Preferred Travel Group's I Prefer Hotel Rewards programme has unveiled the winners of its 2026 Members' Choice Awards, spotlighting 20 independent hotels and resorts across four global regions. The awards are determined exclusively by votes from I Prefer members, reflecting the properties that consistently deliver exceptional service and unique guest experiences.
Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Travel Group, underscored the significance of member-driven recognition. "These awards carry special meaning because they come directly from the voices of our I Prefer members," she said. "Each winning property has demonstrated a commitment to creating memorable stays that inspire loyalty and connection."
Winners Span Key Destinations
Among the honorees are The Grand York in the United Kingdom, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, and Chatham Bars Inn in the United States. The list also includes properties from Scotland, Italy, and other international markets, showcasing the breadth of independent hospitality within the I Prefer network.
The awards highlight hotels that excel in personalized service, local authenticity, and overall guest satisfaction. For travel professionals, these properties represent strong options for client recommendations, particularly for discerning travelers seeking distinctive stays beyond chain hotels.
I Prefer Hotel Rewards, which now counts over 6 million members globally, allows points to be redeemed for cash-value Reward Certificates and other benefits. The programme is accepted at more than 700 participating hotels worldwide, giving agents and operators a flexible loyalty tool for independent properties.
The 2026 awards come amid a broader trend of loyalty programme innovation in hospitality. For context, Hyatt's Brand Explorer Award Rewards Multi-Brand Stays Across Asia Pacific similarly leverages member engagement to drive repeat bookings. Meanwhile, Bellustar Tokyo Secures Top 10 in Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards for Third Year, underscoring the value of independent recognition in luxury travel.
For hoteliers, the I Prefer awards offer a benchmark for service excellence that can influence booking decisions among travel advisors and corporate travel managers. The programme's focus on independent properties differentiates it from chain-dominated loyalty schemes, appealing to clients who value unique experiences.
Tour operators and agents can leverage the award list to curate itineraries featuring these recognized hotels, particularly in destinations like Singapore, the UK, and the US. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, for instance, is a landmark property in a key Asian hub, while Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod appeals to leisure travelers seeking coastal luxury.
Preferred Travel Group continues to expand its I Prefer network, adding new independent hotels each year. The 2026 awards reinforce the programme's role in connecting discerning travelers with properties that prioritize personalized service over standardized offerings.
For further details on the winning properties and booking options, travel professionals can visit the I Prefer website. The awards also serve as a reminder of the growing importance of loyalty programmes in driving direct bookings and repeat business for independent hotels.
