The people behind the journey: Recognising excellence in luxury travel

This year’s operator categories spotlight the individuals, agencies and emerging brands delivering high-calibre service and fresh thinking in the luxury travel space – from bespoke tour design to personalised planning and guest care

Behind many of the best travel experiences are the people and brands who shape them. The 2025 Gold List Awards includes a suite of categories recognising the tour operators, advisors and agencies setting the standard in luxury travel – from new entrants with fresh ideas to established teams delivering consistently excellent service.

Submissions are now open for the following categories:

Luxury Tour Operator

This category is open to businesses that design and deliver tailor-made or small-group travel experiences, anywhere in the world. Entries should demonstrate in-depth destination knowledge, considered itinerary design and a high standard of guest service – whether operating directly with clients or through advisors. Discover last year’s finalists.

Emerging Brand to Watch

Open to brands operating in Australia for fewer than five years, this category recognises early standouts in luxury travel. Whether a coastal walking company, a regional lodge, or a niche travel concierge service, the focus is on market impact, design integrity and sustainability. Discover last year’s finalists.

Luxury Travel Advisor (Individual) – Australia

Celebrating the work of individual Australian-based travel advisors, this award recognises client service, product knowledge and itinerary curation. Entries should show how the advisor adds value through planning, relationships and personalisation. Discover last year’s finalists.

Luxury Travel Agency

For full-service agencies of any size or structure working in the luxury leisure space. This award highlights agencies that deliver high-level support to their clients and advisors, with strong business performance, product knowledge and a commitment to service excellence. Discover last year’s finalists.

These categories are open to Australian-based and international entrants, where applicable. All submissions will be assessed on overall quality, innovation, relevance to the luxury market and traveller satisfaction.

Entries are open until Friday 18 July 2025. Enter here.

See last year’s winners here.