The travel industry has got off to a great start in 2009, when the votes were counted for the industry's premier awards - The Globe Travel Awards presented by Travel Weekly in partnership with Associated Newspapers.

Voting closed in December with a record number of votes submitted by travel agents for their favourite supplier with over 50,000 votes cast. Associated Newspapers also reported a record number of votes for the Consumer Awards with on-line voting up by 69% on 2008 numbers. "The support the travel industry gives to The Globes is phenomenal," comments Publishing Director of TW Group, Simon Ferguson. "Being recognised by the industry as the best in your field is a tremendous accolade and one that companies are exceptionally proud to be awarded. We are delighted with the increase in consumer votes, as this shows the confidence the British public have in the travel industry. The Globe Travel Awards will ensure the UK travel industry gets off to a fantastic start in 2009."

The winners of the 40 individual Globe Travel Awards, the eight consumer awards, the Innovation in Travel Award and the Outstanding Achievement Award will be announced at the Globe Travel Awards on Tuesday January 27th 2009 at a glittering ceremony hosted by a leading media personality.

Since their launch in 1977, The Globes have recognised and rewarded the travel industry's leading companies, most innovative ideas and the strongest performers - for the past 32 years, winning a Globe has embodied the highest standards within every area of the travel industry. The integrity of The Globes is paramount to the success of the awards, as it remains the only award ceremony where the winners are voted solely by the industry. It is the travel agents who vote for the winner, ensuring the highest standards and the ultimate service is recognised.  Recently The Globes have introduced the Consumer Awards, eight awards voted for by readers of Associated Newspapers. Winning a Globe really does mean that you are the best and most highly regarded in your field.

2009 Globe Travel Award Categories
- Best Ferry Company
- Best Cruise Company - 3 star plus 
- Best Cruise Company - 4 star plus
- Best Specialist Cruise Company
- Best Cruise Company - Luxury
- Best Scheduled Airline to US/Canada
- Best Scheduled Airline to The Pacific, New Zealand or Australia
- Best Scheduled Airline to the Middle East or Asia
- Best Scheduled Airline to Europe
- Best Scheduled Airline to Africa
- Best Charter Airline
- Best Rail Operator
- Best Travel Trade Website
- Best Seat Only Operator
- Best Scheduled Consolidator
- Best Business Hotel Chain
- Best Accommodation Only Provider
- Best Leisure Hotel Chain
- Best All Inclusive Resort
- Best Theme Park
- Best Tourist Board (UK Office)
- Best Coach Operator
- Best Insurance Provider
- Best Car Rental Company
- Best Technology Provider
- Best Dynamic Packaging Operator
- Best Regional UK Airport
- Best Add-Ons Provider
- Best Recruitment Consultancy
- Best TW Academy On-line Training Course
- Best Specialist Operator - Middle East
- Best Specialist Operator - US or Canada or the Caribbean
- Best Specialist Operator - Far East, The Pacific, Australia or New Zealand
- Best Specialist Operator - Africa
- Best Operator - Long Haul
- Best Operator Ski/Activity
- Best Operator - Short Breaks
- Best Operator - UK Holidays
- Best Operator - Western Mediterranean
- Best Operator - Eastern Mediterranean