We would like to thank the fantastic tourism industry across Scotland for delivering the most amazing visitor experience for the Commonwealth Games. Without the friendly welcome, the helpful information and the outstanding customer service, the Games would not have been the success they have been for Glasgow and Scotland. We have received many plaudits from visitors from across the world, with an estimated 100,000 spectators extending their Games experience beyond Glasgow and taking the time to visit every corner of Scotland.
We have also shown everyone that we have the facilities, the skills and most importantly the people to put on one of the biggest events in the world. The Commonwealth Games will leave a lasting legacy for Scotland, particularly our events industry. Investment in infrastructure has already helped Scotland successfully secure several world-class events including the World Gymnastics Championships, the IPC Swimming World Championships, the Turner Prize and the FEI European Eventing Championships to name but a few.
As an organisation VisitScotland has delivered, with partners, a wide range of activity - including:
•Scotland House, our business, sporting and cultural hub
•A destination media centre which showcased Glasgow and Scotland to around 1000 journalists
•A world-wide marketing and communication campaign
•Looked after thousands of visitors to our Visitor Information Centres in Glasgow and Edinburgh and in the athletes village.
•Worked with international sporting federations to bring big events to Scotland in 2015/16
Although the Games may be over, there are still plenty more brilliant moments to be had from the Edinburgh Festival, to over 300 Homecoming events held across the entire country, and of course next month we will welcome the world once more for the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles. 2014 is the launchpad for Scottish tourism - now we need to build on the success of this year nationally and locally.
Scotland has been put on a world stage like never before and it’s time for us to shine!
