The Philippines, a bustling global hub, shone brightly as the host of the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The event, hosted at the City of Dreams Manila, WTA’s Official Hotel Partner, brought together tourism royalty from across the region to celebrate the travel brands excelling in innovation and excellence.
The ceremony showcased Manila as a top-tier destination, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and entertainment. From the historic Intramuros to the lively arts scene, visitors were immersed in its vibrant atmosphere.
Vietnam was recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading Destination,’ with Ha Giang province named ‘Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination’ and Ho Chi Minh City awarded ‘Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination.’ Hong Kong Tourism Board claimed ‘Asia’s Leading Tourist Board,’ while Cebu, Philippines, was recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination.’ Bali was honored as ‘Asia’s Most Romantic Destination.’
In Oceania, New Zealand took home the title of ‘Oceania’s Leading Destination,’ with Sydney winning ‘Oceania’s Leading City Destination’ and Fiji Tourism securing ‘Oceania’s Leading Tourist Board.’ The Wintjiri Wiru at Uluṟu’s Ayers Rock Resort was celebrated as ‘Oceania’s Leading Tourist Attraction.’
The event also celebrated excellence in hospitality. W Osaka was crowned ‘Asia’s Leading Hotel,’ with Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort taking ‘Asia’s Leading Resort.’ InterContinental Grand Stanford was named ‘Hong Kong’s Leading Hotel,’ and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts emerged as ‘Asia’s Leading Luxury Hotel Brand.’ The Ascott Limited scored a double win, claiming ‘Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ and seeing Ascott Makati recognized as ‘Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartments.’ Vietravel took home the title of ‘Asia’s Leading Tour Operator,’ and Discovery Primea, Philippines, was named ‘Asia’s Leading Business Hotel.’
In the newcomer categories, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, won ‘Asia’s Leading New Hotel,’ Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island, Vietnam, was awarded ‘Asia’s Leading New Resort,’ and W Sydney claimed the title of ‘Oceania’s Leading New Hotel.’
In aviation, Singapore Airlines was named ‘Asia’s Leading Airline,’ while Air New Zealand claimed ‘Oceania’s Leading Airline.’ Hong Kong Airport won ‘Asia’s Leading Airport,’ and AirAsia took double honors with ‘Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew.’ Qantas Airways was celebrated as ‘Oceania’s Leading Airline Brand.’
