The Vidanta Traveler

1

THE

VIDANTA

T R AV E L E R

MEMBER NEWS AND UPDATES FROM YOUR RESORT IN MEXICO

JA N – J U L 2 015

ISSUE 01

WHAT’S NEW AT OUR DESTINATIONS P.6 – P.17

A NIGHT OF JOYÀ P.18

VIDANTA IN THE COMMUNITY P.20

LOOKING FORWARD P.22

View from Grand Luxxe Residence, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

DEAR MEMBER, I’m very excited to welcome you to The Vidanta Traveler, our first in a series of biannual publications dedicated to giving you updates on your favorite resort hotels, as well as a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes at Vidanta.

As a member of Vida Vacations, you have access to the endless vacation wonders of Vidanta, the collection of luxury resort hotels throughout Mexico. You may notice that we’re always adding something new at our Vidanta destinations. From debuting new restaurants and shows to renovating the grounds and developing new properties, we’re always pushing ourselves to keep evolving so that we can improve your vacation experience. In fact, our dedication to your happiness goes well beyond adding new attractions. Our entire staff is committed to taking care of every detail of your stay and providing the best service, all with the warmest of smiles, so that your vacation is truly unforgettable.

I invite you to read through this and future issues of The Vidanta Traveler in order to learn about the latest changes at the Vidanta destinations, but to also start getting excited for your next vacation. As you peruse these pages, I hope you start dreaming about your next stay, planning what activities you’ll try, what dishes you’ll taste, what shows you’ll attend.

We’re here, ready to introduce you and your family to a world of vacation possibilities — a world of paradise.

Sincerely,

Michel Beuffe CEO, Vidanta

CONTENTS 6 WHAT’S NEW AT NUEVO VALLARTA

Come see what’s changed at this beloved destination, including new pools and fine dining experiences.

8 WHAT’S NEW AT RIVIERA MAYA

From wooden jungle paths to the beach renovation, this destination is brimming with changes.

11 WHAT’S NEW AT ACAPULCO

Find out about the opening of the new Lazy River and the host of resort renovations now complete at Acapulco.

14 WHAT’S NEW AT LOS CABOS

This favorite destination has undergone extensive resort renovations and updates, and now features a few new restaurants.

16 WHAT’S NEW AT PUERTO PEÑASCO

Learn about all the new updates, including the opening of The Grand Mayan.

18 A NIGHT OF JOYÀ

The magic of your vacation extends beyond the resort with JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil.

20 VIDANTA IN THE COMMUNITY The Delia Morán Foundation P.20 Proud to be A Great Place to Work® P.21

22

LOOKING FORWARD

Wonderful new developments abound for Vidanta, but perhaps none as exciting as The Park at Nuevo Vallarta.

22 6 Rendering for The Park at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

11

Lounging beds at Sky Garden, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

Pool overlooking ocean, Vidanta Acapulco

The Cirque du Soleil theater, home to JOYĂ€, Vidanta Rivera Maya

18

6

WHAT’S NEW AT

NUEVO VALLARTA As our largest destination, there’s no denying that Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta always offers something new to see, try, or explore. Guests who visit this sprawling destination will have the opportunity to sample superb gourmet fare at new restaurants, peruse the offerings at new boutiques, and even host a special event in the utmost of style!

Diners enjoying a meal at Azur

01

NOW OPEN AT VIDANTA NUE VO VALL ARTA Coed Jacuzzi in brand-new hydrotherapy area

02

HYDROTHERAPY AT SPATIUM

The Grand Luxxe-exclusive spa just got even more luxurious with the addition of our new outdoor hydrotherapy wing, featuring Jacuzzis, cold plunge tubs, a steam room, and a relaxation area. Find your bliss in this beautiful area.

GRAND LUXXE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

AZUR FRENCH BISTRO & ART GALLERY

Azur offers an innovative range of classic and modern French dishes, all featuring the freshest ingredients and served in a truly stunning atmosphere.

Sky Garden offers poolside lounging with a great view

03

GRAND LUXXE RESIDENCE AND SKY GARDEN

This new tower features plush, opulent suites that are the pinnacle of luxury. Enjoy the spectacular nature that surrounds this building by lounging at the brandnew Sky Garden, a rooftop bar and pool area.

