The "Pueblo Magico" of Santiago de Tequila, Mexico, is easy to access and combined with a visit to Guadalajara, will make a memorable vacation.
1. TEQUILA
One of the reasons to visit the town of Santiago de Tequila, is to learn about the production of Tequila, and of course taste it. There are many tours available to the blue agave fields and production facilities. Here are some worth visiting:
Tequila Fortaleza - Check their calendar of events for tasting events and tours.
Mundo Cuervo - Visit the agave fields, visit La Rojeña Factory and taste some Tequila.
Destiladora la Rienda (Rubio) - Tours of the factory.
Casa Sauza - Tours of factory, fields,and tastings.
2. THE TOWN OF SANTIAGO DE TEQUILA
About 40 miles northwest from Guadalajara, you will find this charming town founded in 1530 by Franciscan priests. Today, with a population of around 27,000 people, the town of Santiago de Tequila, is home of many of the world known brands of Tequila such as Cuervo and Sauza. One of my favorite times of the year to go to Tequila is in September, where average temperatures are about 85 degrees, you have some niece evening rain, and Mexico independence is celebrated.
3. THE FOOD
I am getting hungry just thinking of the amazing food I have eaten here. From Tacos to Tortas, you will find real Mexican food around town. Some good options:
Tacos Cheque - Fresh made corn tortillas and good tacos (really cheap so please leave a big tip).
Mercado de Comidas Cleofas Mota - From the famous tortas ahogadas to menudo, this is a good spot.
Restaurant Hotel Villa Tequila - To reach a sense of "hygge" go to this restaurant, order some guacamole and some tequila beverages and smell, hear and feel the rain during the summer months.
4. ITS PEOPLE
People in this town are hard working, but still they take time to enjoy life. Dont be shy, go into a store and enter into a conversation with the owner. At the hotel ask for food recommendations but tell the person at the reception not where you should go, but where she/he will go for a good meal. A couple of years ago I went to a conference in the town of Tequila and pulled a muscle in my back. The waiter at the restaurant saw me walking a little tilted, and a few minutes later he sent a bag with ice to my room. During all my stay he will approach me and ask how I was feeling. Definitively, a staff member going above and beyond his role. I really appreciated it!
5. THE HOTELS
You will find some charming hotels in Tequila that you can use as a base to explore the town and region. Last time I was there I stayed at the Hotel Villa Tequila. I did not make my reservation since I was invited to a conference and my host took care of my lodging. I had no idea what to expect but all of a sudden I entered this magical place. Imagine a 19th Century Estate that has been transformed into a charming boutique hotel. Of course I remember my stay and I am in "hygge"!
TASTE BEFORE YOU GO - Some of my tequila recommendations not to "impress" your friends, but to enjoy!
7 Leguas Blanco - Simple and good, your basic tequila.
Fortaleza - I prefer the silver, but reposado is good.
Tequila Ocho - Really nice reposado.