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| Scotland’s iconic Edinburgh Castle |
Citizens of Scotland will vote on a referendum on September 18, 2014, that would see the country decide if it wants to remain part of the United Kingdom or become an independent nation. While the issue is sure to spark controversy for the next 545 days, and the outcome of the vote could change how travelers get to and around Scotland (Visas? New flight routes? New train schedules?), the decision does not currently seem poised to affect travel to the country or to the UK in general.
Michael McCuish, a representative from VisitScotland, told Travel Agent that there is no evidence that the tourism board’s partners in the industry are being adversely affected by the current political discussion. “A changing political landscape is a part of all destinations in the world,” he wrote in an e-mail, “and Scotland will continue to be a must-visit, must-return destination because of its strengths.” Partners in the industry have not reported any cancellations, he added, and there has not been any negative press about the vote.
“In 2014, Scotland will host two of the biggest events on the international stage, the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup, and there is no evidence within the industry that our ability to attract events will be adversely affected by the current political discussion,” McCuish added.