Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico with approximately 6 million people. Many people consider it to represent the 'true' Mexico. It is an attractive city with many plazas, fountains and colonial buildings. Guadalajara has many shopping centers, museums, theaters, cathedrals, and and just about anything you may want from a city. It has a large industrial component, so pollution can be a problem in some areas.

Guadalajara and area may well be the retirement capital of Mexico. Many English speaking support groups exist, such as the American Society of Jalisco, and the American-Canadian Club. These organizations sponsor many activities and offer support for anyone thinking of retiring to the area. Guadalajara-Lake Chapala is almost a must to check out if you are considering retirement in Mexico. Even if you decide to look elsewhere later, you can probably get more information here than anywhere.

Guadalajara is famous for it's roaming Mariachi bands, and this music form is said to have developed in the area.