Romania and South Africa guides win top award

Holidaymakers who want to be guided by the best in the travel business need look no further than Danut Marin and Selwyn Davidowitz.

The guides won the top award from readers of Wanderlust for their expertise of their native Romania and South Africa respectively.

Danut Marin guides Exodus' Carpathian Culture and Wildlife tours of Romania.

The adventure and active holiday company explains it was those that had been on the trip who voted for Marin "because of the passion that he displays for his country and its wildlife and his ability to give a sensitive yet honest account of the somewhat tumultuous history of his native country.

"Voters also commented on his ability to recognise and take care of the needs of individuals on the trip."

Wanderlust explains Selwyn Davidowitz has been an independent guide for the past eight years creating "personalised itineraries for his guests and combines these experiences with trips to the township of Kayamandi". He also has a foundation which funds innovative community projects. His tours are available from ilovecapetown.com.

The panel at the Wanderlust awards included some of the UK's best known travellers including Bill Bryson and Michael Palin.