Questions

Question

Is San Miguel De Allende Safe?

Answer

San Miguel De Allende is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico. It's been named "Best Small City" in the world for a reason. I honestly compare San Miguel De Allende to the Santa Barbara of Mexico. It's artsy, wealthy, and upscale. The city also thrives off of tourism, and around 10% of their population are retirees from America and Canada. We have visited twice in the last year, and we used to live there. We have always felt welcome, and safe even walking around at night. We even feel safer there, than in some cities in the USA.

Question

Where do I fly into?

Answer

Fly into either of these airports. 1) Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) or 2) Querétaro International Airport (QRO) Then take a 1-1.5 hour shuttle to San Miguel De Allende. See "Travel" tab for more information. Note: Mexico City Airport is 3.5 Hours away. Longer Shuttle Rides are available from here too.

Question

I'm flying into Mexico City, how do I get to San Miguel De Allende from there?

Answer

We recommend flying into the Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) or Querétaro International Airport (QRO), because Mexico City International Airport is quite a bit further, but often has better airline prices. From Mexico City there are these options: $$ Hire our recommended shuttle service under the "Travel Tab" above $ Take a bus by purchasing a ticket at the "North" Bus Station. It's a 4 hour bus ride and costs $25 for a luxury bus ticket. We recommend the bus company Premier Plus. They post their time schedules beforehand online. Be sure it's the "North" bus station, as Mexico City is very large and has several bus stations. If you have to wait, there is a nice food court, shops, and A/C. Address: Central de Autobuses del Norte

Question

Do I need a passport?

Answer

Yes, please make sure your passport is valid, or leave ample time to renew or get one. Passports generally take 7-10 weeks + mailing time Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html

Question

How do I get around once I'm there?

Answer

The whole city is extremely walkable. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from one end to the other. At any point, you can orient yourself to the central square by looking for the tall Cathedral or "Parroquia". Be sure to bring some comfortable shoes or wedges for walking on cobblestone streets.

Question

Do I need to rent a car?

Answer

No! The city is fairly small and you can walk just about anywhere. Taxis and Ubers are plentiful. You can go anywhere around the city center for under $5 USD. If you use a taxi, negotiate the price upfront. Expect to pay around 60-75 pesos during the day, and upwards of a 100 pesos at night. Approximately 100 pesos = $5 USD.

Question

Can I use my phone in Mexico?

Answer

Yes! As of very recently, you can text and use the internet on your phone for free in Mexico if you have Verizon or T-mobile! This is so helpful if you're out and about and need to plug in an address or need directions to go somewhere. Wifi is at almost every cafe and hotel.

Question

Do I need Mexican Pesos?

Answer

Yes, we love using pesos for street vendors, taxis, and bargaining while shopping. There are mulitple ATM's located around the central plaza or "El Jardin". Almost everywhere else accepts Credit Cards.

Question

Do I need to know Spanish?

Answer

San Miguel De Allende is a tourist friendly place and most people speak some English, or there is someone nearby that does. Learning basic Spanish phrases is very helpful though, and locals appreciate the effort.

Question

How do I take a field trip from San Miguel De Allende?

Answer

If you'd like to visit the local hot springs, or vineyards for example, you can easily hire a taxi or Uber. You can also negotiate to hire them for a half day or full day if you want them to wait. If you wish to venture to the nearby cities of Guanajuato or Dolores Hidalgo, consider taking a bus. Mexico has an amazing bus system. We're talking luxury busses with reclined seats, snacks, and movies. We have been nothing but impressed. To get started, simply go to the Autobus station in San Miguel De Allende. We like the bus company Premier Plus, but all of them are pretty great.