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Apr 4, 2011, 12:21 PM

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Guanajuato

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Going for three days, two nights. April 25-27. Staying at hotel called Real de Mina. Anyone know of it? Short trip and it is a big city with tons to see and do. Want to make the most of my short visit. Would like to hear from those of you that have been there, as to what is an aboslutely "must see" and things to not waste my time on. Especially regarding museums. Thanks, T

Anonimo

Apr 5, 2011, 5:26 AM

Post #2 of 11 (4798 views)

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Re: [T] Guanajuato

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We're not much for museums. We greatly enjoy walking around the complicated streets and seeing the living Guanajuato. It's a fascinating place.

However, for a first visit, it's good to visit some museums to get an idea of the background and history of the city.

One such stop is the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, the site of a siege between the Insurrectionists led by Padre Hidalgo, and the Spnish citizens and troops inside.

Another spot is the relatively minor Birthplace of Diego Rivera Museum.

Another, which we have not visited, is the Museo Iconográfico de Don Quijote. For some reason, the Spanish literary character Don Quijote has been adopted as a symbol of the city. (Along with the frogs that gave the city its name.)

The most famous, or INfamous museum is the Museo de Las Momias. We have not visited that.

Non museum places worth visiting, among others, are the Mercado Hidalgo, a large Eiffell type building housing the municipal mercado; El Jardín de la Uníon, a pocket sized park of great charm which seems to be the public social center of the city.

El Teatro Júarez, near the Jardin, is a magnificent edifice of grand style.

The Basilica occupies a prominent position at a street intersection. It's impressive, but I must admit, we've not been inside it.

A few blocks up and behind the Tetro Júarez is a funicular that will hoist you speedily to the ridgetop where there's a very good view of the city, and a monument to te hero, El Pípila.

Out in the farther suburbs is the Church and Mines of Valenciana. They are worth a look.

Still, most of our enjoyment comes from wandering about the crazy streets, discovering the small plazas, fountains, staues and colorful buildings.

As to the Hotel Real d'Minas; we've not stayed there, but if I recall correctly it's outside the center. You'll need to take taxis or local buses in and out of the center.

Saludos,
Anonimo

(This post was edited by Anonimo on Apr 6, 2011, 5:27 AM)

chinagringo

Apr 5, 2011, 11:47 AM

Post #3 of 11 (4756 views)

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Re: [Anonimo] Guanajuato

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We did do the Don Quixote Museum. I would term it a rather small exhibit in a large former hacienda. While we were appreciative of the quality and talent in some of the displays, I wouldn't include it on a must do list.

We hiked up the hills and winding sidewalks to El Jardín de la Uníon and had lunch at VanGogh. Adequate meal in a great people watching surrounding.

Guanajuato Slideshow: https://picasaweb.google.com/.../5548481669324319282
Regards,
Neil
Albuquerque, NM

Apr 5, 2011, 1:36 PM

Post #4 of 11 (4740 views)

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Re: [Anonimo] Guanajuato

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Thank you for taking the time to post this. Great info. Just copied it. Too much to do in my short trip. But now, thanks to you, I have choices. Much appreciated. T

mexicobuff

Apr 5, 2011, 1:41 PM

Post #5 of 11 (4736 views)

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Re: [T] Guanajuato

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Just a minor correction: it's not the Museo de Momas--it's the Museo de MOMIAS. Mummies!

Apr 5, 2011, 1:52 PM

Post #6 of 11 (4731 views)

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Re: [mexicobuff] Guanajuato

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Just put it on my must see list, now that I know what it is. Thank you, T.

cookj5

Apr 5, 2011, 6:41 PM

Post #7 of 11 (4697 views)

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Re: [T] Guanajuato

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In Reply To

My wife and I had a very enjoyable week in Guanajuato. Here are the postings from our photo-journal blog with info you might find useful and interesting. Unfortunately, I am not smart enough to figure out how to make the URL active, so you'll just need to cut and paste into your browser's URL box: http://cookjmex.blogspot.com/search/label/Guanajuato

It is a 5 part series, so you can just start at part 5 and work back or scroll down to part 1 and then move up. Enjoy and buen viaje.

Anonimo

Apr 6, 2011, 5:25 AM

Post #8 of 11 (4647 views)

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Re: [mexicobuff] Guanajuato

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In Reply To

Just a minor correction: it's not the Museo de Momas--it's the Museo de MOMIAS. Mummies!

You are correct. I mistyped.
I now see there are more than that misspelling, but it stands as is.

Saludos,
Anonimo

(This post was edited by Anonimo on Apr 6, 2011, 5:29 AM)

raferguson

Apr 6, 2011, 4:11 PM

Post #9 of 11 (4583 views)

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Re: [T] Guanajuato

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Guanajuato is the hardest city to drive in that I know. Even a map of the city is confusing because of the tunnels and underground passages. I could tell stories at length.

One time I was driving into Guanajuato, and I flagged down a taxi to lead us to our hotel. Money well spent.

We did not move the car until we left, we walked and took taxis.

I love Guanajuato, however. Others have mentioned the usual attractions. You might check to see if there are any performances at the university.

Richard

http://www.fergusonsculpture.com

chinagringo

Apr 6, 2011, 4:25 PM

Post #10 of 11 (4582 views)

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Re: [raferguson] Guanajuato

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Agreed! We happened on two guys on scooters with free tourist info signs. Stopped and while it certainly wasn't free, one of them led us to our hotel. BUT, he stopped on the way at a tourist stand and they tried to get us to sign up for a tour which we declined. In all probability, we paid too much but it was worth it to get to the hotel and park the van. From there, we simply walked or used taxis, which were quite inexpensive. The next morning, I let out GPS unit guide us out of town to the cuota towards Leon. Not a problem!
Regards,
Neil
Albuquerque, NM

rvcycleguy

Apr 7, 2011, 1:06 PM

Post #11 of 11 (4509 views)

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Re: [chinagringo] Guanajuato

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My wife and I enjoyed 10 days in GTO this past Dec. We drove there in our truck from Houston and brought our big street motorcyle with us for daily trips. I would agree, a car is generally not needed. The cabs are inexpensive and tourist sites are all within walking distances. Get a good pair of walking shoes... the steets are cobble and brick and all have tilt to them. Many elevation changes throughout the city. All of the sites mentioned by others are worth seeing. I would also add in the Cristero Statue. Its on the highway to Leon, near the GM plant. There is busses that wll take you there. Its the highest peak in the area and provides a wonderful view of the region. The momument was erected for the Cristero War back in the 30-40's. War between Christians and Govt beliefs to include teaching methods.

You might also take in San Miguel de Allende and or Dolores Hidalgo. Bus trips for both are available. Generally warm by day and little chilly at night. The city comes alive at night with singing groups in the Centro. The university culture keeps a youthful enviroment alive. Good luck. I have been visiting GTO since 1971 and it still is one of the best places to visit.