Titanic Belfast, St. Petersburg Snag Top Spots at Europe's 'Oscars of Travel'

Each year we anxiously await the tearing open of the envelope on stage to hear the words “And the winner is…”. Only this isn’t Hollywood’s annual award ceremony acknowledging the best in showbiz, it’s the prestigious World Travel Awards, now in its 23rd year. Taking place on September 4 at the Forte Village Resort in Sardinia, the ceremony revealed the top leaders in the tourism, airline, hotel, and hospitality sectors. “It has been a pleasure to recognize some of the best in European hospitality,” World Travel Awards President Graham Cooke said at the event. “Our near one million voters have selected the best-of-the-best in this exceedingly competitive market, and I offer my sincere congratulations to our winners following their success this evening.” And the winners are…
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    Best Destination: St. Petersburg

    This Russian city is the winner for the second year running, beating out the other 13 nominees including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, London, and Paris. “St. Petersburg is one of the most famous cities in the world and this is a fantastic opportunity for the city to take its rightful place as a top rank tourism destination," said Cooke.

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    Best Luxury Hotel: The Peninsula, Paris

    Opening in 2015 after more than four years of renovations, this stunning 200-room hotel took the top honors, beating the winners of the previous two years: Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Italy and Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Italy.

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    Best Attraction: Titanic Belfast

    Made up of artifacts, replica cabins, and nine galleries of artwork, Titanic Belfast is the world's largest exhibition dedicated to the famous ship, which was built in Belfast. The attraction took the top spot over the Acropolis and Eiffel Tower. “After only four years in operation, to be recognized and beat off stiff competition from Europe's most iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Roman Colosseum is a true honor," said Titanic Belfast Chief Executive, Tim Husbands. "We know what we offer at Titanic Belfast is special—the enduring story of Titanic captures hearts and minds throughout the world."

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    Best Airline: Lufthansa

    The German-based airline, which just became the first European flag carrier to extend TSA PreCheck privileges to its passengers, defended its title for the seventh year in a row.

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    Best Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise

    Nine years and counting! With cruises all over the world, Norwegian is always looking to push the barrier when it comes to new cruising concepts. Case in point: its new ship, Norwegian Joy, will be the floating home of the first-ever racetrack at sea.

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    Best Hotel: Ciragen Palace Kempinski Istanbul

    Blending a former sultan’s palace with a modern building, and providing amenities like a heated infinity pool with strait views and a hammam, it’s easy to see why this Turkish spot was named leading hotel for the fifth consecutive year.

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    Best Airport: Zurich Airport

    With offerings like a 12-mile trail circumnavigating this busy airport, there’s a reason this Swiss transit hub has won in the "best airport" category since 2004.

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    Best Islands: Madeira Islands

    Located off the coast of Northern Africa, this Portuguese archipelago is known for its wine, greenery, high cliffs, clear waters, and stunning beaches.

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    Best Luxury Train: Venice Simplon Orient-Express

    Between the vintage train cars and constant flow of champagne, it’s all about old world glamour on this Belmond owned and operated train. The leader in this category since 2011, the train keeps chugging along with new offerings, including a new route to Berlin.

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    Most Romantic Resort: Monte Santo Resort, Portugal

    Portugal's hot spots scored high at this year’s awards, but Monte Santo Resort topped the list as the most romantic resort for a second year in a row.