5 Reasons to Visit Jalisco

Jalisco is not just another Mexican state. Some say, it is the epitome of Mexico with its tequila, mariachi and Jarabe Tapatio dance. Optimistic and passionate, it invites you to...

Try real tequila

Jalisco is the home of tequila and mariachi. According to the law, only five Mexican states have the right to produce these drinks. Nmely, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, Michoacán and Nayarit, but first and foremost Jalisco, predominantly its Valley of Tequila, in western part of the state. Hundreds of distilleries are scattered across the state. The most renowned are Herradura, Jose Cuervo and Sauza. The Tequila Route focuses not only on the drink as such but on traditions, historical and cultural heritage, natural wealth of the region. The itinerary comprises eight municipalities around the Tequila volcano: El Arenal, Amatitan, Tequila, Magdalena, San Juanito de Escobedo, Aualulco de Mercado, Etzatlan and Teutillan. Jpin and see blue agave plantations, distilleries, taverns and haciendes. Agave landscapes and ancient industrial facilities are protected by UNESCO.  

See the epic murals

Those you will find in Guadalahara, the largest city of the state. Mural are created by José Clemente Orozco, a notable monumental painter of the twentieth century. His works are apprecieted as high as those of Diego Rivera and José David Alfaro Siqueiros. You can see his works in New York and California. Although the best place to get in touch with his art is here, in Guadalajara: at his home, now turned to a museum, at the UNESCO-protected Instituto Cultural Kabanas and the Government Palace. 

Marvel unique masterpieces

Every part of Jalisco is worth exploring. As you wander the streets of Guadalajara, you stumble across Templo Expiatorio di Santisimo Sacramento - the largest neo-Gothic church in Mexico. Adorned by mosaics from Vatican, French stained glass and German carillons, the temple is a masterpiece. Its construction started in 1897 and lasted 75 years, in accordance with Medieval technologies. 

The temple of the World Light (El Templo de la Luz del Mundo) rises 90 meters high above the ground and perfectly visible from all corners of the city. At night, lit with neon lights, the temple looks just stunning. 

In Tlakquepaque, suburbs of Guadalajara, you will find an insta-worthy street of umbrellas. Get inspired at Sergio Bustamante's gallery with jevellery and sculptures marked by unrivalled creativity. Walk Calle Independencia for a collection of galleries, museums and other attractions.

Tlaquepaque is one of the so-called magical towns (Pueblos Mágicos), notable for their extraordinary natural and architectural value. Of 132 magical towns in Mexico, nine are located in the state of Jalisco. So you've got plenty to explore.

Recharge

The Pacific resort of Costalegre in the south of Jalisco has an eye-catching property ?! Careyes. The resort founded by Gianfranco Brignone in 1968, has preserved its architectural value and charm. Instagrammable Ocean Palaces, polo, tennis, golf, water sports, tours to whales and dolphins, music and film festivals, art exhibitions - there's so much to see and to do.

Delve into the history of mariachi

The history of modern mariachi started in Tecalitlan at the end of the 19th century, when Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán was created. Although there are many mariachi groups, no other band is that popular. The oldest existing and officially the best mariachi in the world, the band remains the landmark of Mexican culture as such. Visit their performance and retrace their history in Jalisco.