Turkish Airlines and Marriott Hotels Lead the Way as 2025’s Top Travel Brands: All You Need To Know

Published on December 2, 2025

Global Traveler, the premier travel magazine for luxury frequent flyers, has announced its prestigious Airline and Hotel of the Year awards for 2025. Turkish Airlines has been named the Airline of the Year, while Marriott Hotels & Resorts takes the title of Hotel of the Year. These accolades recognize the two industry leaders for their ongoing commitment to excellence in service, innovation, and guest satisfaction.

This marks the 15th year that Global Traveler has honored exceptional travel brands with these coveted awards, celebrating their achievements in the ever-evolving landscape of global travel. Turkish Airlines and Marriott Hotels & Resorts have consistently set the standard for quality and customer experience, making them worthy recipients of this year’s awards.

Turkish Airlines: A Legacy of Excellence in Air Travel

Founded in 1933, Turkish Airlines has come a long way from its humble beginnings as State Airlines Administration, which operated with just five airplanes and fewer than 30 employees. Today, Turkish Airlines is a globally recognized airline, known for its outstanding service, extensive network, and commitment to social responsibility. The airline has played a pivotal role in the evolution of global air travel and continues to enhance its offerings with state-of-the-art amenities and innovative services.

In recent years, Turkish Airlines has excelled in meeting the changing needs of travelers by embracing the latest travel trends. Its ability to offer a seamless and enjoyable travel experience has earned it widespread recognition, including this prestigious honor as Airline of the Year. The airline’s focus on sustainability, community engagement, and a world-class in-flight experience solidifies its position as a leader in the aviation industry.

Marriott Hotels & Resorts: A Legacy of Hospitality and Innovation

Marriott Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, has evolved from its founding in 1927 into one of the largest and most well-respected hospitality brands in the world. The opening of its 100th property in 1981 marked a significant milestone in the company’s expansion, and since then, Marriott has continued to grow its global presence, providing luxury accommodations and unmatched service to guests worldwide.

Marriott’s dedication to enhancing the guest experience is evident in its “Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction” platform, which focuses on four core pillars: Nurture, Sustain, Empower, and Welcome. This approach reflects Marriott’s commitment to sustainable business practices and community engagement, making it a standout in the hospitality industry. Its portfolio includes a wide range of high-end properties across the globe, offering travelers diverse options for luxury stays, whether for business or leisure.

Criteria for Selection and the Role of Global Traveller

The awards were determined through a meticulous selection process conducted by the staff and Advisory Board members of Global Traveler. The criteria included a thorough evaluation of key factors such as financial performance, occupancy rates, guest satisfaction, on-time figures, safety records, and overall quality of service. Additionally, independent research and feedback from frequent luxury travelers played a critical role in identifying the best-in-class airline and hotel brands.

Once an airline or hotel is awarded the prestigious Airline or Hotel of the Year title, they are ineligible for the award for three years, ensuring that fresh contenders have the opportunity to be recognized for their achievements in future years.

Recognition and Upcoming Celebration

The winners of the 2025 Airline and Hotel of the Year awards will be honored at a special reception on December 17, 2025, at Loews Coral Gables. This exclusive event will bring together industry leaders, travel experts, and representatives from Turkish Airlines and Marriott Hotels & Resorts to celebrate their outstanding accomplishments.

Setting the Standard for Excellence in Travel

Turkish Airlines and Marriott Hotels & Resorts have both demonstrated unparalleled leadership in their respective industries. Their continued dedication to quality service, innovation, and sustainability makes them the ideal recipients of Global Traveler’s prestigious awards for 2025. These accolades reflect the ongoing efforts of both brands to provide exceptional experiences for travelers and redefine what it means to deliver world-class service in the modern travel landscape.

As travel continues to evolve, Turkish Airlines and Marriott Hotels & Resorts will remain at the forefront, setting new standards for excellence in air travel and hospitality. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, both brands are poised to continue their success in the years to come, ensuring that travelers enjoy memorable, luxurious, and meaningful experiences worldwide.