"Have a go" Hero Honoured

"Have a go" hero John Smeaton, the Glasgow Airport baggage handler who intervened during a terrorist attack on Glasgow Airport, was honoured by The Queen today.

The Queens Gallantry Medal, given to civilians for acts of bravery, is well merited for Mr Smeaton, and I add my congratulations.

Read the full story

Winter Wonderland

The Edinburgh Christmas Special is set to sparkle this year with some new additions to the Winter Wonderland spectacle.

These include an ice rink for children under-7 adjoining the main ice rink, and for the first time an Ice Gallery featuring ice sculptures and displays of historic winter sports in Scotland.

Nickie Gott, Managing Director of She’s Gott It!, who have been recently appointed by the City of Edinburgh Council to produce Edinburgh’s Christmas this year, said:

“Edinburgh is one of the world’s most romantic cities and particularly magical at Christmas. We aim to bring something to the city that will complement the traditional festivities and enhance the experience for all ages. With shopping, food and great entertainment all set against the backdrop of historic Edinburgh, we are planning a Christmas which is not just for the thousands of visitors, but also something the residents can be proud of. We can’t wait to roll it out!”

See Scotland Without Breaking The Bank

Not every visitor to Scotland is a rich tourist.

Many of our visitors are backpackers, here for the hiking, cycling, kayaking etc, and many more are just travelling, taking in the sights and attractions or just getting a taste of the culture, traditions and beauty of the country.

If you happen to be one of them, then you will be pleased to know that there are hundreds of Hostels and Budget Accommodations in Scotland.

This is an ideal way to explore the country without spending a fortune, and lets face it, there is so much to see and do that most of your time is spent outdoors anyway.

Special Offers

After fourteen UK No.1 singles and 36 million records sold to-date worldwide, Westlife are the biggest selling pop act of the last nine years.

We have show and hotel packages available for 2008.

Other packages include the Osmonds 50th anniverary tour and Gone With The Wind on stage.

For last minute getaways there are great hotel offers for the Uk and beyond.

All Special Offers can be seen on Discover Scotland.

Holiday Cottages

Looking for a relaxing break with some solitude? Why not escape to a holiday cottage in the UK.

Outdoor and sporty types can enjoy all sorts of activities amidst some breathtaking scenery.

Newly-weds can find peace and tranquility in stunning locations.

For the perfect break you can do no better than look at
Scotland Holiday Cottages

Winter Glee Or Gloom?

With winter fast approaching, some of us dread the dark cold mornings, bringing with them falls of sleet or snow.

However, there are many who look forward to winter with anticipation.

The excitement of Christmas and the feeling of togetherness that New Year brings is the highlight of the year for many, with the Edinburgh and Glasgow Hogmanay parties the pinnacle.

The more adventurous enjoy winter hiking and skiing in Scotland.

The truth is, there is just as much going on in winter as there is in summer so lets all enjoy the season rather than hibernate.

Fancy A Short Break?

If searching for relaxation or a fun-filled weekend break with some sophistication, then our variety of great value breaks across Scotland, the UK, Europe & beyond are just what you are looking for.

City Breaks, Themed Breaks, Theatre Breaks, Stag & Hen Weekends, Special Interest Breaks and Cruises.

Go on spoil yourself

October Events

October is an exciting month for events in Scotland.

Highlights include the Tiree Wave Classic and the Lockerbie Jazz Festival.

The Tiree Wave Classic, from 12th - 20th is a week of adrenaline-pumping windsurfing action. Some of the best sailors from around the world compete against the wind and waves off the coast of Tiree.

The Lockerbie Jazz Festival, from 26th - 28th is a showcase of top international artists, Scottish bands and local musicians.

More Information Here

Edinburgh And Glasgow Hogmanay

Two of the biggest parties of the year are the Edinburgh and Glasgow Hogmanay celebrations.

Tickets go fast, so order yours online now

A Visit Home

The world's most travelled liner, the QE2, returned home to the River Clyde where She was built, to celebrate Her 40 years anniversary.

