The December issue marks the close of another exciting year at Global Traveler, culminating with the 22nd GT Tested Reader Survey awards at Loews Coral Gables Hotel Dec. 17. The hotel is part of a beautiful development known as The Plaza at Coral Gables, with shops and restaurants anchored by the property.
The GT Tested acceptees travel from all over the world to pick up their awards — it is truly a global event! I am very impressed with the winners this year and want to point out the great efforts of our Hotel of the Year (Marriott Hotels & Resorts) and Airline of the Year (Turkish Airlines). Turkish Airlines made impressive gains in the United States, currently flying from 14 cities to İstanbul. iGA Istanbul Airport is also recognized as Best Airport in Europe (located on the European side of İstanbul). The airline offers great service and connectivity through iGA and recently launched Turkish Airlines Holidays, which has been very successful.
Francis with his wife,Michele, in front of The Grand Çamlıca Mosque, İstanbul © Francis X. Gallagher
Marriott continues as a market leader, and its loyalty program, Bonvoy, remains a favorite among our readers. I really enjoy the M Club when traveling; it is a haven within a hotel. Marriott’s diverse brands, such as St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott, also offer great choices for top travelers. JW Marriott Marco Island remains a favorite of the team and our readers.
Of course, we must recognize those who held onto their accolades for the past 22 years, including United MileagePlus, Chicago O’Hare and Asiana Airlines. If there is anything sure about the world and travel, it is consistent change. Keeping a product top of mind for the past 22 years is an amazing achievement.
Hamad International Airport achieves an impressive award as Best Overall Airport in the World for the second consecutive year and Best Airport in the Middle East for nine years in a row. If you have not been to Doha and taken a dune bashing drive with the Qataris, I recommend it highly.
Let’s not forget the Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature Card from Bank of America (formerly the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card), which takes many awards including an incredible 14th win as Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card. The card also takes Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Benefits and Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Redemptions. I can go on and on about the winners — like Hertz, Delta and Wines on the Wing winners — but just turn to page 38 to enjoy discovering on your own.
Mark your calendar for our Leisure Lifestyle Awards April 20 at InterContinental Miami and The Trazees and Wherever Awards Aug. 3 at The Peninsula Chicago. After our GT Tested event, I have a short stay on the other side of the state, stopping by Sarasota before returning home for the Christmas holidays with my family. After so much travel in 2025, I am eager to plan where I need — and want — to go in 2026.
Francis X. Gallagher, CEO and Publisher
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