By Natasha Koifman
I often say, “Time is our most precious currency,” and today’s traveler is spending it wisely. Baby Boomers want value, Gen Z craves experience and Millennials are jet-setting farther than ever. One thing we all agree on? If it’s not extraordinary, it’s not worth the trip (or sharing on TikTok). And if there’s one destination that checks all the boxes, it’s VidantaWorld Riviera Maya and resident partner Cirque du Soleil. Read on for all the details on making your next getaway to Mexico one to remember.
AN OASIS OF LUXURY
Tucked between Cancún and Playa del Carmen, VidantaWorld Riviera Maya is more than a resort; it’s an immersive experience. Sprawled across 1,000 acres of pristine jungle and beachfront, this destination balances high-end luxury with the wild beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
From the moment I arrived, greeted by VidantaWorld’s signature hand-over-heart gesture, I knew this was different. Every inch of the resort is designed for indulgence—whether it’s the Spatium Spa, Nicklaus Design golf course or Jungala Aqua Experience, home to a slew of energetic water slides (no, I didn’t) and the longest lazy river in Latin America (more my speed). We split our stay between Jungala Park Hotel and Grand Luxxe, both under the Vidanta umbrella. Both suites featured a primary bedroom with an ensuite, spacious living areas, pull-out sofas (for the kids) and a kitchenette. Waking up to exotic birdsong and jungle views felt like worlds away from reality.
www.vidantaworld.com
A SPECTACULAR SHOW IN THE JUNGLE
Hidden within VidantaWorld’s jungle (keep an eye out for coatis, spider monkeys and iguanas) lies the Cirque du Soleil Theatre, home to JOYÀ, an intimate, immersive spectacle designed exclusively for VidantaWorld. The theatre blends seamlessly with its surroundings, and with just 650 seats, every guest is part of the action. JOYÀ follows the adventure of a rebellious young girl on a quest to uncover her grandfather’s secrets, told through gravity-defying acrobatics, hauntingly beautiful music and whimsical characters. This isn’t just a show—it’s a 360-degree sensory experience.
A CULINARY ADVENTURE
JOYÀ is the first Cirque du Soleil show in the world to be paired with a multi-course gourmet dinner. From the edible wafer-paper menus to bonsai breadsticks and fruit caviar, every dish is a spectacle. The culinary team, led by VidantaWorld’s Executive Chef Alexis Bostelmann, merges traditional Mexican flavours with molecular gastronomy, creating an experience that’s as fun as it is delicious. The star of the menu is a braised short rib entrée that melts in your mouth, served with velvety sweet potato purée and a touch of corn.
www.cirquedusoleil.com/joya
A MUST FOR ANY LUXURY TRAVELER
Luxury travel isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you feel while you’re there. VidantaWorld and Cirque du Soleil deliver something rare: an experience that’s both exclusive and unforgettable. Families will love the interactive storytelling, couples will be swept away by the romantic atmosphere, and solo travelers will relish the artistry and escapism. So if you’re looking to indulge your senses, stir your imagination, and soak up every sun-drenched, Champagne-sparkled moment, VidantaWorld Riviera Maya is calling.
If you have a product you would like to submit for consideration in our Market Trends roundup, please DM Natasha on Instagram at @natashankpr.