She was launched on 20 September, 1967 at the John Brown shipyard in Clydebank, and today She berthed at the Ocean Terminal in Greenock, with 100 of the original construction workers on board as guests of honour.

Next year She is scheduled to arrive in Dubai, to be transformed into a floating hotel and exhibition centre.

The QE2 is just one of the magnificent ships built on the Clyde, and it is perhaps safe to say that :

"We will never see Her likes again"

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Castle’s great oak gates sweep open, the night sky crackles with the sound of the pipes and drums, and the city of Edinburgh becomes alive.

Massed Pipes & Drums, displays, and performances from over 30 countries, will be celebrating 58 years of Scotland’s most famous spectacle, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

I know it's early yet, as this event takes place in August each year, but you have to book early to have any chance of attending this magnificent event. Read More

Feelgood Factor

Congratulations to the Scotland football team, after an unexpected but inspired victory against France in the Euro 2008 qualifier in Paris.

Sitting proudly now at the top of the section, the squad are responsible for the whole country waking up this morning with the "feelgood factor".

It's the same feeling you get when you have just watched an enchanting movie, or an exhilarating concert.

Attractions in Scotland give that same feeling when you have had a special day out with the family.

But how many of you remember the heart warming, true story of Greyfriars Bobby?

A testimony to loyalty & devotion, this little Skye Terrier has been close to the heart of the city of Edinburgh for almost 150 years.

Get the feelgood factor by reading about Bobby

Still Going Strong

The very mention of a visit to the Zoo these days can get you some amused looks.

Some people see it as a relic of the past, ok in bygone days to pass an hour or two, but not now, as modern technology is at the forefront of most of our leisure time.

But for animal lovers and outdoor types, the Zoo still has some appeal.

Edinburgh Zoo, with the most exciting wildlife in Scotland, has been going strong since 1913, and gives you the opportunity to meet over 1,000 animals.

No kidding, this is a great day out for all the family .... Read More

Old Firm Laid Bare

A photographer is looking for nude volunteers to pose under the guise of celebrating a historic clash between Celtic and Rangers.

Apparently this is an attempt to raise awareness of anti-sectarianism, with hundreds of male and female fans posing naked, with just their football scarves to protect their modesty.

Oli Norman, managing director of events firm DADA, quotes : "Stripped Naked will go down in history as one of the most exciting, debatable and cool pieces of art in our lifetime."

My quote : "Away an fan yer oxters"

Read the Story

Get To Know Scotland

Our biggest export is scotch whisky, well known throughout the world. However in Scotland you will not hear anyone order a "scotch".

A whisky will be asked for by brand name, or "a whisky", "a half", "a dram", or "a nip", depending on which part of the country you are in.... More

Scottish Attractions

Explore 300 hands-on exhibits, interactive workshops and live science shows.

Located on the south bank of the River Clyde in Glasgow, is the Glasgow Science Centre, which was awarded a five star rating in the visitor attraction category by the Scottish Tourist Board, Visit Scotland. Read more

Extreme Sports

Feeling adventurous?

For the ultimate in fun and excitement, try some of the extreme sport on offer.

Adrenalin pumping activities include Skydiving,
Ice Climbing, Quad Biking, Canyoning, Kite Surfing, Snowboarding and Paintballing.

Venues available throughout the UK, and all equipment is provided.

Extreme Sport

Summer Treats

Treat yourself this summer with an Event Package.

An Event Package can be a choice of Music, Sport, Themed or Culture Event coupled with accommodation in one of our Event Hotels.

You can also choose a Golf, Spa or Rail Break, or select one of our last minute deals.

Go on spoil yourself

Places To Visit In Scotland - Loch Ness

The Loch is best known for the alleged sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie".

Because of its long, straight shape, the Loch is subject to some unusual occurrences affecting its surface.

Investigations have included lures, fish baits, exploding light bulbs, submarines, scanning sonars, echo sounders, telephoto cameras, underwater cameras with strobe flashes, movie cameras, video and, now, digital cameras too.
The Loch cuts a great divide along what is ... Read More

Get a Twittering

What is it?

