For many years, the approach to child-friendly amenities in hotels has been dictated by a generic script—coloring books, stuffed animals, and simple toys that often lack engagement. However, there is a notable shift underway as the London-based consultancy Wanderland emerges onto the scene, challenging the antiquated offerings that largely define the hospitality experience for younger guests. Co-founders Saar Shai and Alicia Zur-Szpiro believe it’s time to update the status quo, transforming how hotels cater to children and teens with a wave of fresh and imaginative solutions.
Wanderland positions itself uniquely by focusing exclusively on the needs of children, teenagers, and their families within the hotel space. Instead of relying on the conventional wisdom of industry insiders who may have lost touch with younger demographics, Wanderland’s team consists of experts from industries dedicated to children’s products—including toys, game design, and educational technology. This perspective allows them to identify gaps that traditional hoteliers often overlook, particularly in urban environments where creative thinking about children’s experiences is often limited.
This November, Wanderland plans to unveil its inaugural Kids Hospitality Report, which promises to be a game-changer for the hospitality sector. By analyzing successful methods across various children’s industries, Wanderland seeks to equip hotels with actionable insights that make their offerings more appealing and memorable for families. One standout idea is the proposal for a tangible, non-digital loyalty program tailored specifically for children.
Shai suggests a unique system where kids can earn collectible tokens during their stay. These tokens could allow children to redeem fun rewards during their current visit or save them for future trips, echoing the gaming principles found in popular board games like Monopoly. This concept introduces an engaging element of currency for kids, adding excitement to the hotel experience and giving them a sense of ownership and control during their travels.
Wanderland proposes to rethink the teen engagement strategy by embracing technology in innovative ways. One particularly promising initiative is the development of an app named Surround. Unlike typical educational audio experiences, this app intertwines the teenage penchant for music and podcasts with travel adventures, fostering an organic engagement rather than a forced educational narrative. By scaling back on the assumption of understanding teenage preferences, Wanderland aims to create an inclusive experience that resonates with today’s tech-savvy youth.
Beyond audio experiences, Wanderland also recognizes the potential of video games in fostering family bonding during vacations. Rather than simply placing a console in a guestroom with limited controllers, hotels could create a more inclusive gaming environment that encourages family participation. This small change could significantly enhance the overall vacation experience by transforming gaming into a collaborative endeavor rather than a solitary activity.
While Wanderland understands the significance of introducing technology to enhance kids’ experiences, they also emphasize the importance of balance. Their philosophy acknowledges that vacations provide a rare opportunity for families to log off and engage with one another, yet they also recognize the potential alienation children might feel if screens are completely disregarded. This nuanced approach showcases Wanderland’s commitment to understanding the realities of family travel, ensuring that hotel amenities resonate with all age groups.
Ultimately, Wanderland challenges the hospitality industry to step beyond conventional wisdom and reimagine the family travel experience. By incorporating innovative ideas and leveraging insights from child-focused industries, hotels have the opportunity to enrich their offerings, fostering stronger connections within families and enhancing overall guest satisfaction. As the Kids Hospitality Report gears up for release, its implications could extend well beyond traditional approaches, signaling a transformative era for family-friendly stays around the globe.