Magdalena Gonzales

Pasadena , CA
Family Travel Expert

Hi there! I'm Maggie, your friendly family travel planner extraordinaire. I have a deep passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences for families, and I'm here to make your dream vacation a reality.

With years of experience in the ...
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Guadalajara, Guadalajara

Guadalajara Cathedral
Guadalajara Cathedral

Guadalajara has truly shaped my passion for travel. Every summer, I stayed in my grandparents’ warm and inviting home in Tlaquepaque, a charming neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, colorful artisan shops, and a lively spirit that still captivates me. Those childhood summers were filled with the melodies of mariachi music from the nearby Plaza de Mariachi, the irresistible aroma of street food, and the buzz of festive markets—experiences that created a deep connection to this vibrant city and its rich traditions.


As Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara is a beautiful blend of colonial architecture, thriving arts, and cultural heritage. Tlaquepaque remains one of my favorite places to wander, where every corner reveals handcrafted pottery, intricate textiles, and joyful celebrations. I cherish the memories of visiting the Guadalajara Zoo, nestled within Parque Mirador, where my family and I enjoyed close encounters with exotic animals and lush natural surroundings—an experience that delights visitors of all ages.


A short drive from the city lies Chapala, a peaceful lakeside town that offers a tranquil escape. Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in Mexico, is surrounded by picturesque hills and vibrant art communities. Strolling along the lakeside malecón, watching fishermen at work, and savoring fresh lake fish by the water’s edge are moments of pure relaxation and simple joy that I love to share with travelers seeking a slower pace.


No visit to this region is complete without a stop in Tequila, the birthplace of the world-famous spirit. Walking through sprawling blue agave fields and touring authentic distilleries like Casa Herradura or José Cuervo, visitors gain insight into the heritage and craftsmanship behind every bottle. Sampling different varieties of tequila while learning the agave’s story is an immersive and unforgettable experience that connects you deeply to Mexican culture.


Back in Guadalajara’s heart, Plaza de Mariachi pulsates with the energy of live mariachi performances, filling the air with passionate melodies that invite celebration and community. This vibrant plaza is a gathering spot where music, culture, and tradition come alive—a place I always revisit with fondness and excitement.


Culinary exploration in Guadalajara is equally rich and satisfying. From birria stews and tortas ahogadas—two regional specialties that I grew up enjoying—to freshly made tortillas and vibrant street food markets, every bite is a celebration of ancestral recipes and bold flavors. Fine dining and street fare blend seamlessly to provide an authentic taste of Jalisco’s diverse food culture.


As your personal travel advisor, I bring these intimate experiences and profound appreciation for Guadalajara and its surroundings to every itinerary I create. Whether you desire cultural immersion, family adventure, or tranquil escapes, I tailor your trip to reflect your personal style and interests. From private tours of historic Tlaquepaque to tequila tastings in the heart of agave country, I take care of every detail so your journey flows effortlessly.


If you’re ready to explore Guadalajara’s warmth, Chapala’s serenity, and Tequila’s spirited charm through a unique, personalized travel experience, I’m here to make your dream trip come true. Let’s create lifelong memories in a destination that feels like home, full of music, history, and soul.

My Reviews

Best Birthday In Punta Cana
Magdalena planned an amazing birthday getaway for our girls' trip to Punta Cana! She listened to exactly what we wanted and created the perfect itinerary with the best resort, fun activities, and great dining options. The whole planning was smooth and stress-free thanks to her.
By  Jena  from  Florida
Traveled to  Punta Cana | Dominican Republic | Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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The Best Cruise experience!
Our family trip on the Mexican Riviera cruise was absolutely unforgettable, all thanks to Magdalena! From the very first conversation, she listened carefully to our wishes and crafted a perfect itinerary that suited every family member’s taste. Her expert knowledge and attention to detail made the whole booking process smooth and stress-free. We enjoyed breathtaking sunsets, exciting shore excursions, and amazing onboard experiences it was truly a dream vacation come to life. Magdalena’s personal touch and dedication made all the difference. Can’t wait to plan our next adventure with her!
By  Kathy  from  Long Beach
Traveled to  Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Bachelorette Trip to Cabo
Magdalena created the perfect Bachelorette Party getaway for me! The trip was absolutely incredible. It was a fabulous way to celebrate my last adventure before getting married. She went above and beyond to make sure all my friends were looked after, arranging for us to stay close together in the same hotel area. Truly seamless and unforgettable!
By  Rose  from  Pasadena CA
Traveled to  Cabo San Lucas | Baja California Sur | Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Friends trip to Cancun
My friends and I had an absolute blast on our girls' getaway to Cancun! We were totally lost on where to even begin planning, but then a friend recommended Magdalena based on a trip she had organized. I’m so thankful she did! Magdalena went above and beyond, crafting the perfect girls' trip that exceeded all our expectations. From booking our flights to securing a fabulous all-inclusive resort and arranging smooth transfers between the airport and hotel, she handled every detail flawlessly. The whole experience was effortless and stress-free thanks to her expertise!
By  Samantha T.  from  La Puente
Traveled to  Cancun | Quintana Roo | Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Best Family Trip!
Magdalena was absolutely amazing in planning our family getaway to the Bahamas! She suggested the Royal Atlantis, and wow, it was an incredible choice. The kids couldn’t get enough of the Water Park, and swimming with the dolphins was an unforgettable highlight for all of us. Honestly, this was the best trip our family has ever taken. Huge thanks to Magdalena for making it so effortless and truly unforgettable!
By  Contreras Family  from  New York
Traveled to  Bahamas | Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Destination Expert:

  • Guadalajara

Travel Specialist:

  • Culinary & Foodie
  • Family Vacations
  • Nightlife
  • Historical Sites
  • Entertainment

Top Travel Partners:

  • Viator
  • Funjet Vacations
  • Delta Vacations
  • BedsOnline
  • Pleasant Holidays

Certifications/Awards:

  • Hawaii Destination Specialist Certificate
  • Australia Specialist Certificate

Languages I Speak:

  • English
  • Spanish
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