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Global Traveler's 14th Annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards

Global Traveler, a premier source for luxury travel enthusiasts, has unveiled the winners of its 14th annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards in the April 2026 issue. This prestigious recognition shines a spotlight on the best in leisure travel as voted by discerning readers who travel for both leisure and luxury.

From August 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, Global Traveler surveyed its readers, inviting them to share their opinions on various categories pertaining to leisure travel, luxury experiences, and lifestyle services. The submissions came from multiple channels: the magazine itself, subscriber inserts, direct mail, and online communication. The survey aimed to capture a wide spectrum of reader preferences and insights, ultimately leading to the recognition of the industry's top performers.

Publisher and CEO Francis X. Gallagher expressed enthusiasm for the award recipients, emphasizing the continuing growth and vibrancy of leisure travel. He stated, "Congratulations to the winners of our 14th annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards! These accolades are reflections of our readers’ deep knowledge and experience in luxury travel. The providers recognized today are those who understand what leisure travelers are looking for and consistently excel in delivering exceptional experiences. We deeply appreciate every vote cast by our engaged and adventurous readers."

Special Achievement Awards

Alongside the Leisure Lifestyle Awards, several Special Achievement Awards were bestowed to deserving entities. Notable winners include:

• - VisitMalta for Outstanding Social Responsibility
• - Alaska Airlines for Outstanding Innovations
• - Red Sea Global for Outstanding Environmental Initiatives
• - Kerzner International for Outstanding Customized Services
• - United MileagePlus and IHG One Rewards for Outstanding Loyalty Programs in Leisure Airlines and Hotels respectively.

Additionally, the Publisher's Award went to Michelle Buttigieg, the North American representative for the Malta Tourism Authority, celebrated as Destination Leader of the Year.

Cruise Line of the Year

This year also saw the crowning of Explora Journeys as the Cruise Line of the Year, recognizing its exemplary services and experiences tailored for discerning cruisers.

Celebration of Winners

The winners of the 14th Annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards will be celebrated at an exclusive event to be held at the InterContinental Miami on April 20, 2026. Readers and travel aficionados can learn more about this year's winners in the latest edition of Global Traveler, which is available in print and online at globaltravelerusa.com.

Complete List of Winners

Below is the complete list of award categories and their respective winners:

• - Best Historical Attractions, International: Greece
• - Best Historical Attractions, Domestic: New Orleans, Louisiana
• - Best Beaches: Aruba
• - Best Adventure Destination, International: Jordan
• - Best Adventure Destination, Domestic: Asheville, North Carolina
• - Best Leisure Destination in the United States: Charleston, South Carolina
• - Best Leisure Destination in Africa: Morocco
• - Best Leisure Destination in Europe: Krakow, Poland
• - Best Leisure Destination in Asia: Seoul, South Korea
• - Best Leisure Destination in Latin/South America: Panamá City, Panamá
• - Best Leisure Destination in Mexico: Los Cabos, Mexico
• - Best Leisure Destination for Groups: Dubrovnik, Croatia
• - Best Weekend Destination in North America: Las Vegas, Nevada
• - Best Weekend Destination in the World: Bermuda
• - Best Ski Destination: Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Whistler, British Columbia
• - Best Golf Destination: Sea Pines Resort
• - Best Caribbean Island/Destination: Dominican Republic
• - Best Island in Europe: Santoríni, Greece
• - Best Island in the Pacific Rim: Fiji
• - Best Island in the United States: Amelia Island, Florida
• - Best New Ship: EXPLORA II from Explora Journeys
• - Best Luxury Cruise Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises®
• - Best Cruise Line Suites: Regent Suite, Regent Seven Seas Cruises®
• - Best Small-Ship Cruise Line: Windstar Cruises
• - Best Large-Ship Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
• - Best River Cruise Line: AmaWaterways
• - Best American River Cruise: UnCruise Adventures
• - Best Cruise Line Entertainment: Princess Cruises
• - Best Cruise Line Dining: Oceania Cruises
• - Best Cruise Line Spas: Virgin Voyages
• - Best Cruise Line Rewards Program: Club World, Cunard Line
• - Best Cruise Port: PortMiami
• - Best Eco-Friendly Airline: United Airlines
• - Best Leisure Airline: Air Tahiti Nui
• - Best Premium Economy Class: Delta Air Lines

Global Traveler not only connects brands with affluent readers but also helps illuminate the endless possibilities within the realm of leisure travel. With a readership of nearly 1.2 million, its impact on the travel industry remains profound and significant. To learn more about the awards and the winners, visit globaltravelerusa.com.