KATHMANDU: Global News Network (GNN) and Travel World Online will host the Global Tourism Excellence Awards 2027 (GTEA 2027) in Kathmandu in late July or early August.
The awards will bring together tourism, hospitality and travel stakeholders from Nepal, India and international markets to recognise outstanding contributions, achievements and innovation across the sector. Winners will be chosen through an independent, merit-based process determined by an appointed jury.
Organiser GNN Prakashan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) appointing Aloft by Marriott Kathmandu Thamel as the official host hotel for the ceremony. Fishtail Tours & Travels has been picked as event and travel partner for Nepal and will manage travel assistance, local transport and delegate movements for visiting participants.
The announcement was made at a press conference in the presence of industry leaders, media representatives and key travel organisations in Kathmandu. The launch event attracted representatives from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).
The Group Editor of GNN said the publisher remained committed to strengthening international tourism and business links with Nepal.
"Natural calamities can happen anywhere. What defines a destination is how it responds, rebuilds and moves forward. Through Global Tourism Connect and the GTEA, our objective is to bring the global travel fraternity to Nepal, create meaningful business opportunities and showcase Nepal's resilience, hospitality and potential to the world", the Group Editor said.
"India and Nepal share a relationship that goes beyond tourism. When an extended family member goes through a difficult time, you don't just speak from a distance — you come, stand beside them and say, 'We are with you.' That is the spirit in which GNN is coming to Nepal."
The general manager of Aloft by Marriott Kathmandu Thamel welcomed the appointment of the hotel as venue.
"We are pleased to host GTEA 2027 at Aloft Kathmandu Thamel. As a lifestyle hotel closely connected with Nepal's contemporary art, music and hospitality scene, we look forward to welcoming tourism leaders and industry professionals from across the region", the general manager stated.
"Beyond recognising excellence, we see this as an opportunity to create meaningful connections, encourage collaboration and bring together the people and organisations shaping the future of tourism in the region."
Exact dates for the ceremony will be finalised in consultation with event partners. Both GNN and Travel World Online are travel media platforms operated by India-based GNN Prakashan.
