I expect every traveller has their favourite guide – of the human type that is, not a book.

Wanderlust recognises these heroes of travel each year in their World Guide Awards.  This year (their ninth) I was lucky enough to attend the award ceremony at the Royal Geographical Society in London.  The evening kicked off with a drink or two, followed by Hilary Bradt (of Bradt guide fame) talking about her own travel experiences.

Thousands of Wanderlust readers nominated their favourite guides, and it was then down to the judges to read the testimonials and chose the top three.  This year they struggled more than usual in their deliberations and had to award 4 prizes.  Bill Bryson, who was also one of the judging panel, made the awards, with the gold going to Efrain Valles, who guides in Peru.

The voting is already open for next year’s award so if you have a favourite guide who made a big difference to a trip you were on, head over here to place your vote.