San Miguel de Allende

When people think of Mexico’s historic past, it’s either they picture ruins of ancient civilizations from the Mayan, Aztec, or Olmec times, or they might be looking at Spanish influenced towns that have retained a distinctively colonial flavor. If you’re looking for the latter to spice up your vacation itinerary, then you are in luck! Mexico has a lot of colonial towns that invoke both luxurious and classic charms. A very good example is the town of San Miguel de Allende.

San Miguel de Allende is in the state of Guanajuato in Mexico. This historic town was established in 1542 and has attracted certain type of visitor when it comes to tourism – this town has become a haven for rich residents of the capital Mexico City residents and has been a go-to city for American and Canadian expatriates and retirees.

If you want to explore the wonders of this splendid place, it would be best to go there during the early summer months. The city is a co-host along with Guanajuato of the Expresión en Corto International Film Festival, Latin America’s most prestigious and largest film festival. The film festival has free admission to the public with over 400 films that run in 16 sites until 4 in the morning.

You may also want to visit the newly restored mural in fresco at the city’s Escuela Universitaria de Bellas Artes.This mural was painted by American artist Eleanor Coen, the first woman employee of the TGP (Taller de Grafica Popular). The mural shows women and children washing at a river.

Alas, there’s always time for shopping in this town. Shopping in San Miguel de Allende is a dream for shopaholic – Mexican handicrafts, art galleries, boutiques and shops specializing in furniture and home decor are all available for your shopping pleasure!