As the tourism season enters its off-peak period, Hualien hotel operators are going against the trend. In addition to multiple star-rated hotels opening one after another, long-established hotel businesses are also transforming into family-friendly hotels, investing heavily in adding kids’ playrooms and game zones to let children step into a wonderland like Alice in Wonderland, aiming to capture the domestic family tourism market. Grand Formosa Taroko noted that both holiday periods since the beginning of this year have seen full occupancy, with booking rates for the April holiday reaching 85%, and family rooms nearly fully booked, solidifying its position in the domestic family-oriented hotel market.
In recent years, Grand Formosa Taroko in Hualien has actively transformed into a family-friendly hotel. Nearly 200 room types across the entire property are suitable for families, and in addition to the 29 Jimmy Liao-themed family rooms on the 7th floor, the hotel has continued to expand indoor and outdoor play areas. This year, it has invested over NT$300,000 to create “Wonderland Dreams,” an Alice in Wonderland-themed experience area where children can become characters from the story.
Huang I-hsuan, deputy manager of the marketing and planning department at Grand Formosa Taroko, pointed out that the hotel has gradually sought transformation over the past 30 years, continuously adding new hardware facilities and enhancing family-oriented experiences. The restaurant menu is also designed to appeal to both adults and children. In recent years, family guests have accounted for 70% of total visitors, and the first two holiday periods of this year both set records for full occupancy. The booking rate for the April holiday is also at 85%.
To celebrate Women’s and Children’s Day in April, Grand Formosa Taroko has launched a series of Children’s Month activities, including themed children’s tents, toys, and picture books in guest rooms, special children’s meal sets, 13 Alice in Wonderland-themed fondant desserts, weekend children’s cooking classes, and the upcoming “Wonderland Dreams” playhouse set to open soon.
Huang I-hsuan said the “Wonderland Dreams” playhouse features a piano facility with 33 black-and-white keys — stepping on the keys makes them light up and play musical notes. Children are welcome to show off their foot-tapping piano skills. Starting April 4, a series of Children’s Month events will be rolled out, inviting parents to bring their children for a unique holiday experience.
(China Times)