Guadalajara

Introducing Guadalajara

Guadalajara’s countless charms are distributed equally and liberally throughout its distinct neighborhoods. The city’s Centro Histórico (Historic Center) is dotted with proud colonial relics that house museums, government offices, bars and hotels. There are dozens of leafy plazas with gushing fountains, strolling families and shredding skaters. The Zona Rosa, more modern and spread out, is sprinkled with fashionable restaurants, coffee houses and nightclubs. Mellow suburbs Tlaquepaque (upscale) and Tonalá (grassroots) are the folk-art shoppers’ dream destinations; and Zapopan has some interesting colonial sites, but is better known as Guadalajara’s Beverly Hills. This is where the beautiful and fabulous live on shady estates accessed by cobblestone streets. Guadalajara residents (nicknamed tapatíos, which also refers to anyone Jalisco-born) are warm and eager to share the essence of their city.

Guadalajara’s many contributions to the Mexican lifestyle include tequila, mariachi music, the broad-rimmed sombrero, charreadas (rodeos) and the Mexican Hat Dance and these days it is also known for its outstanding food. From street-side taco and torta ahogada stands to neighborhood cafés to fine dining rooms in restored colonial mansions – you’re never far from a great meal in joyful Guadalajara.

Last updated: Sep 23, 2008