Virginia's tourism guide is being touted as the nation's best.

The Virginia Tourism Corporation says the 2008 travel guide received a Travel Industry Association award. The awards was announced at the group's annual conference on Tuesday.

The guide is called "Live Passionately-Virginia is for Lovers" and tells the story of more than 30 Virginians. Photographer Cameron Davidson captured each of the portraits, which include innkeepers, winemakers, outdoor guides, chefs and musicians.

Alisa Bailey, president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation, says the $18 billion tourism industry is supported by marketing efforts like the travel guide.