Small Luxury Hotels of the World Features Prominently in Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2007

Properties within the Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) of the World brand have once again received worldwide acclaim, this time in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2007 readers' survey.

The Oberoi Udaivilas in India, received the highest accolade when it was named the World's Best Hotel. The hotel, which has been part of the SLH brand since 2001, gained an overall score of 94.36 and jumped from its 2006 third place ranking. In addition, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra and The Oberoi Rajvilas , Jaipur, both in India, have been ranked the 10th and 11th best hotels in the world, respectively &emdash; As a result three SLH hotels have received top honours in being ranked amongst the 11 best hotels in the world.

SLH hotels also ranked the highest in three of the regional categories: Huka Lodge in New Zealand was named Top Hotel in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific; La Casa Que Canta was voted Top Hotel in Mexico, Central and South America; and The Oberoi Udaivilas was awarded Top Hotel in Asia. In addition to this, a further two SLH hotels were honoured in the Top 100 Hotels, including Kirawira Camp in Tanzania and Katikies Hotel in Santorini, Greece.

All of these accolades follow closely on the heels of Small Luxury Hotels of the World being named "The Most Prestigious Luxury Hotel Brand" for 2007 by the New York-based Luxury Institute, as well as the luxury hotel brand most worthy of a price premium.

"We are delighted that SLH continues to gain valuable recognition both from a brand perspective as well as its individual hotels. To have an SLH hotel ranked as the best in the world, as well having others featured prominently in the regional categories, is testament to the exemplary service standards and experiences that our hotels consistently deliver," commented Paul Kerr, Joint Managing Director of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Viewed as one of the most revered rankings in the international travel industry, the Travel + Leisure readers' survey evaluates hotels' guestrooms, facilities, location, service, food and beverage and value for money. A complete listing of Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2007 Readers' Awards can be found at www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest

Welcome to Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Small Luxury Hotels of the World is an unrivalled collection of over 400 independent hotels in more than 65 countries, offering an infinite variety of exceptional guest experiences. Each exclusive property boasts a unique character and charm all the while committing to a single standard of excellence guaranteeing guests an unsurpassed level of quality, service and luxury no matter their destination. Whether travelling for business, leisure or a combination of the two, you are sure to find an SLH property that meets your needs: from the exuberance of surf, snow and safari resorts to the more sedate elegance of resplendent country homes, secluded coral bays, eco-reserves, spa retreats or vibrant city centres. Each hotel takes pride in transforming an ordinary stay into an extraordinary experience - the only difficulty you face is which of the exquisite hotels within the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection to choose. When you see the SLH gold logo you can expect only the best.

Hotels interested in applying for membership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World may visit www.joinslh.com for further information and details.