Ji Chang-wook's 'My Name is Gabriel' and its Locations

‘My Name is Gabriel’ is an observational reality show where you live the life of a person, chosen from the world’s 8 billion people, for 72 hours in a place where no one knows you. ‘My Name is Gabriel’ highlights the daily lives of people living in various countries and cultures, offering viewers new perspectives and moving experiences.

Ji Chang-wook experiences the life of an agave farm worker in Tequila, Mexico in that show. Let’s explore his life there with me!

Ji Chang-wook’s Experience Story in ‘My Name is Gabriel’

At the production presentation of JTBC’s entertainment program ‘My Name is Gabriel,’ held on the 20th at the Stanford Hotel Korea Grand Ballroom in Mapo-gu, Seoul, Ji Chang-wook shared his experience. He confessed, “At first, I felt no burden, but on-site, I was very flustered. Living someone else’s life itself was not easy, and there was no information.” He added, “The process of finding and inferring about the person was necessary, but it was difficult at first because there was no information. The work was also very hard.”

In response, PD Kim Tae-ho explained, “I remember Ji Chang-wook emphasizing during the interview that ‘celebrities need to struggle so that viewers can enjoy watching.'” Ji Chang-wook laughed, “It wasn’t my story; I just thought that would generally be the case. I regret saying that. I worked hard and had fun filming.”

Experience in Tequila, Mexico

Ji Chang-wook experienced the life of an agave farm worker in Tequila, Mexico. He shared, “It had been a while since I did an entertainment show, so I was clumsy and awkward during the filming.” He confessed, “At first, I felt no burden, but on-site, I was very flustered. Living someone else’s life itself was not easy, and there was no information.”

He added, “The process of finding and inferring about the person was necessary, but it was difficult because there was no information. The work was also very hard. PD Kim Tae-ho said he matched the characters based on each person’s traits, but it was very hard for me because it was my first time doing such work.”

Featured Location Tequila, Mexico of ‘My Name is Gabriel’

Tequila, Mexico is a small town located in the state of Jalisco, about 60 kilometers northwest of Guadalajara. This charming town is famous for being the birthplace of the world-renowned spirit, tequila. The region’s agave fields, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide the raw material for this iconic Mexican drink. Here are some key attractions and activities you can enjoy in Tequila:

Tequila Distilleries: The town is home to several famous tequila distilleries, such as Jose Cuervo, Sauza, and Casa Herradura. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the tequila-making process, from harvesting the blue agave plants to fermentation and distillation. Many tours include tastings and the opportunity to purchase exclusive bottles.
Agave Fields: The vast blue agave fields surrounding Tequila are a sight to behold. You can take a tour of these fields to understand more about the cultivation of agave plants and their importance in tequila production.
Tequila Express: This is a popular train ride from Guadalajara to Tequila, offering scenic views, live mariachi music, and an immersive cultural experience. The train ride includes a tour of a distillery and tequila tastings.
Tequila Museum (Museo Nacional del Tequila): This museum provides a comprehensive history of tequila production, the cultural significance of the drink, and showcases traditional tools and artifacts used in the distillation process.
Plaza Principal: The main square of Tequila is a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful gazebo. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the town’s lively atmosphere.
Tequila Volcano: For the more adventurous, a hike up the Tequila Volcano offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The volcano is an extinct stratovolcano and provides a unique backdrop to the town.

Hotels in Tequila, Mexico

Matices Hotel de Barricas

Features: Matices Hotel de Barricas offers a unique experience as it is located within a tequila distillery. Guests stay in barrel-shaped rooms surrounded by agave fields, providing a truly immersive tequila experience. The hotel offers guided tours of the distillery, tequila tastings, and an on-site restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine.

Location: The hotel is located about 1.5 kilometers from the center of Tequila, making it a convenient spot to explore the town and its attractions.

Making a Reservation: Matices Hotel de Barricas

Hotel Solar de las Ánimas

Features: Hotel Solar de las Ánimas is a luxury hotel offering elegant rooms with colonial-style decor. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of the Tequila Volcano from the rooftop terrace.

Location: Situated in the heart of Tequila, the hotel is within walking distance of many local attractions, including the main square and several distilleries.

