A Serene Arrival at Finca Luna Serena

As the train gently rolled into San Miguel de Allende, I felt a familiar sense of anticipation. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks had lulled me into a state of peaceful reflection, reminiscent of my many journeys across Europe. This time, however, my destination was not a quaint European village but the enchanting Finca Luna Serena, a mere ten minutes from the heart of San Miguel. The promise of an evening filled with culinary delights and the company of kindred spirits beckoned me.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the warm embrace of the countryside, a serene contrast to the bustling town I had left behind. The estate, aptly named ‘Serene Moon,’ was a haven of tranquility, its olive groves whispering secrets of the past. As I wandered through the property, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the vineyards of Tuscany, where time seemed to slow, allowing one to savor each moment.

An Evening of Culinary Exploration

The evening unfolded like a well-composed symphony, each course a note in a melody that transported us to the vibrant streets of India. Chef Anthony, a maestro in his own right, orchestrated a feast that was both a tribute to traditional Indian cuisine and a testament to his culinary prowess. The air was filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices, a prelude to the gastronomic journey that awaited us.

As we gathered around the table, the conversation flowed as freely as the wine. Among the guests were luminaries such as David Floeter, an award-winning film producer, and his wife Rebecca, whose creativity shone as brightly as her jewelry designs. The camaraderie was palpable, each story shared adding another layer to the rich tapestry of the evening.

The dishes, from the crispy pakoras to the creamy murgh makhani, were a revelation. Each bite was a journey, a reminder of the diverse flavors that define Indian cuisine. As I savored the lamb rogan josh, I was transported back to a train journey through the Indian countryside, the landscape a blur of vibrant colors and bustling life.

A Night to Remember

As the evening drew to a close, we were treated to a delightful game of music trivia, a nod to the golden age of cinema and television. Scott Allison emerged as the undisputed champion, his knowledge of tunes both impressive and entertaining. It was a fitting end to a night that had been as much about the people as it was about the food.

Reflecting on the evening, I was reminded of the many gatherings I had attended in my travels, each unique yet bound by a common thread of shared experiences and laughter. Finca Luna Serena had offered not just a meal, but a moment in time, a chance to connect with others and create memories that would linger long after the last train had departed.

As I boarded the train back to my temporary abode, the gentle sway of the carriage lulled me into a state of contentment. The evening at Finca Luna Serena had been a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, of taking the time to savor each experience and cherish the connections made along the way. It was a journey I would carry with me, a testament to the enduring allure of travel and the stories it weaves.