29/06/2015
SAN MIGUEL de Allende HEART OF MEXICO TOUR
I'm really excited about our Tour! It's just around the corner and therefore it's a good idea to start planning a few things for your trip. I have compiled some packing as well as some money tips for you. Please let Monica or me know if you have any other questions regarding the tour. Thanks, Pascal
Packing tips for San Miguel de Allende:
Residents of San Miguel de Allende boast about the city’s weather, and its lovely year-round temperatures. Although it may become hot in the summer, the overall dry climate makes the heat easier to tolerate. rainy season — (from June to September, more or less): It usually only rains during these months. Summer here is lovely, with sunny days and blue skies in the morning and the evening, and sometimes dramatic thunderstorms in the afternoon (usually around 4 pm) which cool off the air and leave everything sparkling. Occasionally, it will rain all night. Temperatures can change drastically when it starts to rain. During the rainy season, it’s not a bad idea to take a sweater out with you, even on hot cloudless days.
This makes packing light fairly simple. No bulky clothes are needed, just add a few pieces to layer on at night. A cardigan and denim jacket are versatile options for layering during the day. Bring some light rain gear and perhaps an umbrella for sun and rain. Also you can keep a cotton button down shirt in your day pack to add to your outfit as needed. Here is My suggested packing list:
-Light clothes for (six days) include one or two sweaters and/or sweatshirts
-Light rain gear
-Small umbrella (not in your carry on bag)
-good walking shoes
-sandals (optional)
-Bathing suit
- Hat and sunglasses
-Sunscreen sealed tightly in a plastic bag (not in your carry on bag) (Sunscreen is expensive in Mexico).
-Any other items you feel are necessary
Changing money in San Miguel de Allende:
Banks: Banks will change your dollars/checks, but the lines are generally hideous, and the exchange rates aren’t great. "Casas de cambio" generally have a shorter wait and better rates.
Casas de cambio (money changing establishments) There are several in the Centro and the lines are generally much shorter than at banks, and rates are often better. Intercam is a good option (two locations, one on Canal Street, and one on Correo Street.)
Credit cards get a very good exchange rates, but are not accepted at many businesses. Keep them handy, just in case, but also have cash on hand. Before you travel, find out if your card charges you a foreign transaction surcharge. Most charge around 3%.
ATM’s are located all over the place, with several right on the main square. One generally gets the best exchange rate through an ATM, but be aware that your bank will most likely charge you a fee for each withdrawal. The Mexican bank, will probably charge you, as well, which can get pricey. (But it is better not to travel with wads of cash.) Certain U.S. banks have deals with Mexican banks, ie: Bank of America clients can generally use Santander ATM’s with no extra fees. Check it out.
Traveler’s Checks are a good way to keep your cash safe while travelling, but are not accepted at very many businesses. Mostly, you’ll want to change them for cash at a casa de cambio.
Hasta Pronto! :)
