Virtuoso concluded its 33rd annual Virtuoso Travel Week with an elegant evening of recognition and remembrance, honouring individuals and entities that have gone above and beyond to assist others during the travel industry’s most harrowing time.
Last Friday night’s gala shone a spotlight on the network’s most esteemed travel agencies, advisors, and preferred partners who, through innovation and bold action, have risen to meet challenges to lend their support, be it their industry or local communities, promote smarter environmental practices, and empower cultures to thrive.
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Taking place 8-13 August, this year’s Virtuoso Travel Week was a hybrid event that offered a rich virtual experience as well as an in-person experience held in Las Vegas at Bellagio Resort & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, and Vdara Hotel & Spa.
Virtuoso’s advisors and preferred partners were asked to nominate individuals or organisations that were exceptionally supportive throughout the pandemic, resulting in nearly 500 submissions featuring heart-warming stories and acts of kindness, generosity of spirit, and fortitude.
“On the last night of Virtuoso Travel Week, after reuniting with so many friends who remind me at every turn the importance of human connection, I’m proud to honour the Virtuoso members, advisors, and partners who have set aside their own obstacles and needs to advocate for their clients, communities, and their colleagues,” said Virtuoso Chairman and CEO, Matthew D. Upchurch.
“These luminaries, legends, and leaders continue to be a guiding light during a dark and difficult time. It is their resilient spirit and positive impact on the world that represents what the Virtuoso network can accomplish when we unleash human potential together.”
A panel comprising the network’s Global Member Advisory Board and distinguished preferred partners reviewed submissions covering five categories, with agency members reviewing the partner submissions, and the partners reviewing the member submissions. Two other recognitions were also presented at the Gala: a new category entitled “Luminary,” as well as the longstanding, prestigious “Ruby of Siam,” which is bestowed upon an agency owner or manager who upholds the highest professional standards, serves as a leader in their industry, and embodies the spirit of the Virtuoso network through their dedication and engagement.
2021 Recognition Recipients for Agencies/Advisors (as voted by partners) and Preferred Partners (as voted by members):
Community: Recognising Virtuoso member agencies/advisors and partners who have made exceptional efforts in serving their community through the generous contribution of their time, actions, and talents. Communities include neighbourhoods, local areas, businesses, industries, and the Virtuoso network:
