Win 1 of 15 luxury holidays worth $120,000

What’s better than booking your dream holiday? Winning it, of course!

The International Traveller 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards are back, and your opinion matters. Got 10 minutes? That’s all it takes to vote for your favourite travel experiences, operators and destinations – and enter the draw to win 1 of 15 extraordinary holiday experiences totalling over $120,000.

We know your time is precious, and we really appreciate you giving us 10 minutes of it. In return, it’s your chance to shape the awards, tell us exactly what content you want to see more of, and score an unforgettable getaway. A win-win-win, really. And let’s be honest, you’ve spent longer trying to pick something on Netflix. At least this could end in a holiday.

Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on 14 September 2026.

Read the general competition terms and conditions, as well as the International Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions, before you enter. You only need to enter the giveaway once.

Please note: Winners will not be able to choose which prize they win. Winners will be contacted via email after the competition closes and announced in Issue 61 and on our socials.

A 5-night stay in Maui’s Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, worth $39,000

Aerial view of the Royal Lahaina Resort in Maui — An unforgettable getaway where timeless island charm meets reimagined modern experience.

Step into the new golden age of travel with a five-night stay in the Royal Beach House Suite, the Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows’ most exclusive accommodation. Enjoy a private oceanfront retreat complete with VIP access for four guests to the Myths of Maui Luau, a private in-residence dining experience. Round it all out with a spa treatment for two and a US$300 resort credit. This is the holiday that truly brings you the essence of Hawai‘i.

What’s included?

5 nights for 4 guests in The Royal Beach House
Private oceanfront retreat access, complete with its own backyard, patio, hot tub and pool
Exclusive access to Kāʻanapali Beach
VIP access for 4 guests to the Myths of Maui Lu’au
Private in-residence dining experience by Lahaina Noon
Wellness offerings, including an oceanfront spa experience for 2
IV therapy treatments from No Ka ‘Oi Aesthetics for 2
$300 resort credit

A Hurtigruten 14-night northern lights cruise in Norway for 2, worth $20,000

Couple looking out at view onboard Hurtigruten — Discover towns, fjords and fishing villages whilst cruising through Norway’s natural beauty

Ever dreamed of seeing the spectacular northern lights? Experience the trip of a lifetime on Hurtigruten’s all-inclusive North Cape Line round-trip voyage from Oslo. Cruise to fascinating, handpicked ports such as Narvik, Alta and Tromsø, and cross into the Arctic Circle to watch the dark winter skies as the northern lights cast their magical glow over fjords, mountains and fishing villages.

What’s included?

14 nights in a Polar Outside Cabin for 2 guests
Daily breakfast for 2
All-inclusive lunch and dinner at Flora and Brasserie Arran for 2
Inclusive beverages at the 1893 Bar onboard

An UnCruise 8-night voyage off Mexico’s Baja California for 2, valued from $14,790

Uncruise guests kyaking near cruise ship — Grab your travel buddy and get ready to embark on an adventure-filled journey.

Grab a travel companion for an exciting journey through the Sea of Cortez with UnCruise Adventures. Enjoy an overnight stay in San José del Cabo, before waking up ready to board the Safari Voyager. Expect kayaking, whale spotting, snorkelling with sea lions, volcanic hiking trails and burro rides, along with delicious farm-to-table meals. This all-inclusive trip offers everything from craft cocktails to guided excursions, making it the perfect introduction to this unique part of Mexico.

What’s included?

1-night stay in San José del Cabo
Seven nights onboard the Safari Voyager in the Navigator or Trailblazer cabin
Burro ride in Bahia Agua Verde
Hiking volcanic trails
Snorkelling with sea lions and colourful reef fish

2 return economy class tickets to Tokyo with ANA, worth $9334

ANA aircraft landing — ANA aircraft taking off.

Pack your bags, bring a travel buddy and board a flight to Tokyo, flying out of either Perth or Sydney, with All Nippon Airways. This is your official calling to explore Japan’s time-rich culture, flavour-filled cuisine and breathtaking landscapes.

