Ah, San Miguel de Allende, land of art and culture, colonial architecture and… LOTS of cobblestone streets. We love the charm that its narrow streets and alleys have preserved over the years, however, for those who visit us for the first time and are not used to it, it can be complicated to navigate it; especially if you have certain outfits planned for doing so and for taking photos.
That's why we want to tell you what you absolutely need to bring so that your walks around the city are as satisfying and memorable as possible. On with the images!
photos via @patelahousesanmiguel @quincerooftop
Hat or cap. Why? Well, depending on the time of year you come, the weather will depend on it, but except for the rainy summer, you will always have sunny days in SMA, and not only that, we also get strong winds that inevitably mess up even the hairiest of us. So cover your face from the sun and even the rain with a good hat or a comfortable and breathable cap.
Tennis shoes, climbing boots or comfortable shoes. Why? Imagine a lot of people passing by on a sidewalk, you get off to continue and OH NO, you step wrong and your foot bends, or you slip, or whatever accident we don't want to happen (we all have A story about that). Also, SMA is built on several hills, so steep streets and climbs are part of our cardio routine. Definitely DO NOT bring heels unless you arrive like a princess to your party or meeting place and are almost carried back to the car.
photos via @jordan.garciagarcia @willwright4
Comfortable socks or stockings. Sorry, we don't want to see any more heels with band-aids peeling off on the street. If you're going to wear new shoes or the ones you're wearing aren't exactly the kindest on your feet, get some good socks. You'll thank us.
Sunglasses. Why? It's obvious, and they always add a touch of glam to your outfit. This is your chance to have your Anna Wintour moment with the huge sunglasses and all the attitude to tour SMA. Don't forget the sunscreen!
photos via @luciasadek @doseoftravel
A poncho, pashmina or light sweatshirt. You never really know when you're going to need to cover up here. While the afternoons can be hot, it gets cooler in the mornings and evenings, and if there's wind, it's even better. It's great to travel in light clothing, but it never hurts to bring something to cover yourself if the weather plays tricks on you.
Comfortable clothing in general. A pair of pants, a pair of shorts, and a few shirts or blouses. You don't need more than that here. Unless of course, you have a gala or cocktail party, but other than that, try to bring only what is necessary. Traveling light gives us the feeling that all we need to have a good time is a positive attitude and lots of energy for the experiences that await us.
photos via @personal_paparazzi_sma @proyectocookie
Parasol / umbrella. With this fantastic accessory you always win, because it works to protect you from the sun and from the rain. No matter what time of year you come, carry the most stylish one you have because it will save your life at some point.
Your favorite book. Put down what you're reading and pick up the book that has connected with you the most, the one that has made you feel the most and provoked a thousand emotions. SMA is the ideal place to have those moments of self-indulgence, as its various parks and gardens invite you to disconnect for a while and spend the morning or afternoon reading on a bench.
photos via @belmondcasadesierranevada @sanmiguele.ando
Lots of playlists downloaded! Put your favorite songs in different playlists depending on your mood. We recommend making one for walking, another for stopping to admire the city and its people, perhaps one more for a road trip to the vineyards and natural places in the surroundings. There are no limits, accompanying yourself with the music you enjoy the most will make your stay unforgettable.
Eco-friendly bagsIt's 2021, say no to plastic. Here it's inevitable to buy something, a souvenir or curiosities that you find on the street. We recommend that you always carry a couple of eco-friendly bags from the supermarket or tote bags so that you can carry everything without the guilt that plastic generates.
Are you a local? Do you have any other recommendations for our visitors? Feel free to send them to us at @LocalSMAguide to share it with everyone!
