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How we chose our winners for the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards

If you're anything like the Shop TODAY team, you're always planning your next vacation. Hiking in Guatemala? Lounging poolside in Florida? Taking a long weekend home?

We've got you covered. Whether you're on the hunt for a comfortable one-and-done outfit to carry you from the flight to your hotel room or a carry-on that's as spacious as it is lightweight, we're highlighting the products that truly wowed us in terms of quality, value and overall satisfaction.

Keep reading to learn more about Shop TODAY's 2024 Travel Gear Awards , including how we reviewed products to determine 51 winners across 17 categories, including some repeats from last year's Travel Gear Awards .

What is the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards? | See all of the winners of the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards | How we reviewed products | Meet the experts | Has your product been featured?

What is the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards?

Welcome to Shop TODAY’s second Travel Gear Awards, where our team of editors determined the best products on the market. From hidden gems to ones that our editors have been using for years, this list contains all of the products that have earned the Shop TODAY stamp of approval. 

We sorted through hundreds of new launches, editor recommendations, trending products flooding our social media pages and tried and true products to curate a list of must-have travel items worth reviewing for our awards. We then tried the products in our studios, putting them through practical experiments to see if they meet requirements when it comes to durability, function and quality for travel gear. Then, our team of editors and writers signed up to try out apparel and shoes, putting them to the test to see how they held up. Finally, our panel of experts reviewed some of our winners and gave feedback based on their expertise. 

See all of the winners of the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards

• Shop TODAY’s 2024 Travel Gear Awards are here! Save up to 50% off winners, from a multitasking carry-on to in-flight tech and more
• Award-winning travel innovators
• Award winners featured on Amazon
• Good checked luggage is an investment — travel pros help us narrow down the best ones
• Take some stress out of your trip with these comfy, supportive travel pillows — from $12
• 20 durable water shoes for the entire family that keep debris out and feet dry, starting at $10
• Having trouble packing? Travel experts share how to find the perfect organizer
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Shop these award-winning water bottles — starting at $14
• 20 comfy, sturdy backpacks for every kind of trip — and expert tips for finding the right one
• Struggling to find the perfect carry-on luggage for spring break? Travel experts are here to help
• Shop these must-have travel accessories from Lululemon, Away, Dagne Dover and more — starting at $8
• Tired of painful feet? Experts share tips for finding the best supportive walking sandals for traveling
• These shoes were made for walking! How to find the right pair for your feet, according to experts
• How to shop for a new charger or portable power bank, according to an expert

How we reviewed products

Shop TODAY editors tested luggage, apparel, accessories and travel tech over the course of a month. Each product was reviewed within its category the same way to test for durability, value and quality to ensure accuracy of scoring. 

For any product that made a claim (i.e. waterproof, wind-resistant, lightweight, etc.), we reviewed those based on three categories (value, quality and overall satisfaction) and based our scoring on how well it performed those specific tasks.

Meet the experts

• Brady Schrock is a flight attendant for a commercial airline.
• Katie Jackson is a travel writer and expert, who also served on our panel of experts in 2023.
• Jonathan Alder is a luxury travel planner and adviser.

Has your product been featured?

Shop TODAY is editorially independent and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY.  Click here  if you’re interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.

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Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2024

Every year, we award travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world, based on reviews and ratings collected over 12 months. So our Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winners are decided by you: real travelers from all over, sharing real opinions and stories.

The 2024 winners are a celebration of everything we did last year—all the places we discovered and all the times we just said “yes” to new adventures. We'll reveal the winners by category throughout the year, so keep checking back for the latest.

To learn more about how winners are chosen, visit our awards policy page .

Destinations

Explore all of the Best of the Best categories

Home » News » The Women In Travel Awards is tonight! Here’s everything you need to know!

The Women In Travel Awards is tonight! Here’s everything you need to know!

It’s tonight! The Women In Travel Awards is here!

To say the Travel Weekly team is ecstatic would probably be the understatement of the century because we are bouncing off the walls with jubilant glee.

Our buzzing ecstasy aside, the night is a big one and you’ll need to know a few details to maximise how much fun you can have. Luckily for you, we have the details that will ensure a smooth sailing for the night of nights.

The event will take place at the Dolton House Hyde Park . To be precise, that’s 3/181 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000.

Dolton House Hyde Park’s prime location means getting there via Uber or Taxi is a breeze. If you’re getting there on public transport you’re in luck because Dolton House Hyde Park is a five minute walk (maybe six or seven if you’ve got heels on) from Town Hall station and a two minute walk from St. James station.

Now, there is four other Dolton House locations across Sydney. Please remember to go to the one at Hyde Park. We’d hate for you to accidentally order an Uber to the one in Western Sydney and show up incredibly late.

When to arrive

Doors open at 6:30pm sharp for drinks, canapes, catch ups and general chit chat with your industry counterparts.

We ask that you show up absolutely no later than 7:10pm because that’s when attendees will start being ushered to their seats for a 7:30pm show start.

