Spreading the word

In what has been a particularly big year for Scotland, Edinburgh has recently enjoyed its strongest-ever quarter in conferences and events bookings. This is a great boost for the capital, which has so much to offer.

Following a successful trip in 2013, Louise Andrew and Rory Archibald of the EICC Sales Team returned to exhibit at IMEX America in October. The Las Vegas based event attracts thousands of event professionals from across the globe and has the potential to create a wealth of new business opportunities. Louise Andrew, Head of Sales and Marketing at the EICC, spoke positively about the event: "We opened new doors at IMEX America 2013 in both association and corporate markets and we calculate a back-to-back presence will further enhance our profile as a must-shortlist capital city option in Europe."

The EICC also took the opportunity to launch its new 'Inspire' client rewards programme at IMEX America. The programme is geared towards returning association and corporate clients, offering them packages that have been specifically tailored to their needs. Clients who join Inspire will also be privy to a range of exclusive benefits. To find out more about this, please get in touch with the sales team.

The sky is far from the limit

It's been a fantastic year for Edinburgh Airport and it looks like it's only going to get better in 2015. The airport's busiest August ever saw 1,065,783 passengers pass through, giving the airport its second 'million month' in a row.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is also launching its first Scottish service next year with the start of a non-stop daily flight from Edinburgh Airport to Abu Dhabi. The new route will commence on 8 June 2015 and will offer both business and economy class seats.

The £25million expansion of Edinburgh Airport's terminal building is now well under way. The first part of the new East Expansion project will be completed later this year and will include a stunning new glass façade and media screen. The new building will also feature a state-of-the-art security hall, shops and staff office accommodation. Besides the new security hall, the final fit-out of the new anchor store area will take place between January and May next year and will include high-quality retail spaces as well as excellent food and beverage providers.

First resort hotel set to arrive in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is set to welcome its first resort-style hotel in January. The Village Urban Resort complex has everything you need under one roof. The £20 million De Vere development will feature a 120-room hotel and include a Starbucks Coffee House, a spa, a health and fitness club, a bar, a restaurant and meeting facilities.

Not boutique, 'boatique'

The Royal Yacht Britannia recently acquired the iconic heritage vessel MV Windsor Castle.

Almost £1million will be spent transforming the classic ship into a 25-bedroom 'boatique' hotel, which will be berthed permanently adjacent to the Royal Yacht Britannia in the port of Leith. Following extensive renovation, the MV Windsor Castle is scheduled to open in Spring 2016.

Follow the lights

For the first time The Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh is opening its doors for a unique out-of-hours event.

Night in the Garden is a breathtakingly beautiful experience, which appeals to all ages. This evening event will give you the opportunity to see the Botanics as you've never seen them before, as a series of light installations merge with the stunning natural landscape. It is taking place from 30 October to 23 November and tickets are available by visiting The Royal Botanic Gardens website.