What’s included?

2 x return economy tickets to Tokyo from either Sydney or Perth
Complimentary onboard meals and beverages
Generous baggage allowance
Personal entertainment system with touch-screen monitor

A 9-night Australian wine cruise with Celebrity Cruises for 2, worth $7996

Celebrity cruise sailing towards land — Escape on the ultimate wine region cruise exploring the South of Australia.

The perfect escape for vino lovers, this Celebrity Cruises adventure whisks guests from Sydney to the vibrant cities and landscapes of Australia’s southern wine regions. Spend nine incredible nights visiting Hobart, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide and Melbourne aboard Celebrity Edge, indulging in rich culture, art and culinary delights.

What’s included?

Accommodation on board in a balcony stateroom for 2
Complimentary dining options
Live shows and entertainment

A 2-night family stay at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, worth $4350

Momi Bay Fiji Resort — Create lifelong memories with your family at Momi Bay that caters to all vacationers.

Treat the crew to an unforgettable tropical escape at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, a proudly Fijian-owned resort on the western coast of Viti Levu. The two-night stay in a Lagoon View Room allows two adults and two children under 12 to experience Fiji’s welcoming hospitality, and enjoy lounging by the resort pool, head for a workout at the fitness centre, and soak in the beauty of such a unique resort experience.

What’s included?

2 nights’ stay in a Lagoon View Room for 2 adults and 2 kids under 12
Spacious outdoor deck with lagoon view
Hotel buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner

5-night stay for 2 couples at The Meru Sanur, Bali, valued at $4208

Gather the family or join forces with another couple and escape to one of Bali’s most beloved beachfront retreats. These two vouchers each cover a five-night stay for two in a luxurious Tropical Suite at The Meru Sanur, so your whole group can unwind together in style. Sink into the rhythm of Sanur, where golden shores meet refined island living. Between lazy mornings on the beach and sun-drenched afternoons by the pool, enjoy the ease of daily breakfast and exclusive lounge access throughout your stay.

What’s included?

2 x 5-night stay vouchers in a Tropical Suite (2 guests per room)
Daily breakfast
Lounge access

2 nights at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, worth $4150

Top view of Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort pool — Spend warm days soaking up the sun playing golf or relaxing by the pool.

At the award-winning Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Club, your Fijian family getaway kicks off with the rhythmic beat of the lali drum and a heartfelt welcome from friendly locals. Enjoy two nights in a Garden View Room for two adults and two kids under 12, spending time lounging by the beach, teeing off at the 18-hole golf course, swimming in the pool or sending the little ones to the kids’ club. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

What’s included?

2 nights in a Garden View Room
Hotel buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation for a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children under 12 years old

1 of 2 vouchers for a 3-night stay at RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, worth $4000 each

RIHGA suite with King bedroom — Savour the comfort and luxury in a luscious king suite.

Enjoy a luxurious three-night sojourn for two at the RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, Vignette Collection, in Japan’s Nakanoshima district, staying in a 1 King, 1 Bedroom Suite with club lounge access. Wind down in the pool and sauna before enjoying a variety of distinctive dining venues and the convenience of the nearby station and buzzing city.

What’s included?

3 nights in a 1 king 1 bedroom suite, club lounge access for 2
Access to the pool, spa and wellness facilities
A dedicated private check-in counter for seamless check-in and out
Access to the 23rd-floor art-adorned Royal Lounge

A 3-night stay for 2 at the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, worth $3500

Teppanyaki and the Hilton Obaiba Tokyo — Dine in style with a Teppanyaki course dinner.

Discover the essence of Tokyo with a three-night escape in a Superior Deluxe Twin room for two with breakfast included at the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba. Take in the view of the iconic Rainbow Bridge from the balcony and unwind in the walk-in shower. Then dine in style with two included reservations for a teppanyaki course dinner at the hotel’s Japanese restaurant.

What’s included?

