The winners of the World Travel Awards 2025, one of the most prestigious honors in the global tourism industry, have been revealed. From Türkiye, Çırağan Palace Kempinski and Cullinan Belek stood out among the winners, while emerging destinations across Africa, Latin America, and Asia also drew significant attention this year.
The Heartbeat of Global Tourism Continues at the World Travel Awards
Celebrating its 32nd edition, the World Travel Awards (WTA) once again recognized the top names of 2025. Often called the “Oscars of the travel industry,” these awards bring together the sector’s spirit of innovation, high-quality standards, and sustainability vision.
This year’s results highlight the transformation of global tourism across regions stretching from Europe to Africa, and from Asia to Latin America.
Awards were presented through five main regional ceremonies—Africa & the Indian Ocean, Asia & Oceania, Europe, Latin America, North America & the Caribbean—each reflecting not only the top brands but also the emerging trends shaping the future of travel.
A New Balance: Where Luxury Meets Sustainability
The 2025 results reveal two dominant forces in global tourism: luxury experiences and sustainable growth.
Today, being “the best” is no longer just about comfort or service quality—it also means embracing environmental sensitivity, social value, and local cultural integration.
The WTA jury now evaluates criteria such as energy management, waste reduction, carbon footprint, and contribution to local economies. This approach redefines destinations as conscious living spaces, not merely travel choices.
A Map of Cross-Continental Success
In Africa, countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa stood out for their nature-based investments and sustainable tourism projects.
In Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and Chile redefined travel through culinary and cultural experiences.
Across Asia, the Maldives, Bali, and Thailand maintained their leadership in luxury hospitality and guest satisfaction.
Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand emerged as prime examples of “green luxury” with their eco-conscious and innovative tourism concepts.
Together, these results show that authentic experiences, rather than popularity, are now the new norm in global tourism.
Four Turkish Brands, Four Global Awards
Türkiye took the global stage in 2025 with four award-winning hotel brands:
Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul was named “Türkiye’s Leading Luxury Hotel,” reaffirming its timeless elegance on the Bosphorus.
Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus earned the title “Türkiye’s Leading Hotel,” representing the city’s modern hospitality vision.
Cullinan Belek was recognized as the “Leading All-Inclusive Resort,” setting a new benchmark for Mediterranean tourism.
Yacht Classic Hotel received the “Leading Boutique Hotel” award, showcasing the Aegean’s distinctive character on a global stage.
These achievements confirm Türkiye’s position as not only a regional powerhouse but also a key player in the global luxury tourism segment.
A New Roadmap for the Industry
The 2025 WTA results deliver three clear messages for the future of global tourism:
New destinations are on the rise—Africa and Latin America are now at the heart of global competition.
Quality is being redefined—experience, comfort, and sustainability are now inseparable.
Brand value matters more than ever—awards enhance visibility and revenue growth in international markets.
This evolution reminds strong destinations like Türkiye to build their brand communication on more strategic, sustainable, and globally competitive foundations. Ultimately, the World Travel Awards 2025 celebrate not only the winners but also the future direction of global tourism. Once again, the results make it clear: the world is no longer just traveling—it is seeking meaning, collecting experiences, and choosing to be part of a sustainable planet.
