Orlando Sentinel: Orlando Sentinel

Walt Disney World resorts grab "World Travel Awards"

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa were named North America's leading conference hotel and leading resort, respectively, in the World Travel Awards, announced this week.

Based on surveys it conducts of travel agents worldwide, the independent World Travel Awards company awarded its 15th annual honors to scores of tourism and travel businesses throughout the world. The North and Central American awards were presented last weekend at ceremonies held at the Swan & Dolphin. Above, Victor Yordan, left, room operations manager, and Carlo Sarmiento, right, food and beverage operations manager of the Grand Floridian are shown receiving the award.

Among other awards announced, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line was named leading North American cruise line; American Airlines, leading airline; and Miami, the leading cruise resort. New York City won for both best tourism board and destination.

London-based World Travel Awards earlier announced awards for similar honors in other regions, including Europe and Asia. The company will announce world awards in December.