San Miguel de Allende was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and is a true tourist destination. Locals, including the 20% of ex-pat Americans who live there permanently, are very friendly and welcoming to tourists. San Miguel is a very safe place; however, we would ask that you use common sense as when you are traveling anywhere, whether in the US or internationally.
YES! And since I have you here... PLEASE check your expiration date. As of September 2021, the US Department of State says routine renewal could take up to 18 weeks (4.5 months) to get your new passport! Plan ahead!
Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore.... Masks are extremely commonplace and widely used indoors and outdoors in Mexico. In SMA, you are required to wear a mask within the city square (even outside) and businesses strongly recommend you wear them when visiting their stores or restaurants. Please remember that we are all guests in this country and we should try and be courteous and understanding to anyone who requests you to wear a mask. Also, you could face fines up to $1,000 USD if you don't comply.
Refer to the "COVID-19 Information" section on our website.
April and May are the best months to to visit SMA. Average temperatures can reach the mid-high 80's but the nights are mostly clear and cool- between 50 and 70 degrees. Be sure to pack a sweater for the cooler nights. San Miguel is more than 6,200 feet in elevation, so you might tire quickly during your first day if you aren't accustomed to a higher altitude. Remember to stay well hydrated. Also, watch your alcohol intake, as altitude can impact alcohol tolerance.
Please refer to the suggested attire noted for each wedding event on the "Schedule" page. As for the rest of the time, feel free to wear whatever you want! It does get a little cool at nights, so you may want to pack a light sweater. Pack (and wear) comfortable, flat shoes. San Miguel is a walking city, and many of the streets are cobblestone.
WALK Once you arrive in San Miguel, getting around is easy. Walking is the best and most fun way to get around. The city is extremely pedestrian-friendly and small enough that you hardly ever need to take a cab - even at night. Most of the streets are narrow with old, uneven cobblestones so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes! TAXI Taxis are affordable, safe and plentiful throughout San Miguel! If needed, you can hail a cab from almost anywhere. Taxis are green and white and cost approximately 30 pesos ($2 USD) during the day. Fares are typically higher at night but no more than 60 pesos. Taxis in San Miguel do not have meters and only accept pesos. Very few drivers have change so be sure to have a stash of small bills with you and remember to tip 10-15% of your fare. UBER For those that prefer door-to-door service, an Uber is always a click away!
Avoid tap water unless it has been filtered, chemically disinfected, or boiled. You can check with your hotel or house to ensure that your tap water is filtered. Ice and water served at most restaurants are typically purified but when it doubt, order bottled water! Bottled water is widely available and short term visitors are advised to use it to brush their teeth.
The currency is the Mexican Peso. The exchange rate is about 20 pesos to 1 US dollar. There are ATM machines in and around the main-square (El Jardin) in San Miguel. Also, there are money exchanges like Intercam and Monex. Many hotels and restaurants do take credit cards and US dollars, but most of the smaller places are not set up for it. We suggest carrying some pesos just in case (suggestion to get out $200)! Also, please call your credit cards and banks to let them know you will be in Mexico.
The tipping culture in Mexico is very similar to what you are used to in the states. It is always optional, but the people serving you will appreciate the small token of your appreciation in exchange for good service. Here is a great guide: https://www.tripsavvy.com/tipping-in-mexico-1588861
Police emergency +52-415-152-0911 Medical emergency +52-415-152-1616 Local physician (Dr. Ricardo Gordillo - Hildalgo #28) +52-415-152-0430 US Consulate +51-415-152-2357
While we love your kids, the wedding is adult only. We want to make sure Y'ALL have the best time!
We know that time away from home and work is precious so we recommend making the most of your trip and staying as long as you can! Wedding events will take place Friday through Sunday, but we really hope you take this opportunity to explore this amazing country on your own! Refer to the "Schedule" page on our website.
We do not recommend renting a car. San Miguel is a relatively small dense town with narrow, cobblestone streets. The city is extremely walkable but please pack comfortable shoes!! Also, cabs are everywhere and Uber is always just a click away!