London ended 2007 on a high by winning a highly prestigious award.
 
The UK capital took the Destination of the Year title at the World Travel Awards, which recognise excellence in the world’s travel and tourism industry, and are voted for by travel professionals from 167,000 travel agencies, tour and transport companies and tourism organisations across the globe.
 
Facing competition from New York and Sydney, as well as the islands of Barbados and the Maldives, London beat 12 other nominated destinations to win the award.
 
“This award bolsters London’s position as is the number one city destination in the world and tops an incredible year for the UK capital,” said Visit London chief executive James Bidwell. “2006 was a record year for overseas visitors to London and our global market share of international visitor numbers also increased.

"From building new world-class venues to attracting international sporting events, our intention is to continue this momentum in the lead up to and beyond the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We will not rest on our laurels but continue to innovate and seek highly creative solutions in all that we do.”
 
Meanwhile, Mayor of London Ken Livingstone said: “Last year’s record number of overseas visitors to London reflects the capital’s profile on the world stage. Visit London has become one of the most professional marketing organisations in the world, delivering hundreds of millions of pounds in economic benefit to the city and the Destination of the Year Award is testament to this. London drives the UK economy and the promotion of the capital translates directly into jobs and income for Londoners.”