History of Guadalajara With a population of around six million, Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico and can be considered the most stereotypically Mexican city, especially when one considers its contributions to Mexican culture: tequila, mariachis and the charco (sombrero) hat. Although Guadalajara harbors strong traditions and abundant history in its numerous museums and historic architecture, it is also a modern and industrial city and offers a high quality of life relative to most Mexican urban centers.
In a "Cities of the Future" survey by fdimagazine, Guadalajara was the highest ranking Mexican city and has the second strongest economic potential of any major North American city, with only Chicago scoring higher. The geographical location of Guadalajara and its communications infrastructure make it very favorable for commerce with the rest of the country, and also attracts investors and commerce worldwide. The Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara has several commercial centers; the city is the national leader in development and investment in commercial centers. Guadalajara is home to one of the greatest malls in Latin America: Galerias Guadalajara 360. The current boom of construction and fast development is one of the most important periods in the history of this city. Its cultural wealth has taken an important role in the tourist sector; many of the main cultural events of the country are hosted here. Guadalajara is a main destination for people who visit Mexico. Cost of Living Due to its importance as the major industrial and commercial center of western Mexico, Guadalajara has a large community of expatriates. Since the first major step in relocating to Mexico is to find housing, expats generally select their residential area based on proximity to work and/or school, as well as on issues of security, pollution and services such as shops and hospitals. Atlas Colomos, Ciudad Bugambilias, Club de Golf Santa Anita, Colinas de San Javier, Country Club, Lomas del Valle, Providencia, Puerta de Hierro, Rancho Contento and Valle Real are the main areas of town where expatriate families live. These communities offer the security and comfort that expatriates expect, often being gated or high-walled residences with security guards, and have excellent sporting facilities (golf, gym, swimming), along with proximity to shops, supermarkets and schools. The monthly rent for a house in any one of these residential areas generally ranges from US$1,500 to US$2,500. Modest medical fees also mean that foreigners can pay for hospital expenses straight out of their pocket, while national health insurance costs around US$400 a year. Safety IssuesUnlike other big cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara has relatively low crime rates. It does, however, have issues of serious concern, such as drug trade, police corruption at the lower ranks and a slow rate of investigation, prosecution and conviction once a criminal complaint has been filed. According to the most recent Guadalajara Crime and Safety report published by the Overseas Security Advisory Council, overall crime decreased in Guadalajara in 2006. Homicides, robberies (business and residential) and theft (cargo and personal vehicle) were down from 2005 levels. Homicide figures are relatively low in comparison to cities of similar size in the U.S. Moreover, many local officials believe a large number of homicides are drug-related intimidation or retaliation murders. Guadalajara residents need to be concerned about residential crime. Residential burglars usually rely on stealth and attempt their crimes when residents are away, avoiding confrontation and violence if possible. Resident need to be concerned with general street crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and ATM robbery, so ATMs should be chosen wisely. Areas of the greatest concern include the downtown district at night and areas east of downtown. Though the reported number of bank robberies dropped to zero in 2006, ATM robberies are always a concern. It is strongly suggested not to walk alone at night. Another issue to be concerned about is auto thefts. These are common in the metropolitan area. Auto theft is a lucrative business in Mexico. Police have been addressing the problem with positive results. However, vehicles continue to be stolen at the moderate rate of approximately 12 per day in the metropolitan area. Related to this issue is theft of auto parts, such as mirrors, lights, hubcaps and wiper blades. Vehicles parked on streets are vulnerable to break-ins in just about any neighborhood, day or night. Nothing of value should be left in vehicles, which should be parked in well-lit areas or in off-street parking whenever possible. Transportation crime varies by category. Official taxis in metropolitan Guadalajara are clean, safe and metered. Taxis from the airport are paid in advance in the terminal, and are well-regulated. City buses can pose problems, as pickpocketers will work the most crowded, busiest routes. Tourist buses are generally safe within the metropolitan area; however, travel on the highways can be precarious, especially at night. All highway travelers should avoid travel at night, use toll highways whenever possible, plan routes ahead of time, and notify family or friends of itinerary. Cargo transportation theft has existed in Guadalajara for a number of years. The police have been attacking this problem lately and seem to be having great success. The majority of recent thefts have targeted mainly consumables and construction materials. Return to top |
