Mandarin Oriental, Boston to accept Alipay, WeChat Pay

In collaboration with cross-border mobile payment company Citcon, the Mandarin Oriental, Boston is integrating and accepting Alipay and WeChat Pay, China’s most popular and preferred mobile wallet platforms with over 1 billion active consumers.

Alipay, which is operated by Ant Financial Services Group, is the world's leading digital payment platform, providing in-store payment service in more than 40 countries and regions across the world. WeChat Pay is an international social communication app designed to allow users to make purchases with the scan of a QR code.

“Mandarin Oriental, Boston is delighted to be the first five-star hotel in Boston to extend Alipay and WeChat Pay to our international clientele,” Philipp Knuepfer, GM of Mandarin Oriental, Boston, said in a statement. “As the Chinese consumer is anticipated to remain one of the largest growth drivers in the global luxury market, this addition offers added convenience for our guests, while increasing social engagement and further enhancing our ability to provide the legendary personalized service for which Mandarin Oriental is known.”

Visitations from China to the U.S. are expected to grow at annual rates ranging from seven to 10 percent over the medium term. By 2020, China is projected to be the United States’ second-largest overseas inbound market according to the U.S. Travel Association. The revenue from Chinese tourists abroad now makes up 21 percent of all tourism spend according to The United Nations World Tourism Organization. On average, Chinese visitors spend $6,900 per trip to the U.S., more than those of any other major inbound market.

Mandarin Oriental, Boston combines offers 148 guestrooms and suites, meeting and event facilities and personalized service. Hotel amenities include a holistic spa, fitness center and signature restaurant Bar Boulud, a French-inspired bistro and oyster bar from chef Daniel Boulud.