Please fill every seat when watching the show. It is an absolute full house for our sell out event so don’t shy away from your travel pals.

The show will go for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and then it’s time to hit the dance floor, grab a bite, a drink and congratulate the winners. And you’ve got a good few hours to do so because the event will conclude at approximately 11pm.

Tonight, it’s cocktail attire . What does that mean? Well, cocktail isn’t too strict, as long as you’ve got a nice dress, suit, pantsuit, blazer, or whatever on, we’ll be happy!

If you’re really confused, just google cocktail attire, that’s what we usually do.

With everyone looking so amazing it’d be a shame not to capture it the best we can. That’s why a professional photographer will be there on the night to capture your stunning outfits and gorgeous smiles.

The photos will be available to access via QR codes immediately (well 10 minutes after each picture has been taken) and if you’re posting on social media, please use the hashtag #WIT2023.

Enjoy yourself

The Women In Travel Awards is a night of celebration so the main thing we ask is that you enjoy yourself. It’s one of the biggest nights of the travel industry and goes towards such an amazing cause.

And only amping up your enjoyment will be the prizes to be given away on the night (and we’re not just talking about the awards).

If you’re not amped up enough, check out some photos from the last Women In Travel Awards here .

We can’t wait to see you all tonight!

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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Oaks Hotels & Resorts gets behind Netball’s Suncorp Super League

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Tourism Australia appoints new regional general manager United Kingdom

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Flight Centre’s Big Red Sale starts today

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Aurora Expeditions announces savings for solo travellers

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Contiki’s latest campaign inspires travellers to engage with the world around them

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Disney excited about prospects of cruise business as Disney Treasure nears completion

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Premium hotel operator ERDI launches it’s own academy in heart of Melbourne

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Qantas Red Tail sale discounts more than 200,000 fares

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We Want Your Top Picks for the 2022 Sunset Travel Awards

We’re celebrating the best destinations, hotels, restaurants, wineries, activities, and more across the West.

The deadline for entry is tonight at midnight—have you completed your entry?

There’s nothing better than traveling to an unknown town, moseying into a low-lit bar, and striking up a conversation with a stranger—only to find out they grew up there, raised their kids there, and that they’ve got plenty of nearby recommendations to reveal. Or maybe you enter your hotel lobby only to encounter a concierge with years of knowledge about the city. Within a few minutes, you’ve got a plan for an itinerary full of hidden gems. 

It’s in this spirit that we are thrilled to announce that our annual Sunset Travel Awards are back for 2022. We want your insight and expert knowledge about the very best destinations , hotels , restaurants , wineries , activities, and more all across the West. 

Sunset’s Garden Issue 2022

More from this issue:.

• Need Help Taking Care of Your Air Plants? We’ve Got Just the Guy
• Stroll Through Lotusland, the Fantastical Botanic Garden of Your Dreams
• What Happens When the West Coast Barbecue King Sets out to Conquer Fried Chicken?
• Add Some Color to Your Brunch with Edible Flowers

Submissions will be divided into five categories:

• Where to Go: The best destinations in the West, from bustling cities to quiet mountain towns, beachside getaways, national parks, and everything between—and beyond. 
• Where to Stay: The high-end hotels, national park lodges, unique inns, glamping sites, and hip B&Bs across the West that are newly opened, newly renovated, or have stood the test of time. If you can sleep there, this is your category.
• What to Do: The tours, parks, museums and galleries, zoos and aquariums, music venues, festivals of all kinds, wineries, spas, and every other sort of Western amusement you can think of.
• Where to Eat & Drink: The very best bars and restaurants across the region, from historic diners and rowdy beer halls to James Beard Award–winning establishments and invite-only cocktail bars.
• How to Get There: The West’s best airlines, train routes, public transport, rental-car agencies, ferries, cruises, bike shares, and other ways to get from point A to point B.

Sunset’s editors will judge the entries, and the lucky winners will be honored in our October/November print issue, on social media, and in a robust online package. We’ll be including every entrant in a dedicated online travel directory. We hope you’ll submit and be a part of this year’s awards!

Submissions open on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, and will close on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 . To enter, go to  awards.sunset.com .

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The 23rd Annual

Wednesday 6th november 2024, the tate modern, about the awards.

Celebrating the best in travel for 23 years, the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards will spotlight the most-desirable destinations, tour operators and travel brands. This year the ceremony will be held at the iconic Tate Modern, in an evening that welcomes industry heavy-weights and esteemed guests. The awards are completely free to enter, and the winners will be decided by public vote from the Wanderlust readers. In 2023, over 91,000 readers took part. Voting will open again in summer, 2024. More details, including the categories and shortlist, will be announced shortly.

THE CEREMONY

Welcoming the world’s foremost leaders in travel, guests will enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of the Tate’s world-class collection of contemporary art, a reception taking over the Turbine Hall amidst Mira Lee’s 2024 special commission, gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, and an awards ceremony that will uniquely combine virtual reality, video, and sound. You may notice the awards ceremony has moved to Wednesday night, to coincide with second day of the World Travel Market in London.

