It is the end of the season in the north-west Highlands. Shops are on reduced hours, many restaurants, hotels and cafes are closing up. Journey times are shorter because the roads are more or less empty. The winter months can be lean for some - people who work in hospitality often have to live on what they earned over the summer. It gets dark early and unlike in the city, … [Read more...] about From poor house to empty hotel
tourism
Tourism is a river that flipped its course
The loch was - we wild swimmers don’t use the ‘C’ word - so let’s call it invigorating. I got out of the water to change on the pebbly shore and, in the moment of nearsightedness in between changing my prescription goggles for specs, I put my towel and goggles down in a pile of human shit. The drive home in wet swimming gear with a stinking towel in a plastic bag … [Read more...] about Tourism is a river that flipped its course
TIAA: a global American invades Scotland
It may yet be Edinburgh's most intriguing Fringe show.Venue: a Scottish courtroom rather than a theatre or church hall. Curtain raiser: American developer Nuveen's petition for a last-minute judicial review in which it had sought to scupper a proposal for a new music and performing arts centre in historic St Andrew Square. (It has since dropped its legal action following a … [Read more...] about TIAA: a global American invades Scotland
Inverness ‘ain’t no mess’ so it needs the Ironworks
Where did Johnny Rotten have one of his best gigs? Which venue was pivotal in Rachel Sermani’s career? Where did Gerry Cinnamon nearly take the roof down? What’s the best place to play in the Highlands?In the Highlands, you read that right, and it prompts more questions. Which Inverness venue has a 1,000 capacity? Which resilient music business has proven innovative and … [Read more...] about Inverness ‘ain’t no mess’ so it needs the Ironworks
Refugee feeds tourists: Imad’s Syrian Kitchen
The food is waiting for us. Colours and aromas of Syrian feasts in dishes of creamy humous, smokey aubergine, spicey beetroot, roasted carrot dips, all laid out in pretty bowls on a crowded table. Imad, our smiling host, invites us to sit.How does he do it? Not just the warmth of the welcome but the sheer wizardry of the meal. A delicious three-course menu for more than … [Read more...] about Refugee feeds tourists: Imad’s Syrian Kitchen