Scotland at BREAKING POINT because of Tourists!?

[@shaunvlog]

Speaking of tourism, ORKNEY 👉 Check my new video series from the Orkney Isles: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j57FpKpvrs6kpNk

[@Bob_just_Bob]

Shaun I viewed the Orkney video. Great vid!

[@alabaster6117]

I would caution against too much building. The smaller parts of Scotland are part of its charm.

[@NatureGirl1932]

My daughter and I visited Scotland (from Las Vegas in the US) last September, 2018. We went more for Family History reasons, although I do LOVE Outlander. We were able to get in touch with our roots. Our family left Scotland for the US in the 1870’s. We were able to meet up with one of our not too distant Scottish family members. He took us on our own little family history tour...and my heart was full beyond measure! We stayed in Edinburgh and our accommodations were perfect! We purposely planned to skip the Military Tattoo, just because we knew it would be really crowded. Although it would be something special to see. We did a haunted tour of the underground...a bit creepy for for me...haha! We did a Rabbie Tour to Inveraray Castle, Doune Castle, Loch Lomond, and other places... and were so impressed! We would have loved to have seen the Isle of Skye...but we ran out of time. I must say, Scotland is now my favorite place on this earth. I was moved to tears to think my ancestors had to leave that beautiful country. I want to go back! I think I left a piece of my heart in Scotland! 💙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💙

[@nannyturtle7342]

💖

[@spiffyspits3605]

Mine too. Their hearts must have been tearing apart.😢💔

[@NatureGirl1932]

😢💔💔

[@BrandInMT]

My dad & I visited 4 years ago at the end of August. We thankfully didn’t have any trouble finding vacancies. My dad had the same thought...my great granddad grew up looking at the sea and immigrated to land locked Montana!

[@NatureGirl1932]

peter adams Yesss! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💙

[@suzannemcmillan8843]

We have visited Scotland twice- in2017 and 2018. Both times were fantastic! Had no problems with infrastructure, accommodations etc. Our hearts are definitely in the Highlands! Thanks for your great videos!

[@edithmary1]

I absolutely adore Scotland and visit every year sometimes twice. I am lucky as I live in Kent and it is easy to travel up to Scotland. I have been so many beautiful places and there is still so much more I want to see. The hospitality is amazing and the people are very friendly and helpful.

[@delaineyjohnson8238]

Decided to change my plans from high season to a low season. I can't stand crowds. When things are too crazy; I feel like it ruins my time.

[@delaineyjohnson8238]

@Kris Moodley I love cold weather being originally from Norway just below the arctic circle, love. I'm pretty sure there's places to each outside the cities, too. They're called b & b

[@AKMorehouse]

@@delaineyjohnson8238 I went to Scotland in March in 2016 and had no trouble finding places to eat outside the cities.

[@xlxfx]

Brilliant - now even our own low season, will start getting more packed. Not thinking about this are you.

[@NeuroSpiceAbee]

Delainey Johnson same. Want to go to Scotland to enjoy what Scotland has to offer, such as some of its rural beauty. Crowds of disrespectful tourists take you out of that completely and ruin it.

[@annahill99]

Keep in mind in winter sometimes you only have like 6-7 hours of daylight! Can make it difficult if you have travel involved for day trips

[@hollyfazel983]

I was just in Edinburgh in March and I’m already planning my next trip. I can’t put into words what Scotland means to me. I honestly left my heart there. I thought the people were lovely and welcoming. And the scenery is breathtaking! I missed it as soon as I boarded my plane back to the US.Thanks again for meeting up with us when we were there!

[@ladyguenevere3501]

Holly Favel....I feel exactly the same. I was there May of last year and it's in my heart forever. Longing to return.

[@D5Maestro]

you are not welcome here

[@Audrey-hp1vk]

I was in Scotland the end of June, first of July for a 2 week trip. Rented a car in Inverness and drove 1,200 miles. Stunning! Everyone we met was friendly and helped make the trip a great experience. There were some places where more parking would have helped and there are public toilets in small towns for a small fee. Just plan ahead and you’ll not want to leaveI Highly recommend taking the ferry to Raasay House on the Isle of Raasay and spend some time on this small but mighty island. And the distilleries! Scotland has the best whisky in the world! When I go back, I’ll definitely take a tour so that I can enjoy every minute.

[@eyeamdust]

I've been watching you now for s month or so. I mean binge watching. You are wide awake to the issues in your country, as well you are such a knowledgeable traveler. You're entertaining as well as informative. I want to visit Scotland but I'm a little scared off by the news of the inundation of tourists. I worry that I'm going to be just another tourist mucking things up. Keep advising us. And Shaun, you're a sight for sore eyes. Such a handsome and smart young Scottish man. We're lucky to have you.

