“People go to Florida to die. They come to San Miguel de Allende to live,” goes an old oft-repeated saying.
Optimal year-round climate, historic architecture and affordable amenities are some of San Miguel de Allende’s treasures.
February and March are two of the best months to visit, but the more than 11,000 American expatriates who have made this quaint Mexican locale their home would say the best time to visit is now.
Weather
One of the main selling points of San Miguel de Allende is the pleasant year-round climate. February and March are the driest months. Generally, any month from November through April is ideal, when less than an inch of rain falls per month and temperatures range from 49 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit in November and 52 to 85 degrees F in April. Hot May temperatures reach up to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, with a low of 57 F. June is the rainiest month, averaging 5.1 inches; similar weather continues throughout the summer.
Deals
April through August begins low season, since the days are hotter in spring; rain is heavier in summer. You can expect to find the best travel deals during the summer. “Kiplinger Magazine” found a five-day package deal for two to San Miguel de Allende in mid-August 2010, including round-trip airfare from San Francisco, four nights at the 3-star Villa Mirasol Hotel, continental breakfasts and an economy car rental for $1,368.
Crowds
High travel season runs from December 15 to April 1, when the days are especially sunny and clear. By far, the busiest week of travel is Semana Santa, which is the week of Easter. Mexican families from Mexico City and surrounding villages arrive in San Miguel de Allende for the processions, festivals and fiestas. You may have to make travel arrangements in advance if you plan to visit then, but the events are well worth the crowds.
Special Attractions
On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, local non-profit Patronato Pro-Ninos offers historic city walking tours departing from the Jardin at 9:15 a.m. San Miguel de Allende’s local flavor comes out weekly at the Tuesday Market, selling everything from fresh vegetables to puppies. Every Friday, the 300-year-old Casa Luna mansion features Mexican cooking classes. If you’d like to see working ranchos, take the three-hour Saturday Hacienda Tour sponsored by Centro de Crecimiento. The Sunday House and Garden Tour departing from Biblioteca Publico is another popular offering.
Events
According to Frommer’s, travelers should vacation in September to experience Fiestas Patrias, a lively tradition featuring outdoor concerts, dances, theatrical performances, parades and sporting events. Jazz and blues music from around the world fills the air in colonial plazas, parks and historic theaters from November through December, during the annual San Miguel de Allende International Jazz & Blues Festival. Easter week processions are some of the world’s best. Nearly 80,000 film buffs attend the Expresión en Corto film fest each year. Other fun activities include mid-June’s Los Locos Mardi Gras and November’s All Soul’s Day.
By Jenn Fusion for USA Today.
Source: http://traveltips.usatoday.com/
