Hilton makes room for little ones with unique programs

Hilton has become the latest hotel group to provide specialized amenities and services for families traveling with children amid the trend of Chinese parents spending more and generously for children's vacations.

The group's new Family Fun package introduces "pain-relieving" attractions such as dining offerings and in-room fun packs for children at a time when the summer vacation approaches.

One highlight is the hotel's Mini-General Manager program, which provides a fun yet educational experience for the little ones to role-play as hotel managers.

"We understand Chinese parents have high expectations for their children," said Wendy Huang, senior vice-president and commercial director at Greater China & Mongolia, Hilton. "They look for good facilities, safety and experiences and, at the same time, something their children can learn from a trip."

"At Hilton, we believe that travel presents an ideal opportunity for families to bond and form lasting connections together," she said. "We remain committed to creating heartfelt, happy experiences for the whole family."

China's luxury travel market has seen a surge in interest in family trips in recent years.

Recent figures released by online booking website Ctrip show travelers spend an average of 10,056 yuan ($1,480) for every family trip they book. The price is about 15 percent more than the average adult's trips.

A poll done by international travel agency Zanadu also shows 42 percent of Chinese luxury travelers care about what a hotel can offer for children.

Winter and summer vacations and the national holidays have become the best time for outings, according to a white-paper book released by another leading online travel agency, lvmama. It also estimated that with the change of China's family planning policy, families with two children will account for about 15 percent of the family trip market by 2018.

"I'd love to stay in comfortable hotels and interact with my family," said Li Xiaopeng, former world gymnastics champion, at the Hilton event.

"It may be an exhausting experience to travel with kids. But when you see their smiles, you know it is worth it."

The Hilton's Mini-GM program is an educational full-day experience for children, aged 3-12, being rolled out in over 40 properties in China.

The program will be offered at Hilton Chengdu, Hilton Dali Resort & SPA, and Hilton Linzhi Resort, among others.

wanghuazhong@chinadaily.com.cn