2023 WINNERS

View the full list of winners below from our amazing awards evening at the British Museum .

2023 Headline Partner

2023 Insurance Partner

In Association with

As the UK’s longest running and largest travel magazine by circulation, Wanderlust has been at the forefront of authentic, sustainable, and off-the-beaten-track travel for the past 30 years. Through the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, we hope to show our gratitude and support to those who represent the awe-inspiring, responsible travel, that our readers value. Wanderlust exists to inform and inspire travellers globally to take the road less travelled, by sharing specialist travel writing, stunning photography, and expert advice, both in print and online.

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Award programs.

Recognizing excellence and outstanding achievements

U.S. Travel Hall of Leaders

Recognizes individuals who have made sustained, noteworthy contributions that have positively impacted the travel industry, stimulated greater achievement, and raised industry-wide standards.

More info ›

Destiny Awards

Aims to foster the development of innovative destination marketing promotion programs and actives by recognizing organizations for excellence and creative accomplishment in travel marketing and promotion.

Distinguished Travel Champion Awards

An annual honor presented to Members of Congress, as well as one Executive Branch official, for exhibiting outstanding leadership in Congress and the Administration to enact policies that spur increased travel to and within the United States.

Mercury Awards

Recognizes state and territory tourism office members for excellence and creative accomplishment in marketing and promotion.

State Tourism Director of the Year Award

Honors a tourism director who has clearly influenced the obvious measurable improvement of a state or territory’s “travel and tourism profile” with his or her leadership.

Travel Writer Awards

Recognizes outstanding work in print journalism for United States travel destination stories by domestic or international media who attend IPW.

New to TTG?

Ttg luxury travel awards 2024 winners revealed at record-breaking event.

The winners of the 2024 TTG Luxury Travel Awards have been revealed at a glittering ceremony at one of London’s newest hotels.

Companies and individuals across 19 categories took home trophies, including Edwina Lonsdale, managing director of Mundy Cruising, who was presented with the Contribution to Luxury Travel accolade for her years of dedication to luxury cruise.

During the afternoon ceremony at Raffles London at The OWO, Audley Travel was presented with the award for Luxury Travel Workplace of the Year, while If Only took home the trophy for Luxury Trade Support Team of the Year.   All winners picked up their trophies among 350 leading luxury travel industry figures in attendance, marking the largest ever outing for the event, with guests also enjoying a unique musical set from London’s Brixton Chamber Orchestra, and helping to raise £5,000 for charity Shelter.   In one of the most hotly contested categories, Thys Taljaard, head chef skills developer of Singita, won the award for Sustainability Hero of the Year, with judges saying: “We were deeply moved by what Thys has achieved and the change he has been able to create. His mentorship and leadership have created a true legacy and brought opportunities and social and economic mobility that will have a positive impact for generations to come.”

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Competitions.

Win a three-night stay for two at Amirandes Grecotel Boutique Resort in Crete

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All the winners in the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards

Almost 30,000 Telegraph readers voted for their favourite destinations, airlines and travel companies – and the results are in

At Telegraph Travel, we always do our best to recommend good places to visit, the best travel companies to book with and the best places to stay. According, that is, to our own experience. But in the end, it is you, the readers, who are the ultimate judges. It is your experiences which count. So the moment when we get the final results from our annual reader survey is always an exciting and a fascinating one.

We have been reporting your views and judgements almost every year since the first edition of the awards in 1998. But this time, the wait has been rather longer than usual. Our last reader survey was published in November, 2019 – just before the pandemic struck. Two years of disruption and distraction then followed, before travel began to return to more normal patterns. Then, of course, we had to wait a year – to give you time to get back out on the road again. 

But now, at last, we can once again reveal the best of the best. Below you will find the results in 20 different categories – from your highest rated tour operators, airlines and car hire companies to your favourite destinations around the world. Over the coming days we will publish an analysis of each award, outlining why the winners have triumphed and taking a deeper look at the data. 

We can only compile these results because of your commitment and engagement. Our survey is a long, thorough one which takes time and thought to complete. But almost 30,000 readers have risen to the challenge and provided us – once again – with the most important, influential and independent insight into the world of travel. Into which companies are performing best and which destinations have fired our readers’ imaginations most; which have slipped from the top rankings and which have upped their game. 

Those that have excelled in our awards have only done so because they meet your exacting standards. And, as we can see from the sheer numbers and the wide range of destinations and companies which are rated, Telegraph readers are hugely adventurous and experienced travellers. Over the last year, you have explored every corner of the globe and travelled in all sorts of different ways - from cruises to road trips, trekking to trains. You have gone on coach tours, you have been on expeditions to the Antarctic. You have booked with the biggest sun and sand tour operators, the smallest specialist travel companies and you have planned your own adventures. Read on to see what you and your fellow readers’ verdict on the world of travel.

