Current Trends
Trends in the tourism industry have changed over time and developments in the transport sector are changing to suit and improve the tourism industry. Plans for a high speed rail link between Glasgow and Edinburgh have been forwarded by ministers in a bid to cut journey times to less than 30 minutes. A survey carried out by the Scottish Parliament Group showed a huge level of support for the High speed rail in Scotland. Nicola Sturgeon said "We now know that within just 12 years, we could build a line which will see journey times between our two major cities cut to less than half an hour," she said.."That will benefit our businesses, our jobs market and also our tourism industry, and it will put us up there with the world's greatest transport networks.". she also said that "The Scottish government will now enter into talks with our partners in both cities and the rail industry to see how we can work together to see this vision realised - a Glasgow-Edinburgh high speed line which can connect to the network from England.". The Department of Transport believe that the link to London is a vital project and would transform the entire country. The Fast Track Scotland report produced last year found that this link to could benefit Scotland by around £24.8 million and Scottish businesses believe this would attract new investment to Scotland.
Eco Tourism is a hot topic at the moment also with travellers looking for more environmentally friendly ways to travel. Airlines have been criticized heavily on this subject and ways to improve their impact on the environment has been a concern. TUI have launched a new Dreamliner aircraft, it has been described as the worlds most environmentally friendly using 20 percent less fuel, 30 percent less to maintain and 60 percent less noise. The aircraft also features higher ceilings and larger windows. The Dreamliner is the first aircraft not to use the "bleed air" system which scientists claim cause nausea, dizziness and breathing difficulties instead fresh cabin air is pumped through the aircraft. Airlines such as British Airways and Virgin have also ordered these aircraft's and plan to be in operation over the next two years. Eco-Tourism is relevant within the accommodation sector also with more people opting for environmentally friendly accommodation. Visit Scotland run a Green Tourism Business Scheme and encourage businesses to think green, to recycle when possible, use low energy light bulbs and promote wildlife walks and cycle hire in a bid to be more eco friendly. Accommodation is assessed on its level of energy efficiency and awarded either a Bronze Silver and Gold Award. There has been a rise in demand for Spa and Indulgence breaks with more of us looking to relax and unwind from their busy lives. Spa hotels offer a relaxing environment with a variety of treatments to choose from including massage and aromatherapy treatments. Businesses are cashing in on this mass market and realise that by adding a spa to a property can generate income not just from tourists and business travellers but from locals, day-trippers and non guests which can help draw in custom during off season.
Eco Tourism is a hot topic at the moment also with travellers looking for more environmentally friendly ways to travel. Airlines have been criticized heavily on this subject and ways to improve their impact on the environment has been a concern. TUI have launched a new Dreamliner aircraft, it has been described as the worlds most environmentally friendly using 20 percent less fuel, 30 percent less to maintain and 60 percent less noise. The aircraft also features higher ceilings and larger windows. The Dreamliner is the first aircraft not to use the "bleed air" system which scientists claim cause nausea, dizziness and breathing difficulties instead fresh cabin air is pumped through the aircraft. Airlines such as British Airways and Virgin have also ordered these aircraft's and plan to be in operation over the next two years. Eco-Tourism is relevant within the accommodation sector also with more people opting for environmentally friendly accommodation. Visit Scotland run a Green Tourism Business Scheme and encourage businesses to think green, to recycle when possible, use low energy light bulbs and promote wildlife walks and cycle hire in a bid to be more eco friendly. Accommodation is assessed on its level of energy efficiency and awarded either a Bronze Silver and Gold Award. There has been a rise in demand for Spa and Indulgence breaks with more of us looking to relax and unwind from their busy lives. Spa hotels offer a relaxing environment with a variety of treatments to choose from including massage and aromatherapy treatments. Businesses are cashing in on this mass market and realise that by adding a spa to a property can generate income not just from tourists and business travellers but from locals, day-trippers and non guests which can help draw in custom during off season.