GRAND LUXXE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

7

The placid Spa Tower Pool

05

VIDANTA BALLROOM & MEETING ROOMS

Celebrate your special event in a spectacular setting or impress coworkers by hosting important meetings in Vidanta style, with all the details taken care of for you so you can focus on what matters most.

04

GRAND LUXXE SPA TOWER POOLS & FRESH CO

Tucked away on the edge of Banderas Bay, this gorgeous new facility includes a swim-up bar and moon-shaped whirlpools. The Fresh Co restaurant serves breakfast and lunch fare in a delightful and invigorating setting overlooking the Rivera Nayarit.

GRAND LUXXE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

Salón Vidanta, one of our new meeting rooms

The imaginative space at Grand Luxxe Kid’s Club

06

The Jack Nicklaus Golf Course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

GRAND LUXXE KID’S CLUB

Focusing on cultural and educational activities for kids, Kid’s Club offers plenty of opportunities to explore, play, learn, create, collaborate, and let loose, all under the supervision of an attentive staff.

GRAND LUXXE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

07

PRO SHOP & BAR

Located in the Grand Luxxe Residence, this new shop caters to golf pros and newcomers alike, carrying a complete array of the latest golf fashions and everything you could need in equipment.

8

WHAT’S NEW AT

RIVIERA MAYA From the beautifully renovated new beach that allows members to enjoy traditional sand while they lounge by the ocean to the gorgeous, newly erected Grand Luxxe Lobby, Vidanta Riviera Maya has undergone a wealth of great new updates we know you’ll love on your next visit.

The hydotheraphy room at Spatium

01

NOW OPEN AT VIDANTA RIVIER A MAYA

SPATIUM

Our brand-new spa offers state-of-the-art rejuvenation facilities, including foot bath, cold plunge pool, salt cabin, sensation Jacuzzi, sound therapy cabin, and traditional steam room and sauna.

Traditional Spanish fare overlooking the ocean

The new, state-of-the-art fitness center

02

BRIO FITNESS CENTER

This new, cutting-edge exercise facility offers the opportunity to maintain your workout routine in style.

GRAND LUXXE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

03

CHIRINGUITO

Sample traditional Spanish tapas dishes and delight in their robust, authentic flavor at this brand-new restaurant.

9

Toasting to a delicious dinner at Azur

A family enjoying the sights on the wooden pathways

04

WOODEN PATHWAYS

Enjoy a myriad of new jungle pathways connecting the resort, allowing you to explore nature as you head from one building to another.

05

AZUR FRENCH BISTRO

This new restaurant proudly serves the finest in French fare in a sophisticated, elegant atmosphere, complete with live piano music.

Our opulent new Grand Luxxe lobby

The alluring waters and surrounding lounge area of The Beach Club Pool

06

THE BEACH CLUB

Our lavish, new exclusive lounge area for Grand Luxxe and The Grand Bliss guests is now ready for use. This wonderful new attraction includes Kid’s Club with craft area, movie and nap room, sand pool, and baby wading pool.

07

GRAND LUXXE LOBBY

For the picture of opulent luxury, check out this beautifully finished, fully air-conditioned space, surrounded by a lush garden of verdant jungle vegetation.

10

RIVIERA MAYA RENOVATIONS AT VIDANTA RIVIER A MAYA The charming, new palapa of Balché

Mayan Sanctuary Pool now features more room for relaxing

08

BALCHÉ

This longtime Vidanta favorite now has a fresh, new atmosphere to offer along with its long-adored dishes.

09

Don’t hesitate to enjoy the newly expanded lounging area and other wonderful, luxurious updates made to this pool.

UPDATE HIGHLIGHT: BEACH RENOVATION PROJECT We’re happy to announce that we’ve fully renovated the main beach for your enjoyment, removing loose rocks and adding sand recovered from the ocean floor. We’ve added an artificial reef to help retain sand, breakwaters to create a serene swimming area, and put in several docks for easy ocean access.

