Travel + Leisure Unveils 2026 World’s Best: Osaka and Koh Samui Take the Lead
NEW YORK, July 7, 2026 — Travel + Leisure has announced the winners of its eagerly awaited 2026 World’s Best Awards. This year’s results offer an intriguing blend of fresh faces and time-honored favorites. The annual reader survey, which gathered insights from over 207,000 global travelers, disclosed the top destinations, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and travel experiences that are currently captivating the world’s explorers.
Topping the list, Patina Osaka, Japan secured the prestigious title of Best Hotel in the World. Simultaneously, Koh Samui, Thailand made its debut at the apex of the islands rankings, bagging the Best Island in the World award. In the cities category, the enchanting colonial jewel, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, was crowned Best City in the World, with Santa Fe, New Mexico winning the best U.S. city title. In the aviation sector, EVA Air ascended to claim the Best International Airline title, while Singapore Changi Airport was recognized as the Best Airport in the World.
“From Koh Samui’s ascent to the pinnacle of our islands list to the enduring appeal of destinations like San Miguel de Allende and Yellowstone, the winners mirror travelers’ interest in destinations that are unique, unforgettable, and deeply connected to their locale,” stated Jacqui Gifford, Editor in Chief of Travel + Leisure.
The complete rankings are now accessible on travelandleisure.com and will be featured in the August issue of the magazine, available on newsstands from July 17. Travel + Leisure will also host the third annual World’s Best Summit New York this July, and the inaugural World’s Best Summit London in October.
Source: Travel + Leisure 2026 World’s Best Awards — Yahoo Finance / PRNewswire, July 7, 2026