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Savannah Aims for 'World's Best' Title in Travel + Leisure Awards

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  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. world-s-best-title-in-travel-leisure-awards.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, January 1st 2026 at 17:59 GMT by WTOC-TV

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Savannah Seeks Your Vote: Locals Rally Behind Bid for Travel + Leisure's "World's Best" Title

Savannah, Georgia is making a concerted effort to capture the attention – and votes – of travel enthusiasts worldwide as it vies for recognition in Travel + Leisure’s prestigious World’s Best Awards. A campaign launched recently encourages local residents and visitors alike to cast their ballots, highlighting Savannah’s unique charm, rich history, vibrant culture, and burgeoning culinary scene. The push comes as part of a broader strategy to bolster tourism and solidify Savannah's position as a premier global destination.

The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are highly regarded within the travel industry. Unlike many awards determined by panels of judges, these honors are based solely on reader votes – providing a direct measure of traveler sentiment and satisfaction. Categories range from individual hotels and resorts to specific destinations like cities and islands. Winning a "World's Best" award carries significant prestige, impacting tourism numbers, attracting investment, and boosting the overall reputation of the recognized location.

Why Savannah Needs Your Vote - And What Makes it Special

The campaign emphasizes that local participation is crucial for Savannah’s success in this competition. While Savannah has consistently ranked well in travel publications, securing a top spot in the World's Best Awards would be a game-changer. According to Visit Savannah, the city’s tourism marketing organization, increased visibility through such an award translates directly into more visitors and economic benefits for the entire region.

Savannah’s appeal is multifaceted. The city boasts a remarkably well-preserved historic district, steeped in history from its founding as a British colony. The iconic squares, draped with Spanish moss, offer a visual feast and provide tranquil respite from bustling streets. As highlighted by Savannah Historic District Authority, the preservation efforts are ongoing and vital to maintaining the character that draws visitors from around the globe (referencing information found on their website). The city’s architecture – a blend of Georgian, Federal, and Victorian styles – is a testament to its layered past.

Beyond history, Savannah's cultural vibrancy is a significant draw. The city has fostered a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing local talent. Live music spills from bars and restaurants nightly, reflecting the diverse musical traditions of the region - everything from blues and jazz to Gullah spirituals. The culinary landscape has also undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. While Southern comfort food remains a staple, innovative chefs are incorporating global influences and locally sourced ingredients, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and exciting (as detailed further by Savannah Magazine).

The campaign specifically mentions Savannah’s hospitality as a key differentiator. Locals are known for their warmth and welcoming nature, contributing to the overall positive visitor experience. This aligns with broader trends in tourism where authentic experiences and personalized interactions are increasingly valued over purely luxurious amenities.

How to Participate & The Timeline

Voting is now open and runs through May 31st, 2025. Residents can access the voting platform directly on the Travel + Leisure website: [ https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-advisor/worlds-best ]. Voters are required to provide a valid email address, ensuring that each individual can only vote once in each category.

Visit Savannah has made it incredibly easy for locals to participate, providing clear instructions and sharing voting links across various social media platforms and local news outlets. The organization is also hosting informational sessions and encouraging businesses throughout the city to promote the campaign amongst their customers. They’ve created shareable graphics and pre-written messages to simplify participation for those who want to spread the word.

Beyond Savannah: Regional Competition & Broader Tourism Goals

Savannah isn't just competing against destinations worldwide; it's also vying for recognition within the Southeastern United States. Cities like Charleston, South Carolina, and New Orleans, Louisiana, are perennial contenders in the travel awards arena, creating a competitive landscape. The success of Savannah’s campaign will depend not only on the sheer volume of votes but also on the passion and enthusiasm that voters convey through their selections.

This push for recognition aligns with broader tourism goals for the region. Georgia's Department of Tourism has been actively working to diversify its appeal, attracting visitors beyond Atlanta and showcasing the state’s diverse landscapes and cultural offerings. Securing a "World's Best" award for Savannah would serve as a powerful marketing tool, drawing attention to not only the city itself but also to the broader beauty and charm of Georgia.

Ultimately, the campaign is a call to action for the Savannah community – an opportunity to champion their beloved city on a global stage and contribute to its continued success as a premier travel destination. Every vote counts in this contest, and local support will be instrumental in helping Savannah achieve its goal of being recognized among the World’s Best.

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