Welcome is smiles better in Scotland - official!

FROM the Roman-repelling, woad-painted Picts to the bar-room brutality of Trainspotting's Begbie, Scots have developed an international reputation as a formidable and pugnacious people who are not to be trifled with. But a new travel guide has delivered a Glasgow kiss to the stereotype of surly Scotland, claiming instead that we are among the friendliest people on the planet. Every year travel giants Lonely Planet reveal their must-visit holiday locations for the coming year. Now the 2008 edition of their influential Blue List is urging travellers to experience the world-class hospitality that Scotland has to offer. It places Scotland in its top 10 of the world's friendliest countries and states: "Time after time the welcome is warm." "There is no doubt that we Scots are some of the friendliest people on the planet," said a local Scot. "I think the secret to our success is our unique sense of humour".  To prove it here are some smilers from recent tours we have arranged; top row, local girls smile you a welcome, the mad Swedes having fun at the curling rink in Perth, lower row; Liz and Paul with American golfers all have a smile to show (even if Paul is shocked), Colin our coach driver gets a smile with going with our American cousins, mind you the "see you Jimmie hat" played a part!