The first ever Independent Travel Awards are here – and we want to hear from you. Tell us what’s important to you when you go on holiday and you could win one of 12 incredible prizes, from a week-long, all inclusive trip to Jamaica to an 11-night small ship cruise.

This survey is your chance to let us know about the destinations you love to visit and the companies that help you get there. Perhaps you always book with the same holiday cottage provider because of how reliable they are. Or you think city breaks in Bordeaux are hugely underrated. This is the opportunity to tell us about it.

To get your mind whirring, we’ve included a few of our favourites in the survey too. We think the Tate Liverpool is exceptional for a day out and love Pembrokeshire for a staycation. But these are just suggestions – we want to know exactly what you think.

These awards are voted for entirely by Independent readers, who we know to be adventurous, discerning and exciting travellers. We can’t wait to find out where it is that you love to travel.

Enter our Awards survey for your chance to win

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime with a £10,000 or £5,000 travel gift card

Enjoy incredible getaways around the globe with a Tui gift card
Enjoy incredible getaways around the globe with a Tui gift card (Tui)

Life’s memories are made on holiday and to celebrate the Independent Travel Awards, Tui are giving away two incredible gift cards worth £10,000 and £5,000 so you can open the door to more magical moments.

Whether it’s an exotic escape to the Caribbean or a romantic break to Paris, first family holidays to yearly traditions, these prizes will open the door to these special moments. From water slides to rollercoasters, you and your loved ones can enjoy a trip of a lifetime in one of Tui’s adventure-filled resorts where breathtaking shorelines await.

The Tui Travel Gift Card can be used as full or part payment for travel products at all Tui Stores (excluding the Republic of Ireland), tui.co.uk and firstchoice.co.uk. T&Cs apply.

Win a Mediterranean cruise for two around six destinations

On smaller ship Balmoral, you can enjoy a Mediterranean fly-cruise through Greece, Morocco and Malta
On smaller ship Balmoral, you can enjoy a Mediterranean fly-cruise through Greece, Morocco and Malta (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines are offering one lucky winner, plus a guest, to join smaller ship Balmoral this autumn for an unforgettable Mediterranean fly-cruise. Fly to join the ship in Piraeus, Greece, and explore five countries, plus Gibraltar, in one remarkable journey.

Highlights include the chance to visit the Acropolis in Athens, experience Morocco’s vibrant culture, a scenic sailing into Valletta’s Grand Harbour and a crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar. Known for smaller ships and carefully curated itineraries, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines specialises in journeys that let you experience the very best of a region in a single trip.

Prize is for two adults, or one adult and one child (aged 12 and above) sharing a B grade Superior Ocean View cabin on Balmoral’s 11-night L2638 “Country Hopping from Greece to Tenerife” cruise, departing from Piraeus, Greece, on 19th November 2026. The prize also includes flights to and from the UK and transfers between the airport and the ship, to be arranged and confirmed by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. T&Cs apply.

Win a one week all-inclusive holiday for two in Jamaica

Enjoy palm-lined pools and a buzzing beach club at this gorgeous Jamaican retreat
Enjoy palm-lined pools and a buzzing beach club at this gorgeous Jamaican retreat (Sandals Resorts)

Sandals Resorts is offering the chance for one reader to win a seven-night all-inclusive holiday for two adults at Sandals Ochi, Jamaica, including return economy flights from London.

Nestled within Jamaica’s lush north coast, this luxury resort captures the spirit of the island, blending tropical serenity with a warm vibrancy. On one side, you’ll find a sun-soaked beach club buzzing with energy and entertainment. On the other, 100 acres of tropical gardens set amid a laid-back retreat. From authentic Caribbean to Italian, French and Japanese cuisine, every dining experience is included, while activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, tennis and golf.

Prize based on two adults sharing a luxury level room. Valid for travel in 2027, blackout dates apply. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply.

Win a seven-night luxury European river cruise for two

Enjoy a scenic river cruise along iconic European waterways such as the Danube
Enjoy a scenic river cruise along iconic European waterways such as the Danube (AmaWaterways)

AmaWaterways is offering one reader the chance to experience Europe in true comfort and style on a handcrafted river journey for two. Every sailing includes exceptional inclusions, award-winning farm-to-table dining with complimentary fine wines, expertly guided shore experiences including city tours and tastings, plus a wellness programme led by a dedicated host.

On board your luxury ship, you’ll enjoy spacious, elegantly designed staterooms and attentive service from the crew. Discover iconic waterways such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Rhône, Dutch and Belgian waterways, with immersive moments on board and ashore throughout.

Cruise for two guests travelling together, to be taken in 2026. Accommodation in a Category E stateroom. Return flights included from London or Manchester, plus overseas transfers. T&Cs apply.

Win a three-night stay and Afternoon Tea for two near Glasgow

Enjoy a luxury break at this stately hotel overlooking the scenic River Clyde
Enjoy a luxury break at this stately hotel overlooking the scenic River Clyde (JA Resorts)

JA Resorts & Hotels are offering one reader the chance to win a three night, full board stay for two adults including afternoon tea at the Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort in Bishopton near Glasgow. Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort redefines the luxury rural estate experience with a fusion of urban energy and rural calm.

Just 10 minutes from Glasgow Airport, this grand estate is set within 240 acres of countryside overlooking the River Clyde and the Kilpatrick Hills. The winner will experience three nights of full board hospitality, with an afternoon tea and spa access.

Prize based on two adults sharing one room. T&Cs apply.

