick up a few small souvenirs for the kids back home. I noticed a festival in Honor of the Lord of the Conquest is coming up, and I would have loved to see the dancers, but we will have moved on by then.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Jardín Allende, a charming city park in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, where nature and culture come together.

For breakfast, we stopped at Cafe Oso Azul, a charming café known for its quality food and friendly service. The courtyard was quiet and serene, a welcome escape from the bustling streets. I ordered the chilaquiles verdes con pollo, while my friends opted for veggie omelets and fruit plates. The coffee was superb, served in oversized mugs, and the salsas were incredibly flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. It was the perfect way to start our day, and I appreciated the low-key vibe and the delicious, locally sourced ingredients. It reminded me a bit of my favorite cafe back in Hawthorne, where I often go to plan out my next hiking trip in the Peak District.


Experience the charm of Cafe Oso Azul in San Miguel de Allende, where delicious breakfasts meet warm hospitality.

Next on our list was the Mercado de Artesanías, a vibrant market filled with handmade crafts. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and unique finds, I was in my element. The market was a maze of stalls, each one overflowing with colorful textiles, pottery, jewelry, and leather goods. I spent hours browsing the various items, chatting with the artisans, and admiring their skill and creativity. The prices were reasonable, and I managed to snag a few beautiful pieces to bring back home. I even tried my hand at bargaining, which was a fun and engaging experience. It was a great opportunity to support local artisans and bring home some authentic Mexican souvenirs. I found myself wishing Olivia was here with me; she would have loved the textiles and jewelry. I promised myself to take her to a similar market if we ever made it to Show Low.


Explore the Mercado de Artesanías in San Miguel de Allende, a vibrant market of local crafts, artisan goods, and cultural treasures that showcases Mexico's rich heritage.

For lunch, we headed to Hecho en México, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The courtyard setting was lovely, with flowering trellises adding to the ambiance. The menu was varied, offering everything from traditional Mexican staples to burgers and club sandwiches. I opted for the Veracruz-style grilled tilapia, while my friends tried the stuffed poblano chilies. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The restaurant was popular with expats, and I could see why – it offered a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience with a taste of home. I was thinking of Ethan and how much he would have loved the burgers! I´ll have to learn how to make stuffed poblano chilies when I return.


Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Hecho en México in San Miguel de Allende - where tradition meets taste.

Our final stop for the day was Quince, a rooftop restaurant known for its spectacular views and upscale dining experience. As the sun began to set, we made our way to the rooftop, eager to see the city from above. The views were breathtaking, with the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel illuminated against the darkening sky. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing in the background and a trendy, chic vibe. The menu was inspired by the travels of the chefs, with influences from New Orleans, Lima, NYC, and Mexico City. I ordered the rack de cordero, while my friends tried the ceviche verde and the risotto de trufa. The food was good, but the real highlight was the setting – it was the perfect place to end our first day in San Miguel, soaking in the beauty of the city and enjoying the company of friends. We even saw a tightrope walker! It was a bit touristy, but it was a great experience.


Discover Quince Rooftop: A Unique Eclectic Dining Experience with Stunning Views in San Miguel de Allende.



As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our first day in San Miguel de Allende. We had explored historic landmarks, wandered through vibrant markets, and savored authentic Mexican cuisine. The city had captivated us with its charm and beauty, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fabrica la Aurora, Murales Guadalupe, and Parque Benito Juárez. I'm particularly excited to see the art at Fabrica la Aurora and relax in Parque Benito Juárez. San Miguel de Allende has already exceeded my expectations, and I know that the rest of our trip will be just as memorable. The warm weather, the friendly locals, and the rich culture have all combined to create an unforgettable experience. I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city with my friends, and I'm looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you.



Now, back to the hotel to rest. We are staying at Mikaella Hotel, and it is really centrally located, which is perfect for our explorations.


Discover the vibrant culture and charm of San Miguel de Allende from Mikaella Hotel, a cozy retreat in the heart of the city, offering modern amenities and a warm atmosphere.