Guadalajara, México's pearl of the west, is an incredibly diverse and stately city with amazing qualities, both modern and historic, that embrace all who visit. For a city that is not a resort, Guadalajara offers a very pleasant surprise to the unsuspecting tourist. Guadalajara is an ideal vacation destination for the traveler who is seeking a change of pace from the, sometimes overwhelming, resort scene. As the second largest city in México and boasting a population of over 3 million, you are constantly reminded that Guadalajara is a busy metropolis, and a major Mexican business center. Although this city beats to a busy pace, things here have a way of seeming to always remain serene. There are many places in Guadalajara where you will feel like you have stepped back in time to a different era. Guadalajara is a city of monuments, parks and flowers, fountains and tree lined avenues. A city alive with subtle attractions that can keep the first time visitor entertained for weeks. Guadalajara's history dates to the 16th century and the rich heritage of México's colonial gem is evident everywhere you look. The Guadalajara area is known as the birthplace of the world famous Mariachi bands and also as the home of the Mexican hat dance. Nearby is the town of Tequila, everyone knows or should be able to guess, what this town is famous for. The area around Guadalajara is mainly known for the Mexican craftsmen that turn out countless handmade items that are treasured the world over. Guadalajara's month-long October Festival attracts visitors from all over the world and performers from all over México for a wide variety of music, cultural and artistic events and crafts exhibits. Guadalajara is a great vacation destination for visitors seeking a taste of authentic Mexican culture combined with numerous activities and the modern comforts only a big city can provide. A two-week vacation in Guadalajara can easily go by too quickly and you will, most likely, discover that you are not quite ready to leave this marvelous city.

Wikipedia articles for Guadalajara

• Guadalajara, Jalisco
• Tepatitlán, Jalisco
• Jesús María, Jalisco
• 1992 Guadalajara explosions
• Tequila Express
• Teatro Degollado
• Hospicio Cabañas
• Latitude and longitude of cities, I-P
• 2008 Youth World Amateur Boxing Championships
• Tlaquepaque
• Jalisco Stadium