Living in San Miguel
Lifestyle & Community
Life in San Miguel de Allende is about more than beautiful homes — it is about connection, culture, and community.
The San Miguel Way of Life
More than a city
San Miguel de Allende draws people from around the world — artists, retirees, entrepreneurs, families — all united by a love for its culture, pace, and warmth. Discover the events, traditions, and everyday experiences that make life here so special.
Latest Stories
From the community
Featured
Oct 7, 2024
Sarah Bender
5 Top Reasons to Retire in San Miguel de Allende!
Thinking of retiring? Here are the 5 Top Reasons why San Miguel de Allende is the perfect place to enjoy your golden years. From stunning architecture to a vibr...
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Feb 5, 2024
Sarah Bender
What’s the Best Way to Get Around San Miguel de Allende?
The other day I was running to an unexpected appointment in Centro when I realized that I’d definitely worn the wrong shoes for San Miguel de Allende. I love ex...
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Oct 24, 2024
Sarah Bender
The Story of La Catrina: A Cultural Icon of Day of the Dead
Every Day of the Dead in San Miguel de Allende, the streets are filled with vibrant celebrations, and at the heart of it all is La Catrina, an elegant symbol of...
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Nov 22, 2023
Sarah Bender
Where’s the Closest Beach to San Miguel de Allende?
Recently, we decided to take a quick and well-deserved break to the beach, and I wanted to share it with you. We love living in San Miguel de Allende. I’m defin...
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May 12, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Best Day Pass spots in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is not only known for its colonial charm, art, and culinary scene, but also for offering unique escapes where you can soak up the sun, rel...
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Jul 23, 2023
Sarah Bender
A Day at San Miguel’s Tuesday Tianguis: Shop, Eat, Repeat!
Explore San Miguel’s Tuesday Tianguis. Dive into the magic of the marketplace – fresh produce, artisan goods, unique antiques, and local flavors await!
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Sep 26, 2025
Daniela Noriega
La Alborada: Fireworks & Tradition in San Miguel de Allende
The Most Important Festival in San Miguel de Allende San Miguel de Allende is known for its rich culture, historic charm, and vibrant traditions, but none captu...
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Mar 6, 2024
Sarah Bender
Is it Safe to Drink Water in San Miguel de Allende?
San Miguel de Allende lies in the very heart of Mexico. It attracts visitors and expatriates alike with its charming streets, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphe...
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Oct 28, 2024
Daniela Noriega
The Day of the Dead Ofrenda: Honoring Tradition and Celebrating Life
The Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, is one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions, deeply rooted in honoring the memory of loved ones who have passed away. A...
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Jan 13, 2026
Sarah Bender
Candelaria Fair 2026 in San Miguel de Allende
The Feria de la Candelaria, or Candlemas Fair, is one of San Miguel de Allende’s most cherished events. This vibrant festival, held this year from January 30 to...
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Oct 20, 2025
Sarah Bender
Day of the Dead Activities: Festival de Vivos y Muertos
In the picturesque streets of San Miguel de Allende, local children and their families are getting into the spirit of Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). Addi...
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Aug 26, 2023
Sarah Bender
The Best Brunch and Breakfast in San Miguel de Allende
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of brunch. During the week, I rarely eat a big breakfast as I’m always getting the boys ready for school, running out of the...
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Oct 23, 2024
Daniela Noriega
Pan de Muerto: A Delicious Symbol of Tradition
Pan de muerto is a special treat with a deep cultural significance, enjoyed during the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in Mexico. This traditional...
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Nov 27, 2024
Sarah Bender
Our Top Bakeries in San Miguel de Allende
Don’t get me wrong, I could eat chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and molletes on rotation every day; however, there are moments when a piping hot croissant straig...
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Jan 3, 2025
Daniela Noriega
The Delicious Tradition of Rosca de Reyes
The celebration of Rosca de Reyes, or King’s Cake, is one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions. It takes place every year on January 6th, marking the Feast of...
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Sep 8, 2023
Sarah Bender
Mexican Independence Day: A Fiesta Like No Other!
Have you ever wondered when Mexican Independence Day is and what’s it all about? Well, to give you a glimpse into the vibrant world of September 16th, we’ve put...
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Jan 29, 2025
Daniela Noriega
La Candelaria: A Tradition of Faith and Tamales.
If there’s one thing Mexico and San Miguel de Allende know how to do, it’s celebrate! And February 2nd is no exception. It’s the day of La Candelaria, a beloved...
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Dec 12, 2024
Daniela Noriega
A Local’s View: Virgen de Guadalupe in San Miguel
As a local here in San Miguel de Allende, December 12th holds a special place in our hearts. It’s the day we honor the Virgen de Guadalupe, a tradition that res...
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Jan 19, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Honoring Ignacio Allende: Hero of San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, a city steeped in history and charm, owes its name and much of its legacy to one of Mexico’s greatest heroes: Ignacio Allende. Born on Ja...
