Lifestyle Trend: Travel 2026 Exclusive: See Who Dominates the Global Traveler Leisure Lifestyle Award Winners You Should Know

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Travel lovers and industry professionals around the world are celebrating as Global Traveler has revealed the winners of its 14th Annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards, recognising outstanding destinations, airlines, cruise lines, hotels, and travel brands that excel in leisure travel experiences. The announcement, published in Global Traveler’s April Leisure Travel Issue, reflects the voice of real-world travellers who participated in the survey that fuelled this year’s awards. These accolades highlight the best in global travel based on extensive reader input collected from August 1, 2025 to January 31, 2026.

Global Traveler Travel Awards Highlight World’s Best Leisure Experiences

Global Traveler – a monthly magazine dedicated to luxury and frequent travel published by FXExpress Publications, Inc. – conducts the Leisure Lifestyle Awards annually to recognise excellence in travel products, services, destinations, and brands. The 14th iteration attracted responses from thousands of readers, mostly affluent and well‑traveled individuals who contribute informed travel opinions.

Award winners were chosen through open‑ended surveys sent to subscribers and readers online, in print, and via direct mail. Participants shared insights about their favourite holiday destinations, preferred airline experiences, exceptional cruise journeys, and top hotel stays, making this year’s results a reflection of authentic traveller sentiment.

Major Winners Across Global Travel Categories

The 2026 awards cover an extensive range of travel categories. Greece was named Best International Historical Attraction for the fifth year running, proving that its rich cultural heritage continues to captivate global travellers. New Orleans, Louisiana earned the domestic counterpart award, marking its second consecutive recognition for cultural vibrancy and leisure appeal. Aruba clinched Best Beaches for the third consecutive time, celebrating its postcard‑perfect sands and year‑round sunshine.

In adventure travel, Jordan stood out internationally, while Asheville, North Carolina won domestic acclaim for its outdoor experiences. Leisure destinations were honoured across regions, with Charleston, South Carolina recognised again in the U.S., and Morocco and Krakow, Poland taking honours in Africa and Europe respectively. In the Americas, Panama City, Panama was named Best Leisure Destination for Latin/South America for the fifth consecutive year.

Cruise Lines, Hotels, and Airlines Awarded for Excellence

Cruise travel was front and centre at this year’s awards. Explora Journeys earned Cruise Line of the Year, while EXPLORA II was celebrated as Best New Ship – an exciting recognition for fans of high‑end sea voyaging. Other cruise leaders included Regent Seven Seas Cruises for Best Luxury and Best Suites, AmaWaterways for Best River Cruise Line (its fourth straight win), and Princess Cruises for Best Entertainment aboard ship.

Hotel and resort leaders also earned top honours. Meliá Hotels International was named Best Luxury Leisure Hotel Group in the world, while InterContinental Hotels & Resorts secured Best Hotel Chain Resorts for the third consecutive year. Loews won for Best Pet‑Friendly Hotels, reflecting traveller demand for accommodating experiences tailored to vacationing families and their four‑legged companions.

In the skies, Air Tahiti Nui was named Best Leisure Airline, with United Airlines lauded for Best Eco‑Friendly Airline for the fifth year. Qatar Airways received Best Onboard Entertainment and Korean Air was honoured for Best In‑Flight Menu. These recognitions reflect both the broad preferences of today’s leisure travellers and the intense competition among airline services.

Special Achievement Accolades Highlight Exceptional Leadership

In addition to standard categories, Global Traveler presented Special Achievement Awards for outstanding contributions. VisitMalta won for Outstanding Social Responsibility, highlighting the destination’s commitment to responsible travel practices. Alaska Airlines was recognised for Outstanding Innovations that enhance traveller experience, while Red Sea Global received recognition for environmental initiatives. Kerzner International was honoured for Outstanding Customized Services, reflecting its bespoke guest offerings.

A distinguished Publisher’s Award was presented to Michelle Buttigieg, North American representative for the Malta Tourism Authority, for her leadership in destination promotion and growth.

Awards Celebration Set for InterContinental Miami

Winners will be formally celebrated at a gala event on April 20, 2026, hosted at the InterContinental Miami hotel. The ceremony brings together leaders, innovators, and champions of the travel industry to acknowledge their contributions to leisure lifestyle experiences. More details and winners can be found in Global Traveler’s April Leisure Travel Issue, available in print and at globaltravelerusa.com.

What This Means for Global Travel Enthusiasts

This year’s awards offer travellers insight into standout destinations, services, and travel brands that go beyond expectations. The breadth of winners highlights evolving trends in leisure travel, from sustainable airlines and boutique experiences to culturally rich cities and luxury cruising. For travel planners and adventurers alike, the Leisure Lifestyle Awards serve as a trusted guide for planning future journeys.

As the leisure travel industry continues to grow, these awards showcase the destinations and brands that resonate most with global travellers. They underscore the importance of innovation, service excellence, and memorable experiences in shaping where and how people choose to explore the world.