3-night stay in a Superior Deluxe Twin Room for 2 guests with a balcony
Buffet-style breakfast at an all-day dining restaurant
2 reservations for a teppanyaki course dinner for 2

A 2-night stay for 4 at Grand Hyatt Singapore, worth $3000

Singapore Grand Hyatt suite — Explore Singapore with convenience and ease.

Dive into a refined city escape for two adults and two children in a lush, resort-like sanctuary in the heart of Singapore’s Orchard Road. Stay in a spacious Deluxe Room, splash in the pool with the kids and decompress at the hotel’s wellness facilities. Enjoy daily breakfast at StraitsKitchen and experience Singapore’s vibrant dining scene.

What’s included?

An eVoucher for a 2-night stay in a Deluxe King Bed Room with Sofa bed
Daily breakfast at StraitsKitchen
Access to hotel facilities, including the pool

1 of 3 vouchers for a 2-night stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake, worth $1167 each

Escape to the conveniently located DoubleTree Hilton in Tokyo.

Explore the beauty of Tokyo from the conveniently located DoubleTree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake, where you and one other guest will stay in a Premium Room with complimentary daily breakfast. Enjoy a lunch or afternoon tea at SAUS and dinner at Brew33 Bar with free-flowing drinks for two hours.

What’s included?

A voucher for 2 nights in a DoubleTree by Hilton Ariake’s Premium Room for 2
Daily complimentary breakfast
Lunch or afternoon tea at SAUS for 2
Dinner at Brew33 bar

Thousands of readers have cast their votes in a worldwide survey, revealing the best islands in the world to add to your travel radar.

The best island escapes have a way of making us feel instantly lighter – whether it be the pink-hued fringing reefs, green coconuts, powdery sands between your toes or crystalline water that shifts between turquoise and aquamarine with the light. Perhaps it’s the easy-breezy atmosphere that makes your worries melt as quickly as a tropical ice block in the sun. But how does one choose which island to visit?

Travel + Leisure has released its list of the best islands in the world as part of its 2026 World’s Best Awards, shining a spotlight on 25 idylls worth adding to your travel radar. More than 661,000 votes were cast across all award categories, including the best train journeys in the world, from more than 207,000 readers, who weighed in to share their opinions. From accessible Pacific gems to volcanic Portuguese outposts and stirring Scottish isles, the top-voted islands have revealed travellers’ appetite not only for relaxation, but also for adventure and cultural discovery.

And taking out the No.1 ranking? A blissful Thai island set in an inlet of the South China Sea.

1. Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand’s second-largest island, Koh Samui, has been named the number one island in the world for 2026, scoring an impressive 95.64 out of 100. Travellers appreciate the island’s diversity – offering everything from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to elephant sanctuaries and breathtaking Buddhist temples.

The destination has received increased attention from tourists over the past year or so, thanks to the hit HBO series The White Lotus setting its third season at the uber-luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (we can dream, right?). Whether you’re checking into this five-star resort or an affordable jungle villa, Koh Samui will no doubt cast its spell on you.

2. Maldives

maldives aerial — The Maldives are known for their overwater villas. (Credit: Unsplash/Ishan @seefromthesky)

The atolls of the Maldives continue to hold universal allure, owing to their unbelievably glassy waters, indulgent overwater resorts and abundant marine life luring the diving crowd. And now they are even easier to access than ever, thanks to Luxury Escapes recently launching Australia’s first direct flight to the Maldives.

3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

yellow iguana on Galapagos Islands — Spot the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. (Credit: Simon Berger)

Giant tortoises. Cheeky sea lions. Marine iguanas. With its unique environment where guests can follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, unparalleled wildlife encounters and expedition spirit, it’s easy to see why this island group in the eastern Pacific Ocean tops bucket lists the world over.

4. Bali, Indonesia

The River Café at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa, Bali — A secluded riverside infinity pool hangs over the sacred Petanu River at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa.

