As Eye See It: Airport, Accolade, And The Future Of San Miguel

By Bill Wilson

“Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose” The more things change the more they stay the same- Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr (1808 –1890) French critic, journalist, and novelist.

In the more than 20 years since we first set foot in San Miguel de Allende we’ve been a constant observer of people, places, and things. Whether it’s been through the lens of my camera or as a newspaper editor/reporter, the economic, fabric of life and the sights and sounds have intrigued me. And we have a sardonic smile on our face when we heard recently two news items. One was an announcement of an airport and the other was in what also seems an annual accolade naming by Travel+Leisure magazine that San Miguel was “Best City in The World.” Long-time San Miguel residents scratch their heads and ponder, “Haven’t we heard this before?” But progress is so evident in our town. Areas like San Antonio and La Lejona are seeing growth not only of housing but shops and restaurants.

Certainly, a boost for all sectors of business. The question rises - will success kill our historic town?

The latest bombshell is the announcement by Mexican airport services agency (ASA) and state authorities the planning the construction of five new airports in the coming years.  Carlos Manuel Merino Campos, director of the government agency Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA), said there are at least seven requests for construction or expansion of airports in different areas of México.

Proposed air terminals would be located in Baja California, Guanajuato, Jalisco, and Quintana Roo. “Our goal is to create regional development hubs and improve the economy in every way,” Merino said. Merino explained that the Guanajuato government has officially submitted a request to build an airport in San Miguel de Allende — recently named the Best City in the World by Travel+ Leisure magazine — aimed at enhancing its tourism potential.

Yes, Best City, again. The magazine announced, “This year’s top city is a longtime favorite of T+L readers, who praise its distinctive cultural milieu and affordability.” “There’s major history, great restaurants, and you can walk everywhere—or grab a $4 taxi,” said one reader. Respondents also praised the many attractions, including centrally located museums, botanical gardens, and shopping boutiques. Others pointed to a busy calendar of noteworthy annual events such as the San Miguel Writers’ Conference & Literary Festival, and a dynamic art scene as other impressive attributes of this city in Guanajuato.”

People, Places, and Things

México’s New BiometricCURP Law

On July 1^st, México passed sweeping reforms that will turn the CURP — the Clave Única de Registro de Población — into the country’s official biometric national ID.

This new CURP will no longer be just an alphanumeric code. Stay tuned.

Cooking Class

Patsy DuBois of Patsy’s Place is partnering to hold Mexican Country cooking classes. You’ll remember Patsy from her fabulous special dinners (Many Thanksgivings) at her hacienda. She sold the place but notes, “I have been teaching them for over twenty years and they are completely hands on. I would like to offer you the opportunity to experience of Mexican Cuisine in a country kitchen, just a short distance from the Centro. I love sharing my love of Mexican cooking with fresh ingredients, many picked from my garden.” Dates TBA.

Changing of the guard

Robert Hawkins, noted California journalist and San Antonio, San Miguel de Allende resident, announced he is stepping away from his administrator duties for the popular Facebook page “San Antonio SMA Friends & Neighbors.” Anna Maria García will take over the duties. As many of you know the San Antonio area especially Stirling Dickinson is a happening place with shops and eateries.

Tip of the Hat

A big tip goes to CFE and SAPASMA keeping out infrastructure during the heavy rains in June and July.

Kudos go to fellow weather watcher Nancy Zimmerman for her diligent reporting and checking my observations.

Anonymous gracias goes to the person who returned my errant ATM card.

And a continued raspberry to locals and visitors who drive too fast for conditions on our highways.

¡Hasta el próximo mes!

Bill Wilson, 20-year San Miguel resident has a journalism career spanning 50 years covering everything the UN to Cub Scout news. He’s also a weather buff and has been a first responder.