Discover how South American destinations excelled in the 2012 Travel and Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, with standout performances in hotel and island categories. This article delves into the specifics of the awards, highlighting the region's top hotels and the Galapagos Islands' impressive ranking.
Travel and Leisure's annual survey, which assesses the finest in travel from hotels to cities, saw remarkable entries from South America in 2012. The continent's hotels, in particular, received high praise and notable rankings, showcasing the region's growing reputation as a luxury destination.
Breaking into the top 10 for the first time in the survey's history, Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens in Costa Rica secured the 6th spot. This 5-star boutique hotel, located near the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, is celebrated for its serene environment and luxurious amenities. It has also received accolades from other prestigious organizations, including Conde Nast and TripAdvisor.
In Argentina, the Palacio Duhau in Buenos Aires rose to 8th place, up from 19th the previous year. This hotel is situated in the upscale Recoleta neighborhood, known for its historical and cultural significance. Meanwhile, the historic Llao Llao Hotel & Resort in Bariloche was ranked 95th.
Chile also had notable mentions with the Hotel Salto Chico in Torres del Paine National Park making its debut in the top 100. The Grand Hyatt in Santiago was another significant entry, emphasizing Chile's diverse and luxurious lodging options.
Buenos Aires boasted several top hotels including the Intercontinental, Alvear Palace, Four Seasons, Faena Hotel, Park Tower, and Hilton, all located in either Recoleta or the trendy Puerto Madero. In Peru, the Hotel Monasterio in Cusco was highlighted, along with the Park Hyatt in Mendoza, Argentina, and the JW Marriott Hotel in Lima's Miraflores district. In Chile, both the Ritz-Carlton and W Santiago were recognized, underscoring the capital's appeal as a top destination for travelers.
In the islands category, the Galapagos Islands achieved an impressive third place, rising from tenth in 2011. This unique archipelago is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty, making it a must-visit location for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists. The islands were only surpassed by Boracay in the Philippines and Bali, highlighting their significant appeal on a global scale.
While no Latin American cities made it into the top 10 global cities, the regional rankings were led by Cusco, which overtook Buenos Aires for the top spot. Known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco offers a rich blend of Inca heritage and colonial charm. Other cities like Rio de Janeiro and Santiago maintained high rankings, with Lima emerging in eighth place, showcasing the diverse urban experiences available across South America.
The 2012 Travel and Leisure’s World’s Best Awards highlighted South America's growing prominence in the global travel scene. With top-ranked hotels and the Galapagos Islands' notable performance, the continent continues to attract travelers seeking both luxury and adventure. For more detailed insights and rankings, visit Travel and Leisure's official website.
This detailed exploration of South America's achievements in the 2012 awards not only underscores the region's appeal but also encourages travelers to explore these world-class destinations.
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