The program in Edinburgh focused on meetings, leisure activities and sightseeing. Delegates were invited to join a guided city tour, or hop on a double-decker tourist bus. Besides golfing at the St. Andrews Old Course, other options included visits through Scotland's verdant landscape to The Glenturret Distillery and picturesque Loch Lomond, the watery haven of Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The closing gala at The Balmoral Hotel sent guests twirling the Highland fling to Celtic music. A popular pub on Rose Street serves traditional Scottish fare and ale.
Planners dream up endless variations on the Highland fling theme.
Two years ago, Heather Douglas, manager of product purchasing and development at Maritz Canada Inc., culminated her client's stay in Edinburgh with a fling in Hopetoun House, a castle outside the city. A 'dresser' helped the 40 members of the multi-national insurance company get the accoutrements in order before ushering them into Daimlers headed for the estate, where they were greeted by Highland dancers, musicians playing pipes and drums, and kilted staff proffering champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The evening ended with a rousing pipe and drum 'retreat'. When pitching Edinburgh as a meetings or incentive destination, it helps to know that your client has a significant budget, in tune with the British pound, says Douglas. An incentive trip to Scotland wouldn't be complete without a golf component.