Bali is a tried-and-true crowd-favourite among Aussie and NZ travellers not just for its convenient proximity to the east coast of Australia, but for its surf breaks, laid-back beach club lifestyle and delicious food. Plus, prices are a fraction of what they are back home.

5. Phuket, Thailand

Rich in dramatic limestone cliffs, elephant sanctuaries and a dynamic meld of cultures, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and one worth planning a tropical escape to.

6. Seychelles

a white-sand beach with giant boulders at La Digue, Seychelles — Etched on La Digue Island are huge granite rocks. (Credit: Getty/Diamond Dogs)

The independent island nation of Seychelles commonly conjures images of secluded beaches studded with oversized granite boulders and lined with shady palms. But it is also home to thriving vanilla plantations, multi-ethnic culture, French and British architecture, as well as island-hopping opportunities.

7. Fiji

Fiji was voted one of the best islands in the world for several reasons: it is convenient to get to (located around four hours from mainland Australia), home to wildly beautiful marine environments and boasts of the friendliest locals in the world.

8. Sri Lanka

sri lanka train — Sri Lanka is known for its lush landscapes. (Credit: Unsplash/gemmafjam)

Located in the Indian Ocean just off the south-eastern coast of India, Sri Lanka beckons with flavour-packed cuisine, lush jungle and relaxed surf scenes that have visitors longing to return.

9. Dominica, the Caribbean

With rainforest covering around two-thirds of the land mass, this Caribbean destination is all about getting outdoors. Swim under thundering waterfalls, hike volcanic terrain and snorkel around Scotts Head.

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Boasting a vibrant fusion of African, Arabic and Indian cultures, Zanzibar is a unique place to book for your next island escape. The postcard-worthy beaches harbour dolphins and sea turtles, while the landscapes are home to endangered monkeys, rhinos and antelopes.

11. Golden Isles, USA

Comprising Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and St. Simons Island, the Golden Isles lie along Georgia’s Atlantic coast. Expect sweeping salt marshes, stretches of sun-drenched beaches and landmarks revealing a fascinating southern history.

12. Sardinia, Italy

sardinia boats — Sardinia is blessed with blue waters. (Credit: Unsplash/Fadi al Shami)

If you haven’t yet visited Sardinia, consider this your sign. This relatively undeveloped island, placed 200 kilometres off Italy’s mainland just south of Corsica, offers a distinctive local cuisine and mysterious Bronze Age ruins. An absolute must is joining a boat charter to the La Maddalena Archipelago – I’ve never seen water so clear and blue!

13. Skye and the Hebrides, Scotland

Not all islands come ringed with palm trees and tropical waters. In Scotland, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides offer windswept coastlines far from civilisation, historic castles and a Lord of the Rings vibe.

14. Malta

the Valletta city pictured from above — Soak up the Baroque beauty of Valletta City. (Credit: Visit Malta)

One of the world’s best islands for both history and stunning blue water, Malta is famed for its golden limestone architecture, megalithic temples and Baroque buildings. Make sure to visit the striking Blue Lagoon.

15. Grenada, the Caribbean

Dubbed the ‘spice isle’, Grenada’s main hilly island is home to an abundance of nutmeg plantations, along with colourful Georgian buildings and diverse landscapes, from flowing waterfalls to castaway beaches.

16. Madeira, Portugal

coastal views at Porto da Cruz, Madeira — The majestic coastal beauty of Madeira’s Porto da Cruz. (Credit: Lauren de Sousa)

This subtropical Portuguese archipelago is a speck in the North Atlantic Ocean. Praised for its stirring volcanic landscapes, fortified wine and hiking trails, Madeira is a wonderful destination for food lovers as well as nature seekers.

17. Azores, Portugal

A lush paradise in the Atlantic, the Azores comprise nine volcanic islands, with São Miguel being the most popular among tourists. Bubbling geothermal hot springs, green crater lakes, whales, and dolphins are all reasons to visit.