Twitter is a service that asks, what are you doing?

"It's one of the fastest-growing phenomena on the Internet."
- New York Times

"Suddenly, it seems as though all the world's a-twitter."
- Newsweek

"Twitter is on its way to becoming the next killer app."
- TIME Magazine

follow JohnGatens at http://twitter.com

Places To Visit In Scotland - Loch Lomond

Discover why the beauty of Loch Lomond is worthy of every word ever written in its praise. So much more than scenery, the loch is a vibrant centre for water sports, fishing and boat trips.

Less than 30 miles from Glasgow, holidaying here gives you the opportunity to enjoy the unrivalled beauty of the area plus the convenience of being close to the city.

The Loch presents the perfect holiday location, set amidst one of Scotland’s most idyllic and unspoilt areas with the largest expanse of fresh water in Britain and the backdrop of the mountains looming beyond. Read Full Story

Places To Visit In Scotland - Stirling Castle

Known as the Key to Scotland, Stirling Castle may be the most important and strategic castle in Scotland.

No one can confirm when the castle was first built, but references to it begin to appear in historical records of the early 12th Century. During a long and bloody history the Castle has been attacked or besieged at least 16 times.

The castle's most famous period in history was .... Read Full Story

Fly Fishing lures

In the general sport of fishing, you use lures to catch your fish; however, when you are fly fishing, the word lure only marginally applies. Sure, you are trying to lure the fish to your bait, but when you are fly fishing, you use flies to entice the fish. So when we talk about lures in the sport of fly fishing, we are really speaking about flies.

You see, fish eat bugs. They rely on flies, grasshoppers, and other insects for their food source. When you are fly fishing, you attempt to mimic the look and movement of their food. Therefore, the lure that you are providing them with are called flies.

There are all sorts of fly fishing lures, or flies, that you can use depending on the area you are fishing and the type of fish you want to catch. Most of these lures are available at commercial retail outlets, but you can also make them yourself. The key is to have several different lures available to you so you can adapt to the situation you are fishing in.

Fishing In Scotland has a link to try out a record breaking lure for a full 30 day risk free trial. (This is not available in retail outlets)

Golfing In Scotland

If you are looking for a short golfing break in Scotland then there are plenty of options. The "Home of Golf" provides a marvellous experience and excellent challenge to Golfers of all levels:- Play over those courses designed by the legendary 5 times Open Champion James Braid or the courses made famous by the likes of Ben Hogan, Tom Watson and Tiger Woods.

Scotland, of course, is deep rooted in the history of the game and its courses are revered the world over. Scotland's links courses, the most natural on earth, offer a wealth of superb challenges and golfing experiences to be found nowhere else. Golf in Scotland is the ultimate dream of most beginner and expert golfers.

Course information, Resorts & Tours, and a FREE ebook
"Drop 7 shots in 7 days" at Golfing In Scotland

Huge Success

Once again, T in the Park proved to be a huge success.

Revellers from far and wide enjoyed a fantastic weekend at Balado, and such is the demand for this great music festival, that tickets for next years concert were on sale the day after this one finished.

Keep up to date with all Scotland's concerts at Events In Scotland

The Glencoe Massacre

The Glencoe massacre is one of the most famous and emotive legends in Scottish History, yet it remains as one of the most oversimplified and misunderstood.

The Massacre of 13 February 1692 was a government operation and not a clan feud with the Campbells.

The massacre, sanctioned and implemented by the Crown in tandem with approval by Lowland elites, had intensified Highland-Lowland divisions. This act was the result of an order put out by the Master of Stair, King William of Orange’s Joint-Secretary of State for Scotland, as a Read Full Article

A Call For John

The creator of a tribute website to his heroism now wants John Smeaton to take a bow at the music festival, T in the Park.

However event organisers say this will not happen.

What a shame.

We don't need a bow in public, and I'm sure Mr Smeaton just wants a return to normality.

John, I salute you.

Read News Story

John Smeaton - Celebrity In The Making?

If you live in Scotland and have not heard of John Smeaton, following recent events, then you are either hibernating or still suffering from a hangover.

