VidantaWorld Riviera Maya & Cirque Du Soleil JOYA
Cirque Du Soleil JOYA has had a permanent home at the luxurious VidantaWorld Riviera Maya for 10 years; a resort just 23 miles from Cancun Airport and situated between lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea, I was lucky enough to be visiting for the 10th anniversary celebrations, which I will let you know about later.
Arriving at Jungala Park Hotel after a short shuttle ride from Cancun Airport, my fellow travelers and I were speedily checked in and shown to our various suites. My beautiful ground floor one bedroom suite, with a luxury kitchenette, a wonderful dining and living area, a private balcony and a bathroom featuring an incredible shower and Jacuzzi tub.
Luxurious Accommodations
The twice-daily suite service was a welcome luxury, often accompanied by a delectable confectionary treat, fresh fruit, or other healthy snacks thoughtfully placed on the dining table and breakfast island—a truly appreciated detail.
Our first evening unfolded with a delightful welcome dinner and cocktails at La Cantina. The menu was a vibrant exploration of local flavors, from the sublime guacamole to the rich rib eye and bone marrow tacos, and a succulent slow-cooked short rib that introduced me to an unexpected delicacy—crickets! Surprisingly palatable, they were followed by a refreshing cacao ice cream and some delightful mocktails, concluding a truly excellent meal.
Returning to the hotel via one of the resort's convenient trams, I retreated to the comfort of my suite, tired but content, ready for a restful night under the crisp white sheets of the king-size bed.
Sun, Sea & Thrills
Day two dawned bright and early, and after a refreshing shower, beachwear was the attire of choice for a day promising fun and adventure. But first, breakfast! The resort's impressive buffet-style breakfast offered the perfect start to the day. A mouthwatering array of fresh fruits, breads, pastries, cooked options, juices, and invigorating coffee and teas ensured a memorable breakfast experience.
After breakfast, a short stroll led to the VIP cabanas at Beach Club, where a couple of blissful hours were spent basking in the sun and enjoying the refreshing waters of one of the resort's many pools. Throughout, we were treated to delightful mocktails and other beverages while gazing out at the turquoise expanse of the Caribbean Sea.
The weather was beautiful, mid 80s, sunny with a nice breeze coming off the ocean, it was absolutely perfect. The allure of the Jungala Aqua Experience was strong, so we headed to the VIP cabanas there to secure our valuables before venturing into the water park.
Adrenaline-Pumping Fun
This aquatic playground delivered on its promise of excitement. I braved two thrilling waterslides: The Beachside Boomerango, a near-vertical tube ride accommodating up to four people, and the solo Paradise Freefall, a heart-stopping vertical drop from 66 feet, reaching speeds of 25 mph leading to a horizontal splashdown that thoroughly soaked onlookers. Surprisingly, both were firsts for me, and I wished time had allowed for repeat rides.
Next, a long, relaxing journey along the Lazy Rio, Latin America's longest lazy river, provided a welcome change of pace—a truly enjoyable experience. Emerging from the gentle currents, we made a stop at the Brave Wave Pool, where impressive 4.5-foot waves rolled in every 10 minutes, a major draw for body surfers.
Glamping in Paradise
The afternoon was dedicated to unwinding in a shady VIP cabana, indulging in popsicles, flavored water, and nachos, all part of the “Relaxation Experience” priced around $120 (and shareable among four adults). Overlooking the Lazy Rio and enveloped by the jungle, this is a must-do for anyone who appreciates “glamping.”
Dinner that evening took us to the opulent Japanese restaurant, Gong. A diverse and delectable array of Japanese dishes, including sushi, seafood, and Peking duck, was enjoyed in a stunning setting. The attentive and gracious wait staff enhanced the extraordinary Asian ambiance.
Cirque Du Soleil + MORE
My final full day at VidantaWorld was dedicated to the magic of Cirque Du Soleil, commencing with a press conference featuring Ivan Chavez, son of Vidanta Group founder Daniel, and Daniel Lamarre, Executive Vice Chairman of the Board of Cirque Du Soleil. Exciting announcements were made about the future of Cirque Du Soleil, including the unveiling of a brand-new show, LUDŌ, set to premiere at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta on Mexico's West Coast in November 2025. Billed as “the most epic water dinner show ever created,” anticipation is already high.
Lunch was a delightful affair at the picturesque Chiringuito Terrace, a buffet-style meal enjoyed under a grand cabana right by the beach. The soothing sounds of the waves and the refreshing scent of the Caribbean Sea mingled with the enticing aromas of freshly grilled New York Strip Steaks, complemented by the sweet fragrance of local fruits and tempting desserts.
After lunch, a leisurely walk along the beach was followed by shopping at Jade Boutique and Salum, a charming bohemian shopping village. Then, it was back to the hotel to prepare for the highlight of the week—the Cirque Du Soleil JOYA red carpet event, dinner show, and VIP after-party.
A Spectacle of Senses
Cirque Du Soleil JOYA is an extraordinary 80-minute experience, seamlessly blending a captivating show with an enthralling dinner and entertainment—elevated to an art form. Exquisite cuisine, including a beautifully presented dessert served in a hollowed-out book mirroring the impressive stage design, added to the magic. The seamless integration of theatre, acrobatics, music, and a unique culinary journey makes Cirque Du Soleil JOYA an absolute essential experience when visiting Vidanta Riviera Maya.
A vibrant VIP after-party and a breathtaking drone light show brought a perfect evening, and an all-too-brief escape to the Northeastern Yucatan Peninsula, to a memorable close.
Paradise Found
While many associate Mexico with the beaches of Cancun, the ruins of Tulum, and other well-known destinations, VidantaWorld Riviera Maya offers a comprehensive experience. From top-tier accommodations and gourmet dining, to thrilling adventures, lush jungle, stunning beaches, perfect weather, pampering, shopping, excellent value, and the unparalleled magic of Cirque Du Soleil, it truly has it all.
I, for one, will certainly be returning.
