Mexico
Gallery Rodo Padilla
Above : Private suite at Akron Stadium
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers ( IEEE ) Smart Cities Initiative in Guadalajara brings together the University ’ s brightest minds to improve the city around them . “ During the pandemic , we noticed that we ’ ve become a think tank for the city ,” said Professor Victor M . Larios . The group has been using data-driven methods to provide solutions to public bike accidents ; improve public transport ; and create itineraries for exploring Guadalajara . When it comes to itineraries , Guadalajara is far from short on things to do .
The state of Jalisco is the birthplace of many quintessentially Mexican traditions . If delegates head into the urban centre of Guadalajara , or even take the short trip into the artsy neighbourhoods of Tlaquepaque they ’ ll see mariachi bands serenading local diners . When it comes to food , there are plenty of options at different price points , depending on whether you want a Mexican classic like tacos or a Jalisco tradition like torta ahogadas .
Groups planning to stay close to the city centre will find plenty of activities at their fingertips . Many of these are easy time-fillers for tight itineraries , like a fast-paced bus tour or taking in history at the Cathedrals and Museo Cabañas . Organisers looking for a truly unique evening activity might want to make a stop at the Arena Coliseo , where groups can see a traditional lucha libre
wrestling fight . It ’ s impossible to visit Mexico without sampling some tequila from the source . For that , it ’ s worth the hour trip from Guadalajara into the magical town of Tequila . The former residence of the Cuervo family has been transformed into the Jose Cuervo distillery – the best-selling brand of tequila worldwide . To truly get a taste of Mexico , incentive groups are invited to try a tequila tasting , where they ’ ll discover that the liquor ’ s range is just as rich as wine .
For culture-focused incentives , there ’ s plenty to see . Staying in the old-world walls of Tequila , around the corner from the distillery is the Hacienda el Centenario of Mundo Cuervo . This beautiful estate is open for business events , which can make use of its restored interiors and open outdoor spaces .
Regarding entertainment , the Hacienda el Centenario makes good use of its spaces , where delegates can take in the country ’ s national sport of
Charrería – a sort of Mexican rodeo .
Easy accommodation Statistics from Expo Guadalajara show that the city ’ s metropolitan area alone has more than 28,000 hotel rooms , but Haciendas often offer a quieter stay away from the hustle and bustle . For example , old-world beauty can be found at The Hacienda del Carmen Hotel and Spa . A short drive away from the city , it provides rustic rooms and meeting places on the sprawling grounds of its active plantation .
Heading back into Guadalajara , organisers will find plenty of hotels whose modernity complements the landscape ’ s traditional charm . Household names like Hyatt and Hilton are both reliable and luxurious options that provide meeting spaces and spa options a stone throw ’ s away from delegates ’ rooms . Many rooms at the metropolitan Hotsson Hotel have a close-up view of Expo Guadalajara ; a prudent reminder of the business agenda for show-goers .
ISSUE 123 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 13