Honest thoughts on Mexico after my first visit

First time in Mexico and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. San Miguel de Allende was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best mole negro I've ever had. Chichén Itzá was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: safety varies widely by region, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: colourful colonial towns, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.