Three Days in Jalisco, Mexico [2]
Ask where one should sample some of the best of Mexico [3], one would be hard pressed to come up with a list that didn't start with Jalisco [4]. Already renowned for its “charros,” swashbuckling cowboys and their fantastic traditional outfits, and the growing perfection of “tequila” artistry in international markets, this small but central state packs a powerful cultural punch as well.
From world-class museums to the joy of mariachi, three days based in Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, allows a tantalizing taste of Jalisco's many offerings. Day trips from the city center include tequila distillery tours, relaxing in the shade of centuries-old haciendas, and the cool water of Lake Chapala, Mexico's largest, with its indigenous towns, craft fairs and quiet lakeside communities.
With a week in hand, one might head east for the beaches and colonial charm of Puerto Vallarta [5] and the Pacific Coast, or up into the fragrant pine-clad slopes of the Los Altos area, and the devotions of its Catholic faithful. But no matter what your time allows, a “bienvenido” is sure to welcome your travel to Jalisco, as will lifelong memories of the colorful traditions Mexico is famous for.
For an audio slideshow of our visit to Guadalajara, click here: http://mexicoculturalcalendar.com/jalisco.html [6]
For a full-screen slideshow of all the images in this gallery, click here: http://bit.ly/oSvtlr [7]