Edinburgh experiences for families and foodies
Scotland’s increase in tourism from the Middle East, due in part to Homecoming Scotland 2009’s efforts to attract overseas visitors, is set to continue in 2010.
Two initiatives from Edinburgh landmark hotel The Balmoral will see both families and foodies welcomed to Scotland’s capital city via packages tailored to the needs of younger visitors as well as gourmands.
The Balmoral’s general manager, Ivan Artolli, describes the country’s allure for visitors from the Gulf and wider Middle East region, saying, “Scotland is one of the most diverse and culturally rich countries in the world and offers a lot more than its stereotype often suggests.”
Artolli added “Edinburgh has a wealth of top restaurants, boutiques and entertainment which is as diverse as the Scottish ballet, Scottish opera, stand-up comedy to touring musicals and rock concerts. It is safe to say, Scotland is firmly on the luxury style map. And, as a UNESCO world heritage site, the cultural foundations of the capital are everywhere.”
For families, The Balmoral offers the highly acclaimed “An Unforgettable Family Affair package,” where parents booking a classic room receive a complimentary second room for their children including Scottish breakfast, and complete with a whole host of exciting goodies.
The Balmoral’s Five Star Kid’s Programme includes:
- Bath time with a range of junior accessories and pampering products
- A Teddy Turn Down where children can sleep peacefully with their own Balmoral teddy
- Customised children’s robes and slippers
- Kid’s movies and programmes
- A special room service menu presented on children’s crockery and a bespoke Children’s Menu by Michelin-starred Chef, Jeff Bland.
To tempt more sophisticated palates, The Balmoral’s new Taste of Scotland package sees the property join forces with the legendary Gleneagles Hotel to create a true Scottish culinary escape in two of the country’s most prestigious locations.
- A two-night stay in The Balmoral followed by two nights at Gleneagles,
- Dinner at the Michelin-starred number one overseen by Chef Jeff Bland,
- A relaxing evening in Gleneagles’ Estate Room with the beverage of your choice.
- A dinner at the two Michelin-starred Andrew Fairlie’s fine dining restaurant in Gleneagles.
“The Taste of Scotland package provides guests with two contrasting Scottish gourmet experiences. At The Balmoral, guests can indulge at the Michelin-starred number one, under the direction of Executive Chef Jeff Bland. Here, dishes have been created using only Scotland’s finest and freshest ingredients. And at Gleneagles, Andrew Fairlie’s dishes are unashamedly French but with a Scottish twist courtesy of Andrew’s chef training taking place in the South West of France,” said Ivan Artoli, general manager of The Balmoral.
Whether for families or foodies, The Balmoral’s Concierge team are industry experts in creating bespoke holidays, tailored to the needs of each guest, with a special focus on catering to Gulf and Middle Eastern visitors.
No request is too difficult - the team can organise a wealth of money-can’t-buy experiences and services including private jets, 24-7 butlers, chauffeur-driven cars, first class theatre experiences in the Director’s Box with behind-the-scenes tours, exclusive tours of Scotland’s castles including a private showing of the Scottish Crown Jewels, personal shopping, couture clothing appointments including custom-made cashmere collections, finding the hottest tickets in town, tables in the top restaurants and prime seats at national sporting games.
Flights from the UAE to Edinburgh are available from Etihad Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France and KLM with stop-offs in London or Manchester. Direct flights from the UAE to Glasgow International are available from Emirates Airline, with private hotel transfers available upon request. Transfer time is approximately 45 minutes by car.
Prices for a stay at The Balmoral start at £320 per night for a classic room. Throughout the year, there are three nights for the price of two offers available. The ‘Taste of Scotland’ gourmet package starts from £1,200 for two people with two nights at The Balmoral followed by two nights at Gleneagles. This trip can be taken in either order. This offer is valid from 1 November 2009 until 1 October 2010. Transfers available upon request.
To book or for more information visit roccofortecollection.com.
