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Polaroid of the Week: Lush Agave Fields and Tequila Distilleries in Tequila, Mexico

Polaroid of the Week: Lush Agave Fields and Tequila Distilleries in Tequila, MexicoPlanning my Mexico itinerary, I faced a choice: head straight to the coast or explore a new city first. Though beach time tempted me, my curiosity led me to Guadalajara—a cultural hub near the Pacific and just 70 km from Tequila. Inspired by a travel writer's stunning Snapchat stories of agave fields and distilleries, I decided to visit, despite not being a tequila enthusiast (margaritas yes, shots no).

On my last day in Guadalajara, I boarded a bus to Tequila, eager for agave landscapes and insights into Mexico's iconic spirit. The day wasn't perfect—rainy skies, long bus rides, and suboptimal planning—but I instantly fell for this charming village. Agave fields, with their striking blue-green leaves, lined the roads as we approached.

Tequila is one of Mexico's 50+ Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns), earning its title with colorful colonial homes, cobblestone streets, historic churches, and lively plazas offering roasted corn and ice cream. The standout was touring a tequila distillery, witnessing the full process: piñas (agave hearts) on conveyor belts, milling, fermentation, distillation, and bottling. We sampled varieties including Blanco (unaged), Reposado (2+ months aged), Añejo (1-3 years), and Extra Añejo (over 3 years).

Despite imperfections, the trip was unforgettable, inspiring me to plan a full road trip along Jalisco's Tequila Trail.

P.S. Follow my travels in real-time on Snapchat: mariposa2711

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