Jungala Hotel at VidantaWorld Riviera Maya

The rooms were spacious and modern, the food was outstanding everywhere we went, and we all had a great time at the pools and Water Park. It was one of our first family vacations where the kids loved everything. The only complaint was the ocean. Rocks and seaweed need attention on the beach, and we couldn’t swim there.

The water park being closed on Thursdays was our only real complaint. Nobody told us, so we missed the chance to go during our stay. The grounds were beautifully maintained, with nature plaques along the paths that teach you about local wildlife. The staff were kind and friendly, too. Jungala is huge, so a few days isn’t enough to figure everything out. We found Jade Market by the main pool useful for fruit platters, groceries, snacks, or dinner. You can also pick up things for your room at a Chedraui Market off campus. The breakfast Buffet restaurant is $50 per adult, and room service food wasn’t great. We had an amazing time with the kids. The bedroom was luxurious, and there were two small beds for them in the living room.

We spent about $350-$400 a day on food, and the room was probably $2,800 for seven nights. With food, shows, tickets, and massages, I’d guess we added another $3,400. Jungala Aqua Experience cost $20 for adults and $10 for kids, and Joya had different ticket options. Check the exchange rate on your card at checkout. We saved $300 by having the final charge run in pesos. Food was generally better than at the all-inclusive resorts I’ve tried, which is why I booked this place, but it was expensive, more than comparable meals in Portland, OR. Gong was $400 for three adults and one child, and we didn’t think it was very good. Plantains don’t belong on sushi. Our meal at Nectar, with Yucatecan food, was stellar. Most casual meals and lunches cost us $100-$150. I’d rather pay more for better food, but be prepared for the prices. The staff were all so nice, and the Concierge team was next level. They coordinated through a WhatsApp text string and answered our questions and requests quickly. Arturo, Vanessa, and Melany helped arrange tickets, dinners, and our week. We didn’t get that kind of friendliness or support at the last two resorts we visited. We had a wonderful week with our five-year-old, and there was something for everyone. We all loved Jungala Aqua Experience and the Cirque du Soleil show, Joya. The aqua park has a couple of great play areas for little kids, though the big slides have height and weight limits. My husband and I had great massages at the beautiful, very clean Spatium spa. They were about twice what I’d pay at home, even before tip, but being able to use the sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, and cold plunge before the massage was a nice touch. Some people say everything is too far apart, but the shuttles were quick and efficient, usually only a couple of minutes’ wait. We also enjoyed walking the resort’s boardwalks. It was usually just 15 minutes from our room to the farthest part. The facilities were so nice, especially the Beach Club pool right by the beach. Jungala team, thanks for an incredible week. Highly recommend.

We spent seven nights at Jungala and enjoyed every day. The resort is really nice and well maintained, with plenty of cuisine options and great tasting food at most restaurants. At the beach club, get the Angus burger and club sandwich. In the main dining area, you can choose food from five restaurants, from tacos to Greek to Asian. The service was extremely good. Javier V, Paulino G, Lizet T, and Gustavo S were the Jungala team members we dealt with most, and they made each day a great experience. We gave it five stars and plan to return next year with our parents and brothers.