Business Traveler Magazine Best in Travel 2012 Announced

I recently came across Business Traveler Magazine’s Best in Travel 2012 announcement. I was curious as to the companies and brands that frequent business travelers like compared to the ones I’ve experiences and those that are my personal favorites.

I went through the list and thought I’d highlight my thoughts, based off first hand knowledge, of these top of the list companies in travel. TravelingMamas.com contributors and readers enjoy many hotel and travel brands, not just the ones highlighted in this article.

Best Airline in the World for International Travel – Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways also was named best Business Class airline to the Middle East. This was my only experience flying to the Middle East and I will admit that it was probably the best business class flight I’ve ever had the chance to enjoy (and I’ve been on a number of airlines). Over the summer I flew Qatar Airways from Houston to Doha via a direct flight in Business Class. The airline had just introduced a new Premium Cabin menu with offerings of top chef from all over the globe. See: Qatar Airways Culinary Experience

Best Business Hotel Chain in the World – Hilton Hotels and Resorts

Hilton Hotels and Resorts is one of my favorite hotel chains, and I always check their rates first when booking my own lodging on personal trips. The hotel chain also was named as the top Business Hotel Chain in North America and Europe AND Best Hotel Web Site. What’s nice to know is that not only is this a business traveler’s top choice, but this chain is also very family-friendly. My utmost favorite Hilton property is the Hilton Bonnet Creek located inside the gates of Walt Disney World. I may even check out the Hilton London Paddington Hotel during my UK visit. It’s a top Business Travel hotel and is also conveniently located to Paddington Station, making it easy for families who are there to explore or have a flight out of Heathrow. See: Hilton Bonnet Creek Review

Hotel Chain with Best Overall Customer Service – Four Seasons

I’ve had the pleasure of staying at three Four Seasons resorts located around the globe: Four Season Manele Bay, Four Seasons Koele, and Four Seasons Chiang Mai. Each one had its own personality but they all had one thing in common — exceptional customer service. I heartily agree with the readers of Business Traveler Magazine on this choice. It might be the Four Seasons name, but what really makes a hotel stay is the attention to detail and customer service. See: A Day at the Four Seasons Manele Bay

Best Boutique Hotel Chain – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Oh my, these business travelers are discerning in their tastes. I’ve enjoyed a few visits to properties in this boutique hotel chain and I have two words: Spoiled Rotten. These hotels made me feel like a princess during every visit. See: Romantic Destinations for your Valentine

Best Airline Web Site – Delta Airlines

I choose my personal bookings based on price, but out of all the airlines, Delta is where I’ve racked up the most miles. I’m limited on choices flying out of my home airport and Delta.com is always the first airline website I check when booking a flight. Lately the domestic airfare on Delta has been insane. However I did book my next international flight for my daughter and I to the UK on Delta.com. In addition to the website, Delta gets kudos from me on their social media customer service. Whenever I’ve tweeted about the company, be it a compliment or concern, I always have a quick response from their on-duty representative.

Best Airport in North America – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport

I’ve heard travel writer friends refer to ATL as the airport one must connect through to get to Heaven or Hell. I’ve spent many a layover in this airport and have found all the wi-fi hotspots and best places to catch a bite on the run or a sit down meal. I can even tell you where to find your favorite adult beverage. It might be a busy airport and you just may find yourself sitting on the tarmac for a while, but if you are stuck inside one of the terminals, it isn’t such a bad place to be. Plus, there’s now a new International Terminal and I highly suggest grabbing a juicy American hamburger upstairs at The Varsity before your long flight out of the USA.

Best Global Phone/ Data Provider – AT&T

I use AT&T and have used it all over the world during my travels. I was excited when they introduced new International plans this past summer. I was an AT&T customer before it was AT&T and haven’t had any issues more than anyone else with connecting. I do, however, keep an eye on my data usage when out of the US and connect to wi-fi hotspots when available to keep my costs down. Like all phone and data providers, it has its pros and cons. For me, it does the job and hasn’t let me down yet when I’m traveling the globe. See: Nokia Windows Phone at AT&T

To see the full list, visit the official Business Traveler Magazine website. What are some of your favorites companies and travel brands?