Making a Reservation: Hotel Solar de las Ánimas

Hotel Villa Tequila

Features: Hotel Villa Tequila offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Mexican hospitality. The hotel has spacious rooms, a large garden, an outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local dishes. It also provides guided tours to nearby distilleries and agave fields.

Location: Located just a short drive from the center of Tequila, the hotel provides easy access to the town’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat.

Making a Reservation: Hotel Villa Tequila

Hotel Casa Dulce María

Features: Casa Dulce María is a charming boutique hotel offering cozy rooms with rustic decor. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a quiet courtyard where guests can relax. The friendly staff are known for their excellent service and local knowledge.

Location: The hotel is centrally located in Tequila, close to the main square, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring the town.

Making a Reservation: Casa Dulce María

Where to Eat

1. La Antigua Casona

Description: La Antigua Casona is a renowned restaurant located within the Hotel Solar de las Ánimas. It offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that features traditional Mexican dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is elegant, with a beautiful colonial-style interior and a lovely outdoor patio.

Google Maps Link: La Antigua Casona

2. Restaurante Fonda Cholula

Description: Restaurante Fonda Cholula is a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and mole. It’s a great place to experience the local culinary traditions.

Google Maps Link: Restaurante Fonda Cholula

3. La Posta de Cerrillos

Description: La Posta de Cerrillos offers a unique dining experience with a focus on regional flavors and traditional recipes. The restaurant is set in a rustic, charming building and features a menu that includes dishes like birria, a traditional Jalisco stew, and various grilled meats. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming.

Google Maps Link: La Posta de Cerrillos

4. El Palomar

Description: El Palomar is a fine dining restaurant known for its refined take on Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight the rich flavors and ingredients of the region. The restaurant boasts a sophisticated atmosphere with beautiful decor and excellent service, making it perfect for a special night out.

Google Maps Link: El Palomar

Facts about Ji Chang-wook of ‘My Name is Gabriel’

Ji Chang-wook is a highly acclaimed South Korean actor known for his versatile acting skills and charismatic presence. Born on July 5, 1987, in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, he began his career in the entertainment industry with minor roles in television dramas and films. However, he rose to prominence with his lead role in the daily drama “Smile Again” (2010-2011), where he played the character Dong-hae.

Career Highlights:

“Smile Again” (2010-2011): Ji Chang-wook’s breakout role came with this drama, where he portrayed a short-track speed skater. His performance earned him recognition and popularity.
“Empress Ki” (2013-2014): He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Toghon Temür in this historical drama. His portrayal of the complex character showcased his acting range and solidified his status as a leading actor.
“Healer” (2014-2015): In this action-romance drama, Ji Chang-wook played the role of Seo Jung-hoo, a mysterious “night courier” with exceptional combat skills. The drama was a significant hit and further boosted his popularity both domestically and internationally.
“The K2” (2016): Ji Chang-wook starred as Kim Je-ha, a former mercenary turned bodyguard. His intense performance and impressive action scenes received praise from both critics and fans.
“Suspicious Partner” (2017): This romantic comedy-thriller saw him in the role of prosecutor Noh Ji-wook. The drama was well-received, thanks to its engaging storyline and his chemistry with co-star Nam Ji-hyun.
“Lovestruck in the City” (2020-2021): Ji Chang-wook played the role of Park Jae-won, an architect who is passionate and sincere about love. The drama was noted for its fresh storytelling approach and realistic portrayal of modern relationships.

Other Ventures:

In addition to his acting career, Ji Chang-wook has also participated in musical theater and various variety shows. He has performed in musicals such as “The Days” and “Shinheung Military Academy,” showcasing his singing and performing talents.

Military Service:

Ji Chang-wook enlisted for his mandatory military service on August 14, 2017, and was discharged on April 27, 2019. During his service, he served in the Army’s 5th Artillery Brigade.

Personal Traits:

Known for his dedication and hard work, Ji Chang-wook has a reputation for performing his own stunts and action scenes. He is admired for his professionalism and ability to portray a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to action heroes.

Ji Chang-wook’s ‘My Name is Gabriel’ and its Locations 1-3

Ji Chang-wook’s Experience Story in ‘My Name is Gabriel’