World Travel Awards (WTA) has begun the self-nomination process for entrants wishing to participate in the Grand Tour 2016.

Last year over 5,000 organisations spanning more than 160 countries were nominated for the prestigious trophies, with entrants from around the world now invited to submit an application.

Nominees this year range from destinations, tourist boards and airlines to luxury hotels, travel technology providers and adventure tour operators.

Graham Cooke, Founder and President, World Travel Awards, said: “We have been overwhelmed with the tremendous early response to self-nominations, which have grown at a phenomenal rate in recent years.

“The interest shown in our Grand Tour 2016 is already significantly above what we saw at this stage last year and serves to illustrate the importance of winning at the WTA when seeking to differentiate a brand in the competitive hospitality environment.

“More companies than ever, ranging from Etihad Airways, Sandals Resorts International, and HNA Tourism Group are all spearheading their global marketing campaigns with their award victories,” added Mr Cooke.

“As the tension surrounding the awards begins to mount we are looking forward to revealing the leading players at the regional Gala Ceremonies during the year, and tracking their progress as they head to our Grand Final 2016.”

The Grand Tour will this year begin at Diamonds La Gemma dell’Est, Zanzibar, Tanzania, on April 9th.

Self-nominations for the Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony and the Middle East Gala Ceremony must be submitted by January 31st.

Celebrating its 23rd anniversary in 2016, WTA is acknowledged across the globe as the ultimate travel accolade.

In the quest to identify and reward excellence, the organisation invites those brands that are pushing the boundaries of industry excellence to participate in the annual programme.

Entry forms can be submitted here.