A World for Travel Awards 2026: Who Are the Winners Honored at La Samaritaine?
On October 29, in the prestigious setting of La Samaritaine in Paris, the “Dinner of Influence” hosted by the A World for Travel forum brought together leading public and private decision-makers. This gala evening served as an opportunity to recognize several flagship initiatives committed to the sustainable transformation of the global tourism sector.
Organized on the sidelines of the plenary sessions of the international A World for Travel (AWFT) forum, the “dinner of influence” was held in a deliberately intimate setting at the restaurant Le Voyage, bringing together ministers, business leaders, investors, and international experts. At the heart of this cross-sector gathering, the presentation of the 2026 AWFT Awards recognized projects and individuals whose actions actively contribute to the industry’s environmental and societal transition.
The Hospitality Industry and Regions on the Front Lines
In the “Climate and Decarbonization” category, theRadisson HotelGroup and its Director of Sustainability and Safety,Inge Huijbrechts, were recognized for the operational rollout of their roadmap toward net-zero emissions. The jury highlighted the rigor of their carbon footprint reduction methodologies, which are applicable across their entire international hotel portfolio.
In terms of local governance, the Territorial Engagement Award was presented to the Government ofGibraltar. Despite significant geographical constraints and a heavy reliance on maritime and air connections, the destination has implemented public policies focused on the coordinated regulation of tourist flows and the preservation of marine biodiversity.
Technology and Culture Driving Impact
Technological innovation was highlighted with the award to theFondation de l’Espace in the “TravelTech” category. The organization was recognized for its use of data from space and satellite observation, providing destination managers with modeling tools to anticipate environmental pressures on terrestrial ecosystems.
The societal category, meanwhile, honored two complementary approaches. The renowned Serbian music event EXIT Festival was recognized for its model of a large-scale, eco-responsible, and inclusive gathering. At the same time, thePhilippine organization Global Explorers received the Societal Development Award for its direct efforts to promoteupskilling and economic integration among isolated island communities.
Special Recognition for Global Governance
Finally, an honorary award recognized the career ofGloria Guevara, CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and former Minister of Tourism of Mexico. The jury praised her ongoing commitment to strengthening cooperation between governments and private-sector stakeholders to ensure that tourism growth is achieved while respecting the world’s natural and cultural heritage.
