Sandals Resorts International has claimed the title of Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for an unprecedented 22nd time at the World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015, cementing more than two decades at the top.

On a night of high drama at host Sandals Emerald Bay in the Bahamas, Delta Air Lines took the titles of North America’s Leading Airline and North America’s Leading Airline to the Caribbean, while Caribbean Airlines was recognised as the Caribbean’s Leading Airline.

In a special presentation Bahamas minister of tourism, the Honourable Obediah Wilchcombe, was recognised as the Caribbean’s Leading Travel Personality 2015.

World Travel Awards president Graham Cooke said: “What a night for Sandals! Over the past two decades the brand has grown into an institution here in the Caribbean and that success has been recognised by our voters this evening.

“My congratulations, too, to all our winners tonight, all of whom are working tirelessly to drive up standards in the competitive Caribbean and North American hospitality markets.

“I look forward to welcoming them all to our Grand Final this December in Morocco.”

The evening was hosted by stars Andrew Kennedy and Anastagia Pierre, while guests were treated to performances from The Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band, Alia Cole, and Crusaders Junkanoo Group.

Also among those tasting success on the night were the Jamaica Tourist Board, recognised as the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board, and Antigua & Barbuda, which claimed the title of Caribbean’s Leading Romantic Destination.

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, Jamaica, took the title of Caribbean’s Leading New Hotel, while the trophy for Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Suite went to Rock Star Suite at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana.

Las Vegas also starred, taking the trophy for North American’s Leading Destination among a clutch of awards, while the famous Las Vegas Strip was recognised as North America’s Leading Tourist Destination.

World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries, and international print and broadcast media.