Michelle Buttigieg, North America Representative for VisitMalta, has been awarded Destination Leader of the Year at Global Traveler’s 14th Annual Lifestyle Awards Gala, held on 20 April at the InterContinental Miami.
The award was presented by Francis X. Gallagher, CEO and Publisher of Global Traveler, who praised Buttigieg’s longstanding efforts in promoting Malta within the North American market. He highlighted her role as a key ambassador for the Maltese Islands, helping to raise awareness of Malta’s history, culture, and accessibility to U.S. travellers.
“Michelle Buttigieg has been an unwavering spokesperson for Malta and all its history, culture, and openness to all travellers,” said Gallagher. “She has educated the American market on the destination’s offerings and helped travellers realise that Malta belongs on their list of places to visit.”
Since her appointment as North America Representative for the Malta Tourism Office in 2014, arrivals from the United States and Canada have increased more than fourfold, contributing to Malta’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing Mediterranean destinations for North American visitors.
Michelle Buttigieg said:
“Accepting this Destination Leader of the Year Award from Global Traveler is incredibly meaningful and reflects what has been a truly rewarding journey over the past 12 years since we established VisitMalta’s North American representation. There was a time when the question was, ‘Where is Malta?’—today, it’s ‘When is the best time to visit?’ That evolution is a testament to the support of the travel advisor community and our industry partners, as well as Malta’s expanding luxury offerings and authentic, curated experiences.”
VisitMalta Recognised for Outstanding Social Responsibility Commitment
In addition to this honour, VisitMalta received the Outstanding Social Responsibility Award, recognising Malta’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and equality, particularly for LGBTQIA+ residents and visitors.
The recognition highlights Malta’s consistent top ranking on ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map for ten consecutive years, reflecting strong legal protections and progressive policies. It also underscores the islands’ growing popularity as a wedding and honeymoon destination within the American LGBTQIA+ travel market.
Malta’s leadership in this area is further supported by national initiatives promoting equality, alongside annual Pride celebrations held in Valletta.