CNN says Hebridean Celtic Festival is the place to be 3/1/13
Major US news channel CNN has named the Hebridean Celtic Festival as a major event to attend in its recommendation of Scotland as the top destination for 2013.
Its endorsement boosts a new campaign to promote Scotland’s natural beauty.
CNN Travel’s feature highlights the Hebridean Celtic Festival in the Western Isles as a “hot spot” destination during the Year of Natural Scotland.
The broadcaster says the newly-unveiled Scottish National Trail, Scotland’s “pristine
lochs and haunting glens” and the dramatic countryside featured in Bond film Skyfall
are also key reasons to visit the country.
The Year of Natural Scotland was instigated by the Scottish Government as part of
a series of themed years in the run-up to the second Year of Homecoming, which is
being held next year to coincide with the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Ryder
Cup at Gleneagles.
CNN Travel said it had taken into account international buzz, major events, savvy marketing and economics when compiling its top destinations.
It states: “When compiling our list of 2013 hot spots, we took into account all of the above and more while canvassing travel sites, experts and organisations to identify up and coming destinations based on bargains, significant events and important new services, such as added airline routes and major hotel openings.”
SNP MP, Angus B MacNeil said: "I am delighted that CNN chose Scotland as No1 world travel spot for 2013 and especially that CNN highlighted the Hebridean Celtic Festival in Stornoway between the 17th and 20th of July.
“This is good news for Scotland and congratulations to the team at Hebridean Celtic Festival on yet another recognition.