Tourism is one of Scotland's largest business sectors, providing direct employment for 200,000 people and generating visitor spending of more than £4 billion a year.
Tourism is an important element in the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of Scotland, from major cities to rural areas, many of which depend on the industry for jobs and infrastructure.
During 2009, Scotland will be celebrating with a year-long programme of events to highlight the country's great contributions to the world.
Robert Burns (it's the 250th anniversary of his birth), golf, whisky, great minds & innovations and Scotland's rich ancestry and culture...
Find out more... Homecoming 2009