Philippines Stands Out as the Host of the World Travel Awards 2024

Image Name: Philipins Hosting Worlds Travel Awards 2024

The Philippines has recently taken center stage in the global tourism scene by hosting the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony for 2024. The event, which took place at the City of Dreams Manila, highlighted the Philippines’ growing reputation as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. The WTA, known for recognizing excellence and innovation in the travel and tourism industry, chose Manila as the venue for this significant event, marking a key moment for the country on the international stage.

The event in Manila was the fourth leg of WTA’s Grand Tour 2024, which spans six continents in its mission to identify and honor the finest travel and tourism organizations globally. The choice of the Philippines as the host for this event underscores the country’s importance in the tourism industry across Asia and Oceania.

At the VIP reception, several countries and destinations were recognized for their outstanding contributions to tourism. Vietnam emerged as a significant winner, with the country taking home the title of ‘Asia’s Leading Destination’. Ha Giang province, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, was named ‘Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination’. Ho Chi Minh City also received accolades as ‘Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination’. These awards reflect Vietnam’s growing influence in the travel industry, offering diverse experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

Hong Kong also shone at the event, with its Tourism Board being recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading Tourist Board’. This recognition comes at a time when Hong Kong is working to reassert itself as a top global destination amid challenges posed by recent global events. The Philippines itself was honored with Cebu being voted ‘Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination’, showcasing the country’s appeal as a romantic and picturesque setting for couples. Bali, known for its breathtaking beauty, claimed the title of ‘Asia’s Most Romantic Destination’, further solidifying its status as a top destination for love and leisure.

New Zealand continued to cement its reputation as a destination that offers everything a traveler could desire, winning ‘Oceania’s Leading Destination’. Sydney, a city known for its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture, was named ‘Oceania’s Leading City Destination’. Fiji Tourism took home the award for ‘Oceania’s Leading Tourist Board’, reflecting its ongoing efforts to attract visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural traditions. A standout winner in the tourist attraction category was Wintjiri Wiru – Ayers Rock Resort, Uluṟu, which won ‘Oceania’s Leading Tourist Attraction’. This recognition highlights the successful fusion of ancient storytelling with modern technology at this iconic Australian site.

In the hospitality sector, several top hotels and resorts were recognized for their excellence. W Osaka was named ‘Asia’s Leading Hotel’, while Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort took the title of ‘Asia’s Leading Resort’. The InterContinental Grand Stanford in Hong Kong emerged victorious as ‘Hong Kong’s Leading Hotel’, showcasing the region’s commitment to luxury and service. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts was recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading Luxury Hotel Brand’, reflecting its continued leadership in the luxury hospitality sector.

The Ascott Limited had a particularly strong showing, winning the titles of ‘Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartments’ for Ascott Makati in the Philippines. Vietravel was named ‘Asia’s Leading Tour Operator’, and Discovery Primea in the Philippines took home the award for ‘Asia’s Leading Business Hotel’. These accolades underscore the strength and diversity of the hospitality offerings across Asia and Oceania, with the Philippines playing a key role in this success.

Among the newcomer categories, Japan’s The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka was recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading New Hotel’. Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island, Vietnam was named ‘Asia’s Leading New Resort’, and W Sydney emerged as ‘Oceania’s Leading New Hotel’. These awards highlight the continuous expansion and innovation within the hotel industry across the region.

Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, served as a fitting backdrop for this prestigious event. As a global hub for both business and leisure travelers, Manila offers a unique glimpse into Philippine culture, history, and modern life. Visitors to the city can explore the ancient walled city of Intramuros, delve into the thriving arts scene, and discover artisan markets that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The choice of Manila as the host city for the WTA Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony underscores its growing status as a top destination in the region.

Graham Cooke, the Founder of WTA, expressed his pleasure at hosting the event in the Philippines, noting that it served as a fitting showcase for Manila’s many attractions. He praised the winners as stellar examples of tourism excellence, congratulating them for raising the collective benchmark across Asia and Oceania. Cooke’s comments reflect the WTA’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and promoting the very best in global travel and tourism.

Philippines Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco also highlighted the significance of this event for the country. She noted that the Philippines is now ready to host global events of all scales while maintaining its local charm and authenticity. Frasco emphasized that the World Travel Awards is not only a celebration of excellence in tourism but also a testament to the resilience, creativity, and collaborative spirit of the global tourism community. Her remarks reflect the country’s determination to continue growing its tourism industry and becoming a powerhouse in Asia.

In the aviation sector, several airlines were recognized for their excellence. Singapore Airlines was named ‘Asia’s Leading Airline’, while Air New Zealand took home the award for ‘Oceania’s Leading Airline’. Hong Kong Airport was voted ‘Asia’s Leading Airport’, and AirAsia received double honors as ‘Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew’. Qantas Airways was recognized as ‘Oceania’s Leading Airline Brand’, further underscoring the strong performance of airlines in the region.

This story was originally featured in World Travel Awards