In a dazzling display of opulence and glamour, the Ritz-Carlton, Berlin, played host to the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) Europe Gala Ceremony 2024. The event marked the commencement of WTA’s Grand Tour 2024, a global quest recognizing the crème de la crème of travel and tourism organizations across six continents.
A Night of Triumphs and Elegance
The red carpet reception set the stage for a night of anticipation as industry leaders eagerly awaited the announcement of Europe’s best. Among the standout winners was Greece, crowned ‘Europe’s Leading Destination,’ stealing the spotlight with its unparalleled charm and allure. Portugal, too, reveled in success, with Madeira securing ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination,’ Braga named ‘Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination,’ and Azores claiming the coveted title of ‘Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination.’
Newcomers Making Waves
In the realm of new establishments, The Peninsula London emerged as ‘Europe’s Leading New Hotel,’ epitomizing stylish grandeur. The enchanting coastal retreat, One&Only Aesthesis in Athens, clinched ‘Europe’s Leading New Resort,’ while Spain’s Casa Palacio Don Ramón was honored as ‘Europe’s Leading New Boutique Hotel.’ Berlin’s Deutschlandmuseum, offering an immersive journey through 2,000 years of German history, proudly secured ‘Europe’s Leading New Tourist Attraction.’
Hospitality Royalty
Hospitality sector victors included Istanbul’s Çırağan Palace Kempinski, crowned ‘Europe’s Leading Hotel,’ and Sardinia’s Forte Village, which claimed the title of ‘Europe’s Leading Resort.’ The Seven Visions Resort & Places, The Dvin, a captivating new attraction in Yerevan, Armenia, was named ‘Europe’s Leading Entertainment Hotel,’ while Savoy Palace in Madeira earned the distinction of ‘Europe’s Leading Luxury Hotel.’ The Convention Centre Dublin took home the accolade of ‘Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre.’
Branding Triumphs
In the competitive branding arena, Citadines secured the title of ‘Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand,’ Kaizen Hoteles stood out as ‘Europe’s Leading Independent Hotel Group,’ and Delphina Hotels & Resorts shone as ‘Europe’s Leading Green Independent Hotel Group.’
Flying High
Aviation honors were not to be overlooked, with Lufthansa soaring as ‘Europe’s Leading Airline,’ and Zurich Airport claiming ‘Europe’s Leading Airport.’ British Airways excelled in the business class category, winning ‘Europe’s Leading Airline – Business Class,’ while Turkish Airlines took the crown for ‘Europe’s Leading Airline – Economy Class.’ TAP Air Portugal celebrated success as ‘Europe’s Leading Airline to South America,’ and THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines, along with Lexus @ Brussels Airport, claimed the coveted ‘Europe’s Leading Airline Lounge.’
Graham Cooke’s Congratulations
Graham Cooke, the Founder of WTA, expressed his privilege in hosting the opening ceremony in Berlin, commending the winners for elevating the collective benchmark in Europe’s travel and tourism economy. He stated, “It has been a privilege to host the opening ceremony of our 2024 Grand Tour in Berlin for an incredible evening acknowledging the pinnacle of Europe’s travel and tourism economy. I congratulate every one of our winners for helping to raise the collective benchmark to even greater heights.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What is the World Travel Awards (WTA)?
A1: The World Travel Awards is a prestigious event that recognizes and celebrates excellence in the travel and tourism industry globally.
Q2: How are the winners determined?
A2: Winners are chosen through a global voting process that involves industry professionals and the public, ensuring a fair and comprehensive selection.
Q3: What makes the Peninsula London stand out as ‘Europe’s Leading New Hotel’?
A3: The Peninsula London is honored for its stylish grandeur, offering a unique experience for travelers seeking luxury and sophistication.
Q4: Why is Greece awarded ‘Europe’s Leading Destination’?
A4: Greece’s win is attributed to its timeless charm, diverse attractions, and exceptional hospitality, making it a top choice for travelers.
Q5: What sets apart ‘Europe’s Leading Airline Lounge’ – THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines?
A5: THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines stands out for providing an immersive and luxurious experience, redefining the concept of airline lounges.
