Often lauded as one of the best cities in the world to visit, San Miguel de Allende is a ‘jewel box’ of a destination. UNESCO-listed for its architectural and historical significance, you would be forgiven for thinking you’d fallen into a fairytale as you wander the maze of cobblestone streets of the colonial centre, where you’ll find jewel-coloured facades, plenty of bright pink bougainvillea and the rose-pink spires of the immense neo-gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, the city’s main church. Founded in the 16^th century, you’ll find plenty of traditional elements to enjoy, like vibrant markets, papier-mâché mojiganga puppets and colourful papel picado, stretched across squares and plazas.

The vibe here is laidback and old world but having long attracted artists and expats, it’s also wonderfully cosmopolitan, with lots of world class art galleries, artisanal shops full of must-buy souvenirs and excellent restaurants full of local flavour. The city is also deeply connected with Mexico’s fight for independence, particularly as it is named for key figure Ignacio Allende, who was born here, and was a vital centre of the movement – this is one of the best places to learn more about it.