Guadalajara, Mexico

 Country: Mexico

Language: Spanish

Population: 1,579, 174

Mayor: Ramiro Hernandez Garcia

Sister City Since: 1982

 

Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco and known as the “Pearl of the West.” Founded in 1542, Mexico’s second largest city is a bustling metropolis with a colonial heart and a provincial soul. Guadalara is a center of learning with six universities, two culinary institutes, a renowned philharmonic orchestra and a thriving art scene.

Mexico hotels in Guadalajara range from comfortable hostels to Gran Turismo category with every creature comfort. The city’s vast array of restaurants and eateries offer world class dining along with traditional regional fare. Nightlife is varied and colorful.

Industry thrives and for years, clothing and shoe manufacturing have made Guadalajara a mecca for shoppers. The towns of Tonala and Tlaquepaque are famed for their handicrafts.

The city’s mild year-round climate lends itself to outdoor activities like golf and tennis.

Fiestas and festivals throughout the year attract locals and visitors alike. Marathons in February and October, a fashion fair in July, the International Mariachi Festival in August and the traditional Fiestas de Octubre (Octoberfest) vie with the International Book Fair — one of the largest in Latin America, May’s Cultural Festival, and the International Film Festival sponsored by the University of Guadalajara.