When Travel + Leisure announced San Miguel de Allende as the World’s #1 City, I wasn’t surprised — but I was curious.

What makes a small colonial city in Mexico capture the hearts of travelers from around the globe?

The answer is simple.

San Miguel is not a place you just visit.

It is a place you feel.

It is morning walks through cobblestone streets.
It is music drifting through the plaza.
It is rooftop sunsets with a glass of wine.
It is discovering a hidden courtyard restaurant behind an unassuming doorway.

It is proof that adventure does not have an expiry date.

La Fábrica La Aurora: From Textile Mill to Creative Hub of San Miguel

Where Is San Miguel de Allende?

Located in the mountains of central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende sits in the state of Guanajuato, approximately:

About 4 hours from Mexico City
About 1.5 hours from Querétaro airport
A popular destination for international travelers looking for culture without the typical resort experience

Unlike coastal Mexico destinations built around beaches and all-inclusive resorts, San Miguel invites you to explore.

It has a HUGE art scene.

The best way to experience it?

Walk.

Get lost.

Turn down the little streets.

Look around.

Because the magic is often right there down the little alley or through a door.

Mojigangas are **larger-than-life papier-mâché puppets**. We found the shop that fabricates them. They offer classes.

A UNESCO City Filled With History

San Miguel’s history dates back to the 16th century when it became an important stop along the Royal Route connecting mining regions.

Today, the historic center feels almost frozen in time — with colorful buildings, baroque churches, beautiful courtyards, and architecture that tells stories from centuries ago.

The most recognizable symbol?

The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

That iconic pink limestone church rising above the main plaza is what many people picture when they think of San Miguel.

It is breathtaking during the day…

…but at sunset?

Absolutely magical.

The Food Scene: Come Hungry

San Miguel surprised me with its food culture.

Yes, you will find traditional Mexican flavours — but this city has grown into an international culinary destination.

Think:

🌮 Handmade tortillas
🌶️ Regional Mexican dishes
🍷 Local Guanajuato wines
🥑 Fresh ingredients
🍽️ Rooftop dining with incredible views
☕ Cafés hidden in beautiful courtyards

One of my favourite things about travel is discovering how food tells the story of a place.

San Miguel does this beautifully.

Every meal becomes an experience.

Wine Country in Mexico? Absolutely.

One of the surprises for many visitors is discovering that the area around San Miguel has a growing wine culture.

Just outside the city are beautiful vineyards where you can enjoy:

Wine tastings
Farm-to-table dining
Relaxing afternoons surrounded by scenery

It is another reason this destination appeals to travelers looking for a slower, more immersive experience.

Golf in San Miguel de Allende

For those who love golf (hello golfers 👋), San Miguel offers something unique:

Golf with a view.

The area has championship courses surrounded by mountain landscapes, rolling terrain, and the beauty of Mexico’s highlands.

It is not just about the scorecard.

It is about the experience.

A morning round of golf followed by exploring the city’s food, culture, and wine scene?

That is my kind of travel day. WE discovered that golf was 2 for 1 on Monday and Tuesday. Guess when we played?

Is San Miguel de Allende Safe?

This is one of the biggest questions people ask before visiting Mexico.

Like any destination, travelers should use normal precautions:

✔ Stay aware of your surroundings
✔ Use trusted transportation
✔ Keep valuables secure
✔ Follow local advice

Many visitors describe San Miguel as a welcoming, walkable city where the historic center is easy to explore on foot. No wonder they call it a magical city.

The experience can feel very different from the Mexico many people imagine because this is a cultural city rather than a resort destination.

The Magic of San Miguel: It’s the People

The architecture is stunning.

The food is memorable.

The history is incredible.

But what stays with you?

The people.

The artists.

The musicians.

The locals who smile as you walk by.

The travelers who came for a week and stayed for months or years and invite you for dinner.

San Miguel attracts creatives, food lovers, and people who want connection — not just another vacation photo.

Thanks Lorraine and Richard - we hope to see you again soon

Liliane - my fab art teacher - she tried … LOL

My Midlife Travel Takeaway

I believe travel is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves.

It keeps us curious.

It challenges us.

It reminds us that life is meant to be experienced.

San Miguel de Allende is exactly that reminder.

You don’t have to wait for retirement.

You don’t have to wait until everything is perfect.

Go.

Explore.

Taste.

Wander.

Create memories.

Because age is just a number…

and the world is still waiting.

My art - depicts Epstein Files BS ( it’s a trigger!) and beautiful San Miguel

My San Miguel Tips

✨ Wear comfortable walking shoes — cobblestones are beautiful but challenging
✨ Bring layers — mornings and evenings can be cool in the highlands
✨ Stay close enough to walk into the historic center
✨ Book restaurants ahead for popular rooftop spots
✨ Give yourself time to wander without a schedule
✨ Look beyond the famous photo spots — the hidden corners are often the best