Following the success of its 2010 event, World Travel Awards will be returning to India in 2012 to host its Asia & Australasia Ceremony at Delhi’s brand new luxury hotel, The Oberoi, Gurgaon.

The organisers of the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’ selected the Indian capital as host due to its continuing evolution as a world-class business and leisure destination, spearheaded by its thriving luxury hospitality sector.

Graham Cooke, president and founder, World Travel Awards, said: “We are delighted to be returning to this beguiling country for what will be our third event there in five years.

“In this period alone we have noticed the huge strides its travel and tourism sector has made.”

“The Oberoi Gurgaon typifies India’s emergence as a new economic superpower. This brand new property has pushed the luxury bar even higher, and exemplifies World Travel Awards quest for excellence, as well as the unrivalled service standards set by Oberoi Hotels & Resorts,” he added.

Set over nine lush acres of landscaped gardens, The Oberoi Gurgaon offers an urban sanctuary presiding over a quiet resort setting, personalised service and the best of modern amenities, all in the heart of the business and commercial district of Delhi.

“The Asia & Australasia Ceremony is the first confirmed event of our 2012 Grand Tour, and we look forward to working with The Oberoi Gurgaon team for what will be a decisive evening for the industry,” Cooke added.

The luxury Oberoi Gurgaon encompasses a 36,000 square foot central water feature surrounded with restaurants and luxury retail space.

Kapil Chopra, senior vice president, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony in 2012. 

“With The Oberoi, Gurgaon’s unique ambience and excellent facilities, we hope to make this a memorable event for all guests and to showcase the best of Indian hospitality.

“These awards are about honouring the best in Travel and Tourism and to host them is a further endorsement of the growing popularity of India as a world class travel destination.”

World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Ceremony is one of the most important nights of the year for the region’s tourism industry, and presents an opportunity for the industry’s leaders to gather under one roof to find out who will be crowned the region’s winners.