Traveling through the heart of Mexico is a magical experience. Vibrant cities, rich culinary traditions, and the warmth of its people create unforgettable moments. This journey, from Guadalajara to San Miguel de Allende to Guanajuato, wasn’t just about seeing the sights—it was about connecting with Mexico's vibrant essence, where every alleyway, every dish, and every conversation tells a story.
Guadalajara: The Land of Tequila and New Friends
My adventure began in Guadalajara, where I stayed at Casa Sabina Hostel, a boutique hostel that feels more like staying at a creative friend’s home. With its cozy café downstairs, a tattoo parlor next door, and a small flower shop adding splashes of colour to the courtyard, the atmosphere was friendly, artistic, and effortlessly cool.
The next morning, I started the day with breakfast at DANTE Brunch, where I tried Chilaquiles Divorciados con Huevos and grilled panela cheese. Chilaquiles Divorciados get their name from the contrast between the red (spicy) and green (tangy) sauces that separate the plate. Paired with creamy panela cheese, this dish was bold, comforting, and the perfect way to start my day.
After breakfast, I joined a tequila tour with Nmad Experiences. At the Tequila Selecto Distillery, I got an insider’s look at the tequila-making process, from ancestral techniques to artisanal and commercial methods. The biggest surprise was tasting Cristalinos, a filtered tequila with an unexpectedly smooth finish.
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Next, we headed to the agave fields, where the tour took a wild turn—a scorpion shot. Crunchy, slightly terrifying, but surprisingly not bad! Our final stop was a cantaritos party in the town of Tequila. Picture freshly squeezed citrus juice, a splash of soda, and generous pours of tequila served in traditional clay cups. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, spontaneous dancing, and the layered symphony that is Mexico—laughter, mariachis, and street vendors calling out to customers.
San Miguel de Allende: A New Year’s Eve to Remember
After a scenic bus ride, I arrived in San Miguel de Allende, a city straight out of a painting: colourful facades, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches. I checked into The Bersal House and, after a long travel day, decided to welcome the new year quietly—with a light dinner, a cozy movie, and fireworks viewed from the hostel rooftop.
The next morning, feeling refreshed, I explored Lavaderos del Chorro and Benito Juárez Park, stopping for pastries and coffee at a local bakery. That afternoon, I watched the sunset from the terrace at Antonia Bistro SMA, as golden hues painted the city while I enjoyed a delicious meal.
Before heading to Guanajuato, I spent a relaxing morning at La Gruta Spa, a thermal water retreat where I couldn’t help but smile as I watched a lively water Zumba class. The perfect pause before the next leg of my journey.
Guanajuato: History, Romance, and Unforgettable FlavoUrs
In the afternoon, I arrived in Guanajuato and checked into Hotel Castillo de Santa Cecilia, a place that looks like it belongs in a medieval fairy tale. The next morning, I visited the Mirador de Rayas, taking in a panoramic view of the city, before wandering through the underground streets, the majestic Teatro Juárez, and the Alhóndiga de Granaditas Museum—a key site in Mexico’s War of Independence.
Here, I was struck by the story of the insurgent fighters and how the fight for independence began in 1810, when Spanish forces used the Alhóndiga as a fortress. Walking through its halls, I could feel history alive in every corner.
That night, I took the funicular up to the Monumento al Pípila, where the city sparkled like a golden tapestry under the night sky. As I admired the view, I enjoyed a grilled elote with mayo and chili, a steaming cup of atole, and an incredible tamale from a street vendor. Every bite tasted like tradition.
From Strawberries to Ceramics: The Independence Route
No trip to Guanajuato is complete without visiting Irapuato, the strawberry capital of Mexico. Here, I sampled candied strawberries at Cristalita, then stopped at Lindo Sinaloa for an unforgettable Aguachile Negro—shrimp marinated in black chili sauce and lime.
Later, I followed the Independence Route, stopping in Dolores Hidalgo, where Father Miguel Hidalgo gave the famous Grito de Independencia in 1810. Earlier in the day, I savoured a traditional dish of enmoladas at Tras Lomita Restaurant—corn tortillas filled with chicken and smothered in rich mole sauce, topped with a sprinkle of cheese and sesame seeds. I explored the town’s Talavera pottery market, filled with vibrant, hand-painted ceramic pieces, each one telling its own story through intricate patterns and bold colours.
To end the day, I enjoyed a sunset wine tasting at Tres Raíces Vineyard, paired with Iberian ham croquettes with kimchi. A spectacular finale to this journey of history and flavours.
Final Morning: Guanajuato’s Charm
Before leaving, I couldn’t miss a visit to the Callejón del Beso, a narrow alley famous for its romantic legend. Standing there, I could feel the magic and nostalgia of a timeless love story.
Finally, I returned to Nuevo Vallarta, where I ended my trip with a peaceful walk on the beach and an ice cream with a friend, reminiscing about every moment lived.
Final Reflections
This journey was more than a culinary or historical adventure—it was a window into the soul of Mexico. The agave fields of Tequila, the revolutionary echoes in Dolores Hidalgo, and the vibrant streets of Guanajuato all told stories of resilience, passion, and community.
But what impacted me most were the people—their warmth, their energy, and the way they live with such vibrant intensity. This trip reminded me of the power of connection, culture, and curiosity. I left with a heart full of memories and one promise: to return soon.
