Sir, 2013 draws to a close, it’s only natural to reflect on what was, by all accounts, a successful year for Scottish tourism – naturally! With breathtaking scenery, a plethora of outdoor experiences and an eclectic mix of stunning wildlife, exploiting the Year of Natural Scotland has been what we call in the industry a ‘no brainer’.

Media giant CNN said Scotland would be the place to visit in 2013, and so it was. The sun shone and visitors from near and far headed into our great outdoors.

But now, it’s time to look forward. As the bells strike midnight on what will be an epic Homecoming-themed Hogmanay across the country, 2014 and a whole year of fun, festivals and frivolity will begin.

Homecoming Scotland features over 400 events covering every month and almost every square inch of our breath-taking country. It’s the icing on the cake in a year in which events like the Ryder Cup, Commonwealth Games, and the MTV Awards will put the world’s spotlight on Scotland like never before. Regional Homecoming Scotland events include; TweedLove Bike Festival, Return to the Ridings, Borders Rail 2014, Borders Book Festival, Darnick Village Hall Concert, Melrose Sevens, Eyemouth Herring Queen Festival, Peebles Highland Games and Selkirk MTB Marathon - to name a few!

So it’s the year to be in Scotland. Everyone must get involved, not just to enjoy these unprecedented events ourselves, but to offer that legendary Scottish welcome to our visitors.

However, the party isn’t over when 2014 ends. The events next year must be the launch pad for a new phase of success for Scottish tourism. We need to exploit 2014 to ensure the industry prospers through the second part of the decade; to inspire watchers into becoming visitors.

I wish you all a very Happy New Year and hope you have a healthy, peaceful and fun-filled 2014.

I am, etc.

Mike Cantlay, Chairman, VisitScotland