Yes, there's the stereotype of partying spring breakers, and yes, the State Department issued a travel warning in August for Americans visiting select spots in the country.
But let's not forget that Mexico is truly a beautiful place.
The country boasts 67 national parks and 41 biosphere reserves. Among Mexico's deserts, rivers and mountains, you'll find more than 5,000 miles of coastline and one of the world's longest underwater cave systems.
Cabo San Lucas is currently recovering from a hurricane that hit in September, but this winter is still a great time to visit Mexico. Here are a few stunning places to put on your list.
Cenote Dzitnup
Oh, it's nothing -- just your average blue-water sinkhole. There are thousands of them on the Yucatan Peninsula.
Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City
The masterwork known as "The Palace" is a venue for the Ballet Folklorico of Mexico.
Xcaret Park, Cancun
The "eco-archaeological park" (as one tourist site puts it) leads snorkeling expeditions and performs traditional "flying" ritual ceremonies, right on the water.
The Marieta Islands
This national park is home to a series of secret, rocky coves. Check out Hidden Beach.
The pyramids of Teotihuacan
They're massive -- and just a few of Mexico's many ancient archaeological sites.
The underwater river in Cenote Angelita
It's both a geological wonder and scuba diver's dream.
San Miguel de Allende
The city traces its history to the silver trade of the 1500s, and there are lots of rooftop bars.
Isla Mujeres
The snorkeling is perfection at this island off Cancun.
Todos Santos
With art galleries and ample bodegas, this is the perfect surf town for people who don't actually surf.
Sumidero Canyon
Formed by a geological fault, this canyon has walls thousands of feet high. It's now part of a national park.
Tulum
What anyone would give to be in that water right now (and don't forget the ancient ruins).
Guanajuato
The colonial city surrounded by mountains -- and its nearby mines -- are together a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Riviera Nayarit
The spot that calls itself "Mexico's newest beach destination" is the side of the Riviera you haven't gotten to know yet.
Sayulita
More specifically, this village on the Riviera Nayarit is known for resorts in the jungle, beachside yoga and some major surf culture.
Agua Azul Waterfalls
Three rivers meet in the jungle to produce these turquoise wonders.
The "Frozen Waterfalls" of Hierve El Agua
These natural mineral springs in Oaxaca accumulated over thousands of years.
Zipolite
One main street and (as of 2013) ZERO ATMs?! We're there.
