Scotland draws in Chinese tourism

Scotland could attract significant numbers of Chinese tourists

The first Chinese tour group is to arrive in Scotland after visa rules were relaxed.

About 80 holidaymakers, travel agents and media from China will be offered a taste of Scotland as part of a six-day tour of the UK.

Previously, Chinese citizens were only allowed in the UK for business, study and to visit relatives.

An agreement between the British and Chinese governments will see flights between the countries almost double.

The group making the fist visit will be given a whirlwind tour of Scotland, taking in the Famous Grouse distillery, the home of golf at St Andrew's Old Course, the Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh Castle.

Scottish attractions

It is expected that the new Approved Destination Status (ADS) visas will open up a potentially huge Chinese market to Scottish tourism providers.

Phillip Riddle, chief executive of VisitScotland said:

"We are looking forward to hosting many more of these tour groups in the future.

"This historic tour is really just a snapshot of the wonderful array of attractions we can offer here in Scotland.

Chinese citizens

"We hope that delegates leave with fond memories of their first visit to Scotland, that they go home and tell their friends and family of their visit."

About 1.3 billion Chinese citizens are now able to travel in Scotland and the UK, in groups of five or more, since the UK was granted ADS in January.

Forecasts suggest that by 2020 there will be 100 million Chinese citizens travelling overseas.

VisitScotland intends to work with VisitBritain over the next few years to at least double the value of tourism from China to more than £200m by 2010.