In order to protect the wildlife we hold so dear, every stage of this project was strictly monitored with regards to environmental impact. Come experience this gorgeous new resort feature for yourself on your next visit to Vidanta Riviera Maya.

The beach renovation provides easier access to the ocean

MAYAN SANCTUARY POOL

11

WHAT’S NEW AT

ACAPULCO Our gorgeous Acapulco destination now offers new opportunities to enjoy the location and resort you love so much, including a fabulous new Lazy River and new pristine pools. Come visit us for a truly refreshing trip.

Evening descends at the Mayan Palace Pool

01

MAYAN PALACE PLAYA

Featuring a new Mayan Palace tower with completely fresh accommodations, a brand-new lobby, and a stunning new pool, the resort now looks and feels better than ever before.

NOW OPEN AT VIDANTA AC APULCO Fresh, light meals abound at Si Snack

See the resort from this refreshing new attraction

02

03

SI SNACK

Stop by for a quick, delicious bite, and enjoy the stunning scenic view of this new restaurant.

LAZY RIVER

Kick back and take in the scenery as you see the resort from the cool, soothing waters of this new attraction.

Our newly renovated lobby is a peaceful place to relax

RENOVATIONS AT VIDANTA AC APULCO 04

THE GRAND MAYAN POOL & LOBBY

Experience the beautiful, relaxing atmosphere of our completely renovated pool and lobby at The Grand Mayan.

Take in the ocean view from this beautiful new pool

12

THE PARK AT NUEVO VALLARTA

Resort rendering for The Park at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

13

READ MORE ON P.23

14

WHAT’S NEW AT

LOS CABOS

This gorgeous destination is more magnificent than ever before thanks to comprehensive renovations and a host of completely new features. We’re excited to announce that The Grand Mayan has undergone sweeping updates, from the luxury accommodations, to the pristine new pools, to exciting new restaurants to try. You really must see it for yourself!

COMING SOON TO VIDANTA LOS C ABOS

Drawing of all-new promenade leading to market

01

MARKET

This completely new, beautiful shopping center offers all you could possibly need while on your vacation: savory snacks, delicious desserts, and essential sundries. Whatever you desire, you can get it at this convenient new collection of boutiques.

The majestic view from the Mayan Sanctuary

Find complete relaxation at Brio Spa

02

MAYAN SANCTUARY

Take in the beauty of the resort and meditate on the joys of your vacation from this grand, peace-filled structure.

03

BRIO SPA & GYM

Whether you’re looking to try a new group fitness class or indulge in some serious pampering, this brand-new facility will let you score some “me” time.

15

NOW OPEN AT VIDANTA LOS C ABOS

The scenic vista, as seen from Blue Fish

04

A gorgeous new pool offers plenty of ways to lounge in style

05

BLUE FISH CEVICHERIA

INFINITY POOL

Take in the beauty of our new scenic infinity pool and bar, where you can kick back with a cocktail for a sun-filled afternoon.

Find the authentic tastes of Peruvian ceviche at this casual restaurant.

RENOVATIONS AT VIDANTA LOS C ABOS Toast to vacation at this stylish new lounge

Relax in style after a round of golf

07

VIDANTA GOLF & SPORTS CENTER

Spend a day enjoying our fully outfitted sports center, which includes a 9-hole golf course and a brand-new practice area, two tennis courts, gym, steam room, and swimming pool with kid’s area.

Enjoy fine Italian cuisine

06

THE GRAND LOBBY BAR

Savor a drink in the stylish setting of our beautifully updated lobby bar.

08

IL FORNO DI GIO

This Vidanta favorite now boasts a new updated menu full of delicious Italian dishes the whole family will love.

16

WHAT’S NEW AT

PUERTO PENASCO For us at Vidanta, there is little so exciting as opening a new resort hotel at one of our beloved destinations. That’s why we’re so incredibly happy to announce that we’re now receiving guests at The Grand Mayan Puerto Peñasco. In addition to this recent grand opening, we’ve made a host of other amazing, brand-new updates at this beautiful destination.