Catch up with some of the hilarious comments Here

And for Smeato T-Shirts go Here

Enjoy.

The Loch Ness Monster

The Loch Ness Monster is a cryptid (a legendary creature), claimed to inhabit Scotland's Loch Ness, the most voluminous freshwater lake in Great Britain. Along with Bigfoot and the Yeti, the Loch Ness Monster is one of the best-known mysteries of cryptozoology.

Many explanations have been postulated over the years to describe what kind of animal the Monster might be..... Read Full Article

Upcoming Events

Just a reminder of some upcoming events.

July sees the

British Open Golf Championship

19th - 22nd July 2007, Carnoustie, Angus.

The 136th Open Championship with Tiger Woods going for three Open wins in a row. Some of the world's best players will be competing in the great challenge.

Find Tickets Here

And the highlight of August events is the fabulous

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

3rd - 25th Aug 2007, Edinburgh

Spectacular event set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Hailed as one of the most spectacular shows in the world and watched by a TV audience of 100 million worldwide. Not to be missed.

Find Tickets & Accommodation

More info on all Events in Scotland

It's A Small World

Thought I'd share this little example of how small the world can be, thanks to the Internet.

I have been really busy recently building a new website.

Anyway, while doing some research, I clicked into a website for the very first time. They had a guestbook so I decided to have a look.

The first entry at the top of the page had been made that day. (The website was about my home town of Port Glasgow in Scotland) The person who made the entry is living in Ontario, Canada and he was ex Port Glasgow.

The name was the same as that of a classmate of mine from school, and there was an email address.

Could it be the same person?

I emailed and sure enough, it was the same Michael I knew and who had emigrated to Canada in 1967 (oops, gave my age away again)

We are now in touch again and have exchanged photographs by email.

Amazing or what?

Kayaking In Scotland

Scotland’s lochs, rivers and waterways are perfect for exploring on a summer’s day, and provide the ideal environment for kayaking.

Sea kayaking allows you the opportunity to really feel part of this wonderful environment whether on the open sea or on secluded rivers and lochs. You will be kayaking through history, as you pass the numerous Scottish Castles and the Scottish islands, with the remnants of what was once thriving communities.

Some of the best sea-kayaking in Europe is to be found on the coastlines of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Guided holidays explore the most scenic coastlines of the Highlands , including areas such as the Outer Hebrides, the Summer Isles, Loch Torridon, the Isle of Skye and the Sound of Arisaig.

There are a number of small islands off the west coast of Scotland, which make it a great venue for sea kayakers. The Skye coastline is incredible, with amazing scenery in a real wilderness area, and opens up a new way of exploring our beautiful coastline. Kayaking also lets you explore your own boundaries and broaden your horizons.

Discover Scotland's history as numerous Scottish castles sit on the coast, whilst marvelling at the sheer variety of sea birds and marine wildlife. The Moray Firth often welcomes whales, dolphins and porpoises while the east coast of Scotland offers some great areas for bird watching. However long you come for, you will see lots of wildlife in Scotland on your trip.

The Scottish Canoe Association is the governing body for canoeing and kayaking in Scotland. They have produced two very popular guide books outlining where to go canoeing and kayaking in Scotland; one covers white water, the other more gentle touring water. If you want to improve your performance, there is a nationwide coaching and testing scheme organised by them.

Kayaking in Scotland vacations are generally available from May to October and packages on offer are from 6-11 days.

Get your free brochure for kayaking destinations worldwide

T In The Park

7th & 8th July, Balado Airfield, Perthshire.

T in the Park is one of the most acclaimed music events in the UK.

This year's bill features top names including :

Franz Ferdinand
Arctic Monkeys
The Kaiser Chiefs
Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Who.

You may be too late, but it's worth a try. Find Tickets

Welcome

Hi,

Welcome to My Scotland.

I will be using this Blog to share anything of interest for lovers of, and visitors to Scotland.

Categories will include Events, Outdoor Activities, Culture & History, and anything else of interest.

Updates will be posted on a regular basis, so please return to see what's new.

Regards,

John.