141
141

Portugal Once Again Named the Best Tourist Destination in the World

3 December 2018

Portugal showed a strong hand at the 2018 World Travel Awards once again, taking the title of Best Tourist Destination of the world in the “Oscars” of tourism.

The ceremony was held last weekend in Lisbon, in the Pátio da Galé. Portugal competed with 16 countries for the award, including South Africa, Brazil, Spain, USA, Greece, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, New Zealand, Kenya, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.

According to the Lusa news agency, Portugal raked in a total of 16 awards in the competition, compared to 7 in 2017 and 4 in 2016, and was re-elected as the best tourist destination in Europe last June.

Ana Mendes Godinho, the Secretary of State for Tourism commented that “being the world champions in tourism for the second consecutive year is an international affirmation of Portugal, thanks to the work of all the Portuguese. Portugal is indeed a must-see destination. This is, above all, a prize for the Portuguese people.”

Lisbon won the award for Best City Destination in the world for the first time, and also for the best city break. Madeira was also named the best Island Destination in the world.

TAP won in the categories World’s Leading Airline to Africa, to South America and Best Airline Magazine, with its UP Magazine. Parques de Sintra – Monte da Lua was named the Best Conservation Company for the 6th consecutive year, and Turismo de Portugal was once again voted the Best Official Tourism Organization in the world, while Visit Portugal won in the category World’s Best Website for an Official Tourism Organization. Paiva Walkways, in Arouca, was voted the Best Adventure Tourism Attraction.

The Corinthia Hotel Lisbon (Best Urban Hotel), Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel (Best Classic Hotel), The Vine Hotel (Best Design Hotel), Conrad Algarve (Best Luxury Leisure Resort), Vila Joya (Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant) and Amazing Evolution Management (Best Boutique Hotel Operator) were also awarded.

Original Story: Vida Imobiliária – Ana Tavares

Translation: Richard Turner