In a travel world overrun by buzzwords and bullet points, it’s refreshing—if not downright heartening—to find a circle of industry greats still trading in the currency of old-fashioned camaraderie. Fourteen years ago, seven luxury suppliers decided to throw away the rulebook, pour a glass of something French, and do things their way. Thus was born Best of the Best—a name as unapologetically bold as the people behind it.
Originally a tight little gang of hotel champions, BOTB (as it’s affectionately known) has evolved into a who’s who of luxury travel, now boasting partners across high-end cruising and, whisper it, even the skies. But at its heart, it’s always been about mateship—the kind forged over red-eye flights, shared amuse-bouches, and the occasional champagne-fuelled strategy session.
The original dream team? Brenda Nash (The Legian Seminyak, Bali and Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka), Jonica Paramor (COMO Hotels and Resorts), Lynne Ireland (Inspired Luxury), Thushara Liyanarachchi (Taj Hotels), and Tony Knox (Anthony Knox & Associates)—names that, in the travel trade, carry the same weight as a suite upgrade during peak season.
In recent years, the party got a little bigger—and sea legs were added—with the arrival of cruise connoisseurs Anastasia Kotanidis (ex-Seabourn) and Alice Ager (Uniworld). They have more nautical miles than a sailor’s journal and stories that could sink a dull dinner conversation in seconds.
Speaking of dinners, the gang marked their 14th with a perfectly pitched soirée at the ever-so-hip Ace Hotel Sydney. Seventy travel partners gathered under warm lights and warmer laughter for an evening of tales, toasts, and top-tier nosh. Minor Hotels joined the fold as a special guest, adding a fresh note to the well-aged harmony.
As always with BOTB, there were no overblown speeches or corporate chest-beating—just heartfelt connections, the clinking of glasses, and a few knowing chuckles between colleagues who’ve seen it all and still turn up with a grin.
“We’ve never chased numbers,” said Lynne Ireland with the same quiet confidence that’s carried her through a thousand travel fairs. “We’ve chased magic. And, if you’ll forgive the cliché, we’ve found it in each other.”
Brenda Nash chimed in, eyes twinkling over dessert: “Fourteen years. That’s longer than most marriages in this industry!”
The years have taken BOTB from Sydney to Melbourne, over the ditch to Auckland, and deep into the hearts of those lucky enough to be invited. Their gatherings are equal parts high tea, TED Talk and family reunion—minus the awkward uncle.
And therein lies the magic. While others talk synergy, these legends live it. While others plan campaigns, BOTB plans connections. Their secret? Keep it personal. Keep it passionate. And never forget the power of a well-poured Pinot.
Here’s to 14 more—preferably somewhere with a view, a sea breeze, and someone at the table who still calls you “mate.”
By Bridget Gomez
