LOCAL CULTURE
Before each service
The easiest way to call home is to use the phone in your room. If you are budget-conscious, long-distance phone cards are available in many corner stores....
Clothing
When walking around the city it is recommended that women wear walking shorts or knee-length or longer skirts, especially downtown.
Taxis
When you stay at the hotel, it is recommended that you use one of our taxis. If you are out in the city, always ask the driver if he has a taximeter, to avoid being overcharged. You can also agree on a fixed rate but do that before you get into the cab.
Water and Ice Cubes
It is best to drink bottled water. You will be okay to brush your teeth with tap water but avoid swallowing large amounts. In restaurants, ice cubes are typically made with purified water. If you are unsure, simply ask the waiter.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Ginger House
Every Christmas, the hotel displays a big Ginger House decorated with chocolates and sweets. Miniatures of the house are sold as souvenirs in the hotel lobby.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is known as 'the city of roses' in honour of the hundreds of rose gardens which used to adorn the city parks.
Home of traditions
Guadalajara is Mexico's second-largest city and is considered to be the cradle of all Mexican traditions such as 'tequila', 'mariachi' and our national sport, 'charreria'.
Las Chivas soccer team
The city has three soccer teams, among them the world-famous Chivas. Fans are very competitive and the city comes alive when there's a match on.
Mariachi Festival
In September, Guadalajara is filled with the sounds and excitement of the major musical event of the year, the International Mariachi and Charreria Festival. Many of the participants come from places such as Aruba, Venezuela, the United States, Colombia and as far away as Spain.
WHAT TO PACK
Camera
A camera is a must! There will be many opportunities around the city to take great pictures. In front of the hotel at Plaza del Sol (crossing the street) you can find all issues if you forgot your camera.
Comfortable shoes
Guadalajara's city centre and surrounding towns are best seen on foot, so bring along comfortable shoes and enjoy the diversity of the area.
Personal items and prescriptions
Bring enough prescription drugs, special lotions and personal items to last throughout your visit.
Spanish phrase book
Although the hotel staff speak excellent English, when you are out, useful phrases will come in handy as most locals have limited English.
Sunscreen and hat
As the sun is almost always shining in Guadalajara, keep yourself well protected, especially in the middle of summer.