As the year draws to a close, the travel community gathers to celebrate excellence in the industry. The 22nd Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, hosted by Travel Weekly, took place on December 11 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. This prestigious event honors companies and individuals who have excelled across 91 categories, showcasing the very best the travel industry has to offer.
The Readers’ Choice Awards stand out as one of the most anticipated events in the travel calendar, lauded for its fairness and inclusivity. Two distinct voting rounds ensure that the nominees and eventual winners are identified through a comprehensive process that involves travel professionals’ insights. The initial open ballot allowed readers to nominate any company they deemed worthy of recognition, fostering a grassroots approach that speaks to the community’s experiences.
Following this, a second round of voting solidified the finalists listed in the December 2 issue of Travel Weekly. This approach not only reflects the preferences of those within the industry but also highlights emerging trends and consumers’ shifting desires. This iterative process engages the community, nurturing a robust dialogue on what constitutes excellence in travel and hospitality.
Beyond the awards for companies, the event also took time to honor key individuals within the travel industry with Lifetime Achievement Awards. This year, Michele Saegesser (Viking), Greg O’Hara (Certares Management), and Frank J. Del Rio (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings) were recognized for their significant contributions and influence. Their leadership and vision have not only shaped their respective companies but have also set benchmarks for the travel industry at large.
In addition, the introduction of the Travel Weekly Sustainability Leadership Award marks a progressive step towards recognizing the importance of sustainable practices. Hurtigruten received this accolade for its commitment to implementing eco-friendly operations and practices, a theme that resonates deeply with today’s environmentally conscious travelers. This recognition embodies a growing trend among consumers to prioritize sustainability in their travel choices, reflecting their values and concerns about global environmental impacts.
With the results now in, the list of winners serves as a roadmap to excellence. Delta Air Lines emerged as a dominant force, clinching several awards, including Domestic Airline, Premium Economy Class, and Airline Overall. United Airlines followed closely behind as the International Airline winner, cementing its place within travelers’ hearts.
In the realm of accommodations, Marriott International reinforced its status as a leader by winning multiple categories, including Hotel Group Overall and Sales & Service. Meanwhile, Ritz-Carlton Hotels & Resorts earned recognition for luxury, showcasing the continued demand for high-end travel experiences. The Caribbean saw Sandals Resorts emerge as the winner in both the Caribbean category and All-Inclusive category, emphasizing consumer preference for inclusive travel packages that simplify the planning process.
Cruising also remains a cornerstone of the travel industry, with Royal Caribbean International taking home the Overall award among cruise lines. This anticipates an era of innovation and expansion, particularly with developments such as the upcoming Icon of the Seas setting a new standard for cruise experiences.
The vast array of award categories highlights the diversity of travel options available and celebrates the myriad experiences that appeal to different segments of the travel market. From adventure travel with companies like Adventures by Disney to luxury escapes through Abercrombie & Kent, the travel landscape continues to diversify.
Finalists and winners within the river cruise sector exemplify how travelers are seeking distinct experiences. Companies like AmaWaterways have successfully carved out a niche, with the awarding of the Best River Cruise Line underscoring the sector’s growth and changing consumer preferences.
The Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards provide a comprehensive snapshot of the travel industry’s state and direction. As consumer interests evolve and sustainability comes to the forefront, companies that adapt to these changes will undoubtedly thrive.
This year’s winners not only highlight excellence but are also a testament to the resilience and innovation present in the travel sector. As the industry navigates new challenges and opportunities, events like this gala remind participants of the rich traditions and advancements that define travel today, leading to a promising future for all involved.
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