Banks: 08.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Thursday, 10.00 to 14.00, Saturday
Government Offices: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 10.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 20.00

Guadalajara has nowhere near the crime problems that befall Mexico City and it is one of the safest large cities in the country. Be careful of pickpockets, though, as they tend to target unsuspecting tourists at outside cafés and on public transport. If you have a problem, head for the Jalisco tourist information office in Plaza Tapatía or call emergency services on 066.

110V, 60Hz – two and three-pin plugs

There are no major health concerns with a visit to Guadalajara. The late-spring to early-summer heat can be a problem for many, however, and wearing a hat and sunscreen when out and about is recommended. Restaurants and cafés in town are monitored for hygiene and streets are generally well kept.

Emergency services: 066
Hospital Mexico-Americano: +52 33 3642 7152

Mexicans speak Spanish, specifically a version based on the more common Castilian Spanish although service workers in tourist areas will generally be able speak English.

The peso is the currency of Mexico. Be sure to keep small notes on you for everyday use, like for public transport and daily shopping.

The duty-free limits when entering Mexico are: 400 cigarettes, as much as one kilogram of tobacco, or 50 cigars; two litres of wine or spirits; and a reasonable number of gifts.

Guadalajara is quite conservative and dressing sensibly is recommended. Women especially shouldn’t wander around in just shorts and light tops as they might in other parts of the world. Mexicans are fairly touchy-feely, often a bit in-your-face, and like to gesticulate at everything and anything, but are generally good natured and easy to meet. Placing hands on hips out of exasperation is a national faux pas.

European Union and USA citizens don’t need visas for stays of up to six months (180 days), although must have a Tourist Card (FMT). These cards will be issued by your airline on the way in or you can opt to pick one up at a Mexican embassy or consulate in your country. Passports must be valid for at least six months past your intended stay.

The State of Jalisco Tourist Information Office has lots of information on Guadalajara and can be found in the Plaza Tapatía, Paseo Degollado, Calle Morelos 102. 
Phone: +52 33 3668 1600; http://visita.jalisco.gob.mx/espanol/inicio.html

There are also tourist information booths in Plaza Liberacion and in Plaza Guadalajara.