Chasing the Sun: A Trip from Frost to Fiesta 🌞
Say adiós to the cold, your winter escape awaits.
Hello, fellow wanderers,
As the rain pounds a relentless beat against my window here in the Pacific Northwest, my soul yearns for warmth and a different kind of rhythm—the kind that seeps into your bones, dances on sun-kissed cobblestones, and whispers secrets in Spanish.
Winter in Oregon is a symphony of gray—slushy sidewalks, damp coats, and the perpetual hum of heaters. The sky wears a perpetual frown, and the coffee shops overflow with people seeking shelter from the chill. But my mind, like a bird uncaged, soars southward—to the land of fiestas, flavors, and flip-flops.
Yes, I’m talking about Mexico. 🇲🇽
¡Vamonos a México!
I am a snowbird, trading frost for fiesta, flying south for the winter for “summer camp” in Mexico. I cannot wait to nest in San Miguel de Allende. I imagine waking up to golden rays, the scent of chiles roasting, and the distant strum of mariachi guitars. The air wraps around me like a warm blanket, and suddenly, the cold winter feels like a distant memory. Let’s swap rain boots for sandals, umbrellas for sombreros, and gray skies for sunshine. Because life is too short for slushy sidewalks.
So, what are we waiting for? ¡Vamonos!
“Summer Camp” in San Miguel de Allende 🏕️
San Miguel de Allende is where culture, food, and hidden treats await.
Jardín Principal and Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel: Wander through the Jardín Principal, where locals gather and mariachis serenade and admire the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel—its pink facade glowing in the evening light.
Markets: In the bustling markets of San Miguel de Allende, you can find anything and everything you need. Discover Mexican ceramics, jewelry, and textiles, silver and beaded handcrafted jewelry, decorative Mexican pewter platters, carved wooden bowls, handwoven tablecloths, and rugs. Explore stalls filled with painted toys, hats, pottery, and piñatas, and find hand-embroidered pillowcases and fresh flowers. And of course, there’s the food—so much delicious food! Savor local ingredients, sample local honey, sweets, and medicinal herbs, and indulge in fresh produce, and local spices. Treat yourself to artisan loaves of bread, cakes, chocolates, tacos al pastor, enchiladas, pozole, local cheeses, meats, and even handmade ice cream.🛍️
Murals: Explore the streets and discover a vibrant display of murals and urban art. The walls in the neighborhood of the Colonia Guadalupe Arts District are covered with elaborate murals with elaborate designs that range from traditional Mexican themes, such as Huichol mythology, to more abstract pieces reflecting the multicultural origins of the city.
Art galleries and Fábrica La Aurora: San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant hub of art and culture, attracting artists since the 1940s. The city’s artistic expression is not confined to galleries but spills onto the streets, with carved wooden doors, statues, fountains in courtyards, and creative doorknobs adding to its charm. A must-visit is Fabrica La Aurora, a converted textile factory that has been transformed into a destination for art. Here, renowned local, national, and foreign artists connect, creating and showcasing their work in the form of canvases, sculptures, and artisan products. Truly, it’s a place where art comes to life.🎨
Street Tacos, Restaurant Views, and Music: The food is fantastic in San Miguel, as I walk in the morning with my fresh coffee and delicious baked pastry from La Colemena. The streets are alive with the sizzle of street tacos for lunch followed by homemade ice cream. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with mariachi bands and I find one of my favorite rooftop restaurants Rosewood Luna to enjoy the sunset and comida 🌮🎶
Muchas Gracias San Miguel de Allende
Hasta luego, San Miguel. Muchas gracias, mis amigos. Please join me on my next journey, this time we’re heading to the vibrant and culturally rich city of Oaxaca.
Órale!