A Mexican honeymoon doesn’t have to take place only in a beachside resort. Some of Mexico’s true charm can be found in its colonial towns…where romance beckons around every corner.

San Miguel de Allende is such a place. This colonial gem situated about 160 miles north of Mexico City remains a relatively untouched antique city of the Old World. With the absence of traffic lights, parking meters, billboards, and neon signs, a visit here is like stepping into another world.

Seemingly free from the pressures of modern living, San Miguel de Allende has been declared a national monument and no building is allowed if it doesn’t conform to colonial style. This small, quiet, charming town with its mild weather and slow pace is a sure to capture your heart. From your first stroll down its cobblestone streets, you will discover why people from all over the world come, return and, in many cases, decide to stay.

Vineyards, haciendas, a colorful local market, colonial architecture, churches, thermal baths, archaeological sites, spectacular scenery, golf and tennis, equestrian facilities, hiking and mountain biking provide much to do.

The village and Shrine of Atotonilco, a 20-minute drive away, has some of the finest native frescoes in Mexico. Dolores Hidalgo, 45 minutes away, is a center for ceramic dishes and tiles, hand-painted and fired into top-quality items.

The city of Guanajuato, an hour away, has underground streets, mansions of aristocrats who were the world’s main silver suppliers in the 18th century, and a museum of mummies preserved by the soil and dry climate.

San Miguel also boasts a thriving cultural and entertainment scene -- much of it performed in English. A city with six patron saints and dozens of churches, San Miguel hosts a full calendar of religious festivals throughout the year. On Sept. 29, the town’s biggest bash is San Miguel Arcángel, a celebration honoring the town’s chief patron saint. The event includes a running of bulls through city streets, traditional dancers, and lots of merriment.

For shopping, the city boasts some of Mexico’s best craft shops and fine art boutiques. The variety of merchandise is exceptional, as is the workmanship. Its dining scene is also top-notch. Nouvelle Mexican cuisine, plus a diverse assortment of international dining options have given San Miguel a reputation for having the best "small-town" dining in Mexico.