IWPP4 GUADALAJARA

EMERGENCY NUMBER

In case of a medical emergency, fire, or any critical situation, dial 911. This central number coordinates emergency assistance. Additionally, to reach the police, dial 060, and for civil protection, the number is 33-3823-1015.

Time zone

Guadalajara follows Central Standard Time (UTC-6) for most of the year. However, during daylight saving time, which spans from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October, the city observes Central Daylight Time (CDT), aligning with UTC-5. 

Language

Guadalajara is home to linguistic diversity, with various indigenous languages such as Nahuatl and Wixárika spoken. However, the main and official language remains Spanish, used in most everyday contexts, including business and education. This coexistence of languages reflects the city's rich cultural history.

Climate

There are two seasons in Mexico: the dry season from November to May, and the rainy season from June to October. It rains a lot during this period, but fortunately, mostly in the late afternoon or at night.

In June, the weather remains mild with an average temperature of 26°C during the day and around 18°C at night.

Tips

In Mexico, including Guadalajara, tips are generally expected and appreciated, although not mandatory. The usual practice is to add around 10 to 15% of the total bill in restaurants, depending on the service. Some places may already include a service charge (propina) in the bill, so make sure to check before leaving an additional tip.

For services like taxis, luggage porters, shuttle drivers, etc., it is common to leave a tip, often rounded up to the nearest peso. Tipping practices can vary, so it's always advisable to observe local customs. In general, exceptional service merits a more generous tip, but this is at the discretion of the customer.

CURRENCY, CREDIT CARDS AND EXCHANGE RATE

The currency used in Guadalajara is the Mexican Peso (MXN). As of February 1, 2024, the exchange rate is approximately: 1 peso = 0.054 € and 1 peso = 0.058 $.

It's important to note that exchange rates for the Mexican Peso against other currencies, such as the Euro (EUR) and the US Dollar (USD), can fluctuate due to various economic factors.

When exchanging currency, it's recommended to compare rates and fees from multiple sources to get the best conditions. It's also advisable to avoid exchanging money at airports, where fees may be higher, and exchange rates less favorable.

Visa requierement

Some foreign nationals traveling to Mexico require a visa. We invite you to check whether you require a visa and how to apply under this link. In any case, we suggest you contact the Mexican Embassy of your country as early as possible. 

*Note that this information is given by IPPA for informational purposes only, being exempt from any responsibility in the VISA process. We kindly remind you that we will provide you with an attendance letter just after your registration payment.

Voltage

In Mexico, the standard electrical socket types are Type A and Type B.

Type A: This type of socket has two parallel flat pins. The standard voltage is 127 V, with a frequency of 60 Hz.

Type B: Similar to Type A, but with an additional grounding pin in the shape of a grounding connector. The voltage and frequency are the same as Type A (127 V, 60 Hz).

You may need to use a plug adapter if your electrical devices have a different plug type. It's also advisable to check the specific voltage requirements of your devices to avoid compatibility issues.

Business Hour

Business hours in Guadalajara for banks, public places, and tourist offices generally follow a standard schedule. Banks typically operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays, and some may close on weekends. Public places, such as museums and government offices, usually open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM, with variations depending on the specific venue. Tourist offices typically align their hours with the regular business day, opening around 9:00 AM and closing around 5:00 PM. However, it's advisable to check the specific hours of each institution, as they can vary.