As I often like to do following a trip – here’s a brief, short check list of a few big picture items to keep in mind while you’re bookmarking or planning a trip to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico! Can’t recommend this magical city enough! It may be a little more out of the way, but was such a joy to visit and I would go back in a heartbeat.
Is San Miguel Safe?
This was the most popular question asked. And answer – yes! There’s was not a single moment on this trip where we felt unsafe or uncomfortable with our surroundings. I even walked solo to grab tea one morning and it was lovely. The locals are super friendly and kind, and from what I could tell, genuinely embrace visitors with open arms. Note – you will most likely be traveling 90 mins from BJX airport to San Miguel, where you’ll pass through lots of smaller, less developed towns and may come across armed police officers. This shouldn’t be seen as ‘scary’ or unsafe, just a part of daily life in the area and a sign that the region is being well watched + protected.
Tipping
It is customary {and I would say expected} to tip 10-20% in Mexico for services rendered. One note to add – most of the larger hotels in the area will add an additional service fee to your entire stay. Rosewood includes 18% gratuity, so in those cases, I would suggest an additional tip at your discretion for your food servers, spa therapists, etc.
Walking Shoes Only
I somewhat knew this going in, but it really hit home once we landed in San Miguel and started exploring. You literally – and may I repeat, LITERALLY – only need a pair of sneakers in San Miguel. Day to evening, everyone in the city will be doing the same because not only is the city extremely walkable {we didn’t taxi at all once we arrived at our hotel}, it’s strictly cobblestone streets + sidewalks. Big Golden Goose culture here, haha.
Do You Need Reservations
In short, I would say yes. Especially on the weekends and/or during high season. Not many restaurants have digital reservation systems, so you’ll need to call directly or have your hotel concierge call on your behalf. We walked into several casual restaurants without reservations, but ran into some trouble on Saturday evening. Another thing to consider, that I didn’t fully think through beforehand, is making rooftop reservations while requesting a good table with a view is KEY. You’re most likely only visiting for a few nights, so getting the most our of your food and bev spots may be a priority for you. And let me tell you, the rooftop scene in San Miguel de Allende does not disappoint. Now, if you like to wing your vacations {as we do sometimes}, you can always plan to just arrive early and you’ll be fine.
Transportation Tips
Prior landing at BJX, I’d suggest setting up round trip car transfers through your hotel. They all offer coordinated transportation that’s convenient and comfortable at a decent value. Once you arrive in San Miguel de Allende, there’s very little need for the use of taxis around the city {although they are readily available}. The area is extremely walkable and a great way to take in more of the sights and local flare.
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