Opodo Travel News: Opodo Travel News

India and Bora Bora in French Polynesia have emerged as the leading destinations in Asia and Australasia respectively in the latest regional legs of the 2011 World Travel Awards.

A joint ceremony for both continents was held at the Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel in Thailand, attracting VIPs, industry leaders and media representatives from more than 30 countries.

The Australasia leg of this year's programme saw Air New Zealand presented with the leading airline award, while Aitutaki in the Cook Islands and Hayman near the Great Barrier Reef in Australia were named the top beach destination and family resort respectively.

Malaysia Airlines was recognised as Asia's best air carrier for 2011 and Singapore Changi took the top airport award.

Other winners included the Four Seasons in Koh Samui (leading beach resort), Kuala Lumpur (leading city destination) and the Trident Gurgaon in India (leading hotel).

World Travel Awards president and founder Graham E Cooke said: 'During times of economic uncertainty world-class brands come into their own, continuing to grow market share whilst competitors flounder.

'Tonight's winners have proven their credentials as world-class tourism brands and continue to spearhead the global travel and tourism recovery.'