Virtuoso shook up its annual Awards this year by introducing a new category designed to recognise the group’s ‘most admired’ consultants across the world.
The ‘Most Admired Advisor’ category was split into different regions, giving five consultants the chance to win in 2016.
A Kiwi had the honour of receiving the inaugural award for Asia Pacific and it was… Carol Morgan from Voyage Affaires in Auckland.
Congratulations Carol!
Virtuoso’s APAC Managing Director, Michael Londregan, said Carol is seen as a “leader” by her peers, luxury suppliers and by her clients.
“She is a worthy brand ambassador for our global brand.”
Michael Londregan, Virtuoso APAC Managing Director
“Carol has been a tremendous Virtuoso member who has always given her energy and expertise to the ongoing development of Virtuoso in New Zealand.”
Hundreds of attendees rocked up to this year’s awards, which marked the end of the 28th Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas.
10 Hoteliers of the Year from 10 years! #VirtuosoWeek #BestoftheBest pic.twitter.com/NpyqpJ3zjA
— Virtuoso (@Virtuoso) August 11, 2016
Some 2,200 votes from advisors and suppliers were submitted to help name this year’s top cruise lines, airline and agencies.
Full list of winners below:
Agency/Advisor Peer-to-Peer Awards (as voted by preferred partners)
Most Hospitable Agency: The Accomplished Traveler, New York, New York
Most Innovative Advisor: Sandie Wiesenthal, Protravel International, Beverly Hills, California
Virtuoso Rising Star: Emily Prentiss, Valerie Wilson Travel, New York, New York
Most Admired Advisor Asia/Pacific: Carol Morgan, Voyage Affaires, Auckland, New Zealand
Most Admired Advisor Canada: David Lowy, Renshaw Travel, Vancouver, British Columbia
Most Admired Advisor Europe/Middle East/Africa: Tina Rose, Protravel International, London, UK
Most Admired Advisor Latin America/Caribbean: Anita Besson, Matuete Worldwide, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Most Admired Advisor USA: Rudi Steele, Rudi Steele Travel, Dallas, Texas
Supplier Peer-to-Peer Awards (as voted by travel agency members)
Best Airline: Emirates Airline
Best Specialty Provider: Travelex Insurance Services
Best Luxury Cruise Line: Crystal Cruises
Best Resort/Contemporary Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
Best Premium Cruise Line: Oceania Cruises
Best River Cruise Line: AmaWaterways