Scotland will surprise and delight with its contrast of bustling cities, meandering coastal shoreline, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Preeminent in many technological fields and respected for its academic and business acumen, Scotland is also renowned for the warmth and quality of the welcome extended by its people. From city center to country house hotels; from contemporary conference centers to historic castles; whether in winter, spring, summer, or fall; meeting planners and their conferences are always assured of the very best attention. Scotland's range of facilities, combined with its world-renowned attractions of countryside and cityscapes, creates an extra-special event experience. Many international airlines fly direct to Scotland from North America, and all offer a range of airfares and special group rates. Excellent road and rail systems make travel by car, coach, or train a breeze. Scottish-themed events, recreational activities, and dining options add additional dimensions to attendees' Scottish sojourn.
FAST FACTS Scottish Convention Bureau 23 Ravelston Terrace Edinburgh, EH4 3EU, Scotland
Phone: 011 44 131 343 1608
Fax: 011 44 131 343 1844
Web: www.convention.scotland.net
Director: Frank Mullen
Head of Sales & Marketing: Carolyn Dow
Sales Manager (North America):
Amanda Bower
Location and Transportation:Airlines serving Scotland's major airports (Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow) with non-stop service from the U.S. and Canada include Continental, British Airways, American, and Air Canada.
Hotels and Meeting Venues:Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow are Scotland's main meeting venues, including the Clyde Auditorium at SECC (Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre) in Glasgow, which opened last year. Smaller conference centers and meeting venues are scattered throughout the country. A network of 14 local convention and tourist boards run throughout Scotland. There is a great range of accommodations for meetings and incentives, from city center hotels to resort properties, from country house hotels to campus accommodations, and from exclusive-use castles to unusual venues such as museums, distilleries, and ships.
Recreation:Golf of course! In addition to the more than 480 golf courses, activities include fishing, off-road driving, archery, falconry, and hiking.
Climate:Scotland's weather is varied. The east coast tends to be cool and dry, while the west coast is milder and wetter. Given the ever-changing weather patterns, if it rains, it probably won't last for long.
Seasons:Value seasons are October to December and January to April.