The brightest stars of the hospitality industry converged at the World Travel Awards (WTA) European Gala Ceremony 2022 to find out who had won the ultimate tourism accolades. Europe’s top travel brands were unveiled at a spectacular gala ceremony at the new Hilton Mallorca Galatzo.
The Algarve, Portugal took home the coveted title of ‘Europe’s Leading Beach Destination,’ while Porto took home the prized title of ‘Europe’s Leading City Destination.’
The burgeoning Black Sea city of Batumi has been named “Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination.” Meanwhile, Madrid was named ‘Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination’ for the fifth year in a row, and the Convention Centre in Dublin was named ‘Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre’.
The big travel industry reunion at Hilton’s first property on Mallorca drew VIPs from 40 countries. The 208-room Hilton Mallorca Galatzo, which opened recently, is the latest addition to Hilton’s expanding European portfolio.
“What a truly memorable experience was had by our international VIP audience. This enchanting island setting proved to be the perfect backdrop for a sensational two-day event crowned by this evening’s Gala Ceremony. Hilton Mallorca Galatzo has done itself proud by making Europe’s luminaries feel so warmly welcomed. WTA had the privilege of recognising the industry’s leading lights from across Europe. As stellar examples of tourism excellence, our winners have helped the industry to raise the collective benchmark.”
Graham Cooke, Founder, WTA
Drying Little Tears – Regine Sixt Children’s Aid Foundation received ‘Europe’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award’ in a special presentation.
In the aviation industry, Turkish Airlines was named “Europe’s Leading Airline,” while British Airways was named “Europe’s Leading Airline Brand.” Earlier in the evening, Air France was named ‘Europe’s Leading Airline – Economy Class,’ and TAP Air Portugal was named ‘Europe’s Leading Airline to South America,’ and ‘Europe’s Leading Airline to South America,’ respectively.
The luxury and charm of the Raan Palace Kempinski Istanbul won the ultimate hospitality award for ‘Europe’s Leading Hotel,’ while the stunning Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul won the hotly contested title of ‘Europe’s Leading New Hotel.’ Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts was named “Europe’s Leading Luxury Hotel Brand,” while the Royal Monceau Suite @ Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris was named “Europe’s Leading Hotel Suite.” Forte Village Resort received a total of six awards, including the title of ‘Europe’s Leading New Resort.’
The majestic Conrad Algarve was named ‘Europe’s Leading Lifestyle Resort,’ while the luxurious Sani Resort was named ‘Europe’s Leading Family Resort.’
In the cruise industry, Norwegian Cruise Line was named “Europe’s Leading Cruise Line,” while Lisbon was named “Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination.”
Abercrombie & Kent was named “Europe’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator,” Booking.com was named “Europe’s Leading Travel Agency,” and FCM Travel was named “Europe’s Leading Travel Management Company.”
The next WTA Grand Tour 2022 red carpet events will be held in Nairobi, Kenya (Africa & Indian Ocean), Amman, Jordan (Middle East), and Muscat, Oman (Grand Final).