Birthplace of tequila and rodeos, Guadalajara is the capital of the Jalisco region in central-western Mexico and the country’s second city. It is as Mexican as they come, differing greatly from the likes of Mexico City, Cajun, and other touristy Mexican climes, by retaining a unique Spanish charm in its colonial architecture and scenic streets.

While it boasts all the interesting touristy stuff that other major destinations do in Mexico, including museums, galleries and theme parks, Guadalajara also has that authentic feel and a vibrant culture. There is a fine historic core here where many interesting old buildings can be seen, yet it is wholly modern and unpolluted.

Attractions and sights to seek out in Guadalajara include the imposing early 17th-century Guadalajara Cathedral and nearby Governor's Palace in Centro Historico, bustling Armas Square, and Zona Rosa. Kids also have several good options, including Guadalajara Zoo and Selva Magica amusement park, while culture vultures can discern the Tequila Factory and the fine City Museum.

Sporting types might like to take a look at Parque Agua Azul, which has many walking trails and pretty outdoor areas. The spectacular Barranca de Oblatos gorge, outside town, has the best hiking in the region. Bullfighting and rodeo shows are all the rage towards the end of the year.

Guadalajara has some really good shopping and if you are into handicrafts—particularly pottery and ceramics—the Tlaquepaque District churns more out than anywhere else in the country. There are handicrafts shops and street vendors galore as well as loads of air-conditioned shopping malls. For food, Guadalajara has so-so tourist-oriented restaurants, yet authentic Mexican eating in the suburbs.

There is a good spread of inexpensive hotels in the downtown area that are near popular sights and attractions, and it’s a good idea to stay as central as possible to save money using public transport. The city also has affordable four- and five-star places, but you should book these online in advance. The busiest times in Guadalajara are October to early November, and December, January and Easter.

There is an international airport in Guadalajara although you will invariably have to leapfrog through a US city such as New York or Los Angeles when coming from Europe or elsewhere. Public buses, hotel shuttles and taxis serve the airport and you can also hire cars here. Public transport options in Guadalajara include buses, light rail and taxis.

Guadalajara has a mild, somewhat dry climate which is indicative of its lofty locale in the central highlands. The best times to be here weather wise are late spring and early autumn – May and October. Summertime (June to September) is also quite nice but also happens to be the wettest time owing to the rainy season.

The only real drama with visiting Guadalajara outside of the summer is that nights tend to get a bit chilly so you should make sure you pack some warm weather clothing. Winter in Guadalajara (December to February) gets particularly cold at night, when temperatures can dip as low as 6°C although there is virtually no rainfall.