"Colonial charm, relaxed atmosphere" San Miguel de Allende by VdV

My mom and I spent 5 days/4 nights in San Miguel de Allende.

Our itinerary was:
Day 1: arrive in MEX at 6:30pm; 3-hr drive to San Miguel de Allende via private driver
Day 2: Explore historic center via foot, checking out the Artisan's Marketplace, the various churches and plazas, the indoor Mercado, hang out in the Plaza Principal and watch life go by...In the afternoon we took a half-day tour to Dolores Hidalgo and Antotonilco, visiting artisans (tile makers, pottery makers, rugweavers), old churches and ate at a famous carnitas restaurant (see Restaurant Tips.)
Day 3: Day tour to Guanajuato, the state's capital city, and a wonderful university-town atmosphere. I loved this city and hope to return; lots of historical/cultural sites and offerings. Highly recommend a visit!

Day 4: Relaxed on our last full day in SMA, hung out in the Plaza Principal and then took the 1.5 trolley bus that circles around the city for one last, long view. Had Chinese food (my mom always wants to eat Chinese food in any country she travels in) and found an Internet cafe to write home...In the evening, our hotel, Casa Quetzal, provided us with a special dinner at sunset complete with private mariachi musicians!
Day 5: Enjoyed our last sumptuous breakfast and were driven to Mexico City (where we stayed for 4 days/3 nights) before returning home.

• Pros:Lovely architecture, friendly people, relaxed atmosphere
• Cons:Too many "norteamericanos" buying up property, though locals say it helps economy
• In a nutshell:Worth a few days of relaxing and touring surrounding towns