Gili Lankanfushi Maldives the Top Hotel in the World; The Langham Chicago is #1 in the U.S.

Worldwide Winners Also Named in Best Bargain, Luxury, Small Hotels; B&Bs and Inns; Top Hotels for Family, Romance, and Service Categories

NEWTON, Mass., Jan. 21, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TripAdvisor^®, the world's largest travel site*, today announced the winners of its Travelers' Choice™ awards for Hotels. The 13^th annual awards showcase 8,151 winning properties worldwide, covering eight regions around the globe. Travelers' Choice award winners were determined based on the millions of reviews and opinions collected in a single year from TripAdvisor travelers worldwide. The hallmarks of Travelers' Choice winners are remarkable service, quality and value.

"TripAdvisor's community of millions of travelers has helped us highlight some of the very best hotels from around the world," said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "The Travelers' Choice list of thousands of award-winning properties is perfect to inspire travelers as they think about their 2015 travel plans. From opulent, luxury hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs, those looking for an accommodation can research, compare prices and book a Travelers' Choice property on TripAdvisor, or any other hotel that meets their travel needs."

Travelers' Choice awards take into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and opinions and traveler ratings specific to each award category. While these are the favorite hotels of travelers around the world, there are some great bargains available when booking on TripAdvisor. The average nightly rate of Travelers' Choice award-winning Top Hotels on TripAdvisor is $357; Bargain is $91; B&Bs and Inns is $136; Family is $250; Luxury is $482; Romance is $539; Service is $467 and Small Hotels is $563.

A recent survey of TripAdvisor travelers revealed 82 percent of U.S. respondents feel Travelers' Choice award recognition is important when considering a hotel.

Top 10 Travelers' Choice Hotels in the U.S:

1. The Langham Chicago, Chicago, Illinois - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $442. Least expensive month to visit: January ($347)

Since its opening in September 2013, this elegantly modern hotel has impressed TripAdvisor travelers with its commitment to service, luxury, and beyond. Guests praise its 316 spacious rooms that overlook the Chicago River, Mediterranean-inspired Travelle restaurant, and 22,000 square-foot Chuan wellness facility. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "This hotel is simply the best; every effort is taken to make you feel appreciated and comfortable. You are treated like royalty throughout your entire stay."

2. French Quarter Inn, Charleston, South Carolina - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $465. Least expensive month to visit: January ($360)

Located in the center of historic Charleston, this 50-room boutique hotel combines the warmth of Southern hospitality with old world elegance for a memorable experience. Guests will feel pampered by the classic, warm décor in shades of red and gold, as well as the host of complimentary snacks and beverages. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "The location is perfect, the rooms immaculate, the wine and cheese, cookies and other surprises were awesome. I could not have had a better night in Charleston."

3. Bardessono, Yountville, California - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $805. Least expensive month to visit: December ($545)

In the heart of Napa Valley, travelers are invited to immerse themselves in contemporary luxury at this sustainable LEED certified hotel. Each of the 62 guestrooms can accommodate private in-room spa treatments, while the rooftop pool allows guests to unwind under the California sun. Guests won't have to travel far for an exquisite meal, as the on-site Lucy Restaurant and Bar offers mouthwatering local fare. "Everything about the Bardessono is wonderful. It is peaceful and quiet. It is beautiful. The service is perfect, with every staff member making clear that their goal is to be helpful," noted a TripAdvisor reviewer.

4. The Grand Del Mar, San Diego, California - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $602. Least expensive month to visit: January ($507)

Located within the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, this 249-room Mediterranean estate boasts a state-of-the-art spa, outstanding restaurants and boutique shopping. Outdoors, guests can lounge by the adults-only relaxation pool, hike along the trails surrounding the magnificent property, or hit the links at the championship golf course. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "The Grand Del Mar is the perfect oasis for mind, body, and spirit. From the moment you arrive, the entire staff treats you like royalty, and the facility is elegantly lavish in all the best ways."

5.  Old Edwards Inn and Spa , Highlands, North Carolina - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $312. Least expensive month to visit: March ($228)

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Edwards Inn and Spa offers European-style luxury in a tranquil, rustic setting. Guests will enjoy endless recreation exploring nearby hiking trails, lakes, and waterfalls, while the renowned spa invites travelers to kick back for some world class pampering. "The rooms are beautifully appointed, complete with automatic fireplaces and extra jets in the shower. The staff was friendly and responsive; a truly relaxing place in beautiful surroundings," added a TripAdvisor reviewer.

6.  The Oxford Hotel, Bend, Oregon - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $370. Least expensive month to visit: January ($306)

Downtown Bend, just steps from shops, art galleries and world-famous micro-breweries, this "eco-chic" boutique hotel blends luxury, ambiance and outstanding service in all 59 rooms. The premier Cascade Suite comes with a kitchen, large living area, and balcony with sweeping views of the mountains, while the smaller Terrace Suites offer an exclusive King bed and a luxurious bathroom complete with a steam shower and soaking tub. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "Very centrally located, accommodating as well as super kind and friendly. So nice to be right in the hub and still have peace and quiet."

