Luxury Kids’ Clubs Redefine Family Travel Experiences

As family travel evolves, luxury resorts are increasingly catering to young guests with elaborate kids’ clubs that offer unique educational experiences. This summer, an eight-year-old child will engage in robotics workshops at the Andronis Arcadia resort in Santorini, while their parent enjoys leisure time at a beach bar. This trend reflects a significant shift in how children experience travel, moving beyond simple play to include enriching activities.

The Andronis Arcadia kids’ club, known as the ARCADemy, exemplifies this new approach. It provides workshops focused on Lego Education robotics, yoga classes, and tailored spa experiences designed for children. The club also organizes expert-led excursions that explore the culture and nature of the chic Greek island. Parents are reassured that the educational philosophy of the ARCADemy is grounded in STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—encouraging innovation and the development of essential life skills.

In contrast, childhood experiences in the 1980s often involved less structured activities. One parent recalls being left in a kids’ club at Costa Daurada in Spain, where the most memorable event was a long walk under the midday sun to gather snail shells. Such experiences were far removed from today’s immersive educational activities.

The transformation in kids’ clubs raises questions about the impact of luxury travel on children’s expectations and experiences. While these clubs offer rich learning opportunities, they may also create a sense of entitlement among young travelers. Children accustomed to high-end amenities and activities may develop expectations that could influence their future travel preferences.

Moreover, the emphasis on structured, educational play could lead to concerns about balancing leisure and learning. Critics argue that children should have the freedom to explore their surroundings without the pressure of formalized education. The challenge lies in finding a balance that allows kids to enjoy their vacations while also benefiting from enriching experiences.

As the travel industry adapts to the demands of modern families, the evolution of kids’ clubs highlights the changing landscape of family vacations. Luxury resorts are redefining the concept of family travel by providing children with opportunities to learn and grow in engaging environments.

In a world where travel has become more accessible, the emergence of lavish kids’ clubs may set a new standard for family vacations. Parents may find themselves weighing the benefits of educational experiences against the potential for cultivating a sense of entitlement in their children.

The future of family travel may depend on how well resorts manage to balance these enriching experiences with the freedom and joy that vacations are meant to bring. As children participate in activities like animating a robot arm, the question remains: Are they genuinely learning, or are they simply enjoying a luxurious experience? Ultimately, the answer may shape the way future generations view their travel experiences.