A HOST of tourism businesses in Ayrshire are set to attend an online event next month aimed at giving the sector in Scotland a post-pandemic boost.

Businesses registered for the Discover Scotland: Reconnect 2022 event, taking place from April 5-7, include Glenapp Castle, Bellevue Farm, Ayrshire & Arran Destination Alliance, VisitArran, Marine Troon, Trump Turnberry, Davidson Travel Group and Primal Adventures.

The event will also be attended by the National Trust for Scotland, which manages and operates visitor attractions across the area including the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Ayr, Culzean Castle and Country Park, and Brodick Castle and Goatfell on Arran.

A total of 327 tourism operators from across Scotland are due to attend the virtual event, to connect with 320 international delegates through one-to-one meetings, panel sessions and virtual networking.

Among the countries and territories represented are Scotland’s key markets; UK, Canada, USA, Germany, France, Spain and Italy; other short haul markets in Europe; Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium; as well as emerging markets Republic of Korea, China, India, Japan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, South Africa, Israel, Australia, Brazil, Mexico.

VisitScotland is committed to working with the industry to create a long-lasting sustainable tourism destination supporting the ambition of Outlook 2030, for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in responsible tourism.

Gordon Smith, regional director of VisitScotland said: “Discover Scotland 2022 is part of VisitScotland’s activity to rebuild international tourism demand and support the country’s ambitions to be a leading destination for responsible tourism.

“The Ayrshire & Arran tourism industry has shown strength, resilience and innovation as it strives to navigate an unprecedented and ever-changing situation and we are looking forward to connecting with colleagues new and old.

Sheila Gilmore, chief executive, Visit Arran said: “We are taking part in Discover Scotland because we are taking part in Discover Scotland, as we want to share our destination sustainably. Arran has a great offering and we want to ensure that everyone can enjoy our island by demonstrating the collaborative approach our island is known for.

Arran’s key asset is our stunning environment and we want clients to enjoy real island experiences, reflecting our incredible scenery, amazing accommodation offerings and our fabulous local produce

Daniel Steel, chief executive of the Ayrshire and Arran Destination Alliance said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming more international visitors back to Ayrshire and Arran this year, so Discover Scotland provides an important platform to meet travel trade buyers both from the UK and overseas.

“I’m delighted to to showcase some of the outstanding accommodation and attractions Ayrshire and Arran has to offer.”