TequilaAgave1008

TEQUILA AGAVE

October 18 – 23, 2008

$984 pp double, $1297 per single land only

In ancient times, indigenous Mexicans used the plant we call blue agave (Agave Tequilana Weber) as a source of food, cloth and paper. Today this blue agave is known more widely as the source of Mexico’s national drink: Tequila. According to the legend, the maguey plant first sprouted from the bones of the goddess Mayahuel, who was stolen from the sky by the feathered serpent Quetzalcoatl. Long before the Spanish conquest, the natives discovered the effects of the plant as they chewed the leaves to extract the juices, and then the Spanish added the technique of fermentation and this aromatic beverage has been enjoyed ever since!

Guadalajara is a very special city, often called the most Mexican city in Mexico and is the base for this tour. Guadalajara is an incredibly diverse and stately city with amazing qualities, both modern and historic. As the second largest city in México and boasting a population of over 3 million, you are constantly reminded that Guadalajara is a busy metropolis, and a major Mexican business center. Although this city beats to a busy pace, things here have a way of seeming to always remain serene. Guadalajara is a city of monuments, parks and flowers, fountains and tree lined avenues. 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 and also as the home of the Mexican hat dance. Nearby are the towns of Tequila and Tlaquepaque. The area around Guadalajara is mainly known for the Mexican craftsmen that turn out countless handmade items that are treasured the world over.

Highlights includes 5 nights accommodation at De Mendoza Hotel, 14 meals, airport transfers in Guadalajara, bilingual tour director, sightseeing with entrance fees listed in the itinerary, transportation, botanical expert in tour to Huaxtla, tips to bell boys & maids, service charge and tax for all meals, and $100 donation to the Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens.

This land only pricing does not include your airfare and Mexican visa, or cancellation/medical insurance. We are taking reservations with a $200 deposit per person with the final due on or before September 12, 2008.

Day one, arrive in Guadalajara and transfer to the hotel De Mendoza, our hotel for the next five nights. This afternoon you will meet your Tour Director and receive additional information about your tour. Dinner is at the hotel. (D)

Day two, After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin the day with a walking tour of the Historical district, visiting the Cathedral, the Government palace, Teatro Degollado ,Liberation Square and Hospice Cabanas to view Orozco’s Murals. We will have lunch at the Fonda San Miguel. This afternoon, after lunch we will be riding the traditional Calandrias (horse drawn carriages) and visit the rest of the historical district. Today before dinner at the hotel, we will return to the Liberation Square to see the military flag ceremony. (B L D)

Day three, after breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for the town of Amatitán located a few miles outside the city of Guadalajara; it is here where millions of the spiny-leaved maguey plants dot the land. During our visit to the Herradura plant located in the old Hacienda San Jose Del Refugio, we will learn about all the process in the cultivation, harvesting and production of the drink. We will also visit the town and the Tequila museum. We will enjoy a Mexican fiesta lunch, with mariachi and folkloric dancers on a private terrace. Return to Guadalajara in the afternoon, with free time before dinner at the hotel. (B L D)

Day four, after breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for a visit to the University Autonoma of Guadalajara Botanical Gardens where we will see a great collection of plants and flowers from the western part of Mexico. During the afternoon, we feature a visit to Tlaquepaque with time for shopping. Dinner tonight at el Patio Restaurant. (B L D)

Day five, we will have an early departure after breakfast, as we plan to explore the San Lorenzo Canyon, in the town of Huaxtla. This is a place with a large variety of flora and fauna. Here we will have a guided hike with a botanical expert through dense forest of fruits, regional cacti and oaks trees. A picnic lunch will be served today before our return to Guadalajara. Farewell dinner at Los Itacates (B L D)

Day six, after breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

Check out the slide show from Eric Garton's scouting trip in December 2007.