Under the Mexican sky

17 Apr Under the Mexican sky

When a well respected travel magazine recognizes a city two years in a row as the best small city in the world, you figure it has to be something special.

 

 

And such is definitely the case with Spanish colonial-era San Miguel de Allende, located in Mexico’s hilly central highlands.  Two years in a row, readers of Conde Naste have bestowed this award on the colorful and enchanting city, but I loved it before I heard about these coveted awards. Let me show you a few pictures why.

 

 

From the narrow cobblestone streets under your feet, to the brilliant blue skies and colorful buildings, and flowers cascading from rooftops and around doorways, this city is a visual feast.

 

 

 

 

 

My friend Kim has owned a home here for fourteen years so I’ve visited several times. This is a shot from her rooftop terrace in the neighborhood known as Colonia Guadalupe.

 

My last morning there, I woke up to see a hot air balloon from my bathroom window and ran up to the roof to catch a few photos.

 

Whether it’s hot air balloons or large puppet like figures strolling in the town center, known as El Jardin, you can always expect the unexpected in San Miguel de Allende, which is known for its many festivals.

 

 

 

There are many churches in this deeply religious city, but none more famous than the one with the glowing pink towers that rise high above the main plaza, the parish church of San Miguel, La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel.

 

 

There are many architecturally stunning churches in the city, and several very close to the parrochia.

 

 

People are always gathering to chat or just watch others walking by under the canopy of well groomed laurel trees.

 

 

There is a serious art scene with many galleries, along with murals and other street art that reflects the city’s rich history and culture.  And you see beautiful paintings and sculptures throughout the city, whether in front of hotels or in shops as you’ll see below.

 

 

 

 

As  gorgeous as the city is during the day,  it’s when the sun goes down that the city really sparkles.

 

 

As of this post, this particular rooftop restaurant  hadn’t opened to the public but we got a sneak peek after eating in the restaurant downstairs.  Isn’t this view incredible?!?

 

 

There’s so much more to show you but I’ll wait and share it next time.  My friend’s home is really special. I’ll be sharing a few pictures of her place in my next post.  Here’s a sneak peek.

 

 

I highly recommend visiting San Miguel de Allende if you haven’t been yet.  If you go, take a good pair of walking shoes for cobblestone streets. If you go out at night and can get a taxi, you may be able to step it up a notch and wear some heels!

 

 

          Thanks for following Stylish Retreats.  If you have a home or condo you’d like to share with me, just send me an email to Amy@stylishretreats.net.