San Miguel de Allende has to be the most magical historic town in Mexico. The colorful homes and cobblestone streets of this enchanting village are home to more than 600-years of traditions and festivities.
Strolling by the majestic colonial homes, listening to the lively sounds of the mariachi band and smelling the delicious carne asada in the distance will surely transport you back to the early 1800´s. The soaring Neogothic Parroquia and the blissful art galleries will make this your favorite destination when you’re in need of a Mexican vacation.
Thursday:
4:00pm– Check-in to L´Otel, This 4-bedroom luxury B&B is a heavenly oasis nestled amidst the streets of San Miguel. The stunning colorful decor, attention to detail, mouthwatering breakfast by Bertha and supreme service helped to make L´Otel one of my favorite places to stay.
6:00pm– Head to the Rosewood Hotel’s terrace. Although I am usually a big fan of Rosewood properties, I prefer just to visit this one for afternoon drink on the terrace.
8:30pm– Diner at Puerto Viejo. This is the perfect first stop on your quest for a casual traditional Mexican dinner. The jicama tacos, chile poblano soup and the mixed Molcajete are a must.
Friday:
10:00am– Breakfast at L´Otel. You must start with a delicious cup of Colombian coffee served by a wonderful hotel staff member, Arturo. Coffee will be followed by a plethora of juices (orange, mandarin and grapefruit too name a few), freshly baked scones, pain au chocolate and croissants with a side order of yogurt, home made granola and fresh fruit. Those are just a few of the items you will be nibbling on while you decide on your main course. Be sure to try the Chilaquiles Rojos. They are crunchy, spicy and perfectly cheesy.
11:30am– Walk to the stunning Fabrica La Aurora. This beautiful art and design center is located in a former textile factory, home to more than 60 show rooms and studios. Peak in and watch the masters in action while listening to classical music in the background. Don’t miss a freshly squeezed juice and a pastry at their divine bohemian café to recharge your batteries.
1:00pm– Lunch at Dos Casas. Chef Matteo Salas rocks every dish. The roasted cauliflower, ricotta cheese and pine nuts pasta is yummy.
4:00pm– Salsa or Tango lessons at Arthur Murray´s Studio (Just two minutes away from you’re your hotel).
8:00pm– Dinner at the most acclaimed restaurant in town, The Restaurant. Order the red wine braised beef short ribs with ricotta polenta and root vegetables.
10:00pm– After dinner, stroll around the main plaza. Be sure to buy a delicious corn on the cob with lime and chili for desert before you head back!
Saturday:
8:00am– Sleep in. Don’t make the mistake of jogging around the city if you happen to be training for a marathon like I was (See, I make the mistakes so you don’t have to). Let’s just say your ankles and the cobblestone streets don’t make for a very good match.
10:00am– Breakfast at L´Otel. A delectable experience.
11:00pm– Cooking class at Sazón, Chef Emanuel Cervantes will take you to the local organic market to buy the produce you need for your Mexican cooking class. After a delectable two-hour class, you will be seated in the formal dining room in a picturesque colonial courtyard to taste your wonderful creations.
4:00pm– Call L´Otel and have the remarkable masseuse Guadalupe (Lupita) wait for you in your suite for a ninety-minute deep tissue massage. She is by far the best and most knowledgeable masseuse I have ever had (and I get a massage everywhere I go).
5:00pm– Relax in the terrace’s hot tub and have Arturo bring a glass of fresh Jamaica juice while you watch the sun set behind La Parroquia and listen to the relaxing sounds of the church bells.
8:00pm– Dinner at the AAA Four Diamond Mexican restaurant, La Andanza.
10:00pm– Drinks at the swanky Bar, Matilda.
Sunday:
10:00am– Breakfast at L´Otel. However, if you have had enough of it (which I don’t presume you will), head to the French bakery, Petit Four.
11:00am– Attend Sunday mass at La Parroquia. If mass is not your thing, peak inside General Ignacio Allende’s home, located 10-feet away from La Parroquia.
1:00pm– Lunch at my favorite bakery, Cumpanio.
4:00pm– Realize you want to buy L´Otel but it’s not for sale!
Safe travels.
