On Location: Club Med at 50 in Cancun – New Look, Big Ambitions

A traditional white party marked the conclusion of the FAM trip celebrating Club Med Cancun’s 50th anniversary, which brought together 20 travel advisors from Ontario and 20 from Quebec.

The event offered an opportunity to (re)discover the iconic resort, which has undergone a major refresh to mark this milestone, and to learn more about the brand’s ambitious expansion plans.

“We opened Club Med Cancún 50 years ago, but more importantly, we were pioneers in the destination. It was the first all-inclusive resort to open in Cancún, and we also contributed to the destination’s development, including helping with the opening of the airport,” said Vincent Giraud, vice president of Club Med Canada.

“Today, along with Club Med Punta Cana, it remains one of our two best-performing resorts,” he added.

Club Med also celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025. Over the past three-quarters of a century, the travel industry has evolved considerably, and so has the French brand.

Club Med has elevated its offerings, notably with the introduction of its Exclusive Collection. The company has gradually repositioned itself in the upscale segment, focusing on a more luxurious all-inclusive experience.

Today, all Club Med resorts have either been renovated or opened according to updated brand standards.

By 2035, 35 new Club Med resorts are expected to open, including properties in South Africa and Borneo, new markets for the brand. A second resort in Quebec, Club Med Tremblant, as well as a property in St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, are also among the announced projects.

Giraud told TMR Canada that the opening of Club Med Québec Charlevoix marked a turning point for the brand in Canada, generating renewed interest and momentum

“It really was a pivotal moment for us. Today, Canada is our third-largest market, with Quebecers accounting for 75 per cent of our Canadian clientele. Of course, Club Med is a natural fit for Quebec travellers. French is spoken at our resorts, and that’s something this clientele really appreciates. But we’ve also increased our market share in the rest of Canada as well, notably thanks to the work of Jacinda Lowry and the team in Ontario.”

“Over the past two years, we’ve seen annual growth of 20 per cent in that market segment. We’re working hard, and the response has been positive. We’re extremely pleased with the results, and this is only the beginning.”

Renovated spaces at Club Med Cancún.

What’s New at Club Med Cancún, 50 Years Later?

Turning 50 is certainly worth celebrating, but staying relevant also means continuing to evolve. In 2026, Club Med Cancún renovated its beachfront buildings, introducing fully redesigned Deluxe and Superior rooms with ocean views.

The refreshed accommodations feature tropical décor inspired by Mayan culture, bright bathrooms with glass partitions, a desk area with a sofa, and filtered water dispensers designed to reduce single-use plastic consumption.

A new area featuring the Las Velas bar and lounge, an infinity pool overlooking the lagoon, and an outdoor relaxation space has also recently opened. It has quickly become a popular gathering spot for sunset drinks. A casual dining area also allows guests to grab a snack or a light meal until midnight.

When it comes to activities and entertainment, there’s plenty that’s new, including a water park, 10 pickleball courts, a kids’ club, and a sports island featuring a dedicated yoga palapa, mini-golf, a flying trapeze, and archery facilities.

Jade Exclusive Collection at Club Med Cancún.

The resort’s Exclusive Collection area, which includes suites with up to two bedrooms, was renovated in 2024. Guests staying in this section enjoy access to a private pool, a dedicated beach area, a bar, and a private reception.

Demand for the Exclusive Collection remains strong, and Club Med plans to continue expanding this segment. “Club Med St. Croix will be entirely dedicated to the Exclusive Collection, a first for Club Med,” Giraud told TMR Canada.

Club Med is riding a wave of momentum, and even after 75 years in business, the brand shows no signs of slowing down.

“Our goal is to double in size over the next 10 years. We currently have 60 resorts, and we’d like to grow to 100.”

But to achieve these ambitious goals, Club Med is counting more than ever on its travel industry partners. The message was loud and clear.

“We need our travel advisor partners. We can’t do it without you! You trust us with your clients, and that trust goes both ways. We trust you. Together, we’ll make it happen.”