Jalisco is the state of mariachis, cowboys and tequila. Jalisco´s
history dates back to prehistoric times, when the Nahua and the
Huichol indigenous groups inhabited the area. Today, it is one of
the most important states in the country, offering numerous attractions
and recreational activities including the Teuchitlán archeological
site, the rich capital city of Guadalajara, striking colonial buildings,
renowned cultural centers and the city of Tequila, declared a "Pueblo
Magico" in 2003, where the alcoholic beverage of the same name
originated and continues to be produced.
Guadalajara, the former capital of new Galicia and current capital
of Jalisco, is the essence of traditional Mexican culture. The city
is characterized by nearly 500 years of history seamlessly combined
with contemporary structures and cultural activities. It is located
in the lush Atemajac Valley in the foothills of the Sierra Madre
Occidental Mountains – and has the second-largest population
in Mexico. Today, Guadalajara’s growing manufacturing business
and industrial nature has made it one of the richest cities in Latin
America with enormous avenues, elegant monuments, more than 200
museums, dozens of squares, colorful markets and crowded malls.
Its vibrant cultural and intellectual life has made it a magnet
for foreign students and expatriates from the U.S. and Canada.
Interesting places to visit in Guadalajara include the Government
Palace, first occupied by the governors of New Galicia during the
colonial period. The palace later served as a residence for Miguel
Hidalgo, who, from that very palace passed a law abolishing slavery
in 1810. Other must-see attractions include the Institute of Jalisco
Handicrafts, the Museum of Archaeology of Western Mexico, the Jose
Clemente Orozco Museum, the Museum of Huichol Indian Handicrafts
and the Museum of Journalism and Graphic Arts.
Guadalajara is also home to the largest enclosed market in Latin
America: the Liberty Market. More than 1,000 vendors sell local
blown glass, leather goods and other handicrafts the city and its
surroundings are famous for. Other popular towns nearby that are
known for their handicrafts are Tlaquepaque and Tonala.
For outdoor recreation, Jalisco offers two large parks ideal for
hiking and extreme sports. Barranca de Huentitan, located just seven
miles northeast of Guadalajara, is a favorite for adventure sports,
and the Tequila Volcano, a 9,580-foot-high peak near the town of
Tequila, is most frequented by hang-gliders. Chapala Lake is Jalisco’s,
and Mexico’s largest lake. With such a prime location southeast
of Guadalajara, many have found Chapala to be the perfect place
to retire. Subsequently, Chapala is home to one of the largest expatriate
communities and retirees. The area features excellent fishing, two
golf courses, a variety of restaurants and many other activities
for visitors or residents of the lake and its surrounding area.
Within the region, there are several other small colonial towns
such as Ajijic, San Juan Cosala, Jocotepec, Ocotlan and Barca. One
of Lake Chalapa’s greatest attractions occurs annually in
February with Carnaval celebrations featuring parades, feasts and
festivals.
About 30 miles northwest of Guadalajara is the famed town of Tequila,
declared a "Pueblo Magico," where the legendary and national
liquor of Mexico is produced. One can climb aboard the Tequila Express
train in Guadalajara and in about two hours, riding through the
breathtaking desert landscape, arrive to Tequila. Some have described
the actual train ride as a party as there is an unlimited supply
of beer, tequila, margaritas and other refreshments, as well as
an eight piece mariachi band serenading passengers throughout the
journey. Several top distilleries can be found in Tequila, offering
tours to visitors who want to learn more about how the native agave
plant is transformed into Tequila.
On the Pacific coast of Jalisco State, Puerto Vallarta is one of
Mexico’s premier beach destinations. Located on the Bahia
de Banderas (Bay of Flags), the second largest bay in the American
continent, Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the majestic Sierra
Madre Occidental Mountains, perfect for ecotourism, and also offers
25 miles of golden beaches. “PV” or “Vallarta”
as it is fondly referred to is characterized by its beautifully
blended colonial and cosmopolitan features, complete with cobblestone
streets, white-walled houses, wrought-iron balconies, red-tiled
roofs, deluxe hotels, shopping malls and golf courses.
Puerto Vallarta is also an important indigenous handicrafts center
for the Huichol indigenous group, who has preserved its traditions
in an ever-changing and highly touristy city. The pottery and blown
glass pieces are very characteristic of Jalisco and some of the
most renowned crafts in the area.
Located between the Port of Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta is the
Costalegre or “happy coast.” This ecologically protected
region of Jalisco is a popular tourist destination due to its gorgeous
beaches. Spanning 60 miles, Costalegre boasts a number of beautiful
beaches such as Careyes, El Tamarindo, Las Alamandras, Cuastecomates,
Quemaro, Perula, Playa Blanca, El Tecuan, La Manzanilla and Melaque.
A range of accommodations are available, from youth hostels to luxury
resorts.
Although much of Jalisco’s fame is due to its beautiful coastline,
the state’s landscape is extremely varied and actually features
a region known as the Zona de Los Altos, or the “high zone.”
This region includes the mountainous region of Jalisco with elevations
of up to 7,500 feet. The Zona Alteña is famous for its beautiful
blue skies and cool weather. Additionally, the regional cuisine
is known as some of the best in Mexico for its unique Spanish influence.
The main cities of this region include San Juan de Los Lagos and
the colonial city of Lagos de Morenos. Another mountainous region
of Jalisco lies to the south of Lake Chapala. La zona de Montaña
features the most dramatic landscapes in Jalisco. This area has
a number of beautiful and charming towns such as Tapalpa, also declared
a "Pueblo Magico," and Mazamitla.
Festivals abound in the state of Jalisco. Highlights include the
annual International Mariachi Festival held in Guadalajara in September;
the International Book Fair held in November, as well as the Tequila
Fair, also held in November. Puerto Vallarta also features several
festivals, including a gourmet festival in November and a Tequila
festival in December.
