When planning our trip around the world, I really didn’t know what to expect from Guanajuato. Sure, I’ve been to Mexico before, but only to Cozumel, and like many travelers, never left the resort. I read all the travel warnings about Mexico, and, honestly, did not have high hopes for my stay here. Now that I’ve been here for two weeks, I feel that I have a good sense of the city and have concluded that GUANAJUATO IS AWESOME! Here are the main things I like about the city:
Guanajuato is beautiful. Founded in the 1500’s, Guanajuato was once the center of serious silver mining activity and serious money. This is reflected in the magnificent colonial architecture found in the large haciendas, churches, theaters, and museums throughout the city. The houses are brightly painted and are occasionally adorned with elaborate murals. Since many of them are set on steep hillsides, the only access is via charming, pedestrian-only callejones (alleyways). Which leads me to my next item . . .
The city is super walkable. In addition to the callejones, there is a large portion of the main downtown area that is pedestrian-only. Between the street performers, food stands, mariache bands, and callejoneadas (roving singing groups), the downtown is full of life every day of the week and has an ambiance and charm that is unlike any other city I’ve visited in South or Central America. Also, since many of the roads are actually underground, the road noise is almost non-existent from where we are staying. The noise from the rooster crows, well that’s another story.
The food is awesome here! I’m not sure if I could have avoided Montezuma’s Revenge, but maybe I should have tried a little harder. Oh well! It’s nothing a little pepto-bismol and a visit to a panaderia (bakery) can’t fix. I just can’t help but be drawn to the delicious street tacos and huge variety of fruits found at the market. Oh, and did I mention the pork sandwiches? The massive, delicious, covered in guacamole and salsa, pork sandwiches! I feel like Homer Simpson in a doughnut shop . . .
Guanajuato is a great place to save money! For example, those delicious pork sandwiches that I spoke of are only $1.25. Joe and I have a $75/day budget for our adventures around the world. After Spanish classes for four hours a day and five weeks’ rent for our cute apartment, we are left with $22/day for food. We eat out for nearly every meal and rarely hit our budget. We also have plenty of money left over to buy extras like tequila and ice cream whenever we want.
In the next post, I’ll talk about some of the fun things to do in Guanajuato! If you would like to see more pictures from our first two weeks in the city click here .
Chelsea likes mountains, adventures, good weather, laughing, and drinking fancy beer. Preferably all at the same time.
Such great pics. Looks like a beautiful city! I wish I could hear you speak all your Spanish. Glad you guys are having such a great time. I’m also very envious of your siesta!
Thanks Stacy! My Spanish is becoming . . .let’s say adequate. Lol! I’m going to miss the siesta for sure.
After looking at your pictures, I’m pretty sure I’m moving into the AirBnb apartment where you guys are at! Lovely meeting you at La Hacienda, and wishing you all the best for the rest of your travels!
Haha. That’s awesome! We really enjoyed staying here – especially the pups. It was great meeting you too. Good luck with your Spanish and with med school!