Best country

Winner: South Africa

Second: New Zealand

Third: Maldives

See our full guide to the best countries

Best worldwide city

Winner: Cape Town

Second: Vancouver

Third: Rio de Janeiro

See our full guide to the best cities

Best European country

Winner: Italy

Second: Greece

Third: Norway

Best European city

Winner: Venice

Second: Seville 

Third: Rome

Best short-haul airline

Winner: Jet2.com

Second: Swiss

Third: Aurigny

See our full guide to the best airlines

Best long-haul airline

Winner: Emirates

Second: Qatar Airways

Third: Singapore Airlines

Best hotel group

Winner: Ikos

Second: Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

Third: Belmond

See our full guide to the best hotel groups

Best tour operator

Winner: Audley

Second: Dialaflight

Third: Trailfinders

See our full guide to the best tour operators

Best escorted tour operator

Winner: G Adventures

Second: Exodus

Third: Riviera Travel

See our full guide to the best escorted tour operators

Best specialist tour operator

Winner: McKinlay Kidd

Second: Inntravel

Third: Kenwood

See our full guide to the best specialist tour operators

Best large-ship ocean cruise line

Winner: Celebrity

Second: Cunard

Third: Princess

See our full guide to the best cruise lines

Best small-ship ocean cruise line

Winner: Silversea

Second: Seabourn

Third: Hurtigruten

Best boutique ocean cruise line

Winner: Viking

Second: Azamara

Third: Saga

Best river cruise line

Winner: Uniworld

Second: Viking River Cruises

Third: Riviera Travel

Best car hire operator

Winner: Auto Reisen

Second: Cicar

Third: Zest Car Rental

See our full guide to the best car hire operators

Best ferry line

Winner: Brittany Ferries

Second: Stena Line

Third: DFDS

See our full guide to the best ferry lines

Best ski holiday company

Winner: Peak Retreats

Second: VIP Ski

Third: Sunweb

See our full guide to the best ski holiday companies

Best villa operator

Winner: Vintage Travel

Second: Simpson Travel

Third: Oliver’s Travels

See our full guide the best villa operators

Best cottage operator

Winner: Mr and Mrs Smith

Second: Unique Homestays

Third: Rural Retreats

See our full guide to the best cottage operators

Best rail holiday company

Winner: Great Rail Journeys

Second: Eurostar

Third: UK Railtours

See our full guide to the best rail holiday companies

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Full list of British Travel Awards 2023 winners including Jet2, P&O Cruises and Wetherspoons

Full list of the British Travel Awards gold winners for 2023 as chosen by the public with more than 1.5 million votes including Jet2, P&O Cruises, Wetherspoons

• 22:01, 28 Nov 2023
• Updated 15:52, 29 Nov 2023

Ready, Jet set, go…for 11 golds to Jet2 and Jet2holidays at the prestigious 2023 British Travel Awards (BTAs).

The Leeds-based sister firms took off with the biggest haul of prizes at the glittering gala night in Battersea Evolution, London, including Best Large Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays, Winter Sun Holidays, Family Holidays and Luxury Holidays plus Best Airline for Short-haul Flights and Best Airline for Economy Class Travel.

A record 1.56 million public votes were cast for the nation’s benchmark travel industry accolades as UK travelling consumers had their say in 76 award categories covering their 2023 leisure travel experiences and services.

Newmarket Holidays also triumphed, taking home an impressive eight golds in categories such as Best Travel Company for Escorted Group Holiday; Best Touring Holidays and Best for Safari Holidays plus for holidays to destinations including Central/Northern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa and Canada and USA.

Solmar Villas was next with a sterling seven golds including Best Medium Travel Company for Summer Sun, Winter Sun, Family, Villa and Tailor-Made Holidays.

On the water, P&O took Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays, Hurtigruten won Best Cruise Line for Expedition Voyages, Viking won Best Cruise Line for River Cruise Holidays and Cunard won Best Cruise Line for Ultra-Luxurious Holiday.

Brittany Ferries won Best Medium Travel Company to Western Europe, P&O Ferries took Best Operator for Short Sea/ Mini Cruises,

It’s no secret Brits love a cheeky drink at an airport bar ahead of a stupid o’clock holiday flight and now it’s official - Spoons is our bar venue of choice.

The BTAs had two new categories for 2023 and Wetherspoons claimed Best Airport Retailer for Food and Beverage, while Boots are taking off with Best Airport Retailer for Consumer Goods,

Also in the aviation world, London's Heathrow was voted Best Large UK Airport for Leisure Travel, with East Midlands winning in the medium category.

Best Airline for Low-Cost Flights was easyjet, with Emirates taking Best Airline for Long Haul Flights and Best Airline for Business Class Travel. For the 13th year running APH (Airport Parking & Hotels) won Best Company for Airport Parking.

