Celebrating trailblazing achievements in luxury travel and independent hospitality, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 Preferred Awards of Excellence. The highly anticipated awards ceremony took place at The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore during the closing of the 2025 Preferred Global Conference.
Held under the inspiring theme “Believe in Travel,” the awards recognized hotels and hoteliers that exemplify exceptional standards in service, innovation, and guest experiences across the Preferred Hotels & Resorts global portfolio. These accolades reflect the brand’s unwavering commitment to transforming the luxury travel space through forward-thinking practices and outstanding hospitality.
Recognizing Global Hospitality Excellence
Speaking at the ceremony, Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, praised the winners for setting new standards in independent luxury hospitality.
“The 2025 Awards of Excellence spotlight the individuals and properties redefining what it means to travel well,” said Ueberroth. “From community engagement to bold design and impeccable service, these leaders represent the best of what our industry offers.”
The awards ceremony marked the culmination of the Preferred Global Conference held from May 13–15, hosted across two iconic members of the brand’s prestigious Legend Collection — The Fullerton Hotel Singapore and The Fullerton Bay Hotel. With over 320 attendees including independent hoteliers, travel media, and hospitality thought leaders, the event was a celebration of innovation and global connection in travel.
Highlights from the 2025 Preferred Awards of Excellence
Each winner was selected based on rigorous criteria, including guest reviews, operational excellence, and meaningful engagement with the Preferred Hotels & Resorts brand.
🏆 Top Award Winners:
- Hotelier of the Year:
Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts (India)
Recognized for visionary leadership and redefining luxury standards in South Asia. - Hotel of the Year – Overall:
Castelfalfi, Montaione, Italy – Legend Collection
Praised for its sustainable practices, historical charm, and world-class amenities. - Hotel of the Year – Asia Pacific:
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore & The Fullerton Bay Hotel – Legend Collection
Celebrated for blending heritage with contemporary luxury in the heart of Singapore. - Hotel of the Year – United States & Canada:
The Global Ambassador, Phoenix, USA – Legend Collection
Acknowledged for bold architecture and an immersive guest experience. - Hotel of the Year – Europe:
The Alpina Gstaad, Switzerland – Legend Collection
Honored for its alpine elegance and holistic wellness offerings. - Hotel of the Year – Latin America:
Rancho Santana, Nicaragua – L.V.X. Collection
A standout for eco-luxury and community-led tourism in Central America. - Hotel of the Year – South Asia, Middle East & Africa:
Al Habtoor Palace, Dubai – Legend Collection
Recognized for grandeur and unparalleled service in the UAE.
🆕 Newcomers Leading the Way:
- New Hotel of the Year – Resort:
MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa, Sonoma, USA – L.V.X. Collection - New Hotel of the Year – City Center:
The RuMa Hotel & Residences, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Lifestyle Collection
🌐 Special Recognition:
- I Prefer Hotel of the Year:
Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, USA – L.V.X. Collection
For excellence in guest loyalty and personalized service. - Shiji ReviewPro Award for Online Reputation Management:
ATELIER Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico – L.V.X. Collection
The Selection Process
To be considered for nomination, hotels must score among the top in their region through Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Integrated Quality Assurance program. This includes thorough on-site inspections and real-time guest feedback. Final selections were made by the Awards Committee, led by the Ueberroth Family, based on shortlists submitted by regional brand leaders.
This selection framework ensures each recipient is not only a leader in luxury but also an active contributor to the evolving travel landscape.
About Preferred Hotels & Resorts
With over 600 member properties across 80+ countries, Preferred Hotels & Resorts is the leading independent hotel brand connecting discerning travelers with distinctive luxury experiences. Through its five global collections — Legend, L.V.X., Lifestyle, Connect, and Preferred Residences — the brand offers personalized travel experiences tailored to individual preferences.
The brand also operates the I Prefer™ Hotel Rewards Program, the world’s largest global points-based loyalty program for independent hotels, offering members exclusive benefits and upgrades.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Awards of Excellence reaffirm the mission of Preferred Hotels & Resorts: to inspire the world to believe in travel’s power to enrich, connect, and transform. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, these honorees represent the pinnacle of what independent luxury travel can offer in a dynamic and ever-changing world.
Disclaimer:
This image is AI-generated and created for illustrative purposes only. It may not accurately represent the actual events, individuals, or locations described in the news article.
Source: Preferred Hotels & Resorts