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Oct 30, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Día de Muertos in San Miguel: The Ultimate Guide
Few places capture the soul of Día de Muertos quite like San Miguel de Allende. As October fades into November, the city transforms into a living canvas of colo...
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May 29, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Join the Madness: San Miguel’s Locos Parade
Your ultimate guide to the city’s most colorful and chaotic celebration. If you thought San Miguel de Allende was all quiet cobblestone streets and colonial cha...
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Mar 11, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Inside Fábrica La Aurora: San Miguel’s Art Hub
If you’re visiting San Miguel de Allende and have a love for art, history, and creativity, then Fábrica La Aurora is a must-see destination. This former textile...
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Jun 25, 2025
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel’s Vineyards: A Must-Visit!
If you’ve been dreaming about exploring San Miguel vineyards, you’re in for a treat. The area is home to some of the best vineyards in San Miguel de Allende, wh...
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Dec 15, 2025
Daniela Noriega
December in San Miguel: Your Festive Guide
December in San Miguel de Allende is pure magic. The city transforms into a tapestry of lights, traditions, music, and community—where centuries-old customs ble...
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May 15, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Los Lavaderos: Where San Miguel’s Past Flows
Tucked just a few steps away from the buzzing heart of San Miguel de Allende’s historic center lies one of the city’s best-kept (yet Instagram-famous) secrets:...
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Aug 2, 2025
Sarah Bender
Discover San Miguel de Allende’s Beloved Parque Juárez
Just a short, flat walk from the Parroquia, Parque Juárez is one of San Miguel de Allende’s most cherished gathering places. Locals and visitors alike come here...
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Feb 24, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Where to Shop in San Miguel de Allende: a Local´s POV
When people think about shopping in San Miguel de Allende, they often picture colorful markets and well-known galleries. But beyond the obvious spots lies a mor...
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Oct 13, 2025
Sarah Bender
Day of the Dead: A Different Way to Embrace Death
Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most significant festivities. This time-honored celebration takes on a unique traditional emphasis, filled with vibrant color...
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Nov 20, 2024
Daniela Noriega
November 20th: Understanding the Mexican Revolution
For the foreign community in San Miguel de Allende, November 20th might seem like another festive date in Mexico’s vibrant calendar. However, it marks a pivotal...
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May 19, 2025
Daniela Noriega
48 Hours in San Miguel: The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary
A fast‑paced, feel‑good guide for first‑timers and “I‑thought‑I’d‑seen‑it‑all” locals alike! Day 1 7 AM – Sunrise “Oh‑Wow” Moment Head to El Mirador overlook. W...
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May 29, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Best pilates and fitness studios in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is known for its vibrant art scene, beautiful colonial architecture, and incredible food culture — but in recent years, it has also become...
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Nov 26, 2024
Daniela Noriega
Thanksgiving Dinner in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, renowned for its rich history and artistic flair, is also a beacon of multiculturalism. This beautiful city has become home to a diverse...
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Nov 2, 2024
Daniela Noriega
The Sweet Art of Alfeñiques: A Día de Muertos Tradition
Día de Muertos is filled with iconic symbols, from the vibrant colors of marigolds to intricately painted sugar skulls. Among these beautiful and meaningful ele...
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Jul 29, 2023
Sarah Bender
How To Survive a Power Outage in Mexico
It’s always when I go to turn on the kettle at the end of a long day that I realize the electricity has gone out. To be honest, it’s not a regular occurrence fo...
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Nov 12, 2025
Sarah Bender
Holiday Season in San Miguel de Allende: Tips for Your Visit
San Miguel de Allende is a magical destination year-round, but the holiday season transforms it into an even more enchanting place. If you’re thinking about spe...
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Aug 30, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Where to Celebrate Independence Day in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a city that lives and breathes tradition, and few moments capture its spirit better than September 15th, the eve of Mexican Independenc...
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Dec 30, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Top Fine Dining Restaurants in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende has quietly become one of Mexico’s most exciting culinary destinations. Beyond its cobblestone streets and colonial charm lies a refined d...
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Dec 9, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Your 2026 Travel Bucket List: Why San Miguel Should Be at the Top
As 2026 approaches, travelers around the world are already curating their must-visit destinations for the new year. With a renewed interest in cultural immersio...
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Jul 4, 2024
Theresa
Our Soft Landing in La Lejona, San Miguel de Allende
When we moved permanently to San Miguel de Allende in November of 2022, we had had already secured a place to live during our six-week trial period in this magi...
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Aug 11, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Sky-High Sips: The Rooftop Guide to San Miguel de Allende
If there’s one thing San Miguel de Allende knows how to do right, it’s rooftops. This city is famous for its vibrant colors, breathtaking colonial architecture,...
