Even if you have no intentions of going 'loco' down in Acapulco, there's no debating the fact that it can be tempting to stay on and bask beachside in the warm Mexican sunshine. At the south end of Mexico's Central Pacific Coast, the city of Acapulco has long been a favorite destination of laid-back sun-seekers and general hedonists alike.

High white clouds cast passing shadows on the green roll of low hills and ruffled palm tree fringe that shelter the sandy shores of Zihuatanejo. Slightly southwest of Mexico City on the Pacific side of the country, this small city specializes in fresh cuisine from even fresher seafood.

Mexico City, Mexico's capital and one of the world's biggest cities, is a sensory kaleidoscope. Colors compete with crowds, the crush of traffic and city smells; gleaming modern office buildings stand in stark contrast to the sprawling slums of poor neighborhoods, offset in turn by the quiet, well-mannered estates of Mexico City's affluent. Colonial architecture and extensive cultural attractions flush the picture of this very big metropolis.

Rugged volcanic peaks etch the horizon above the brilliant green of rolling fields. Michoacan, a geographically diverse state in central Mexico, is dotted with picturesque towns, archaeological ruins and swept with countryside vistas. Morelia, Michoacan's capital, is within easy reach of Mexico City.

Climbing the flanks of green mountains in central Mexico, the city of Taxco is with woven through by winding streets and adorned with historic architecture. Once an important silver mining town, modern Taxco is the sort of picturesque place that calls for constant camera use.