On the roads, Avis reclaimed the gold for Best Company for Car Hire, Shearings picked up three golds for Best Large Company for Coach Holidays, Best Large Travel Company for Touring Holidays, and Best Large Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays.

In the medium company category Leger Holidays held on to Best for Coach Holidays and also won Best for Special Interest Holidays. Brightwater Holidays won Best Travel Company for Coach Holidays in the small company category.

In other gold categories, Travelzoo won Best Travel website for Travel Deals; Hays Travel won three Golds for Best National Travel Retailer, Best Agency for Cruise Holidays and Best Retailer of Forex/Travel Money and in a surprise twist, nominated for their first ever British Travel Awards, Lapland Specialist tour operator Santa Claus Trips was voted Best Small Travel Company for Family Holidays and Best Small Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe.

BTA director of events and partnerships Lorraine Barnes Burton said: “This year was a record in the 15-year history of the British Travel Awards with more than one and a half million votes.

“My sincere thanks go to the readers who took the trouble to vote and ultimately it is you, the travelling public, who decide the winners by voting for the travel companies you consider the best in the business.

“When you see the British Travel Awards winner logos on brochures, websites and social media posts you can be sure you are travelling with tried and tested travel companies - as voted for by you, the all-important travelling public.”

Since 2008 the British Travel Awards has been polling public opinion on leisure travel companies and the award accreditations are determined solely by the number of public votes cast after security software has flagged for investigation any spurious or suspect voting activity.

The 2023 voting period ran between June 19 and October 1 and 420,453 voters cast 1,561,370 votes.

All BTA voters were entered in a draw for a bumper travel prize jackpot worth around £47,700, with cruises, villa holidays, ferry crossings, holiday vouchers, Europe trips, airport hotels and parking, staycations and more to be won.

*Reach plc, with more than 130 national and regional news brands across both print and online including the Mirror website, is the official media partner of the 2023 BTAs.

*A full list winners also with silver and bronze awards is at britishtravelawards.com

The 2023 British Travel Awards gold winners

• Best Small Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Abercrombie & Kent
• Best Small Travel Company to the Far East/Central Asia - Abercrombie & Kent
• Best Small Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - ACE Cultural Tours
• Best Small Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to Southern Asia - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company for All - Inclusive Holidays - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to the U.S.A. - American Sky
• Best Company for Airport Parking - APH (Airport Parking & Hotels)
• Best Small Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Archipelago Choice Ltd
• Best Company for Holiday Car Hire - Avis
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Caribbean/Central America - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company for All - Inclusive Holidays - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Small Company for UK Family Holidays - Bluestone Wales
• Best Small Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Bookings For You
• Best Airport Retailer for Consumer Goods - Boots
• Best Small Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Brightwater Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Western Europe - Brittany Ferries
• Best Small Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Ciconia Exclusive Journeys
• Best Large Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Crystal Ski Holidays
• Best Cruise Line for Ultra - Luxury Holidays - Cunard
• Best Small Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Cyprus Paradise
• Best Medium UK Airport for Leisure Travel - East Midlands
• Best Airline for Low Cost Flights - EasyJet
• Best Airline for Long - haul Flights - Emirates
• Best Airline for Business Class Travel - Emirates
• Best Large Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Emirates Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Emirates Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Western Europe - Eurostar
• Best Medium Travel Company for Adventure Holidays - Exodus Travels
• Best Small Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - Family Outings North East
• Best Small Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - GolfKings
• Best Small Travel Company for Sports Tours Holidays - GolfKings
• Best Medium Travel Company for Rail Holidays - Great Rail Journeys
• Best Small Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best National Travel Retailer - Hays Travel
• Best Travel Agency for Cruise Holidays - Hays Travel
• Best Retailer for Forex/Travel Money - Hays Travel
• Best Small Company for UK Short Breaks - Holiday Extras
• Best Hotel Brand for Midscale Accommodation - Holiday Inn
• Best Cruise Line for Expedition Voyages - Hurtigruten
• Best Large Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Inghams
• Best Large Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - Inghams
• Best Medium Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Villa Holidays - Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - Ionian Weddings
• Best Airline for Short - haul Flights - Jet2.com
• Best Airline for Economy Class Travel - Jet2.com
• Best Large Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Winter Sun Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Family Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Travel Website for Flight Booking - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Small Travel Company to South America - Journey Latin America
• Best Medium Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Just You
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Leger
• Best Medium Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Leger
• Best Large UK Airport for Leisure Travel - London Heathrow
• Best Small Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - Luxury Coastal
• Best Small Travel Company to the Caribbean/Central America - Luxury Worldwide Collection
• Best Medium Company for UK Family Holidays - Lyons Holiday Parks
• Best Medium Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - Lyons Holiday Parks
• Best Small Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Mabuhay Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to Canada - My Canada Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - My Canada Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Touring Holidays - My Canada Trips
• Best Medium Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - National Holidays
• Best Medium Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - National Trust Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays - Naturetrek
• Best Medium Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - Neilson Active Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Neilson Active Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Canada - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to the U.S.A. - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Touring Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Small Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - North Lakes Lodges
• Best Small Travel Company to Western Europe - Osprey Holidays
• Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays - P&O Cruises
• Best Cruise Line for No - fly Cruise Holidays - P&O Cruises
• Best Operator for Short Sea/Mini Cruises - P&O Ferries
• Best Large Company for UK Family Holidays - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Large Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Large Company for UK Short Breaks - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Hotel Brand for Tourist Accommodation - Premier Inn
• Best Hotel Brand for Upscale Accommodation - Radisson
• Best Hotel Brand for Luxury Accommodation - Radisson Blu
• Best Small Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Red Sea Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Riviera Travel
• Best Large Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - Riviera Travel
• Best Large Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Rail Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Saga
• Best Cruise Line for Luxury Holidays - Saga
• Best Hotel Brand for All - Inclusive Resorts - Sandals & Beaches Resorts
• Best Small Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Santa Claus Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Family Holidays - Santa Claus Trips
• Best Large Travel Company for Touring Holidays - Shearings
• Best Large Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Shearings
• Best Large Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - Shearings
• Best Cruise Line for Ultra - Small/Boutique Holidays - Silversea
• Best Small Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Ski Safari
• Best Travel Website for Price Comparison - Skyscanner
• Best Medium Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Winter Sun Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Family Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Villa Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Small Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Solos Holidays
• Best Company for Travel Insurance - Staysure Travel Insurance
• Best Online/Call Centre Travel Retailer - Stewart Travel
• Best Large Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - Sykes Holiday Cottages
• Best Small UK Airport for Leisure Travel - Teesside International Airport
• Best Small Travel Company for Adventure Holidays - The Bucket List Company
• Best Small Travel Company for Rail Holidays - The Railway Touring Company
• Best Medium Travel Company to South America - Titan Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company to Southern Asia - Titan Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays - Titan Travel
• Best Large Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Trailfinders
• Best Medium Travel Company for Sports Tours Holidays - Travel Center
• Best Small Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Travel Department
• Best Small Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Travel Editions
• Best Travel Website for Accommodation Booking - Travel Republic
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Travel Talk Tours
• Best Medium Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - Travel Talk Tours
• Best Large Travel Company to Canada - Travelbag
• Best Large Travel Company to Southern Asia - Travelbag
• Best Travel Website for Travel Deals - Travelzoo
• Best Large Travel Company for All-Inclusive Holidays - TUI
• Best Large Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - TUI
• Best Medium Company for UK Short Breaks - ukBreakaways
• Best Cruise Line for River Cruise Holidays - Viking
• Best Large Travel Company to the U.S.A. - Virgin Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Far East/Central Asia - Wendy Wu Tours
• Best Airport Retailer for Food & Beverages - Wetherspoons
• Best Ferry Operator for Routes from/to UK Ports - Wightlink

