As much as we love a beautiful destination and a luxurious suite, what most affects our travel experiences are the people. Sometimes it’s a particularly excellent guide or an especially engaging concierge or the spirit of a hotel’s entire staff. The following awards highlight some of the most memorable people we encountered in our previous year of globe-trotting.

Chef of the Year: Alan Bates

Connection by Alan Bates, Copenhagen, Denmark

How many chefs text you a few days ahead to ask your music preferences so they can make the perfect playlist to accompany dinner? And how many come out of the kitchen to serve you each dish of a multicourse meal? Exactly one: Alan Bates, a British chef who has created a delightful experience at Connection by Alan Bates, his tiny restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen. An evening in his 18-seat dining room is not just a master class in hospitality, it’s a chance to see an enthusiastic young chef use the cooking chops he earned at two Michelin-starred restaurants. He creates tasting menus that forge deeper bonds among guest, chef and the producers who provide the building blocks for stellar French-inspired meals.