Jalisco brings the ‘essence’ of Mexico to Canada

The tourism secretary for the Mexican state of Jalisco told a Monday Toronto audience that her state is the most Mexican of any Mexican state during an event that showcased iconic symbols of Mexico that originated in Jalisco.

Michelle Fridman said her state is the “essence” of Mexico during a reception at a Mexican restaurant that featured musicians playing mariachi music — which is from Jalisco — and included a tequila tasting. Tequila is also from Jalisco, which actually has a town called Tequila.

The town is linked to Guadalajara by a train that showcases the alcohol, with passengers served tequila en route and visiting tequila distilleries, where they can learn how to best appreciate the spirit.

The town of Tequila is one of 12 Jalisco communities that have been declared Pueblos Magicos by the Mexican government. The designation is for towns seen as particularly attractive to tourists.

“If you are looking for the Mexican experience, Jalisco is the place to visit, ” Fridman said.

Puerto Vallarta — known in part for its old quarter that features cobblestone streets — is the best known Jalisco tourist destination, but Fridman also praised Guadalajara as the “most Mexican”  city in Mexico,  adding it “blends tradition with the modern.”

Jalisco is also home to the lengthy, ocean-fronting Costalegre, which Fridman said provides “true luxury, ” including Six Senses and Four Seasons resorts.

Fridman added Jalisco has jungle, mountains, lakes and ocean. “Jalisco is like a country on its own.”

A wine route is found in the state interior.

Among those on hand for the event was Mexican consul general in Toronto Ivan Sierra Medel, who told the audience that he and his wife honeymooned in Puerto Vallarta.

“The secret to a very happy marriage is to honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta, ” said the still-married Sierra Medel.

Caption 

Jalisco tourism secretary Michelle Fridman, seen here with Mexican consul general in Toronto Ivan Sierra Medel, holds a bottle of tequila during a Toronto event.