7.  21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, Bentonville, Arkansas - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $251. Least expensive month to visit: February ($224)

Boasting 104 rooms designed by architect Deborah Berke, this boutique hotel is also a contemporary art museum that displays curated rotating exhibitions, dynamic installations and live art events. The inviting accommodations feature high ceilings, custom furnishings, and large windows, while maintaining a warm, residential vibe that TripAdvisor travelers rave about. "Details matter and the 21c Museum has them figured out. Check-in is fast, the rooms are very comfortable. The service exceeded any reasonable expectation," noted a TripAdvisor reviewer.

8. Villas of Grand Cypress, Orlando, Florida - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $387. Least expensive month to visit: August ($240)

Offering world class amenities, spectacular accommodations, and lush, manicured grounds, this luxurious resort is located within walking distance of a premier golf course. Travelers can also visit nearby amusement parks for a day of fun in the sun, or enjoy a game of tennis or a dip in the pool at the property's facilities. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "Our villa was spacious, clean and very modern. The bathrooms are beautiful, the beds super comfortable, and the kitchen well-equipped. It was so nice to be able to stay in a villa together rather than separate hotel rooms with no common area."

9. Tivoli Lodge, Vail, Colorado - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $327. Least expensive month to visit: May ($147)

Located between Vail Village and Golden Peak, where skiers head onto the mountain, the 66-room Tivoli Lodge is a fantastic option for travelers. Most rooms come with a fireplace and stunning views of the snow covered peaks, while amenities include a fitness center, two outdoor hot tubs, and complimentary fresh baked cookies, hot chocolate, cider and tea. "The rooms are spacious and first-class. The views are breathtaking. The staff was superb. I can honestly say it was one of the finest lodging experiences I have ever had," noted a TripAdvisor reviewer.

10. The Inn at Lost Creek, Telluride, Colorado - 2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $295. Least expensive month to visit: May ($203)

Peacefully surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, this luxury slope side hotel offers 29 charming suites and three studios in the heart of Mountain Village. After a day on the slopes, guests can warm up by a roaring fireplace, or venture out and explore the nearby shops and restaurants. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, "From the well-appointed rooms with spectacular views, to the private rooftop Jacuzzi, and the tasty breakfast, this place has it all!"

Additional Select 2015 Winners:

Top Hotel in the World - Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Lankanfushi, Maldives
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $1,733

Top Luxury Hotel in the World - The Place Luxury Boutique Villas, Ko Tao, Thailand
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $274

Top Luxury Hotel in the U.S. - The Langham, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $442

Best Bargain Hotel in the World - Lawton Court Hotel, Llandudno, Wales
2015 average nightly rate: $117

Best Bargain Hotel in the U.S. - SeaCoast Inn, Hyannis, Massachusetts  
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $181

Best Hotel for Families in the World - Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel, Ortisei, Italy
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $646

Best Hotel for Families in the U.S. - Woodloch Pines Resort, Hawley, Pennsylvania
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $507

Best Hotel for Romance in the World - The Place Luxury Boutique Villas, Ko Tao, Thailand
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $274

Best Hotel for Romance in the U.S. - Inn Above Oak Creek, Sedona, Arizona  
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $203

Top Small Hotel in the World - The Place Luxury Boutique Villas, Ko Tao, Thailand
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $274

Top Small Hotel in the U.S. - Palm Springs Rendezvous, Palm Springs, California
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $230

Best Hotel for Service in the World - The Place Luxury Boutique Villas, Ko Tao, Thailand
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $274

Best Hotel for Service in the U.S. - Hotel California, Palm Springs, California
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $139

Best B&B and Inn in the World-Millgate Bed & Breakfast, Masham, England
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $119

Best B&B and Inn in the U.S. - The Welsh Hills Inn, Granville, Ohio  
2015 average nightly rate on TripAdvisor: $140

To see all 8,151 unique winners of the 2015 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards for Hotels go to: www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Hotels. Travelers can also follow the conversation on Twitter at #travelerschoice.

About TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor^® is the world's largest travel site*, enabling travelers to plan and book the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools that check hundreds of websites to find the best hotel prices. TripAdvisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, reaching 315 million unique monthly visitors**, and more than 200 million reviews and opinions covering more than 4.4 million accommodations, restaurants and attractions. The sites operate in 45 countries worldwide, including China under daodao.com. TripAdvisor also includes TripAdvisor for Business, a dedicated division that provides the tourism industry access to millions of monthly TripAdvisor visitors.

TripAdvisor, Inc. (Nasdaq:TRIP) manages and operates websites under 24 other travel media brands: www.airfarewatchdog.com, www.bookingbuddy.com, www.cruisecritic.com, www.everytrail.com, www.familyvacationcritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.gateguru.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk, www.holidaywatchdog.com, www.independenttraveler.com, www.jetsetter.com, www.lafourchette.com, www.niumba.com, www.onetime.com, www.oyster.com, www.seatguru.com, www.smartertravel.com, www.tingo.com, www.travelpod.com, www.tripbod.com, www.vacationhomerentals.com, www.viator.com, www.virtualtourist.com, and www.kuxun.cn.

*Source: comScore Media Metrix for TripAdvisor Sites, worldwide, August 2014

**Source: Google Analytics, average monthly unique users, Q3 2014; does not include traffic to daodao.com

CONTACT: Julie Cassetina

         (617) 670-6529

         jcassetina@tripadvisor.com