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U.S. Travel Association 

Entries for U.S. Travel's ESTO 2024 Awards are now OPEN.

The U.S. Travel ESTO Awards recognize U.S. Travel destination and state tourism office members for excellence and creative accomplishment in destination marketing and promotion and foster the development of imaginative and innovative destination marketing promotion programs.

The Destiny Awards recognize U.S. Travel destination members for excellence and creative accomplishment in destination marketing and promotion at the local and regional level; and foster the development of imaginative and innovative destination marketing promotion programs and activities.

The Destiny Awards are open to all DMOs or CVBs that are members of the U.S. Travel Association.  Winners are honored at ESTO's Tuesday night Awards Dinner and Presentation.

The Mercury Awards recognize members for excellence and creative accomplishment in state and territory destination marketing and promotion; and inspire, through showcasing outstanding work, the continued development of imaginative and exciting marketing and promotional programs.

The Mercury Awards are open to all U.S. state and territory tourism offices that are members of the U.S. Travel Association.  Winners are honored at ESTO's Tuesday night Awards Dinner and Presentation.

Important Information

Eligibility & Guidelines   Learn more about who is eligible to submit, entry fees and important qualifications for submission.

Frequently Asked Questions Get answers to your ESTO Awards questions here.

Awards Timeline

View our ESTO 2023 Destiny and Mercury Awards Winners

Other ESTO Awards

STATE TOURISM DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

The State Tourism Director of the Year award demonstrates a clear influence and measurable improvement of their states' travel and tourism profile.  Learn more .

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Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour,...   Read More

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria. 

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

World Luxury Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global luxury travel and tourism industry.

Latest Winners

• Indian Ocean's Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2024 Get Into Maldives Travels
• Maldives' Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2024 Get Into Maldives Travels
• Europe's Leading Luxury All-Suite Resort 2024 Wyndham Grand Algarve, Portugal
• Greece's Leading Luxury Private Villa 2024 Omma Villas
• Europe's Leading Luxury Business Hotel 2024 Pestana Palace Lisboa, Portugal
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• Europe's Leading Luxury Boutique Hotel 2024
• Indian Ocean's Leading Luxury Resort 2024
• St Lucia's Leading Luxury Hotel Villa 2024
• Mauritius' Leading Luxury Resort 2024
• Europe's Leading Luxury All-Suite Resort 2024
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• Philippines' Leading Luxury Hotel Villa 2024
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Meet the Team

Hello Travel Industry Colleagues!

