Hola, fiber fanatics! 

If you’ve been following my adventures, you know I finally took a much-needed vacay to Guadalajara, Mexico—and let me tell you, it was a colorful, flavorful, yarn-tangled dream. If you’ve never been, Guadalajara is a pretty fantastic place. Situated in Jalisco (the birthplace of tequila) it is known for food, mariachi music, the Feria Internacional del Libro de Guadalajara (Guadalajara International Book Fair) and about a zillion other cultural events. Between stuffing my face with vegan tacos, sipping way too much tequila, and drowning in fabric inspiration, I somehow still managed to (sort of) work on my crochet projects.

But first—let’s talk about THE FOOD.

A Love Letter to Vegan Tacos & Tres Leches Cake

Listen, I’ve been to Mexico City and enjoyed the heck out of their vegan food scene (iconic, legendary, chef’s kiss), but Guadalajara? Honey, this city stole my heart—and my stomach. Or is the way to my heart through my stomach? Probably, because I am in love! 

Between the three of us — me, the IT intern, and Bruce (the Disapproving Dad Intern) — we ate our way through un chingo de comida riquisima. (And it was VEGAN!)

The Vegan Kentucky Fried Setas Tacos from El Vegano Urbano had me in a chokehold. Add their corn dogs (banderillas) and tres leches cake, and I was in carb-loaded heaven. 

Oh, and did I mention the vegan donuts? Because yes, I ate a dozen mini ones. No regrets. Even if I did spend some time rolling around on my back with mal del puerco afterwards.

Monaladona delicious spread.

Art, Music & Mariachis: A Sensory Fiesta 

Guadalajara isn’t just a foodie paradise—it’s an art lover’s dream. I visited MUSA (the Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara) and fell head over heels for the fiber art in Violeta Parra and Mon Laferte’s exhibition. The textures, the colors—swoon.  The work of these two Chilean artists/musicians/women/badasses was a total inspiration!

For examples of Violeta Parra’s textile pieces, check out her site, then, yes, go down the rabbit hole and learn a bit about the history of arpilleras and female political resistance in Chile while you’re at it. 

Let’s not forget the music! Mariachi music originated in the state of Jalisco, so as you would imagine, Mariachis are everywhere! (Freddy is crazy jealous, as she should be:P) 

We also caught a guitar quartet concert from the University of Guadalajara professors. Pure magic.

Tequila Train & Crochet Souvenirs 

Of course, no trip to Jalisco is complete without tequila. We hopped on the Jose Cuervo Express and, well… let’s just say I overindulged. More on that once the hangover has passed… But I did snag a gorgeous crochet bag made from agave fibers—because, obviously, I had to bring home a fiber treasure.

The Crochet Struggle: Vacation WIPs Gone Wild 

Now, let’s talk about the real drama: my vacation crochet projects.

I packed three WIPs (because of course I did), including a blanket from Quick & Cozy Afghans (a Goodwill gem!). But between eating, exploring, and tequila-induced naps, I barely made progress.

Lesson learned? I overpacked yarn (shocking, I know) and needed a better system.

Freddy and I have been obsessing over organization (because crochet chaos is real), and we’ve created something magical:

Guadalajara was everything—art, music, food, and yes, even my half-finished blanket. But next time? I’m packing smarter.

What about you? How do you manage WIPs on the go? Any travel crochet hacks? Drop your tips below! 

And if you want to stay organized (and adorable), check out our crochet planners — because life’s too short for untracked WIPs.

Hugs & hook twists,

Tere (Goat)
Freddy Goat Crochet