The Lazy River is a great way to get to know your way around the resort

01

NOW OPEN AT VIDANTA PUERTO PEÑA SCO

LAZY RIVER

This refreshing and impressive new water feature allows you to take in the sights and relax as you wind around the resort.

The Grand Mayan is now more spectacular than ever before

02

THE GRAND MAYAN

With spectacular views of the estuary, desert, and Sea of Cortez, The Grand Mayan offers gorgeous new suites and master suites that include a kitchen, Jacuzzi, and large terrace with plunge pool.

17

A peaceful lounge area surrounds an all-new Jacuzzi

Lounge on the deck or in the water at this new pool

03

POOL AREA

This new area features an infinity pool, five outdoor Jacuzzis — three by the main area and two in the Desertic Gardens — a pool bar, and activities stand.

Sample a variety of delicious classic dishes at Ola Mulata

Let your kids learn and explore while on vacation at the Kid’s Club

04

KID’S CLUB

Children will love all the exciting activities offered at this fun new facility, which includes an indoor entertainment center, waterpark, and snack restaurant — all exclusively available to kids ages 6 to 12.

05

OLA MULATA

Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, this delightful new restaurant allows you to enjoy a snack, entrée, or beverage while you take in the charming view.

18

A NIGHT OF JOYÀ

BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL EXPERIENCE AN EVENING FILLED WITH MAGIC, MYSTERY, AND ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCE JOYÀ.

The Cirque du Soleil theater, home to JOYÀ, Vidanta Rivera Maya

19

A contortionist showcases her talent during a performance

This lively Yucatecan restaurant offers food almost as vibrant as JOYÀ

AN AWE -INSPIRING EVENT FOR ALL Vidanta prides itself on creating truly magical moments for families from all over to come and experience together. But the addition of the theatrical and culinary phenomenon JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil to Vidanta Riviera Maya has brought a whole new level of adventure, mystery, and entertainment to our vacations, and we can’t wait for all of our members to experience its marvels for themselves! JOYÀ, the first collaboration between Vidanta and Cirque du Soleil, debuted last November and, ever since, vacationers and locals alike have been flocking to behold this amazing show, not to mention the breath-taking theater that contains it.

But JOYÀ is so much more than just a show! To truly get the most out of the experience, we recommend that guests take the resort-provided transport over to the theater early in order to enjoy a drink or appetizer at the neighboring

Find an evening of action and adventure at JOYÀ

DON’T MISS THE MAGIC OF THIS MUST-SEE SHOW, RIGHT AT THE DOORSTEP OF VIDANTA RIVIERA MAYA Nektar, a chic Yucatecan lounge and eatery overlooking the impressive architecture of the theater. Then, sample the most whimsical — and perhaps delicious — meal you’ve ever tasted by participating in the 3-course dining option of the show. Of course, with live music, soaring acrobatics, and astounding visuals, the JOYÀ performance is a truly unique and thrilling experience in and of itself. And when you and your family return to your resort hotel, night will have descended leaving the theater beautifully illuminated against the dark Mayan jungle, highlighting the fact that you’ve just witnessed something truly out of this world.

To find out more about JOYÀ or to reserve tickets, visit CIRQUEDUSOLEIL.COM/JOYA

20

GRUPO VIDANTA IN THE COMMUNITY THE DELIA MORÁN FOUNDATION Just a short drive from Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, there is a very special place where the laughter and smiles never stop — Fundacion Delia Morán (The Delia Morán Foundation).

Founded in 2013, this non-profit foundation is dedicated to teaching and nurturing children from low-income areas near the Nuevo Vallarta resort. Complete with an onsite clinic and cafeteria, the Delia Morán Foundation offers a daily curriculum with athletics, drama, dance and educational activities to over 150 children. The construction, operations, staffing, and support are funded by Grupo Vidanta.

Be sure to check out the Delia Morán Foundation during your next visit to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta. Tours are given weekly.

Simply contact your concierge to reserve your spot.