It’s that time of year again - when the UK’s travel companies put themselves forward for a chance to win one of the 2024 British Travel Awards accolades across a whole range of categories. Hopefully you have all had a good “peaks” booking period and things are looking good for your businesses going forward.

We had amazing feedback from everyone who took part in the awards competition and who joined us at the BTAs 2023 gala event in November - so we are of course looking to repeat and build on that success again for this year. To remind you, last year over 1.6 million votes were cast by consumers across the BTA categories - a record number.

This year, all the usual categories are in place for you to enter for 2024, and once again there will be no need for you to complete criteria forms or submissions - your entry will be verified by the BTA team to ensure you are in the right category(s) and then, once voting begins you will be sent your unique vote pop-up link to enable you to lobby your own customers for votes. The winners are decided purely on the number of verified votes they achieve from happy customers.

The nomination registration window will be open until 10 May and you are invited to enter as many categories as you wish. In many of the categories you can enter as a small, medium or large size company - just ensure you declare your company size when entering according to the criteria set for each of these size defined categories.

In the Trade & Media Newszone you will be able to see the declared sizes of all other companies who have entered – and of course who has entered into each category. If you feel a mistake has been made, you have until 10 May to make your views heard so we can investigate and amend if necessary.

Once companies are confirmed as entrants (follow us on Twitter for trade updates on confirmed entrants @BritTravAwrds) - they will receive:

Entering the BTAs is easy and full details can be found under the Nomination Application tab of this website. The cost of entry remains at last year’s price of £250 plus VAT per brand, per category entry which of course includes your BTA nominee click through software to lobby for votes.

Our database of subscribed consumer voters (over 400k) will be contacted directly to encourage them to have their say once voting begins - and to further encourage consumers to vote for their favourite companies, we will once again be partnering with Reach plc on editorial, print and digital features and display ads to promote the BTAs, the nominees - and of course our sponsors and partners. Millions of potential voters will be reached throughout the voting period.

Along with the travel editors at The Mirror, Star, The Express and the larger regional titles of our partners at Reach plc, we will be offering consumers free entry into the voters’ prize draw to thank them for taking the time to vote across the BTA categories - and if you’d like to be involved in this initiative, please do drop me a line and I’ll send you the details.

We’ll update you soon with our new plans and details for this year’s gala event when the results of the BTAs will be announced.

Kindest regards,

Lorraine and the BTA Team

The British Travel Awards trademark registration, and copyright is owned by Konawood Ltd. The British Travel Awards competition, event and production is devised, managed and operated by UK Travel Awards Ltd. Konawood Ltd and UK Travel Awards Ltd are registered at: Spirit House, 8 High Street, West Molesey, Surrey, KT8 2NA

Contact : Lorraine Barnes Burton Tel: +44 (0)7557 951027 | Email: [email protected]

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Shortlist revealed for 2023 Travel Gossip Awards

The shortlist for the inaugural Travel Gossip Awards has been announced – and the final round of voting is now open.

Travel Gossip’s inaugural awards event, The Travel Celebration, will take place on 28 March 2023 at BMA House, Tavistock Square, London, featuring the Travel Gossip Awards.  

The Awards recognise industry suppliers, partners and destinations that have been voted agents’ favourites.

Travel Gossip Managing Director Bruce Martin said: “Travel agents have embraced the opportunity to tell us their industry favourites in first round of voting and, now the shortlist has been revealed, we’re asking them to vote one last time for the winner in each category.”

Click here to see the shortlist and to vote.

Voting ends on 29 January 2023. 

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The Swan at Compton landlord wins prestigious award

Pub landlord, Kenneth Shaw, has won the New Licensee of the Year award at the industry’s national Night of Excellence Awards.

Mr Shaw won the award for his transformation of The Swan pub at Compton — previously The Foinavon — which he took over in 2023.

Judges commended Mr Shaw and his staff for transforming the pub in such a short time, one which boasts great pub food, quality beer and fantastic service.

Speaking about his win, Mr Shaw said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won this award.

“I still feel the very best is yet to come from us at The Swan.

“Maybe we’ll be back in a few more years to pick up more awards.

“I’m excited for the future of the pub and look forward to welcoming more customers to the pub this year.”

This year’s awards were presented at a ceremony and dinner hosted at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire, for the second year in a row.

Greene King business development manager, Wayne Farrell, said: “A big well done to Kenneth and him team for winning this award.

“They deserve all the recognition and plaudits they get.

“Turning The Swan into the great local pub business it is now in the space of just one year is a massive achievement and speaks to the incredible experience Kenneth has.”

The ceremony was attended by more than 140 licensees from across the country who work with Greene King Pub Partners, as well as representatives from the hospitality and pub sector including trade bodies and business leaders.

