October through December is ideal with dry weather, mild temperatures (20-26C), and many festivals including Day of the Dead and the Fiestas de Octubre.

Yes, tourist areas are generally safe. Use same precautions as any large city - avoid showing valuables, use ride-sharing apps instead of street taxis, and stay aware of your surroundings at night.

The town of Tequila is just 1 hour away. Take the scenic Jose Cuervo Express train, book a day tour, or rent a car. Most tours include distillery visits, tastings, and agave field walks.

Try torta ahogada (drowned sandwich in spicy sauce), birria (spicy goat stew), carnitas tacos, pozole (hominy soup), and tejuino (fermented corn drink). Guadalajara is the culinary capital of Jalisco.

Head to Plaza de los Mariachis in the evening. Musicians gather there daily, and you can hire a group for a private serenade. Also check out bars in Tlaquepaque and Zapopan.