Travel Pulse: Top Takeaways From 2020 World Travel Awards

The past nine months have put the travel and tourism industry's resilience to the test, but some destinations and brands will end 2020 on a high note after winning big at the 27th World Travel Awards. Votes were cast by travel industry professionals as well as the public to determine the winners in dozens of categories. Here are some of the key takeaways from this year's winners list.

Portugal Secures Multiple Wins

While the Maldives, which reopened to international tourism in July, was named "World’s Leading Destination" for the first time in 2020, Portugal had a dominant display, with Madeira taking home "World’s Leading Island Destination," Lisbon being named "World’s Leading City Break Destination" and the Algarve being voted "World’s Leading Beach Destination."

Four Seasons, Sandals Shine

Four Seasons and Sandals remain among the most trusted and coveted brands in the world, with the former taking home the title of "World’s Leading Luxury Hotel Brand" and the latter being named "World’s Leading All-Inclusive Company" for 2020.

The Emirates Continue to Excel

The United Arab Emirates was also among the big winners at this year's World Travel Awards as Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways won "World’s Leading Airline" and the Dubai-based Emirates was voted "World’s Leading Airline - Business Class." Elsewhere in the UAE, Dubai International Airport was chosen as the "World's Leading Airport," and Armani Hotel Dubai earned "World’s Leading Hotel" for 2020.

Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Set the Bar High

Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Line closed out what's been a year to forget for the cruise industry with a pair of exceptional honors, being voted "World’s Leading Cruise Brand" and "World's Leading Cruise Line," respectively. The two lines will aim to further improve their rock-solid reputations when cruising inevitably returns.

Newcomers Announce Themselves as Industry Leaders

Boasting a stunning panorama of Dubai’s skyline, Address Sky View was named the "World’s Leading New Hotel," while the inviting Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa won for "World’s Leading New Resort." Click here to view a complete list of 2020 winners.