Virtuoso Reveals 2011 Best of the Best Hotel Award Winners

This marks the fifth year Virtuoso has reviewed its collection of more than 900 world-class member properties and recognized hotels that set new standards in luxury travel and hospitality professionals who elevate the industry through their efforts.

10 AWARDS WERE GIVEN:

HOTEL OF THE YEAR: Hotel Cipriani & Palazzo Vendramin, Venice (view of Venice from hotel pictured above)

With magnificent views over the open lagoon, Palladian San Giorgio Maggiore to the east, or the walled gardens and vineyards to the west, Hotel Cipriani offers all of the beauties of Venice. The enchanting hotel features luxurious accommodations and the finest service, providing guests with an experience that is quite superior. An ancient courtyard and passageway adorned with flowers connects the Palazzo Vendramin to the Hotel Cipriani. The 15th-century residence has 16 suites and rooms with amazing views of the Cipriani gardens as well as across to St. Mark’s Square.

HOTELIER OF THE YEAR: Offer Nissenbaum, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, California

Beginning his current role as the Managing Director of The Peninsula Beverly Hills in 2007, Offer Nissenbaum strives for perfection in the service of his hotel. He believes teamwork and innovation is the key to truly exceptional treatment of the guests. Seamless execution is a priority for this hotelier, which is why he continues to create unmatched experiences for all who stay at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

ONE TO WATCH: The St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Tibet

Standing on the "Roof of the World," The St. Regis Lhasa Resort is 12,000 feet above sea level and offers a truly unique experience of refined elegance and luxury. The tailored service reflects the renowned St. Regis lifestyle, but the exotic setting provides an original twist on these timeless traditions. Situated in the Tibetan Plateau, the 162-room resort provides guests with unrivaled views of the Himalayas. The incredible Iridium Spa, located within the hotel, is Tibet's first luxury spa.

MOST SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE: Rosewood Mayakobá, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Built within the jungles of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Rosewood Mayakobá embraces its surroundings by being truly conscious about the environment. It has proven its social responsibility through its efforts to promote the sustainable use of resources and ambition to conserve the environment. The hotel recently won the ‘Sustainable Standard-Setter Award’ by the Rainforest Alliance and has become recognized as a pioneer hotel in the green movement.

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DESIGN: The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Occupying floors 102 to 118 of the International Commerce Centre, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong has the distinction of being the highest hotel in the world. Inspired by the city’s vibrant culture, the design reflects a more contemporary feel. This 312-room hotel, strategically situated on the West Kowloon waterfront, offers magnificent views of the bustling city and Victoria Harbour.

MOST INNOVATIVE GUEST EXPERIENCE: Triple Creek Ranch, Darby, Montana

A mountain retreat that features private log cabins as well as comfortable rooms in the lodge, Triple Creek Ranch offers the opportunity to explore nature while being surrounded by luxury. Adult travelers enjoy not only the romantic setting, but the beautiful landscape, wildlife, outdoor activities year round and the Western inspired décor. The unbeatable service ensures guests’ needs are taken care of so they can relax in world-class accommodations, savor delicious contemporary cuisine and taste the world’s finest wines.

BEST CULINARY EXPERIENCE: Le 114 Faubourg at Hôtel Le Bristol, Paris

Young executive chef Eric Desbordes of Hôtel Le Bristol's Le 114 Faubourg restaurant delights with his creative and authentic cuisine. Guests can enjoy delicious fare, featuring fresh and seasonal vegetables, and playful décor in this modern brasserie. With an open kitchen, patrons can watch as the innovative menu comes to life.

BEST BAR: American Bar at The Savoy, London

The timeless elegance of the American Bar at The Savoy Hotel recalls the golden age of the Roaring Twenties. Once home to legendary bartender Harry Craddock, author of The Savoy Cocktail Book, the bar continues to create classic yet imaginative cocktails. Patrons can lounge on the electric blue and gold chairs and enjoy the intimate setting while a live pianist plays classic American Jazz.

BEST SPA: Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa, Miami Beach, Florida

At 70,000 square feet, Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach is the largest spa in Florida. Hotel guests have full, complimentary access to the state-of-the-art facility and an à la carte approach gives guests the flexibility to come and go. The 150-suite boutique luxury hotel offers healthy living choices and explorations of wellness guided by world-class experts. With the vibrant city of Miami just outside, guests can relax in the spectacular Aquavana® thermal suite, enjoy incredible spa treatments, swim in the pool, scale the two-story climbing wall and take in stunning ocean views from the fitness facility.

BEST FAMILY PROGRAM: Montage Deer Valley, Park City, Utah

With a range of fun indoor and active outdoor activities offered, Montage Deer Valley makes the perfect destination for a family vacation. Little ones are entertained daily by Paintbox, the year-round children’s program, and can participate in engaging crafts and play. The whole family can join in outdoor photography, family yoga, guided nature hikes and fly-casting lessons, as well as horse-drawn sleigh rides, blanket picnics and outdoor concerts. Daly’s Pub & Rec. also offers darts, billiards, bowling and arcade games for a night indoors.