By Claudia Hernández

Surely, many of our readers are familiar with or have tried Tequila at some point, but have you ever wondered where this emblematic beverage comes from?

Tequila has its origin in the picturesque town of Tequila, Jalisco, located a few hours away from the Riviera Nayarit. This charming place has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to the rich heritage that has shaped the tequila industry. Immersing yourself in the world of this popular Mexican beverage is an unparalleled experience.

A fascinating trip to Tequila allows you to contemplate impressive landscapes filled with agave plants and immerse yourself in the historical, cultural, and natural richness surrounding the production of tequila.

There are several guided tours available that offer to take you through the entire process, from cultivation to harvesting, processing, tasting, and bottling of tequila. The tours come in various packages, offering diverse experiences at different price ranges. From the famous "Tren del Tequila" tour, operated by José Cuervo, departing from Guadalajara to local tours you can find if you are traveling from Riviera Nayarit, all of which take you to explore different haciendas and tequila distilleries worth visiting, such as Jose Cuervo, Hacienda Herradura, La Alborada, La Cofradia, among many others. Most of these tours are conducted in picturesque trucks decorated as tequila bottles, chili peppers, sombreros, etc. Here, imagination knows no bounds. You can even find helicopter rides for an even more impressive view of the landscape, including the majestic Tequila Volcano, another highlight of the area.

Venture out to walk the streets of the town, every corner is a new discovery. Prepare your best outfit and make the most of all the colonial environment that invades the town and take as many pictures as possible. Don't forget to visit the local market to delight your palate with delicious regional cuisine that is worth trying. At the market, you can savor dishes prepared with family recipes that have been passed down through generations, such as a flavorful "Carne en su jugo" (meat in its juice) or a "Torta ahogada," which you can accompany with a "Cantarito de Tequila" the traditional cocktail of the town, prepared with grapefruit and orange juice, tequila, and grapefruit soda. Additionally, a must-visit is the Town Square just in the center of the town and the National Tequila Museum (MUNAT) to complete your experience.

We are certain that you will fall in love with this marvelous place. Tequila Jalisco, with its agave landscapes, history, and unique experiences, offers an unforgettable journey to the heart of Mexican culture. Whether it's for its flavor or its legacy, a visit to this place will leave a lasting impact on all those who enjoy it. Cheers!