Leisure Pursuits

Global Traveler announces the winners of the 2021 Leisure Lifestyle Awards.

- KIMBERLY KROL INLANDER

Leisure travel is back! And as we look toward summer, it’s back bigger and better than ever following the restrictions, lockdowns and devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic. As more and more borders begin to reopen and destinations, hotels and airlines around the world welcome travelers once again, we’re taking to the skies as we celebrate and congratulate the winners of our ninth annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards. This annual survey honors the best in the world of leisure and lifestyle travel, awarding goods, services, destinations, hotels, airlines and cruises.

Join us as we celebrate travel, and consider the following winners as you prepare to come back to the world of leisure travel.

Let’s begin with our destination winners, some of the best cities, islands and towns around the world offering the ultimate in leisure travel. Kick back in any of these exceptional, award-winning spots, starting with Turkey, Best Historical Attractions, International, and Charleston, South Carolina, Best Historical Attractions, Domestic. History buffs, those are the destinations for you; and adventure seekers, here’s your round-up: India is Best Adventure Destination, International, and Alaska is Best Adventure Destination, Domestic.

Seek rest, relaxation and beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, taking the top spot for Best Beaches for the fourth year running. The Dominican Republic is Best Caribbean Island, while Santoríni retains its Best Island in Europe title for the eighth consecutive year. Cook Islands, another fan favorite, wins Best Island Pacific Rim for the sixth year in a row. We added the Best Island in the United States category this year, and the first-time winner is Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.