On December 11, 2023, the prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards, hosted by Travel Weekly, graced the grand halls of the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. This marks the 22nd anniversary of an event that not only celebrates the industry’s finest but also honors the voices of travel professionals who contribute to shaping excellence in the sector. The gala gathering boasted a black-tie ambiance, gathering industry luminaries, influential executives, and travel aficionados alike.
Each year, the awards span 91 diverse categories, acknowledging leaders across various segments of the travel industry. Remarkably, the nominations and winners emerge through a meticulous two-round voting process. During the summer months, Travel Weekly invited its audience of travel professionals to nominate their favorite companies, leading to a highly democratic selection process. The finalists were then put to a second round of voting in the fall, ensuring that the winners represent a collective acknowledgment of quality and service.
In addition to recognizing industry favorites, Travel Weekly doesn’t overlook the stalwarts of the profession. This year’s Lifetime Achievement Awards went to three remarkable figures: Michele Saegesser, the Vice President of Sales and National Accounts for Viking; Greg O’Hara, the founder and managing director of Certares Management; and Frank J. Del Rio, the influential CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. These leaders have significantly impacted the travel landscape, embodying dedication and innovation throughout their careers.
Moreover, the Travel Weekly Sustainability Leadership Award was awarded to Hurtigruten, reflecting an overarching commitment to eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism. In an age where environmental consciousness is more critical than ever, honoring such efforts not only inspires others but also highlights the travel industry’s responsibility toward the planet.
The results of the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards underscore a consistent theme of excellence, with Delta Air Lines dominating the Domestic Airline categories. With acknowledgment in categories such as Overall Airline, Sales & Service, and Business/First Class, Delta solidified its standing as a leader in the aviation industry. United Airlines also claimed its share of accolades, particularly in the International and Global Network categories.
In the realm of accommodations, Marriott International continued to assert its dominance within multiple categories, including Hotel Group Overall and Sales & Service. Their proactive approach to customer experience and quality service places them among the best in the business. Sandals Resorts, another standout, achieved recognition for its excellence in the Caribbean and All-Inclusive segments, reflecting the growing preference for luxury and hassle-free vacation experiences.
When examining the travel packages, a few names emerged as key players. Companies like Collette and Globus showcased their expertise in both Domestic Escorted and International tours, while Adventures by Disney carved out a niche in adventure travel for families. This diversification highlights the versatility within the travel market, catering to a range of preferences and desires.
The cruise sector celebrated a varied array of winners, with Carnival Cruise Line earning accolades in the Domestic category and Royal Caribbean International leading in various areas, including Overall and Sales & Service. The Recognition of cruise lines like Silversea and Seabourn in the luxury category underlines the shift towards experiences that blend opulence with adventure, catering to discerning travelers who expect the best in comfort and service.
Notably, river cruising continues to thrive, with AmaWaterways and Viking being recognized for their superb service and innovative offerings. The celebration of new ships, such as Viking Aton, showcases the industry’s ongoing evolution, catering to a demographic eager for unique and memorable travel experiences.
Beyond the awards themselves, the event serves as a barometer for emerging trends in travel. The recognition of sustainable practices, coupled with the emphasis on luxury and personalization, demonstrates an industry in transition. As travelers increasingly seek experiences that align with their values and preferences, companies are adapting to meet these changing demands.
The Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards not only honor the best in travel but also reflect the dynamic nature of the industry. As we look ahead to the future, these awards serve as a guidepost, indicating where excellence is found and inspiring others to reach for new heights in service and innovation.