Traveling to San Miguel D'Allende is not small task if you start and end your journey in Charlottesville, Virginia. There are few flights to choose from to get to a major hub to fly internationally. I got out of CHO and went to ATL--a very busy airport--perhaps the busiest in the U.S.  And from there on to Queterero, Mexico. Once on the ground, my local transport service identified me and the three others who disembarked there. Shortly we were on our way to the final destination: San Miguel, the storied town in the mountains known for its colorful hilly streets, beautiful views, and arts and ex pat communities.

Found cousin's abode and was able to settle in around 7 PM. Her rescue dog was not too sure of me, but over the following week or so, he became my friend.

I loved the tight knit community I found there--Americans from all over the country--and the warmth of the Mexicans themselves. Many Americans (many women) have moved there completely, but they maintain an American address in order to ensure access to their Medicare and they return to the states for medical appointments as needed. 

Life moves at a slow pace in this place and it is altogether pleasing.  It is a comfort to realize that your dollars go very far--you can actually go out to dinner and not spent $ 75 per person. So it is a social place--with good food and restaurants aplenty.  I lived near City Market which was a great benefit for they sell first class foods, wines, and related goods in a clean and spacious setting.

More to come. . .