Mexico encompasses nearly 2 million square miles of grasslands, mountain ranges, volcanic plains and rainforests. However, many visitors are familiar only with its coastline. Travelers have been flocking to the beaches of Mazatlán, Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta for decades. In recent years, the Riviera Maya, on the Caribbean, has become popular, as have pockets of the Pacific coast such as Zihuatanejo and Costa Alegre. A visit to the colonial heart of Mexico is extremely worthwhile. While the country continues to grapple with drug-related crime, most of the tourist areas remain relatively safe.