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Could it happen to you? It would be a first. Yes, Guadalajara is Mexico’s second largest city, not a hamlet in the Swiss Alps. Although it does offer views of beautiful mountain ranges! This metropolis of 10 million people has made news for being the home of organized criminal activity, and there are occasional kidnappings. However it’s important to keep things in perspective. The shoot-outs and other stories that have made headlines have never involved tourists. These acts are carried out as a result of gang disputes, or resistance to law enforcement. The odds that a visitor will be snatched off the street are virtually nil. So come stroll the streets of Guadalajara and while here take our walking tour of Tlaquepaque!
Like any big city that welcomes large numbers of tourists, petty crimes occur, almost always on busy streets. Purse and phone snatchings can be avoided by using extra caution in crowded places such as markets. If you’re visiting the famous San Juan de Dios covered market, it’s easy to become distracted by the sights, sounds and smells. Leave your expensive jewelry and watches at home or in your hotel. You won’t need them on our walking tour of Guadalajara.
You will feel comfortable using most form of public transportation in Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and the surrounding towns. The metro, or Tren Ligero as its known here, is a very convenient way to move around the city. The platforms and cars of this modern system are clean and well maintained, and use by the public is heavy. During commuter hours the train is packed. So if you’re claustrophobic in such situations, stick to taxis. For more information see this post.
If you’re taking our walking tour of Tlaquepaque you will probably want to leave your passport and some of your valuables in your hotel room. It is the norm for better hotels to provide in-room safe boxes, and even budget accommodations will secure your valuables at the reception area. You may want to consider spending a night or two in this magical pueblo. There is a variety of charming family run boutique hotels. You will feel as safe in Tlaquepaque center as anywhere in Mexico.