It was a night of elation and some disappointment at this year’s World Travel Awards Ceremony held at the Egypt Hall at Soho Square in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt.
The industry’s top brass, including CEOs and Directors of leading travel companies, government ministers and tourist board chiefs, all gathered from across the globe to battle it out at the most important evening of the year in world travel and tourism.
This year, a phenomenal 213,000 industry professionals participated in the voting process, which is scrupulously monitored and independently audited.
Although it’s been a tough year in the travel industry, there have been a few notable exceptions and the biggest applause of the night was saved for The Zambezi Queen who went on to receive international recognition for its ongoing commitment to perfection by winning the Africa’s leading luxury river cruise award.
“I together with Adrian Gardiner of the Mantis Collection are thrilled and honoured to receive this special recognition tonight. This award is a tribute to our ongoing commitment to the delivery of an exceptional experience and we are honoured that the industry has recognised our efforts in our strive for excellence. As always, we are fully committed to our clients and will continue to strive to be the exclusive River cruise of choice in Southern Africa” says Tony Stern Owner and CEO of the Zambezi Queen.
The Zambezi Queen operates in 5-star luxury, where the essence is about pampering, indulgence, and personalised comfort in the heart of African wilderness. Offering 10 Suites and 4 Master Suites, all en-suite with king or twin beds, private balconies and fans for those hot summer afternoons, full length sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun, sliding mosquito net doors and the finest finishes.
Graham E. Cooke, Founder and President of World Travel Awards said that in addition to the prestige for their respective companies and destinations, the winners also gain considerable commercial benefit.
“Because of its global reach and reputation, World Travel Awards is unique and regularly referred to as the ‘Oscars’ of travel and tourism”, said Cooke. “This means that consumers are increasingly using our portfolio of winners as a reliable and independent guide when booking their travel.”
Established 18 years ago, the awards are committed to raising the standards of customer service and overall business performance throughout the international industry.
“What is so encouraging is the strength demonstrated by the travel and tourism industry in the face of adversity. Tonight’s winners represent the cream of the industry, and those players that are leading the continent’s recovery,” Cooke added.