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It’s been called the “Oscars” of the international travel industry by The Wall Street Journal― World Travel Awards, the only global awards of its kind, recognizes the country’s top operators and destinations in the industry each year.

This year’s World Travel Awards takes place on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, Orlando. Sponsored by Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train service London with Paris and Brussels, the ceremony will honor world-class products of exceptional quality and value.

Graham E. Cooke, president and founder of the World Travel Awards, says Eurostar’s sponsorship was particularly appropriate because of an increasing focus on environmental issues. “This is the world’s first train operator to make all journeys carbon neutral,” he explains.

Across North America, a total of 160 organizations have been nominated in 23 overall categories including airlines, airports, hotels, casino resorts, and others. Just a few of this year’s nominees are American Airlines, Celebrity Cruises, and Hilton Hotels among others.

“Winning one of the awards not only brings a travel company or destination acknowledgement and respect from the global industry, but also offers valuable commercial and profiling benefits that can filter down to the bottom line,” says Cooke.

For a full list of North American category nominations or more information on World Travel Awards, visit worldtravelawards.com.