The Night of Excellence Awards celebrate the success of licensees and the businesses they run in partnership with Greene King.

There are 14 awards up for grabs, which are all sponsored by key suppliers and brands such as Molson Coors, Coca-Cola and Bacardi.

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TSA recognizes top performers and airports of 2023

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recognized its top performing employees and teams during the 2023 TSA Honorary Awards Ceremony held at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on April 30.

“It’s my greatest honor and privilege to highlight our incredible employees,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “This year’s TSA Honorary Awards is another opportunity for me to personally show my appreciation of our award recipients from across TSA, who have made significant contributions in support of TSA’s mission.”

“We’re here today to honor the remarkable dedication of TSA personnel who go above and beyond in their service to ensure the safety and security of the American people,” said Department of Homeland Security Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Secretary Kristie Canegallo. “It’s a privilege to highlight and celebrate their ongoing commitment to excellence.”

Gerardo Hernandez “In the Line of Duty” Award

Honoring the memory, service and sacrifice of TSA Officer Gerardo Hernandez, this award recognizes employees who distinguish themselves through bravery, valor and heroism in the line of duty. Hernandez was killed in the line of duty at Los Angeles International Airport on November 1, 2013.

The 2023 award recognizes Amanda Houck from Intelligence and Analysis. Amanda is a senior TSA Field Intelligence Officer with prior experience as a Coast Guard veteran. While returning from the Washington State Fusion Center’s Crime and Safety Conference, Amanda reacted with speed, laser-like focus and complete disregard for her own safety when she came upon a multi-car pile-up along a winding, mountainous road in the early afternoon hours of a snowy, cloud cast winter day in eastern Washington. Amanda moved from vehicle to vehicle to triage the victims and assess the severity of their injuries, remaining calm while using her well-honed first responder medical knowledge to provide first aid and offer steadying words of encouragement. Amanda’s actions, including her selfless attitude in placing the welfare and needs of others above her own, are a tribute to her composed demeanor, decisiveness and overall professionalism all while confronting a multitude of challenges in a sea of turmoil and distress.

Norman Y. Mineta “Cornerstone” Award

Each year, this award recognizes and honors the leadership legacy of former Department of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta. Following the 9/11 attacks in 2001, Mineta was instrumental in establishing what TSA is today.

This year’s recipient is Amber Waldner-Ortiz of Intelligence and Analysis. During FY23, Amber was detailed as the Vetting Operations, Section Chief in the Vetting Analysis Division (VAD), National Transportation Vetting Center (NTVC) West in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She superbly led the NTVC vetting workforce in Colorado Springs to record production levels, which significantly impacted TSA and the U.S. national security mission. She also created robust training, mentoring, development and role-based opportunities while promoting strong employee engagement and superior morale. She does this through outstanding leadership, character and complete dedication to her workforce. She remained committed while facing a life-threatening situation with her only son who required surgery. She quickly trained someone to backfill her position so she could be at her son’s bedside during the critical procedure and recovery. During her career, Amber has faced and overcome tremendous personal adversity. As one of the first female Federal Air Marshals, a Section Chief in the Training and Workforce Development Branch, and her current position, she has consistently delivered top-notch results.

“Blogger Bob” Award

In memory of Curtis “Bob” Burns, who was dedicated to building TSA’s social media presence as “Blogger Bob,” this award recognizes an employee or team who positively influenced public engagement by identifying, crafting, promoting and implementing creative solutions that significantly impacted the traveling public’s views and interactions with the agency.

This year’s award winner is the Strategic Communications & Public Affairs Media Relations team. The team, which includes seven regional spokespeople and two press assistants, held 272 proactive media events, answered more than 1,250 local media queries, published 575 local press releases and posted just over 2,000 tweets from their regional “X” accounts. Their outstanding work reached more than 2 billion people and garnered the agency just over $200 million in earned media coverage. The team also proactively conducted media events at 107 airports and earned coverage for airports of all sizes, including Guam, Saipan and Puerto Rico.

Public Service Award

This award recognizes TSA employees who volunteer with nonprofit or community service programs or activities, contributing to meaningful results for individuals or the larger public good.

The 2023 Public Service Award recipient is Heather Proctor, a member of Domestic Aviation Operations at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Heather is an outstanding example of a distinguished public servant through her service as a volunteer for the American Cancer Society (ACS), American Legion, Bastrop Church, Austin Police Department and local schools. For ACS, she is a senior member of the organization’s “Relay for Life,” a cancer fundraiser that she has served for the past 10 years. Heather is an assistant instructor for community-based, basic handgun safety courses for the public, as she helps guide new gun owners through federal and state rules and regulations of gun safety and how to shoot a pistol for self-protection in a local gun range. Her energy is matched only by her enthusiasm and ability to lend herself to so many causes throughout the year. She is a credit to her local community and TSA.

Other 2023 TSA Honorary Award winners include:

A complete list of winners and nominees is available here .

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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