San Miguel de Allende has always been a popular tourist destination. However, in recent years the city has also become a haven for ex-pats seeking a new home. What is it about the area that brings in so many people? Is there something special about SMA that people love? For those who have never seen the city, it is almost indescribably beautiful. Yet that isn’t all that draws people. After all, there are many beautiful cities in Mexico. The appeal isn’t in any single feature, but rather the combination of everything in one convenient location. Moreover, it is safe, with a low crime rate, and filled with both natural splendor and human-created attractions. The weather is pleasant all year, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more ideal place to live or visit.
Why is living in San Miguel De Allende so popular? San Miguel de Allende is popular because it is a cultural and artistic masterpiece. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a mecca for both ex-pats and artists, the international appeal is evident from the moment you arrive. Moreover, the natural beauty is exceptional as well.
San Miguel de Allende History & Culture
The extensive history of San Miguel de Allende is part of what lends its charm. Not to mention it has contributed to centuries of stunning architecture and culture. New towns are lovely in their own modern way, but the sheer magnitude of centuries of progress gives SMA a unique perspective and appearance.
Founded in fifteen forty-two by a Franciscan monk named Juan de San Miguel, the town was the first Spanish settlement in Guanajuato. The second part of the name was added centuries later in eighteen twenty-six. The “Allende” comes from the town’s desire to honor a war hero named Ignacio Allende, who fought in the revolution against the Spanish. As you can see, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a very long history.
Naturally, people come flocking in from all over the world to fall in love with the history, culture, and sheer loveliness of San Miguel de Allende. If you are considering a vacation home or ex-pat retirement, there are ample opportunities to buy homes and investment properties in SMA.
The cobblestoned streets and colorful buildings immediately draw the notice of visitors. Spanish colonial-style architecture is a nod to the historical value of San Miguel de Allende. Additionally, the generally pleasant weather, which doesn’t get too hot in summer, nor frigid in winter, lends to the appeal.
Resultantly, the whole city is a mecca for artists who love the beauty and ex-pats seeking a scenic getaway. Tourism brings in most of the wealth in San Miguel de Allende and keeps the local economy prosperous. Thus SMA can maintain its elegant beauty and plethora of modern conveniences and attractions.
The Food of San Miguel de Allende
No discussion of San Miguel de Allende is complete without mentioning the genuinely incredible variety of foods available. While you will never lack for local cuisine in Mexico, SMA has even more to offer. Because the city attracts people from all over the world, international appeal is a part of the culture. You can find french pastries and more along with plenty for the locavores.
From the famed street food to small cafes, finding the typical tourist and local eateries and stands is as easy as walking down the cobbled streets. However, you will also be pleased to discover high-end restaurants, and surprising variety everywhere you look. The biggest problem with food in San Miguel de Allende is deciding what to try next.
If you prefer to see the bars and cantinas, you won’t be disappointed. There are several places to dance if you need to let your hair down. You’ll even find modern DJs and crowds of young people flocking to nightspots around town.
The Art of SMA
Merely looking at San Miguel de Allende makes apparent the contributions to the Mexican Baroque art and architecture movement
. Both the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel and Holy School of Christ Cathedrals tower over their surroundings. The gorgeous structures harken back to an earlier era when much of the arts were concentrated within churches as a way to honor god. However, religious art and conquerors’ architecture is only part of the beauty.
You can stroll in a sculpture garden, or wander into an old textile factory that has been converted to a series of art galleries and shops. Art is the beating heart of SMA. The history of famous artists like Pedro Martinez, Eleanor Cohen, and David Alfaro Siqueiros lingers along with their art and influence.
Moreover, there are multiple art schools, including the prestigious Instituto Allende. Students and hobbyists worldwide make it their goal to enroll in San Miguel de Allende. From buying a painting or sculpture to taking a class and getting a degree, you can pursue any artistic dream in SMA.
It’s no wonder everyone wants to move to this picturesque city. Once you’ve visited, you’ll never want to leave. Fortunately, there are always outstanding real estate opportunities in San Miguel de Allende.
Natural Wonders & Guided Tours
Perhaps what draws you to famous sites, like San Miguel de Allende, in Mexico isn’t the modern international environment. Luckily, there’s plenty of natural beauty and historical value to be found around SMA as well. For example, you can ride a hot air balloon, or a horse if you want to get out of the city for some perspective.
Visiting the botanical gardens or museums offers a chance to get out of the summer heat. Plus, the natural hot springs are a relaxation destination for those who prefer a more laid back experience. Of course, you can also see archaeological sites, or visit nearby Lago de Chapala near Guadalajara for a day trip like no other.
The extensive natural wonder of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve is just east of town, a short drive away. Meanwhile, Sierra de Penjamo is a little way to the south and west. Naturally, you can also opt to explore the countryside with a backpack or take a shorter hike around if you prefer.
Safe & Comfortable
The cost of living is part of the appeal in San Miguel de Allende. However, that doesn’t mean the area is poor, far from it. You’ll find all the modern conveniences of daily life in SMA. While the police presence isn’t invasive, you can feel safe wandering around the city at any time of day.
Local people and ex-pats are welcoming and friendly to tourists. The bohemian creative atmosphere is one of inclusiveness. Despite occasional and overblown media fear-mongering, Mexico as a whole and San Miguel de Allende on its own are both extremely safe places to stay a while.
For those seeking a more permanent welcome, moving to San Miguel de Allende is relatively easy. Foreigners are welcome to buy homes and real estate in SMA, and about ten percent of the population are immigrants from the USA or other countries. Becoming a naturalized citizen, or seeking a permanent residency card is a simple process for those who simply cannot leave the beauty of San Miguel de Allende behind.
Events in San Miguel De Allende
Self-guided walking tours and art classes aren’t the only reason people flock to popular San Miguel de Allende. There are numerous events each year that draw massive crowds who come for the party and stay for the beauty. You’ll find plenty to do once you’ve seen the everyday sights.
A semi-annual fashion week draws international crowds and beautiful people. You may even see a few famous faces seeking a quiet getaway. Meanwhile, seasonal celebrations like Dia de Los Muertos and Christmas are huge Mexican traditions. Furthermore, the open, accepting air of San Miguel de Allende also offers an opportunity for a huge Pride Week Festival every summer, with events and a parade.
Whatever your style, there are going to be annual events to keep you interested. Everything about San Miguel de Allende is idyllic. From the weather to the local attitude of friendly openness, people in SMA have a joie de vivre that is rarely matched anywhere in the world.
Final Thoughts
San Miguel de Allende is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and easily the most attractive city in Mexico. From the stunning architecture to the plethora of artists and boutiques, the people work hard to keep their city lovely. Additionally, the river, natural hot springs, and environment all lend themselves to a superb experience.
From a pleasant stroll to horse rides, hot air balloons to taxicabs, getting around is simple. Deciding what to do next is more complicated. If it’s your first time seeing the city, I recommend spending at least a full day strolling around to see what your options are because you won’t regret it.
Whatever you’re seeking in a new home or vacation getaway, the bohemian, international San Miguel de Allende has it, and more besides. There’s so much to see you could easily spend a lifetime wandering the streets and exploring the archaeological sites, botanical gardens, and events.