We all had a wonderful time at the Silver Travel Awards on 22 June at a champagne reception in the London Transport Museum and our guests were delighted to be welcomed by a superb recital from the Classic FM string quartet.
In a unique setting of buses, trams and other historic exhibits, we enjoyed a splendid evening of good company, fine Hungarian wine and we were thrilled to meet so many of you there. Read our Forum thread.
The ceremony was hosted by the fabulous Actress Amanda Redman MBE, of BBC1’s New Tricks fame, who brought an extra touch of glamour to a very special evening. Amanda said:- “it’s a real honour to be able to present the awards to companies and destinations which best support the mature traveller”.
Watch our video of the ceremony highlights
Now in their second year, our Awards were supported by headline sponsor Iglu Cruise, with a total of 16 categories and were voted for by Silver Travellers. Our other main sponsors were Shearings and Solos Holidays; the champagne reception was sponsored by Classic FM and our trade sponsors were Travel Weekly.
The runners-up and winners at the 2016 Silver Travel Awards
Best Ocean Cruise LineRunner-up: Cruise & Maritime Voyages | | Best Specialist Cruise LineRunner up: Swan Hellenic |
Best River Cruise LineRunner up: Viking River Cruises | Best Large Tour OperatorRunner up: Saga Holidays | |
Best Escorted Tour OperatorRunner up: Shearings Holidays | Best Specialist or Activity Tour OperatorSponsored by JFA Systems | |
Best Accessible Travel ProviderRunner up: Saga Holidays | Best UK AttractionRunner up: Alton Towers | |
Best UK Town or CityRunner up: York | Best UK Hotel GroupRunner up: Hilton Hotels & Resorts | |
Best Self-Catering OperatorSponsored by Holiday Property Bond | Best AirlineSponsored by Your Service Centre Gatwick | |
Best Car Hire CompanySponsored by Indigo Car Hire | Best Overseas DestinationSponsored by Holland America Line | |
Best City Breaks OperatorSponsored by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises | Best Rail Holiday ProviderSponsored by My InterRail |
Exceptional Achievement Award
Graham Simpson
Founder and Chairman of Simpson Travel
Graham’s entrepreneurial achievement in building two successful businesses from scratch is testament to his vision and drive. Simply Travel catered for the older, discerning traveller and Simpson Travel has carried that on with its focus on the over 50’s with a passion for life and adventure. His business further reflects the cornerstones of the Silver Travel Advisor ethos by employing people who are ‘silver’ themselves.
Lynn Narraway
Managing Director of Holland America Line and Seabourn
Lynn has amazing energy and drive and inspires everyone who meets her. Her altruism sets her apart from her peers and she provides support to those most in need at the same time as managing a successful business. Lynn deserves to be recognised for her commitment to the silver travel market, and for exemplifying the success that women can and should have in their chosen careers.
Photos © Steve Dunlop Photography
Read about all of the nominees for the Exceptional Achievement Awards 2016
