The magazine quizzed more than 13,600 frequent fliers - those taking more than 39 business trips a year.

The survey was conducted over eight months to determine the best in a range of travel categories. The survey is published in the magazine's January issue.

British Airways won best airline, American Airlines had the best domestic first-class service, and Qatar Airways was number one in the Middle East.

Other winners were Asiana Airlines for onboard service and flight attendants, LAN was top in Central and South America, American Express provided the premium credit-card rewards programme while Korean Air is king in cargo. Continental Airlines Presidents Clubs are the best airport lounges, InterContinental priority club rewards ranked highest for hotel rewards, and Travelpro was voted the best luggage.

"Our readers are the opinion-leaders of business and luxury travel," said Global Traveler publisher and chief executive officer Francis Gallagher.

"Since we have access to such an important group of individuals we created our annual survey to determine the preferences of the most experienced travellers around." 

Spot the offer : Rewards from Central Food Retail

Central Food Retail is offering its Spot rewards cardholders a buy-one-get-one-free offer until January 23.

More than 60 items are included in the deal at the company's 96 Tops Super, Tops Market, Tops Daily and Central Food Halls.