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The historic Guadalajara Cathedral in Mexico illuminated at dusk, with streaks of traffic lights blurring past the bustling public square.
Mexico

Treasures of Guadalajara & Puerto Vallarta: Art, Culture & More

Program No. 24832RJ
Participant Reviews
3.75
Based on 4 Reviews
SHOWING
Philip – Class of 2010 | Miami, FL
VIVA Mexico!!! Guadalajara is historic and Puerto Vallarta is an exuberant tropical paradise.
— Review left February 3, 2026
Carmen – Class of 2022 | Los Ranchos, NM
My 3rd RS trip to Mexico & my least favorite. Both Guadalajara & Puerto Vallarta are beautiful cities, there is so much to see and do. The hotel in Guadalajara was in a great location, lots of beautiful sights within walking distance. The hotel in Puerto Vallarta not so much, it was within walking distance to the marina but not the beach, the church or local neighborhoods. We visited Ajiji, a Pueblo Magico by Lake Chapala in Guadalajara. We sat for a presentation by the Director of the Lake Chapala Society. In my opinion, that presentation should have been " optional" I found it to be a huge waste of precious time in Mexico and I'm sure there were cultural sites we could have visited reflecting the beauty of Mexico and it's people. We ate at a Sirloin Stockade one evening in Guadalajara, I didn't find that to be a cultural experience as there were several Mexican restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. Our leaders and the local guides were fabulous. We visited many beautiful sights in Guadalajara and along the way to Puerto Vallarta. We had a great time in the town of Tequila and a fun taco tour in Puerto Vallarta.
— Review left December 4, 2025
Reply from Road Scholar
Dear Carmen, Thank you for your positive feedback about the scenery and our guides. We understand the lecture by the Lake Chapla Society Director wasn't entirely satisfactory. Given the significant ex-pat presence of Americans and Europeans in this region, we believe it's crucial for participants to understand how this community has influenced the local area. Since this was the presenter's first delivery, our provider will collaborate with them to enhance the educational content. Additionally, we've forwarded your Sirloin Stockade dining feedback to our team. While accommodating group dining can be difficult, we continuously seek improvements and value your input. We appreciate the chance to discuss your experience in detail. Sincerely, Road Scholar
Jean – Class of 2015 | Lake Oswego, OR
Not my favorite RS trip to Mexico. It felt like the trip leaders had to look for activities. Enough free time in PV but nowhere to go because you stuck us out by the airport. Not enough freee time Guadalajara.
— Review left November 25, 2025
Reply from Road Scholar
Dear Jean, We regret that your Mexico experience didn't fully meet your expectations. While we recognize the Puerto Vallarta hotel isn't downtown, we chose this location because the central properties were outdated and unsuitable for our program. Our selected venue offers modern facilities with quality dining options and remains among the limited hotels providing breakfast-inclusive bookings. This arrangement allows participants to discover and enjoy additional local dining experiences. Additionally, dependable taxi services ensure those seeking independent exploration can easily access other areas. Regarding free time, we acknowledge the challenge of balancing structured learning with field experiences and personal time. We'll certainly evaluate this feedback for upcoming programs and hope you'll consider joining us again for future adventures. Sincerely, Road Scholar
Marcia – Class of 2019 | Solon, IA
This program to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta offers a nice variety of activities including frescos in Guadalajara, beautiful scenery at Lake Chapala, an educational visit to a tequila distillery, and a fun taco tour in Puerto Vallarta. There is a nice balance of free time, and dining options outside of the program meals were plentiful.
— Review left August 13, 2025