As travel advisors, it’s not only our duty to design the best possible travel experience for our clients, it’s also a matter of taking pride in a job well done. I’d be lying if I said there isn’t any personal gratification in hearing, “Best trip ever!” or “I couldn’t have done it without you.” So truly, a well-planned vacation is a win/win for both traveler and advisor.

Of course, there is a third element to a fabulous trip – superb travel suppliers that execute flawless experiences. To determine the Best of the Best, Virtuoso members voted for the 2019 Virtuoso award winners in a range of categories that acknowledge innovation and excellence. The awards are presented at the annual Virtuoso Travel Week, held each August in Las Vegas.

The 2019 Virtuoso Award Winners Include:

Best Multi-generational Program – Cruise: Royal Caribbean International
Most Luxurious Guest Experience – Cruise: Crystal Cruises
Best Culinary Experience – Cruise: Oceania Cruises
Best River Cruise Line: Ama Waterways
Best Expedition Cruise Line: Silversea Expeditions
Sustainable Tourism Leadership – Hotel: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley
Sustainable Tourism Leadership – Preferred Partner: Nomadic Expeditions
Best Bar: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club – Le Sirenuse Champagne Bar, Surfside, Florida
Best Dining Experience: La Reserve Paris Hotel and Spa – Restaurant Le Gabriel, Paris, France
Best Family Program: Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Best Wellness Program: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa, Tucson, Arizona
Airline of the Year: Emirates Airline
Service Partner of the Year: Travelex Insurance Services
Cruise Line of the Year: Crystal Cruises

While all Virtuoso providers – over 2,000 of them – meet and maintain rigorous standards to be accepted into the invitation-only membership, these 2019 Virtuoso award winners are truly the Best of the Best. We are honored to recognize them as our travel partners.

Virtuoso Benefits

Benefits vary by destination and properties, but complimentary extras at hotels and resorts tend to include:

• Preferred rates
• Room upgrade upon arrival
• Virtuoso-only amenities
• Daily breakfast for two
• Early check-in and late checkout

If you’re considering a cruise vacation, complimentary extras tend to include:

• Shipboard credits
• Virtuoso-exclusive shore excursions
• Welcome aboard receptions
• Dedicated onboard hosts
• Private car and driver
• Specialty dining
• Pre-paid gratuities

When you plan your next trip, ask your Covington advisor to design it with a Virtuoso travel partner and you’ll undoubtedly return saying, “Best trip ever!” too.