In 2004 we held the inaugural GT Tested Reader Survey awards at the Millennium Broadway Hudson Theater in New York City. A severe snowstorm struck as winners arrived from around the globe, and the snowfall was so heavy we briefly wondered whether the ceremony could proceed the next day. At that time mass airline cancellations were uncommon, and most guests managed to reach Manhattan.
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Since that first event, the awards have been hosted at iconic venues such as Essex House, Hotel Bel-Air, The Peninsula Beverly Hills and The Ritz-Carlton. We are delighted to announce that the 2023 GT Tested Reader Survey gala will take place at another distinguished location, The Langham Huntington, Pasadena. |
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Please join us in raising a glass to all the winners chosen by you, our readers and the world’s best travelers. I want to especially congratulate those who have consistently led their categories over the past two decades: United MileagePlus, Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Asiana Airlines. Read about these and other long-standing honorees on page 50. |
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I recently returned from a visit to Korea, where I reconnected with longtime friends and clients in Seoul. It was a pleasure to meet our Korean representative, Jeff Hwang, and his family. Jeff and his son, Zion, greeted me at the airport with warm hospitality, and we enjoyed a memorable welcome dinner. The trip concluded with the entire family joining us at one of Jeff’s favorite local restaurants. It was a joyful celebration, and I offered gifts in gratitude for their steadfast support during the pandemic. |
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The highlight of the trip was an afternoon hike on Bukhansan Mountain. Staff at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center outfitted me with hiking boots for the steep, well-maintained trail—an ideal option for travelers who prefer not to pack bulky gear, since equipment rentals are available. On that crisp autumn day the leaves were turning, and getting back into my walking routine felt invigorating. This blend of nature and urban life is easy to include on any Seoul itinerary. The Seoul Hiking Tourism Center, conceived by president and CEO Ki Yon Kil, plans to open two more centers in 2024. |
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I was also pleased to stay again at LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL, adjacent to LOTTE Department Store. I spent time in the Executive Tower, opened in 2018 to complement the landmark 1979 property. I first stayed at the LOTTE on my earliest trip to Seoul and have enjoyed many excellent visits since. Look for my full review of the hotel in an upcoming issue. |
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For my flights I chose Korean Air’s Prestige Business Class on an Airbus A380, which provided a smooth journey. I selected the vegan menu for the return flight, and it was exceptional—lighter fare that was especially welcome after many indulgent business meals in Seoul. A review of Korean Air will appear in a 2024 issue. |
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We look forward to a successful 2024 and hope you will continue to join us as we explore the world. Francis X. Gallagher CEO and Publisher |