GUADALAJARA, MEXICO

Guadalajara is known as the Pearl of the West or the City of Roses. For many years, it was considered a stopover on the way to other places. Over the last few decades, however, it has become a popular tourist destination in its own right—modern and majestic—in western Mexico. The capital of the state of Jalisco, birthplace of tequila and mariachi music, the city has a traditional, provincial town flavour while retaining the traits of a modern metropolis of over two million people. The most beautiful area in the city undoubtedly is the Centro Histórico (Historic Centre), especially the Plaza Tapatía. A journey through history begins at the Catedral Metropolitana and ends at the Instituto Cultural Cabañas A first stop would be the Teatro Degollado. Probably the most picturesque walk is down the shady tree-lined Avenida Vallarta to wind up at Los Arcos (the Arches) and the fountain, tribute to Minerva. This scenic stroll leads past colonial era mansions, many of which have been converted to shops, eateries and discotheques, such as Lado B, La Marcha and the ever present Hard Rock Café. For almost five... more