I TOOK ONE OF THE most fantastic flights from North America: Hawaiian Airlines flight 51 from JFK to Honolulu, 9.5 hours. I can’t believe how easy it was. The service was superb, and I enjoyed the airline’s award-winning Prosecco, recently named Best Sparkling Wine in Global Traveler’s Wines on the Wing airline wine competition. My fellow passengers took note of my conversation with the flight attendant and the August issue of Global Traveler featuring the Wines on the Wing results, and joined me in a glass to salute the winning selection.

Although Honolulu International Airport is confusing (a few more signs would help), I entered the Hertz office with droves of people. As soon as I walked in, an attendant asked, “Any gold members here?” I said, “Yes!” and was whisked out the door and up the ramp to my Mustang convertible. Gold is the best and fastest service — I recently experienced a similarly quick turnaround in Fort Myers, Fla.

Note the Prince Waikiki completed a $54 million refresh that converted all guestrooms into modern masterpieces with all the technology a traveler needs. Comfortable beds, lots of outlets and other amenities make for a pleasant stay.

This issue contains the recap article from our Leisure Lifestyle Awards gala that took place at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. It was a wonderful, fun-filled evening during which I awarded the best in leisure travel while Polynesian entertainment livened up the gathering.

Finally, we extended voting for the GT Tested Reader Survey through this month; a ballot appears on page 27 and at www.globaltravelerusa.com/gt-tested-awards-ballot. Vote for all your favorites — there is some stiff competition, and I predict a lot of surprises. Recent mergers seem to have affected branding reputations, so your guess is as good as mine as to who will come up tops in the categories. We will present the awards Dec. 12 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, on the rooftop if weather permits.

Until next month, enjoy your travels!