Cities like Guadalajara and Mexico City have gorgeous historic districts, but for a truly romantic experience, spend some time in San Miguel de Allende. This town of only approximately 100,000 people is becoming a queer paradise, thanks to a year-round temperate climate, unspoiled architecture, and a laid-back attitude that is best expressed by simply walking down the street and enjoying the day. Artists have come here for generations, whether they be writers or musicians or painters, to be insp...
Cities like Guadalajara and Mexico City have gorgeous historic districts, but for a truly romantic experience, spend some time in San Miguel de Allende. This town of only approximately 100,000 people is becoming a queer paradise, thanks to a year-round temperate climate, unspoiled architecture, and a laid-back attitude that is best expressed by simply walking down the street and enjoying the day. Artists have come here for generations, whether they be writers or musicians or painters, to be inspired by the beauty around them, and have subsequently found ways to perform around town or open galleries or do whatever it is that inspires them. Coupled with its majestic courtyards, winding streets, and reputation as a wedding destination, this all makes for a romantic week and weekend.
Catholic traditions abound, so the LGBTQ scene is not visible – but in a place with such friendly locals, everyone is welcome. Plus, despite its lack of explicitly queer clubs, San Miguel still boasts an abundance of queer-owned stores and restaurants, as well as many LGBTQ-friendly watering holes. And the culinary scene, which draws inspiration from many unexpected sources, appeals to everyone regardless of their orientation. You’ll find queer singles and couples gorging themselves next to entire ex-pat families.
However, once you’re done eating and dancing, you might want to edify yourself and experience some local culture. Thankfully, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with churches, monuments, and brilliant colonial facades. For a quick trip out of the city, you can also visit the ruins of Canada de la Virgen, which are nearly 2000 years old. Coyote Canyon, with its old-fashioned Mexican ranch, brings a new meaning to “dude ranch” (if you go with your gay buddies). As a bonus, if you come to San Miguel in August, then you can experience the local Pride festivities. Who doesn’t love to end their romantic getaway with a big gay party? Book a trip to San Miguel ASAP to experience a unique blend of 16th-century architecture and modern-day fun that you’ll never forget.
