Hostel Alcatraz

Promenade in El Jardin Principal

by karenincalifornia

El Jardin Principal is located across the street from La Parroquia. These trees are on the outer perimeter of El Jardin.

In the evening, you can listen to wandering mariachis. On Saturday evenings the famous promenade of young people takes place, accompanied by music. The boys walk around the perimeter of the Jardin in one direction, and the girls in the other. Parents keep a wary eye from the benches.

Great Breakfasts and More

by lareina about Cafe de la Parroquia Restaurante-Patio

This restaurant serves breakfasts and lunches (and even dinners) in a cozy courtyard near the Parroquia. I enjoyed the chilaquiles verdes for breakfast. Food is simple, hearty, and decently priced. The atmosphere is relaxing with a central fountain and birds singing from cages.

La Parroquia

by karenincalifornia

As a town that originated as a religious center, San Miguel de Allende is home to numerous beautiful Catholic churches. Certainly the most impressive is La Parroquia (the Parish), which dominates the entire city.

The original La Parroquia was much smaller and built at the turn of the 18th century. It endured various modifications that changed its appearance. In the late 1800s, much or the structure was demolished and rebuilt in its present pseudo gothic style.

The architect of this structure was Zeferino Gutierrez. As the story goes, he based his design solely on some picture postcards from France. This was his only exposure to Gothic architecture!

Mexico wedding

by cameik1

"Desert sunset"

So I went to Mexico for a buddy's wedding. Best wedding I've ever been to. The ceremony was at sunset in the desert. Snapped this shot after a couple of celebratory shots of Mescal.

"Donkey"

So apparently it is custom down in these parts for the soon to be bride and groom along with a procession of people to walk the town streets with a donkey strapped with booze. Still wishing this catches on at home.

Anyways, our goal was to see this donkey. We missed a day due to a missed connection in D.C. and we were doubting whether we would see this little guy. However, all turned out well. Made it into town just as the procession was under way. That donkey was my inspiration.

"Town photo"

San Miguel lit up at night.

Pottery in San Miguel de Allende

by VdV

"Beautiful pottery to be found (and bought!)"

My Mom and I took a half-day trip to Antotonilco and Dolores Hidalgo. On the roads right outside San Miguel de Allende leading to Dolores Hidalgo are numerous pottery shops, where you can see the artisans at work.