Range by Ensemble Launches Range Best Awards

Range, the award-winning travel media brand created by Ensemble, today announced the launch of the inaugural Range Best Awards, a new annual editorial awards program recognizing excellence across the travel industry through a unique combination of votes from both professional travel advisors and consumers.

Unlike traditional travel awards that rely solely on industry judges or consumer voting, the Range Best Awards combine two perspectives that matter most: travel advisors, whose professional expertise is built on firsthand experience and client feedback, and travelers, whose votes reflect the experiences and brands they value most.

The Range Best Awards officially launch on September 21, with the opening of nominations on RangeTravel.com. Travel companies have until October 30 to submit entries across one or more of the awards’ 28 categories, spanning Cruise, Stay and Land pillars, before voting opens to both travel advisors and consumers in January 2027. Winners and Honorable Mentions will be announced next July across Range magazine, RangeTravel.com and Range's social media channels.

"Advisors see what actually resonates with travelers, trip after trip; it's a perspective no algorithm or anonymous review can replicate," said Dominique Lamberton, Editorial Director of Range. "The Range Best Awards were built to put that expertise on the record, alongside the voices of the travelers living the experience. Together, they tell a more robust, authoritative story of what's genuinely best in travel."

"Range was built to be THE voice in travel, and these awards are a natural extension of that," said Shahla Lalani, SVP of Marketing & Events at Ensemble. "No other program brings advisor expertise and traveler experience together like this. That's what makes it meaningful."

Launched in 2023 as part of Ensemble's broader brand evolution, Range was created to inspire travelers through original journalism, exceptional photography, and expert travel advice while reinforcing the value of working with knowledgeable travel advisors. The brand expanded in 2024 with the launch of RangeTravel.com, extending its editorial reach through destination guides, practical travel advice and comprehensive hotel and cruise directories.

Today, Range serves as both a source of travel inspiration and a trusted planning resource for travelers around the world. The publication has twice been recognized among the top three travel magazines by the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA), along with several other industry awards.

The Range Best Awards span three pillars — Cruise, Stay and Land — that reflect how travelers plan trips and experience the world:

• Cruise – Honoring exceptional cruise lines, itineraries and onboard experiences across categories from the Best Cruise Line for Families to the Best Off-the-Beaten Path Itinerary.
• Stay – Celebrating the world's leading hotels and resorts with categories such as Best Luxury Hotel, Best Hotel with a View, Best Wellness Stay, Best Hotel Design and Best All-inclusive Resort.
• Land – Recognizing outstanding destinations, guided tours and experiences, including Best Adventure Trip, Best Small Group Tour, Best Rail Journey and Best Sustainable Destination.

Rather than traditional "best hotel" or "best cruise line" awards, the Range Best Awards feature concise, editorially driven categories that reflect the publication's distinctive voice while highlighting the experiences travelers value most.

Companies may enter a single category for $500 or receive unlimited category submissions for $1,000. Ensemble Preferred Partners will receive a $250 entry credit.

The Range Best Awards are designed to create value for three distinct audiences. Travel companies gain editorial recognition and meaningful exposure among both consumers and the advisor community. Travel advisors help shape an industry benchmark informed by their expertise. Consumers discover trusted recommendations that combine professional credibility with authentic traveler experiences.

For additional information about the Range Best Awards, including submission guidelines, categories and key dates, visit RangeTravel.com. 

For more information about Ensemble, visit www.ensembletravel.com.