Explore the opulent world of Vidanta in Puerto Vallarta, as I reflect on the lavish stay and the stark contrast with the local communities. While immersed in luxury at The Grand Luxxe, this article delves into the broader context of Mexican tourism development, drawing parallels with renowned Jamaican entrepreneur Butch Stewart. The piece raises questions about the impact of such high-end resorts on local economies and encourages a closer look at the relationship between tourism, development, and community welfare.
I called my bestie Dollis Campbell from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport in Mexico and my first words were, “Girl this airport is so beautiful. Puerto Vallarta is fabulous. I can’t understand how it is that so many Mexicans are trying to escape from their country into America. This place is thriving”.
Looking back, I am embarrassed that I could have made such a blanket and baseless statement. But there is one thing about Dollis Campbell, she is always the voice of reason. Her retort was, “Then Silvera, how can you say that. Don’t we show the best of Jamaica to tourists visiting Jamaica, yet there are many communities that are suffering”.
She didn’t need to go further, I was jolted back to reality immediately.
I spent almost a week vacationing at one of the most fabulous resorts in Mexico. We stayed in a property that boasts over 3,000 acres of luxury, lush vegetation, great food, excellent service “from the heart”, coupled with fantastic camaraderie from some soul sisters who have done well with their lives.
We were accommodated at The Grand Luxxe (the two x’s places the emphasis on luxury). So, I am not just using the word because it comes to mind. This was what I experienced.
I am extremely grateful to my sister/friend Joy Robinson, a well-respected attorney-at-law in Baltimore, Maryland, who hooked me up. It was Joy’s friend, another lawyer, Erica Hunt’s birthday, and that girl knows what it means to live. Erica owns one of palaces, within the palace. So, I was in very good company. Overall, eight of us lived exactly how black powerful women ought to live, and automatic appointed leader was the multi-talented journalist, publicist, actress and film producer, Sharon Gordon.
We dined in the best restaurants; we stayed in the best suite and we received the type of respect bestowed upon African queens.
Every single one of us in the group, except one, was born in Jamaica. However, I was the only one who still resides on the island.
I have never used the word poor to describe myself and I am not about to use it now. Joy took care of my trip and I was in need of absolutely nothing. In fact, if I wasn’t careful I could easily have felt like a pimp, each time I signed her name on the invoice presented by the wait staff.
But, that’s not even here or there. I am writing this article because I wish to highlight the type of development that investors are pumping into Mexico.
At this particular resort that I stayed, a Mexican developer owns it. A Mexican Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart. This man now owns an area tagged ‘Vidanta World’. In fact, owing to the fact I was in my own world, I had to force myself to leave the resort and visit the town centre.
I can now see why people could visit Jamaica and stay in an all-inclusive without venturing outside. I also see why it is critical for hoteliers to encourage their guests to participate in excursions. This is critical to the rest of the country.
Anyway, let me get back to the resort (city), which will remain with me for years to come. I don’t believe it is possible for me to say how many restaurants, bars or even staff are on this property, because I saw thousands.
An adventure park is being built, a hotel looking like a castle (or Mayan temple) is under construction; another hotel which will probably rival the resort we stayed in is under construction, plus, plus, plus.
There are gondolas that allows you an aerial view of the property, which also boasts an 18-hole championship golf course.
By the way, on arrival, all bags (suitcases), handbags, packages must go through a scanner similar to what exist in the airports worldwide. I should have known from day one that this resort was no ordinary joint.
Now, let me just say. I have been to Cabo San Lucas and Cancun, and over 70 other countries in four continents. I have not been to Asia and Australia as yet. I have been to North, South and Southern Africa, the UK and Europe, Latin, South and North America, and of course several Caribbean islands. I am well-traveled. I am no frighten-Friday.
I am not easily impressed, because I have stayed in some of the most amazing resorts in the world, and I have stayed in Game Parks, where they have been forced to close the gates at nights so the lions would not come too close.
I have been there…done that.
When I say Mexico, a gwaan. It a gwaan. I noticed this from the time I visited Cabo in 2022.
Now, I can only hope that the people are benefiting from the industry called tourism, which is touted as the lifeblood and the engine of growth for numerous economies.
I want to big up the Vidanta World developer for not deserting his people. He does remind me of Butch.
