Best Western Htl Monteverde San Miguel de Allende

... Sara, to join him here.<br><br>The first thing that really struck me about SMA was that it was FREEZING compared to the temperatures that I was expecting. Despite my blanket and my heater, I was cold at night and had to be given yet another blanket. We actually had a couple of cloudy and windy days as well. Muy frio!! Since I'd left my woolen vest in Daniel's car, I had only one remaining warm top garment, my fleece jacket, and it was far from adequate. Luckily ...

So - I've been in Mexico for about a week and a half now. I remember that when I got to Thailand it took about two weeks before I began to get over the whole to-do of the the long plane ride and the gereral disorientation - not knowing one single familiar landmark. Spending the first two days with Daniel was a wonderful way to get started, but eventually I had to head off on my own and start trying to figure things out for myself.<br><br>The first thing I did when he ...

... including babies, that are only partially decomposed but completely disgusting. Spent lots of time hanging with locals, too. Big ups to Payo and Paula for taking us all over the place, from salsa clubs to grungy house parties to hidden, late-night taco stands!<br> <br> The city was so alive with people partying and dancing in the streets that the hours seemed to meld together, and the time of day ...

... gorgeous little boy, Daniel. Conversation was limited since I speak so little Spanish and they speak so little English, but the music was loud anyway, and the energy was warm and friendly.<br>The next morning, Daniel drove me through a maze of tunnels (a former mine) to Guantajuato. It's world heritage site, so much of the old hispanic architecture is beautifully preserved or restored. It's easy to see why it's such a popular tourist destination.

... and Tuesday I have culture class. I love it. The teacher knew I was new and didn't know much, so he was very animated. He knows some English. He was asking the class how to say these two words in English so I would understand (because he thought i didn't). Out of everyone (who were all on a higher lever) I knew both words. He was shocked. It was awesome. I pick up on the most random things.

... br>- If there is an elder or lady near the guys will get up and let her sit.<br>- very respectful<br>- men open the doors for the ladies and let them go through the doors first<br>- Men usually walk on the street next to the lady who is on the sidewalk. (sidewalk isn't usually big enough for two) <br>- Men usually carry the ladies purse or backpack. No matter if it is their friend or girlfriend.<br><br>Smiling:<br>- Noone seems to do it. I smile ...

... town. Photos included. We went to Mama Mia's for pizza for lunch and enjoyed the conversation regarding both the homes and the centro celebration. Mamma Mia's was packed, our first experience since coming to San Miguel of a restaurant that was truly busy. We talked about Bob and Melinda's leaving on Monday, with hesitation, as it has been such fun being together these days and yet doing our own things at the same time. Spent some siesta time in the afternoon, along with reading. The ...

... competing in this year's Yukon Quest race, there are two rookies of interest to watch. Jamaican musher Newton Marshal whose main sponsor is Jimmy Buffet of "Margaritaville" fame. http://www.yukonquest.com/site/mushers- and-sled-dog-teams/?musher=41 and Yuka Honda who is a young Japanese lady who is undoubtedly the first female of her country to participate in this race. http://www.yukonquest.com/site ...

... too many cars for such small streets... I imagine you got the hint. But we would definitely come back. Don't worry mom and dad, it is only a 14 hour bus ride from Mazatlan ;) we also still have the rest of the world to see. So we only stayed in the hostel 1 night. That next morning after arriving we called the couple we had contacted from 'hospitality club,' Owen and Nancy to see if we could still stay with them. They gave us the instructions so we packed up ...

... but there was no need. The main square in town was full of a few thousand people. They had a live Mexican band and lots of fireworks. As midnight approached more and more people were lighting huge sparklers. You had to watch out so that your hair or clothing was not catching on fire in the crowds. They have a different celebration were the children receive gifts, like toys and clothing. It is more like Christmas as we know it at home, at least for the kids. It is on January ...