Occupying nearly one third of the island of Great Britain, Scotland is the northernmost member of the British Union and a popular tourist destination because of its varied historic past, unique culture and numerous attractions.
Scotland can trace its national culture over 8,000 years and the influence of the Scots reaches far beyond the 790 islands that form modern Scotland. Although exact statistics are difficult to determine and figures vary, an estimated 20 million Americans claim Scottish heritage. The role of Scotland and the Scots on Britain, the United States and the world cannot be overstated.
Travelers to Scotland will find ample choices in dining, shopping and activities. The national tourism board has established rating criteria for activities and accommodations throughout the country to help visitors with specific planning.
Most travelers to Scotland will spend some time in at least one of the major cities, Glasgow (the largest), Edinburgh (the capital) or Aberdeen. Visitors will find the cities generally safe but as with all urban settings care must be taken to avoid crime.
Scotland’s largest city has been transformed in recent years and is considered a desirable vacation and business destination. Situated at the doorway to the Scotland’s countryside the city of approximately 570,000 residents is serviced by Glasgow International Airport. There are 249 international flights weekly offered by carriers such as British Airways, RyanAir, EasyJet, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Aer Lingus, Air Berlin, Emirates, Continental Airlines, Transavia Airlines, Wizz Air, Icelandair, Air Scotland, Zoom Airlines, Air Malta, Aer Arann and Pakistan International Air.
From golf to shopping; museums to sightseeing, Glasgow offers a numerous activities throughout the year. Popular attractions around the city include: The Auld Kirk Museum, Gallery of Modern Art, The College of Piping, Museum of Scottish Country Life and the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art.
Some of the special events coming to Glasgow include: The Glasgow Art Festival (April 19-22); Triptych 07 Music Festival (April 25-29); UEFA Cup Final (Starting May 16); West End Cultural Festival (June 8 - 24); Glasgow International Jazz Festival (June 22 –July 1); Glasgow River Festival (July 14 & 15); Piping Live: International Piping Festival and World Championships (August 6-12) and the Whisky Live Whisky Celebration (November 2 - 3).
At The Safe Traveler we realize that travelers may seek a variety of accommodations options. We showcase a few popular highly rated hotels because the personal attention received at establishments such as these often helps deter crime. Popular hotels with higher ratings (as assigned by the Scottish Tourism Board) include: Carlton George Hotel (4 Stars), Langs Hotel (4 Stars), Fraser Suites Glasgow (4 Stars) and the Menzies Glasgow Hotel (4 Stars).
Scotland’s capital is a popular tourist attraction. The city offers countless activities and attractions for visitors seeking a uniquely Scottish experience.
Edinburgh Airport has 216 international flights per week on carriers such as British Airways, ScotAirways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, RyanAir, Lufthansa German Airlines, Aer Arann, Aer Lingus, Continental Airlines and Delta Air Lines.
The city is known for its festivals. Some of the largest and most popular in Europe occur in the city. Upcoming festivals and events include: Ceilidh Culture (March 24 – April 15); Science Festival (April 2 – 15); Leith Festival (June 1 – 10); Edinburgh Art Festival (July 26 – Sept 2); Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival (July 27 – August 5); Festival Fringe (August 5 – 27); International Festival (August 10 – Sept 23); and the Film Festival (August 15 – 26).
Edinburgh offers a wide choice of accommodation. Some of the more popular top rated hotels include: The Howard (5 Star), The Balmoral Hotel (5 Star), Edinburgh Residence (5 Star), The Caledonian Hilton (5 Star), Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa (5 Star), Holiday Inn Edinburgh (4 Star), Hilton Edinburgh Airport (4 Star), Edinburgh Marriott Hotel (4 Star), and the Radisson SAS Hotel – Edinburgh (4 Star).
Known as The Granite City, Aberdeen is a popular destination for visitors. It offers a mix of modern cosmopolitan activities with old world charm.
Visitors can experience the best of Scottish culture and maritime life in Aberdeen. The city offers fine dining, museums and shopping. It is also the gateway to Scotland’s whisky country and some of the country’s finest castles. Visitors can tour distilleries along the Malt Whisky Trail and castles along the Castle Trail during short day trips from the city’s center.
Aberdeen Dyce International Airport is serviced by 15 airlines including British Airways, ScotAirways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Air France.
Popular, top-rated hotels include: The Marcliffe at Pitfodels Hotel and Spa (5 Star), Aberdeen Marriott Hotel (4 Star), Hilton Aberdeen Treetops Hotel (4 Star), and the Kildrummy Castle Hotel (4 Star)
The incidence of crime and problems is low at most events. Travelers are however advised that when attending any event they should remain alert to petty crime. Pick-pockets and con artists frequent events with large gatherings of people. Minimize the amount of valuables and personal items you carry. Never leave personal items left unattended.
If tickets are required, it is advisable to purchase them only from reputable outlets to minimize the risk of purchasing a counterfeit.
If the event is held in an area you are unfamiliar with, avoid traveling alone and stay in well traveled and well lighted areas after dark, regardless of the city or country.
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