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Jul 31, 2024
Sarah Bender
Best Margaritas in San Miguel de Allende
Discover the best margaritas in San Miguel de Allende. From classic flavors to creative twists, with local favorites and top recommendations, we have it all!
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Dec 30, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Top 5 Year-End Activities in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende has long been celebrated for its vibrant culture, colonial charm, and rich traditions. As the year draws to a close, this UNESCO World Her...
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Oct 5, 2024
Daniela Noriega
Discover El Nigromante: A Cultural Gem in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a city brimming with rich history, vibrant art, and cultural significance, and at the heart of it all is the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ra...
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Mar 3, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Crave-Worthy Spots in San Miguel de Allende
Living in San Miguel de Allende means being surrounded by incredible fine dining, beautiful rooftops, and world-class culinary experiences. But sometimes, what...
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Feb 13, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Plan Your Perfect Valentine’s in San Miguel de Allende
Love is in the air, and there’s no better place to celebrate Valentine’s Day than the charming, cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende. Whether you’re loo...
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Mar 7, 2026
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel de Allende: 200 Years of History & Culture
This year, San Miguel de Allende celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 200 years of history, identity, and greatness. From March 6 to March 30, the city comes...
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Jun 10, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Rancho Los Remedios: Find Your Escape
Located just 15 minutes from the heart of San Miguel de Allende, Rancho Los Remedios is more than a vineyard or a residence—it’s a journey into heritage, nature...
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Jan 9, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Sweet Tooth Guide: New Spots in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende never stops evolving, and its dessert scene is proof of it. From artisan bakeries to creative dessert bars, the city continues to welcome...
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May 7, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Pet-Friendly Restaurants in San Miguel de Allende
In recent years, pets have become much more than companions — they’re family. And in a city like San Miguel de Allende, that lifestyle is fully embraced. One of...
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Jan 19, 2025
Sarah Bender
Instituto Allende: Creative Hub of San Miguel de Allende
The Instituto Allende is the hub of artistic and cultural expression in San Miguel de Allende. Founded in 1950, this iconic institution has evolved into a corne...
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Nov 27, 2024
Daniela Noriega
The Wool and Brass Fair You Can’t Miss in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende, a city celebrated for its exquisite culture and artistic heritage, invites you to experience one of its most treasured traditions: the Fe...
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Oct 8, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Where to Find the Best Pan de Muerto in SMA
The Story Behind Pan de Muerto Every year, as the vibrant colors of marigolds begin to fill the streets of Mexico, one sweet aroma takes center stage — Pan de M...
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Jun 29, 2025
Theresa
Nom. Nom. Yes! San Miguel de Allende y sus Sabores
If there’s one thing San Miguel de Allende knows how to do, it’s throw a party, and the San Miguel de Allende y sus Sabores (San Miguel and its Flavors) event h...
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Apr 11, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Altars, Art & Aguas Frescas: Viernes de Dolores
If you’ve ever been in San Miguel de Allende during Holy Week, you know the city transforms. But before the processions, the church bells, and the dramatic reen...
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Apr 15, 2026
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel de Allende Wellness & Retreats Guide
San Miguel de Allende has quietly evolved into one of Mexico’s most compelling wellness destinations. What was once known primarily for its colonial charm, art...
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Sep 27, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Discover Chukum: Tradition Meets Modern Architecture
If you’ve been keeping an eye on interior design and architecture trends in Mexico, chances are you’ve heard the word Chukum. But what exactly is it, and why is...
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Jul 18, 2023
Sarah Bender
Spanish: The Key to Authentic San Miguel Living
Maybe I’m slightly, if not very, biased when it comes to this subject, as I’ve worked as a foreign language teacher for the last 20 years. However, I believe th...
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Jul 7, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Relax & Recharge in San Miguel!
San Miguel de Allende isn’t just a UNESCO-certified colonial gem—it’s rapidly becoming a global wellness hotspot. With its charming streets, vibrant culture, an...
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Jan 26, 2026
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel vs. Beach Destinations: Which Lifestyle Fits You?
When people imagine living in Mexico, their minds often go straight to the beach. Turquoise water, palm trees, barefoot mornings. And while coastal life certain...
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Apr 17, 2026
Sarah Bender
Healthcare in San Miguel de Allende, Inside The Clinic
When people think about healthcare in San Miguel de Allende, the conversation usually starts with a simple question: Is it good? Can I trust it? How does it com...
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Jul 14, 2025
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel Outdoors: Explore Like a Local
Whether you’re a casual nature lover or a thrill-seeking explorer, San Miguel de Allende is more than just cobblestone streets and charming cafés. This magical...
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Sep 23, 2024
Daniela Noriega
MICHELIN Key Hotels in San Miguel de Allende
In April 2024, the MICHELIN Guide debuted a brand new distinction: the MICHELIN Key. While the MICHELIN Star recognizes the most outstanding restaurants in the...
