Starwood Hotels & Resorts is introducing expanded family programs at more than 300 Le Méridien and Westin hotels worldwide. The initiative responds to the rising number of international families who travel together and to the diverse needs of children at every age.
“Family travel has evolved. Today’s families are more active, globally minded and digitally connected, and their travel preferences reflect those changes,” says Brian Povinelli, global brand leader for Le Méridien and Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Our conversations with loyal guests revealed that many modern family vacations are shifting toward active adventures — discovering new places, engaging with local culture and sharing meaningful experiences. We also turned to children themselves to better understand their needs and to shape programs that inspire the future of family travel.”
The new offerings emphasize interactive experiences, thoughtfully designed children’s amenities and dedicated spaces where families can play and connect. Both brands adopt a play-centered philosophy they describe as “the Universal Language of Play,” while each brings a distinct approach that aligns with its brand identity.
Westin properties emphasize natural inspiration and overall wellbeing for child guests and their families. Programs and amenities at Westin focus on restoring energy, encouraging healthy, active lifestyles while traveling, and incorporating nature-inspired elements that promote comfort and calm. This includes tailored wellness activities, age-appropriate fitness options, and restful sleep-focused services that help children and parents maintain healthy routines while away from home.
Le Méridien hotels tap into creativity, curiosity and cultural discovery. Their family initiatives are organized around three core ideas: coordinates, culture and cuisine. “Coordinates” highlights local exploration and destination-based experiences designed for families, from simple guided walks to kid-friendly city discovery activities. “Culture” introduces children to the arts, local traditions and educational experiences that spark curiosity and broaden perspectives. “Cuisine” brings family-friendly culinary experiences that encourage tasting, learning about local food customs and hands-on food activities suitable for various ages.
Across both brands, families will find interactive programming tailored by age group, thoughtfully designed spaces where children can play and learn, and amenities created with safety, convenience and enrichment in mind. Staff training and on-property resources will support parents and caregivers, making it easier for families to enjoy seamless, memorable stays. These offerings are intended to make travel less stressful for adults while giving children meaningful, engaging experiences.
By combining global reach with localized content, Starwood aims to deliver consistent standards and familiar comforts while also highlighting the unique qualities of each destination. Whether a family’s travel style leans toward wellness and outdoor activity or cultural exploration and culinary discovery, the refreshed programs at Le Méridien and Westin are designed to meet those needs and create shared memories that appeal to travelers of all ages.
As family travel continues to grow worldwide, these programs reflect a strategic effort to meet changing expectations. The emphasis on interactive learning, wellbeing, and culturally rich experiences is intended to make family trips more rewarding, relaxed and discovery-driven. With new amenities and curated activities across more than 300 properties, Starwood seeks to support the evolving ways families travel together and to inspire future generations of travelers.