So You Wanna Ditch the Beach for Baroque? How to Get Your Groove On in San Miguel de Allende
Ah, Los Angeles. Land of dreams, movie stars, and questionable spray tans. But what if the siren song of Hollywood fades and a different kind of magic beckons? Maybe you crave cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and enough colorful buildings to rival a Skittles factory. If that's the case, then San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is calling your name.
But here's the thing: Los Angeles isn't exactly known for its proximity to charming Mexican towns. Fear not, fellow adventurer! This guide will be your compass (or maybe a sassy sombrero) on this journey from burritos to barbacoa.
Plane Jane
The most obvious choice, and for good reason. Several airlines offer direct flights from LAX to the adorable Queretaro International Airport (QRO), a comfy 90-minute shuttle ride from San Miguel. Bonus points if you manage to snag a window seat to catch a glimpse of Mexico's stunning landscape.
There's also the Mexico City (MEX) option. It's a longer flight, but with more airlines competing, you might score a cheaper deal. Just be prepared for a 4-hour bus ride to San Miguel afterwards. Think of it as a scenic Mexican road trip - minus the questionable gas station snacks.
Bus? Bus! Bus!
For the truly adventurous (or incredibly budget-conscious), there are buses that go all the way from LA to San Miguel. It's a journey for the determined, taking upwards of 36 hours. But hey, if you like your vacations with a side of existential pondering and questionable bathroom breaks, this might be the perfect option for you! Just pack plenty of snacks, podcasts, and maybe a good book (or three) about Mexican history to keep you occupied.
Pro Tip: Consider learning some basic Spanish phrases before you embark on this epic bus odyssey. "Dónde está el baño?" (Where's the bathroom?) will become your new mantra.
The Grand Adventure: Train, Plane, and Automobile
For those who crave a multi-modal travel experience, here's a wild one: Take a train from LA to Tijuana, hop on a budget flight to Queretaro, and then snag a taxi to San Miguel. It's not for the faint of heart (or those with a strict itinerary), but hey, you'll have a story to tell your grandkids!
Whichever route you choose, remember: San Miguel de Allende awaits with open arms (and delicious churros). So pack your walking shoes, your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with this magical Mexican town!