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Aug 22, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Woof! A Guide to Pet-Friendly Hotels in San Miguel
Traveling to San Miguel de Allende with your furry companion? You’re in luck. This charming colonial town isn’t just a destination for art, gastronomy, and cult...
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Jun 10, 2025
Sarah Bender
What is Considered Luxury Real Estate?
For some, the word luxury brings to mind sprawling mansions with price tags in the millions (exactly like the masterpiece Casa Luz in the photo above!). But in...
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Mar 30, 2026
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel de Allende vs Big Cities in Mexico: Lifestyle, Cost & Real Estate Guide.
If you’re considering relocating to Mexico, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a vibrant colonial town like San Miguel de Allende and...
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Dec 19, 2024
Daniela Noriega
What to Eat in San Miguel During the Festive Season
December in San Miguel de Allende is not only about twinkling lights, posadas, and festive celebrations. It’s also a time to indulge in the delicious and unique...
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Sep 21, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Vendimias in Guanajuato: A Wine Lover’s Dream
Every year, Guanajuato hosts one of Mexico’s most anticipated wine celebrations — the harvest season. Known as las vendimias, these festivals celebrate the grap...
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Jan 15, 2025
Sarah Bender
Inside the San Miguel Writers’ Conference
The San Miguel Writers’ Conference & Literary Festival is a popular event that unites writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts from around the globe in San Mi...
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May 12, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Living the Luxe Life: 2025 Real Estate Trends
2025, where luxury living is smarter, greener, and bolder than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned investor, house-hunting for your dream escape, or just love swoon...
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Jun 16, 2024
Theresa
Joining Live In San Miguel: My San Miguel de Allende Journey
Hello, fellow adventurers and dreamers! I’m Theresa Allen, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share that I’ve joined the incredible team at Live In San Miguel. Work...
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Oct 14, 2024
Daniela Noriega
From Spain to San Miguel: A Journey to the Rhythm of Flamenco.
San Miguel de Allende is not only known for its vibrant architecture and luxury real estate but also for its deep cultural roots and love for the arts. One art...
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May 30, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Art Takes Over: June Exhibits in San Miguel
If you’ve spent more than five minutes in San Miguel de Allende, you already know—this city lives and breathes art. From historic cobblestone streets and colorf...
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Apr 24, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Why Everyone’s Talking About San Miguel
Did you know San Miguel de Allende was recently ranked #4 on Architectural Digest’s list of the most beautiful cities in the world? It’s no surprise to those wh...
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Jul 17, 2024
Theresa
Trading Car Keys for the Cobblestones of San Miguel de Allende
I’ll be honest. When we moved to San Miguel de Allende, the thought of leaving both our cars behind was uncomfortable. I personally haven’t been without a car s...
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Oct 13, 2023
Sarah Bender
Changing Lives One Home at a Time
Casita Linda’s Mission “Casita Linda goes beyond building houses for the poor. It’s about rebuilding lives.” On an unusually cold, cloudy, and grey morning in S...
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Feb 4, 2026
Daniela Noriega
Myths vs. Reality: Why San Miguel de Allende Is a Hidden Gem for Digital Nomads
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Feb 20, 2025
Sarah Bender
Discover the Art & Handicraft Fair at Instituto Allende!
San Miguel de Allende is already a dream destination, but when you throw in an incredible Art & Handicraft Fair at the iconic Instituto Allende, things get even...
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Jul 10, 2024
Theresa
Becoming Neighborhood Party Animals in San Miguel de Allende
Discover how we choose and embraced our neighborhood in San Miguel de Allende and became neighborhood party animals! From making new friends and trying banderas
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Mar 21, 2025
Daniela Noriega
The Best of San Miguel: Luxury Easter Getaway
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most culturally rich and visually stunning times to visit San Miguel de Allende. This historic town comes alive with r...
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Mar 5, 2025
Daniela Noriega
San Miguel Celebrates Women in Music!
San Miguel de Allende is set to celebrate the power and talent of women in music with a special commemorative edition of the International Jazz & Blues Festival...
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Feb 28, 2025
Daniela Noriega
Lights, Camera, Flavor! The Food In Film Festival 2025 is Here!
If you love movies and delicious food (who doesn’t?), then mark your calendars because the Food In Film Festival 2025 is coming to San Miguel de Allende! This o...
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Dec 9, 2024
Sarah Bender
Giving Back in San Miguel de Allende This Holiday Season
As December unfolds, it brings with it a time to reflect on our blessings and consider how we can share them with others. In San Miguel de Allende, a city rich...
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Dec 14, 2024
Sarah Bender
Say It Right: Tools to Navigate Healthcare in Mexico
Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but navigating healthcare in a foreign language can be a challenge. Fortunately, San Miguel de Allende offers...
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