This is only one of several photo journals that I will publish from my recent trip to San Miguel de Allende (a-YEN-day) & area. I will provide more background information and history in the other two San Miguel de Allende (SMA) journals, one featuring 'streets', the other 'churches'.

The picture-postcard town of SMA (population 80k) is nestled in the mountainous central region of Mexico in the state of Guanajuato (gwan-a-WHAT-oh), 160 miles north-east of Mexico City. It is world famous for its mild climate year round and its well-preserved & restored colonial architecture.

Declared a national monument in 1926, you won't find any neon signs or modern architecture here - it's not allowed. SMA's narrow cobbled streets, which are steep and winding at times, are lined with old colonial-era mansions which are brightly painted in shades of dusty rose, terra cotta and gold. If you could see behind the door & walls, you would likely find inviting flower-filled patios and courtyards.

When wandering the streets of San Miguel, one can't help but notice the attractive carved-wood doors, many with elaborate and unusual door knockers, the intricate stonework & carvings, some in niches above the door or under the roof peak, and the hanging lanterns and interesting down spouts. Then there's the pretty wrought-iron window grilles and balconies, many with hanging baskets of flowers, and bougainvillea and creeping greenery draped over the old stone walls - all sights to behold.

All of my journals from this trip can be found at: http://www.worldisround.com/browse/NorthAmerica/Mexico/Guanajuato/