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As family vacation budgets tighten, a previously underappreciated hotel amenity has become all the rage: the in-room kitchen.
Whether a full-blown luxury kitchen or a functional kitchenette, guestrooms, suites, condos, apartments or villas that feature a kitchen have proven very popular with families looking to save a few dollars by eating at least some meals “at home.”
“I definitely think you’re seeing a trend to book suites with kitchens so that the savings for a breakfast, snack or even a packed picnic lunch can be used for activities,” said Shari Chang, senior vice president of sales, marketing and revenue management, at Aston Hotels and Resorts in Hawaii.
Chang pointed out that, not only are families finding it economical, but the ability to shop — and eat — like a local can actually add a new dimension to a family vacation.
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Nico Zenner, general manager of wholesaler Travel Bound, said he is seeing an increase in family-friendly accommodations, including those with a kitchen, worldwide.
“The apartments we sell are usually taken by families with children and many have several bedrooms and a kitchen, and they are serviced just like a hotel,” Zenner said.
Pat Monick, of 4 Front Branding, has been working with the Honua Kai resort on Maui. She said that even the barbecue grills on the property are seeing more use.
“Not only is it a way to save money, but families really appreciate that dinnertime bonding,” she said.