18. Maui, USA

Maui is Hawai’i’s second-largest island and is known for its crystal-clear snorkelling at Molokini Crater, epic sunrises, waterfalls, scenic drives and luxurious beach resorts.

19. Sicily, Italy

sicily architecture — Sicily boasts charming architecture. (Unsplash/Val Vesa)

It’s little wonder Sicily has become such an enviable tourist destination, voted one of the best islands in the world. Not only does it offer sparkling turquoise coves and Italy’s tallest active volcano, but it’s also home to ancient Greek ruins and charming towns dotted with restaurants dishing up twirls of silky spaghetti.

20. Milos, Greece

Ah, Milos. This Aegean outpost in the Cyclades region is proving that the Greek islands will always be a slice of paradise to travellers with its moon-like landscapes, quieter atmosphere and pebbly beaches dotted with sun-baking locals.

21. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Discover vegetation-lined walking trails, nature sanctuaries, luxury yacht trips and famous seawater-flooded grottos on this dreamy Caribbean island.

22. Crete, Greece

a boat moored in the seaside village of Loutro Crete — Loutro is a charming seaside village in Crete that is surrounded by turquoise waters.

The largest and most populous island of Greece, Crete is the place to go for towering mountain gorges, world-renowned beaches, historic old towns and a distinct blend of Minoan, Greek Orthodox, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.

23. Vieques, Puerto Rico

The lesser-known Caribbean island of Vieques is where wild horses roam the countryside, wildlife refuges and bioluminescent bays where microorganisms light up the water with an otherworldly blue-green glow.

24. Paros, Greece

The lively main fishing town of Paros gives the island plenty of charm – think whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys, vine-draped tavernas and boutique shops. But don’t miss the sailing cruises and unique rock formations dotted around the island.

25. Kauaʻi, USA

Kauaʻi coast — Hike dramatic coastlines on Kauaʻi. (Credit: Unsplash/Jake Houglum)

Part of the Hawaiian archipelago, Kauaʻi is best known for its striking natural beauty, where godly green cliffs tumble into azure ocean and rainbows spring from misty waterfalls.

What’s better than booking your dream holiday? Winning it, of course!

Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on 14 September 2026.

A 5-night stay in Maui’s Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, worth $39,000

What’s included?

A Hurtigruten 14-night northern lights cruise in Norway for 2, worth $20,000

What’s included?

An UnCruise 8-night voyage off Mexico’s Baja California for 2, valued from $14,790

What’s included?

2 return economy class tickets to Tokyo with ANA, worth $9334

What’s included?

A 9-night Australian wine cruise with Celebrity Cruises for 2, worth $7996

What’s included?

A 2-night family stay at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, worth $4350

What’s included?

5-night stay for 2 couples at The Meru Sanur, Bali, valued at $4208

What’s included?

2 nights at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, worth $4150

What’s included?

1 of 2 vouchers for a 3-night stay at RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, worth $4000 each

What’s included?

A 3-night stay for 2 at the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, worth $3500

What’s included?

A 2-night stay for 4 at Grand Hyatt Singapore, worth $3000

What’s included?

1 of 3 vouchers for a 2-night stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake, worth $1167 each

What’s included?

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Win a 9-night Australian wine cruise with Celebrity Cruises for 2, worth $7996

Thousands of readers have cast their votes in a worldwide survey, revealing the best islands in the world to add to your travel radar.

1. Koh Samui, Thailand

2. Maldives

3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

4. Bali, Indonesia

5. Phuket, Thailand

6. Seychelles

7. Fiji

8. Sri Lanka

9. Dominica, the Caribbean

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania

11. Golden Isles, USA

12. Sardinia, Italy

13. Skye and the Hebrides, Scotland

14. Malta

15. Grenada, the Caribbean

16. Madeira, Portugal

17. Azores, Portugal

18. Maui, USA

19. Sicily, Italy

20. Milos, Greece

21. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

22. Crete, Greece

23. Vieques, Puerto Rico

24. Paros, Greece

25. Kauaʻi, USA