Win a three-night stay for two at a luxury Santorini resort

Get away from it all with a break at this stunning resort in Santorini
Get away from it all with a break at this stunning resort in Santorini (Andronis Concept)

Andronis Concept are offering one reader (plus a guest) a free three-night stay at their luxury resort in Imerovigli, Santorini.

Hidden from the crowds and perched on the highest point of the Caldera-side of the island, Andronis Concept, a member of The Set, has fast become renowned for unrivalled views of the Aegean Sea, culinary excellence and offering a more serene perspective of this idyllic Greek destination. It’s a resort where you can truly escape and embrace the art of slow living.

Prize is based on two people sharing a Wet Allure or Cozy Suite on a bed and breakfast board basis. The prize is valid until October 2027 (blackout period will apply), subject to availability. T&Cs apply.

Win a three-night getaway for two at Ella Rocrita in Crete

At this gorgeous retreat in Crete you can enjoy elevated surrounds, cuisine and hospitality
At this gorgeous retreat in Crete you can enjoy elevated surrounds, cuisine and hospitality (Ella Resorts)

Escape the crowds and rediscover tranquillity with a free three-night stay for two at Ella Rocrita, situated in the traditional village of Mochlos, Crete. Ella Resorts are offering one winner a trip for two people sharing an all-inclusive deluxe room at this newly opened retreat, which invites guests to connect with the island’s soul through genuine Cretan hospitality and a culinary journey rooted in local tradition, thoughtfully elevated by refined expertise.

Drawing inspiration from the Cretan terrain, the resort boasts 360 rooms and suites, shared pools, and panoramic views. With families at the heart of the experience, Worldwide Kids curates engaging activities for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, alongside Roee wellness, sports and culture.

Prize based on two people sharing a deluxe room on an all-inclusive board basis and must be taken before mid-June 2027 (subject to availability). T&Cs apply.

Win a two-night luxury stay for two near Windsor

Enjoy an adults-only stay at this stunning Riverside retreat near Windsor
Enjoy an adults-only stay at this stunning Riverside retreat near Windsor (iStock)

Travelzoo is the club for travel enthusiasts and a Which? Recommended Provider for deal sites in 2026. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by their deal experts around the globe. To celebrate the Independent Travel Awards, Travelzoo has partnered with Warner Hotels to offer one reader a two-night stay for two adults in a standard room at The Runnymede on Thames – a recently refurbished four-star retreat on the banks of the River Thames near Windsor.

Enjoy breakfast, dinner, live nightly entertainment, a heated pool and a sauna at this stunning adults-only waterside escape.

The prize is for two adults sharing a standard room, valid for redemption on any two-night stay in 2026, including weekends. Exclusions apply, including festivals, headliner events, and festive periods. T&Cs apply.

Win a three-night Greek getaway for two

Enjoy a luxury escape for two in this idyllic Mykonos retreat
Enjoy a luxury escape for two in this idyllic Mykonos retreat (Myconian Deos)

Myconian Deos, a member of The Set, is offering a reader and a guest the chance to experience the height of Cycladic luxury with a three-night stay for two during the summer 2027 season. The winner will discover the serenity of Myconian Deos, a hilltop sanctuary offering monumental views of Mykonos Town and the Aegean horizon. Combining contemporary design with timeless hospitality, this getaway promises an unforgettable immersion into the refined lifestyle of Mykonos. The prize also includes daily gourmet breakfast, allowing guests to savour authentic Greek flavours as the perfect start to their days away.

Prize is for three nights at Myconian Deos, for two people sharing a double guest room with a sea view on a bed and breakfast basis, subject to availability across the summer season 2027. T&Cs apply.

Win a one week all-inclusive family holiday for four in Turkey

Treat the family to fun and sun with an all-inclusive stay in Turkey
Treat the family to fun and sun with an all-inclusive stay in Turkey (Aska Lara Resort and Spa)

Nothing beats a Jet2holiday – and you could win your very own family getaway to Antalya Turkey, with a seven-night, all-inclusive stay for two adults and two children at the four-star-plus Aska Lara Resort & Spa. All Jet2holidays include a choice of accommodation, flights, return transfers and 22kg baggage, wrapped up into a great-value, Atol-protected package. They’re Which? recommended in seven categories too, so you can expect VIP service from start to finish.

Prize is a seven-night stay for up to two adults and two children (up to the age of 11) in a Standard room with Land View on an all-inclusive basis. Includes return flights from any UK airport which flies to Antalya (AYT) to Antalya plus transfers between airport and hotel. T&Cs apply.

Win a high tea for two in London

Enjoy a time-honoured tradition with a high tea for two in London
Enjoy a time-honoured tradition with a high tea for two in London (Pan Pacific London)

Hotel group Pan Pacific London are offering one reader the chance to win afternoon tea for two with champagne at Ginger Lily Bar and Lounge. This contemporary take on a beloved British tradition begins with a glass of Taittinger and a selection of savoury bites, from Marie Rose prawn cocktail to truffled Burford Brown egg. The menu also features freshly baked plain or golden raisin scones, and a selection of cakes and pastries to finish, from blueberry and lemon macarons to mango mousse with kaffir lime and elegant matcha strawberry opera cake.

A highlight of the tea is two new palate-cleansing tea infusions, created using blends by Newby Teas. These short tea-infused drinks feature fragrant floral notes and agave for a modern and thoughtful twist.

Prize is valid for 12 months and reservations are essential. T&Cs apply.

Enter our Awards survey for your chance to win

Competition ends 31 July 2026. For full Terms and Conditions on all prizes on offer click here.

The Independent’s Standard Promotion Rules apply. See Competition Ts & Cs and Promotion Rules | The Independent | The Independent

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *