Once the rains commence in June, the hills overlooking the village become a verdant green that reminds me of Ireland.  Residents know that when the "rain birds" (cicadas) begin to sing the rains are not far off.... It is my favorite time of year--missed  by many snowbirds who return north of the border in early Spring and  do not have the opportunity to experience the wonders of our summer months here on the Lakeside.

Most mornings we awaken to glorious sunrises that equal the magnificent sunsets that grace our skies.

Even in the driest months of the year, the area abounds with color from a variety of flowers: Jacaranda in February; Tabachine in April, Frangipani (plumeria) throughout most of the year, a multitude of orchids indigenous to the area; roses; poinsettia TREES! and of course--bougainvillea with their vibrant shades of red, fuchia, and magenta.

Walk down any street and you will see a cascade of flowers gracing stone walls that hide magnificent homes--you never know what you may find until you "peek behind the walls".

 

There is an excellent four-lane highway from Guadalajara to Chapala. Guadalajara -- named after the Moorish city of the same name in Spain -- is Mexico's second largest city and the capital city for the state of Jalisco.

Guadalajara, The City of Roses,  is a city of monuments, parks and flowers, fountains and tree lined avenues. A city alive with subtle attractions that can keep the first time visitor entertained for weeks.  Guadalajara's history dates to the 16th century and the rich heritage of México's colonial gem is evident everywhere you look.  

The Guadalajara area is known as the birthplace of the world famous Mariachi bands.  Famed for its dignity, culture and restraint; where traditions are preserved; the siesta is an institution; and fiestas are an art form. When you visit Guadalajara take time to visit the many fine historic and cultural sights.  You will find many different styles of Mexican and international arts; galleries and museums.

Originally an orphanage and home for the elderly, this building was constructed as a humanitarian gesture by the last colonial bishop of Guadalajara, Don Juan Cruz Ruiz de Cabaña.  As you step inside you will be able to view more Orozco murals.

Back in the in the late 1940s, the city fathers made a concerted effort  to change the city's image from an old colonial city with narrow, cobble-stoned streets to a modern city. But  in the early 1960s, they realized that the 20th Century architecture was threatening to destroy the aesthetics of the city. Realizing that the city was in danger of losing its charm and historical qualities, city administrators in the 1980s declared 30 blocks in the heart of downtown as a cultural sanctuary.