Orient-Express Kid's Programs Offer Big Opportunities for Little Guests

Orient-Express Europe:

Nestled on a hilltop in Fiesole overlooking the city of Florence, Villa San Michele scores high with children with its multi-faceted Kid's Club. The property delights young guests with an array of educational and fun lessons, such as chocolate making and treasure hunts to pizza demonstrations and basic soccer techniques. Off-property excursions include a sweet adventure to Vivoli to get the scoop on the history of the famous “gelateria,” followed by a multi-flavored tasting, as well as a visit to the city's most famous museums with a private guide to teach children about the art and history of Florence in a fun and exciting way. Curious travelers of all ages can enjoy the nearby Palazzo Vecchio and Museo dei Ragazzi, where interactive workshops and guided tours abound.

At Hotel Splendido, young travelers can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities designed to enhance their stay. Upon arrival, children are greeted with a dolphin or squirrel soft toy, or a Splendido T-shirt. An array of activities abound, including child-friendly spa treatments, drawing, water-color or comic design classes with a local artist, ice-cream tasting, or learning the art of making and baking pizza and focaccia with Pizzaiolo Andrea at the property's Pool Restaurant. Family Tours Kids will Love: Pirates of Liguria, Royals & Adventures, In the Footsteps of Columbus. Families can also go fishing in the deep blue sea, and eat what they catch right onboard.

Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton, offers young ones an opportunity to relish in the freedom of the countryside with an array of kid-friendly activities. Upon arrival, children will find a toy box and Nintendo Wii in their rooms. Young guests are invited to learn how to cook and appreciate fine ingredients from the garden while having fun in the hotel's professional kitchens during the Children's Cookery School courses.

Set in subtropical gardens overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira Reid's Palace is dedicated to making a child's stay on property a memorable one. An exclusive Fun@Reid's club house and playground provide the perfect retreat for children to hang out and make use of the extensive toy collection, DVD equipped TV and computer games or participate in engaging activities such as postcard making and face-painting.

The Grand Hotel Europe, a cultural landmark of St. Petersburg, has mastered the ultimate in sophistication and entertainment for all ages. Upon arrival, all children are welcome to join the VIK (Very Important Kid) program with a variety of gifts including a signature teddy bear sporting the hotel's elegant blue uniform. Kids can indulge in the luxuries of adulthood with an exclusive invitation to socialize at the cozy Mezzanine café for ice cream and cake or while sipping special kid's “champagne” during Sunday brunch. For those less eager to grow up, delicious master classes in the hotel's own chocolate factory or the wide variety of play station games and movies will make for a memorable experience.

Orient-Express Africa:

An eclectic mix of adventure, leisure and cultural activities make Africa an ideal destination for families. Children can watch the animals roam from their own tent (50% off when parents book a tent) including meals, activities and game drives, and boat tours at Khwai River Lodge, Eagle Island Camp and Savute Elephant Camp, three of Orient-Express' luxurious safari lodges in the Okavango Delta region of Northern Botswana. Khwai River Lodge will also see complete refurbishments on brand new family tents, scheduled to open at the end of March.


Situated in the heart of Cape Town's cultural center, Mount Nelson Hotel is perfectly suited to accommodate children and young adults. The hotel enjoys a stunning location within walking distance of Kloof Street with its colorful children's shops and bookstores. Families will also enjoying breathtaking views of Table Mountain, recently voted one of the “7 Natural Wonders of the World.” Mount Nelson Hotel offers an opportunity for families to relax, enjoy and explore together with an exceptional Family Package. Take in the view of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain with four experiential tickets and complimentary transfer service in the hotel's eco-friendly Prius cars.

Additionally, younger guests are made to feel extra special with complimentary child-friendly extras including a personalized welcome letter from Nellie & Nelson, the hotel's penguin mascots; a mini-gown and slippers; and bedtime milk and cookies. For older children, the hotel features a teen lounge area where contemporary furniture and styling lend the space a young, fresh feel, and XBox 360 games, a Nintendo Wii, a computer, and big screen TV with a selection of DVDs provide fun and entertainment for children of all ages.

More information: Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises