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Transcription: [00:11:39]
This rugged terrain lies just a few miles just outside the city of Guadalajara.

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On a high plateau, it's four hundred and twenty miles northwest of Mexico City. It's a busy, bustling metropolis with a population of over a million and a quarter, making it the country's second city in size, and importance.

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In this part of the country, there never was a great civilized Indian culture to build on or around, so Guadalajara has more pure Spanish features, with large open squares and ornate buildings.

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Founded in 1542, it still retains much of it's tranquil charm, along with surging progress and modernization.

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In parts of the city it's almost like being in Rome. In fact, Guadalajara is fast approaching the Italian capital's claim as being the number one city for spouting spectacular fountains.

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This one in Alcalde park is particularly impressive, although it's just one of dozens of cascading fountains decorating the city.

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And Guadalajara's air of glamour and sophistication is accented by the many colorful sidewalk cafes scattered throughout the city.

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But one of the most popular is where Mariachi bands serenade you. Here, several bands, one at each table, played different songs.

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All at the same time. Well, luckily I do travel with earplugs.

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Mariachi music originated here, as did the "charros": Mexico's elite group of horsemen, noted for their equestrian skills.

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This is Roberto Verdia, one of Guadalajara's leading charros, and in typical charro tradition his children are following in their father's footsteps.

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His son, Carlos, rides extremely well. As does his 14 year old daughter Lorenza. However, she's called a charra. Spelled with an "a" and must ride side-saddle.