Page 190 - Microsoft Word - Guiding lights final version 1411 0707 big print.doc

‘Getting around, particularly in Edinburgh was certainly different. In the 80s and 90s we could drive right along Princes Street and all the way down the Royal Mile. We were even able to drive coaches straight onto the castle esplanade and park there while we escorted visitors around the castle. I have experienced in the last 10 years a significant increase in walking tours, as people become more conscious of both their own health and the health of the planet
‘Tourism in the 80s was certainly more seasonal with the summer accounting for around 80 per cent of business. Now we see tourists all year round and Christmas and New Year draws its own crowds with the world famous celebrations - making those thermals a necessity for the walking tours! The types of tourists I take round have changed as well. The majority of visitors taking tours in the summer in the 80s came from America. Now Asia and Europe makes up many of the numbers as well as many visitors from the Middle East.
‘The experience of guiding and showing visitors around the city continues to grow with the city. We have seen the opening of the Scottish Parliament and the Royal Yacht Britannia, both drawing interest due to their high profile and ensuring the experience for visitors continues to grow. My passion for my job certainly grows with it.’
Finding a saint
By Sue Casely
‘I took a small coach from Inverness to Aberdeen on an absolutely monsoon wet day. Luggage was in a back locker and we found on arrival that the door had been leaking and some people's clothes were wet in the suitcases. I asked about drying facilities at the hotel or where launderettes were. No joy. The under manager took pity on me and took all the wet clothes home to dry in his own tumble dryer at no charge. It completely charmed a rather disgruntled group of passengers and I am eternally grateful.’
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