GUADALAJARA

Guadalajara, the state capital of Jalisco, is in itself a very interesting and historic city. Luckily, the airport is to the south of the city, so the drive to Manzanillo can be as short as 3 hours, depending on the time of day and rush-hour traffic on the periferico.

The drive to Manzanillo is almost all toll road (cuota, in Spanish), so be sure to pick up about $30 in pesos at the airport currency exchange. Once out of the city, the drive is interesting, crossing prairies and mountain passes, deep gorges and salt water lagoons.

As you near the city of Colima, the "Volcan de Fuego" (Fire Volcano), can be viewed off to the right. This 13,000-foot active volcano has erupted recently, but poses no danger to passing motorists.

This is a very nice, safe highway, with "Green Angels" that help tourists in the event of a breakdown. (An Angeles Verde is a green truck with 2 mechanics and a small assortment of tools that assists stranded motorists. At least one of the mechanics speaks English, and in some way they will help in the unlikely event of a car problem. They are employed by the government and don't receive much of a salary, so if you ever do receive help, a little tip would be in order.)

If you choose to take a bus to Manzanillo instead of driving yourself, a taxi to the bus depot will be about $15 U.S. There's a bus leaving for Manzanillo every half hour. We recommend the bus lines ETN, Primera Plus, or La Linea Plus. (Be sure and ask for the "directo" bus; it's a 4˝ hour trip with only one 15 min. stop at the bus station in Colima. If you don't get the direct bus, you'll enjoy about an 8-hour bus trip with about 20 stops in between.) Cost, depending on the bus line, is about $30 U.S., but bring the peso equivalent.

RENTING A CAR

If you're planning to drive to Manzanillo, it's best to rent through a nationally recognized agency. Make your reservations at home and arrange to pick up the car at the airport of your choice. Use any coupons or special offers, and make sure that you receive a confirmation number for your reservation.

You will get a better deal if you book your car rental from the U.S. rather than waiting until you arrive at your Mexican airport destination. If possible, get your price quote in writing to take with you. You can also make reservations through the internet, and some car rental companies offer a discount when reservations are done that way. Depending on the type of car, cost for a week is about $350 U.S.

Once you pick up your car at the airport, you'll receive a map that will get you out of town. Make sure you inspect the car for any dings or dents, and have them make a note of any previous damage on your rental agreement. Be sure and get insurance! If you can get insurance on line, you'll save money. Make sure you bring your receipt that shows you have already paid for insurance. At the airport, you'll be asked if you want insurance. Sometimes the cost of insurance is equal to what you pay for the car rental. That is how the agent at the airport makes a commission--by adding on an extremely high cost for insurance. Mexican laws are different; and Mexican insurance will protect you. Make sure you get a 24-hour phone number (or numbers) to call in the event of a car problem. You will be required to leave an open credit card voucher with the car rental agency. You must have a credit card and a current drivers license.

Once you're on the main toll road, you've got easy sailing! Don't pick up any hitchhikers, no matter how sorry you feel for them. All toll booths have telephones, rest rooms, soft drinks, bottled water and snacks.

Watch out for animals, slow or broken down vehicles, or objects in the road. On your short trip, you should see all of the above at least once! Don't drive at night, because, chances are you won't be able to stop in time in case you encounter any of the above.

If you come across a road block and see a lot of official-looking, military-type guys with guns, don't be afraid. They're army or police who help make our roads safe. They are there to check for drugs and guns, and if you don't have any, don't worry. They might ask to see your papers, or they may ask you to get out of your vehicle. Smile, do as they say, and you'll be on your way soon enough.

AIRLINES
The following airlines fly into either Pto. Vallarta and/or Guadalajara. Depending on the season, flights may be changed or cancelled. Another option to get to Manzanillo is through Mexico City. These flights uusually involve an overnight there. The airport is huge, and crowded, pickpockets and other cons are everywhere, and hotels are more expensive. If at all possible, try to fly into GDL or PVR. The airports are smaller and easier to get around, and more secure as well.