During a year that upended the entire world — and, with it, the entire hospitality industry — hotel groups large and small have demonstrated incredible perseverance. They’ve navigated lockdowns, donated rooms to first responders, found ways to support their staff, and, as conditions improved, welcomed back guests with service that may have looked a bit different but felt no less gracious. In fact, T+L readers awarded hotels even higher marks, on average, than last year, which is especially impressive given all of the COVID-19 safety protocols brands had to implement.

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated hotel brands on their locations, rooms/facilities, food, service, and overall value.