The Delia Morán Foundation provides sports and educational programs to local children

Young students at The Delia Morán Foundation

21

Some of our over 15,000 employees at Vidanta

PROUD TO BE A GREAT PLACE TO WORK ® The only way to ensure our members’ happiness is to start with our employees’ happiness — we do everything we can to build a happy, healthy, and productive work environment for the over 15,000 employees who make up the Vidanta community. We are very proud to announce that Vidanta has been named #6 on the 2015 list of Great Places to Work ® in Mexico.

Our employees take great pride in providing the best vacation possible

MEET A VIDANTA TEAM MEMBER Alexis Bostelmann Vidanta Riviera Maya, Vidanta Corporate Chef Alexis has been with Vidanta for 13 years.

To come up with the Best Workplaces Lists, the Great Place to Work Institute measures our employee feedback against the policies, programs, and practices that we offer our employees. We are honored to share the list with other companies that create environments with trust at their core, that live their values, and that strive to have a positive impact on their communities.

VOTED GREAT PLACE TO WORK® 2010 -2015

What is one of your favorite things about working at Vidanta?

It’s incredibly gratifying to work at a company that continues to push itself to get better, year after year. I love seeing Vidanta grow and change, and feeling like I’m contributing to that evolution.

What makes you excited to come to work each morning?

Here, every day is full of new projects and opportunities to use your creativity to take on challenges in a bold, new way. Being a part of such an innovative team fills me with happiness, and my colleagues seem to feel the same way!

22

LOOKING FORWARD Last year was a landmark one at Vidanta, and we will keep growing and evolving in 2015 with new resort hotel openings, more activities, new restaurants, and more.

Our vision for the future goes well beyond 2015 — and it’s going to be incredible.

Especially when we think about the most ambitious project we’ve ever undertaken: The Park at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta.

Resort rendering for The Park at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

23

THE PARK AT NUEVO VALLARTA Since our members are like family to us, we are incredibly excited to formally announce that we’ve embarked on an unprecedented endeavor solely with your happiness in mind. Partnering with the creative visionaries at Cirque du Soleil — the revolutionary leaders in international entertainment — we’ve commenced work on a groundbreaking project that will completely reinvent the idea of a theme park, pushing the limits of physics, technology, performing arts, and the imagination.

The Park at Nuevo Vallarta will create a world where magic and miracles never end. Whether guests are exploring new worlds, taking in awe-inspiring performances, or experiencing one of the most amazing water parks ever built, they’re sure to never forget the memories they make at this truly singular place. And the magic doesn’t have to end when they go back home for the night, either! Vidanta is creating three new resort hotels whose allure and originality will equal that of the park: The Kingdom of the Sun, The Kingdom of the Stars, and The Cascades.

Resort rendering for The Park, at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

WE’RE DOING THE IMPOSSIBLE : BRINGING YOUR WILDEST DREAMS TO LIFE

24

Don’t miss out on any updates!

Follow us on social media today.

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY. Come explore all the exciting changes and new attractions Vidanta has to offer!

This publication is provided without cost as a service to existing Vida Vacations members. It is in no way intended as, nor may it be construed as, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, timeshare, lodging rights or any other product or service, or as an inducement of any kind in connection therewith. Nothing contained in this publication may be construed to amend or supplement any contract, to create any rights, express or implied, in favor of any member or any other person or entity, or to create any obligation, express or implied, on the part of the publisher, Grupo Vidanta, Vida Vacations, or any affiliated resort or company (all of the aforementioned, collectively and individually, the “Resorts”), or any other person or entity. All photos, graphics, copy and renderings are protected by copyright laws and may not be commercially used or reprinted without the written consent of the publisher. No representation or warranty is made regarding the accuracy of information or renderings contained herein, and all information and other matters referred to or depicted herein are subject to change without notice in the sole discretion of the Resorts. The Resorts disclaim any responsibility for damages relating to any changes, errors or omissions, regardless of cause. All matters related to this publication shall be governed by the laws of Jalisco, Mexico, and the courts thereof shall have exclusive jurisdiction over, and be the exclusive venue for, all matters related hereto. Use of, or reliance upon, this publication shall be construed as specific and knowing consent to such jurisdiction and venue.

CLUS I VE LY EX

Call 1-800-292-9446

F

M R O

EMB E R

S