Le Meridien and Westin Hotels Launch Programs for Their Youngest Travelers
by Jessica Montevago /Encouraged by an increase in multi-generational travel, Starwood-owned Le Meridien and Westin Hotels & Resorts next week will begin rolling out new family programs focused on culture and education in more than 300 hotels and resorts worldwide.
Global brand leader Brian Povinelli said more than two-thirds of the hotels’ guests look at family programs when deciding where to book, company research shows. Both brands have projects in the pipeline for 2016, including in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Spain, Mauritius, and Thailand.
At Le Méridien, the Family Kids Clubs is geared toward creativity and exploration. Hotels will give children ages 12 and up a LEGO toy at check in, which they later take home as a souvenir. Le Méridien Phuket and Le Méridien Monte Carlo will offer experiences like the French game Pétanque, and a coffee and cocoa workshop; Le Méridien Ra Beach Hotel & Resort in Barcelona will offer bicycle tours and photography lessons.
The Westin Family Program “draws inspiration from nature to promote a sense of well-being,” providing kids with a travel journal and local activity guide. Activities vary from crab-hunting at The Westin Blue Bay Resort & Spa in Hainan, China, to cooking classes at The Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa on Hilton Head Island, SC.
Both Westin and Le Méridien also now offer a global family package that allows children to eat free, gives them complimentary access to the kids club, and offers discounts on a second room.
