Study Abroad in Guadalajara
Guadalajara is the capital city of the state of Jalisco and the second largest city in Mexico. The true heart of this incredible city is Centro Historico, its oldest section. Here you will see beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the colonial era. While taking classes here, this area of the city makes for a nice place to do work and get lost in the beauty. Did you know Guadalajara is the birthplace of tequila? There are over two hundred varieties in this city alone! Couple that with the fact that mariachi music started here too and you’re looking for a good time. This is half the reason college students pick this city for study abroad. Guadalajara is all about working hard and playing hard. Gorgeous weather, tasty drinks, and fantastic views, who wouldn’t want to study abroad in this exotic city?
Guadalajara Pictures
Things to do in Guadalajara
Districts separate the various sections and essences here. Each one contains its own culture. Centro Historico is where you will most likely spend the majority of your time. José Clemente Orozco’s important mural paintings are still preserved here along with many old buildings. Spend your time walking around and taking in the sights. Guadalajara Cathedral, finished in 1618 is a mix of Gothic, Neoclassical and Palladian architecture. Plaza of the Crosses are four Plazas shaped like a cross with the Cathedral at the center. Palacio de Gobierno, or Governor’s place, is directly to the left of the cathedral. This building houses those famous paintings by José Clemente Orozco. Looking for those famous mariahci bands? Plaza de los Mariachis has a wealth of restaurants where mariachi players will serenade you for as little as $7 – 10. Jose Cuervo has a distillery here as well and the tour is always a nice activity while in Guadalajara. It includes the tour of the facility and factory, tastings, and a free margarita. Lots of fun for all college students. Why not go as a group and then stop by their own restaurant?
Nightlife in Guadalajara
You better bet that the birthplace of tequila will know how to throw a good party or two or three…Blanca, Reposada, and Añejo are the top types of tequila you will want to keep an eye out for. They put the tequilas you have had to shame. Bar hopping is a lot of fun especially for students studying abroad. Zapopan’s center is an all time favorite for bar hopping. There are over 12 bars right in the center! And with over 200 types of tequila you better bet you’re in for quite a night out on the town. Los Altos serves a more traditional kind of tequila, serving their own stuff too. The bottom line is you really can’t go wrong when partying in this pulsing city.
Colleges and Classes in Guadalajara
Taking classes in this city might just be one of the best decisions you make. The history and culture is so vivid and alive everywhere. You should take a class on either Mexican culture or history, Mexican language class, art history, and Mexican cooking. This is the one time in your life you will be able to experience something totally new and unique and you shouldn’t miss a thing. Check with your home school to make sure all your credits will transfer over. Many times a language course is a prerequisite for studying abroad here anyways and often there are prerequisites with language too. The art and food classes in Guadalajara are so much fun and you will feel like you are one of the locals by the semester’s end.
Travel From Guadalajara
Lake Chapala, has cute towns like Ajijic, and is fairly close to Guadalajara. If you are looking for a place to spring break, check out Acapulco and Mexico City. Acapulco has a reputation for having a crazy spring break week. The beach and water here are gorgeous and the fun never stops. Mexico city is the heart of the country full of history and culture. Check out studentuniverse.com to see the city guides for both cities and learn more about all they have to offer. While there, look into cheap airfare and hotels/hostels. Student Universe is always giving students the best deals and also books for groups if you are looking to travel with your friends.
Guadalajara Study Abroad Tips
- Girls shouldn’t go out alone at night.
- Carry cash on you since many local places don’t take credit (including Cabs).
- Make sure cab drivers, especially at night, don’t rip you off with cab fair.
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