LAS VEGAS, Jan. 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Recognizing the highest standards of excellence in hospitality, Conde Nast Traveler Vice President and Publisher Carolyn Kremins bestowed the prestigious Navigator Award upon Bellagio during an exclusive invitation-only event on January 21.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120130/LA42886)

Bellagio President & COO Randy Morton accepted the award on behalf of the resort's more than 8,000 employees during the inaugural Gold List 2012 event held at Hyde Bellagio.

"We are deeply honored to receive this award from one of the world's preeminent publications in luxury travel," said Morton. "This recognition is a testament to Bellagio's incredible employees who strive to create exceptional experiences for every guest that walks through our doors."

The Navigator Award is granted to an individual, on behalf of a travel organization or destination, who, in the opinion of Conde Nast Traveler's publisher, possesses an extraordinary legacy and consistently upholds the highest standards of excellence in hospitality. The recipient demonstrates an industry-leading commitment to quality and ranks among the world's greatest hosts for the magazine's readership.

Kremins said, "We are thrilled to bestow the second-ever Navigator Award upon Bellagio. Since opening in late 1998, it has been one of our readers' perennial favorites, and has truly set a Gold Standard for excellence in hospitality."

This is only the second time Conde Nast Traveler has granted the Navigator Award; the first time was in 2009 to Gov. Linda Lingle on behalf of the State of Hawaii.

Bellagio has received several editorial honors from Conde Nast Traveler including the prized Gold List (World's Best Hotels annually 2000 - 2012); The Reader's Choice Poll (annually 2000 - 2011); and the all-new Platinum Circle (recognizing more than five consecutive years of Gold List status).

About Bellagio
Inspired by the beautiful villages of Europe, the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio overlooks a Mediterranean-blue, 8 1/2-acre lake, where fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet choreographed to music and lights. Within Bellagio are award-winning dining experiences including two AAA Five Diamond restaurants, Julian Serrano's Picasso and Le Cirque from the renowned Maccioni family. Bellagio is home to an impressive collection of luxury retailers including Louis Vuitton, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Breguet, Prada, Fred Leighton, Chanel, Dior, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, Hermes and OMEGA. A world-class art gallery, the exquisite Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, the stunning "O" by Cirque du Soleil®, a luxurious spa and salon, dynamic nightlife at The Bank, Hyde Bellagio and Lily Bar & Lounge (opening February 2012) and an elegant casino all add to the extraordinary Bellagio experience. Bellagio is a wholly owned subsidiary of MGM Resorts International(TM) (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit www.bellagio.com or call toll free at (888) 987-6667 or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE MGM Resorts International