Held at the Belmond Reid’s Palace in Madeira, Portugal was once again recognised for its emerging influence at the pinnacle of the European travel industry by taking home the biggest honour of the evening.
The capital city, Lisbon, was awarded Best European City Break Destination and Best European Cruise Port, whilst The Algarve was successfully distinguished as the Best European Beach Destination owing to its ongoing popularity as one of the beach capitals of Europe.
In addition to this, the stunning Atlantic paradise of Madeira, the hosts of this year’s awards, was named as the Best Island Destination, TAP AIR Portugal was voted both Europe’s Leading Airline to Africa and Europe’s Leading Airline to South America.
Other coups included Europe’s Leading Tourist Board for Turismo de Portugal before the events showpiece award was given to the country to round up a successful showing – fittingly rounded up by a magnificent firework display to make the opening of the Atlantic Festival, a series of events during Madeira’s summer season.
In total, Portugal received a staggering 39 prizes, three more than they had received in 2018. The success of the country at the WTA reflects a buoyant tourist gradient in Portugal over the past 12 months and further reinforces Portugal’s growth as Europe’s go-to destination for tourists around the world.
In part, this is down to Portuguese “Brelcome” campaign to reaffirm the country’s ongoing commitment to British citizens, with the slogan “Brelcome, Portugal will never leave you”.
