Greek Tourism Ministry/GNTO Voted ‘World’s Leading Tourist Board’ at WTA 2020

GNTO President Angela Gerekou, Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis, GNTO Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis

Greece’s Tourism Ministry and the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) have won the “World’s Leading Tourist Board” title at the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2020.

The WTA event recognizes and rewards excellence in travel and tourism. The results follow a year-long search for the world’s top travel, tourism and hospitality brands. Votes were cast by travel industry professionals and the public, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named as the winner.

“A big thank you to the organizers and everyone who voted for this great honor. Greece stands ready to welcome you in 2021 with safety in mind,” Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis said in a video message.

On her part, GNTO President Angela Gerekou also thanked the WTA for its support.

“It is our responsibility to achieve tourism recovery as fast as possible and in a sustainable way. I dedicate this award to all the heroes and heroines of the tourism industry. I hope and wish that 2021 will mark the beginning of a better future,” she said.

GNTO Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis said the WTA recognized the efforts of the Greek Tourism Ministry and the organization during the unprecedented health crisis.

“This award is a vote of confidence for Greek tourism… Everything we have achieved so far is the result of a collective effort of all those involved in the Greek tourism industry. This award belongs to all of us,” he added.

Greek hospitality honored at WTA 2020

Greece’s hospitality sector also attracted international attention as four resorts are among this year’s WTA winners:

• World’s Leading Boutique Resort 2020 – Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Santorini
• World’s Leading Eco-Lodge 2020 – Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, Ioannina
• World’s Leading Family & Beach Resort 2020 – Sani Resort, Halkidiki
• World’s Leading Hotel Villa 2020 – Royal Blu Mansion @ Mykonos Blu Grecotel Exclusive Resort, Mykonos

Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa

“Our world winners represent the best in global travel and tourism and my congratulations to each of them. They have all demonstrated remarkable resilience in a year of unprecedented challenges,” said Graham Cooke, founder of the World Travel Awards.

“The World Travel Awards 2020 program received a record number of votes cast by the public. This shows that the appetite for travel has never been stronger,” he added.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 awards ceremony was broadcast online from Moscow, Russia.