BEACH ESCAPADE: Even though you have the town’s beaches near you, don’t miss out on the chance to see some of them both in the north and the south. The southern beaches can be reached by dinghies or boats provided by local travel agencies. Their guides will show you Yelapa, Las Animas or Quimixto, among others. Enjoy their emerald- hued waters, waterfalls or horseback rides. If you move northbound, jot down these two names: Sayulita, featuring a hippie-like atmosphere and plenty of surfing, and San Pancho,much wilder yet dazzlingly more beautiful.

MOUNTAIN DAY TRIP: You might like to turn to green after taking a swim in the deep blue sea, so don’t forget to swing by San Sebastian del Oeste, just a 60-minute drive down the new road. You’ll get to a place where time has been standing still for the past 500 years, with mild weather conditions, quasi-unreal peace and small inns to stay overnight if you finally fall for the place. And believe me, that’ll happen for sure. Stop at the Doña Conchita Museum. Talking to her will be a pleasure you won’t surely forget.

GUADALAJARA: THE STATE’S CAPITAL: Set aside a couple of days to visit this splendorous city so rich in history that oozes out the feeling of Jalisco in every plaza, street or museum.The artisans’ hamlets of Tonala and Tlaquepaque are special sightseeing spots, treasuring stories of their own in every corner and every store. You’ll be surprised by the assortment of items.And prices are simply superb!