Algarve Daily News: Algarve Daily News

Portugal has received 29 nominations in the 2011 World Travel Awards to be held in September in Turkey. The awards were launched in 1993 to acknowledge and recognise excellence in the world's travel and tourism industry.

Now celebrating its 17th Anniversary, the awards are regarded as the very highest achievement that a travel product could ever hope to receive.

TAP is nominated for Europe's leading airline and best Business Class carrier in Europe which may help to increase the company's price prior to being sold by the government this year.

The resort Club Med Da Balaia competes for the best resort in Europe, the Dona Ana beach in Lagos for the best bathing area in Europe and Praia d'El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort for the best beach resort in Europe.

There are also five hotels named including Guia’s outstanding 'Vila Joya.' which hopes for its 6th award in a row for best boutique hotel.

Lisbon is among the nominees for best "city break" and for best cruise destination in Europe.