[@shaunvlog]

Thank you so much for the kind words Karen. I truly hope you’ll visit, you’ll be very welcome here

[@vickieranz]

Go! You will not be disappointed!

[@jamiemitchell2861]

I am watching this while visiting scotland :)

[@michaelcalderone3087]

Same!

[@nsetonhandville1270]

Hello Shaun, I'm a subscriber and have loved your videos for over 18 months. My BFF and I went to Scotland a year ago (right after the Festival), driving around the country for 2weeks. Your videos made a big difference in how we planned our trip. We're from the States and had I had NO PROBLEM with the driving - just loved it (and I was 65 at the time of the journey). The roads are very well marked, and I find it quite sad that other tourists can't simply pay attention. We didn't have a vehicle in either Edinburgh or Glasgow - because the public transportation in your cities is awesome. The bus system was very easy to learn. Everyone we met was extremely hospitable, and we had great, substantial conversations with folks (once we let people know we didn't support Trump). I'd suggest additional tourism taxes to help pay for needed infrastructure changes, and getting a clear national policy and outreach to local planning councils on finding innovative ways to make this influx work in local areas. Perhaps a lottery system to stage access levels for more remote, fragile eco spots to avoid damage? Thanks for all your great videos!

[@kirstennielsen4046]

I'm so glad you brought up "more fragile" .... some amazing spots now has lots and lots of stone cairns and some even a row of campervans. No longer the unspoilt landscape you'd hope to enjoy and photograph. Protection needed now.

I’ve only been to Scotland once (sadly), about four years ago, but it wasn’t flooded with tourists - maybe it was the time of year. I live in a city in Brazil that needs tourism to keep the economy flowing and there’s always a busy time of year when traffic is hectic and there are lines everywhere. I get the complaints but I agree when you point out that it’s the government’s job to step up and make sure the residents and tourists have infrastructure to go about their day as they normally would. I really wanna see Edinburgh in August one day, and in my experience Scots are some of the nicest and most welcoming people out there.

[@bethroesch2156]

I've wanted to see Scotland since I was a kid and read the story of Mary, Queen of Scots. After falling in love with it all over again with Outlander, I searched YT and discovered Clandonia which led me to the Fringe festival and that was it. It's beautiful, wild, free, magical and I don't mind a crowd if we're all having fun 😊

[@FrozenWillow1980]

Clanadonia let my son drum with them one year when we seen them in my home city of Glasgow. They are amazing guys. If interested, there are many other singers, music makers in Scotland too like Eddi Reader, Graham Brown Band, Rod Stewart, Amy MacDonald, Annie Lennox, Lulu and many, many more :)

[@bethroesch2156]

@@FrozenWillow1980 I'm jealous lol. I've heard of most of the other groups/singers and I love Rod Stewart and Annie Lennox. The ones I don't know, I definitely will check out. My favorite thing about YT is that it opens up all different kinds of music and stories about and from other countries. Thank you for the new music ✌🏼

[@FrozenWillow1980]

@@bethroesch2156 My favourite from the Graham Brown Band has to be this one. :) Not a problem :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIeucntrfrZ8l5o

[@D5Maestro]

please leave scotland

[@perdidoatlantic]

Florida has a population of 20 million & yearly 128 million tourists visit Florida. Put a huge tourist tax on tourists in Scotland and do away with resident taxes. We did! 👍🏻

[@kacywatson6314]

That will not work for Scotland because we have a freedom of movement law for being in the EU & UK. And it will be difficult to know who to tax and how to tax. Like how do we tell the difference between a French tourist visiting family & a French born Scottish citizen?

[@perdidoatlantic]

Bluetrainer91 FireBlast Tax all the things related to tourism. I’m not advocating highway robbery.

[@kacywatson6314]

@@perdidoatlantic am not gonna explain how our tax system works in Scotland. That will take too long. But what i am saying is it's impossible for Scotland to do separate taxs for citizens & tourists with our current system. And probably very illegal. Different countries have different tax laws and rates and how tax money is collected.

[@perdidoatlantic]

Bluetrainer91 FireBlast Again, that’s not what I said. But ok.

[@joannemiddaugh122]

@@kacywatson6314 I don't think what Perdido is saying has anything to do with citizenship at all. I don't know how that would work in Scotland but he must be referencing a tax on typical tourist venues like theme parks and other places related to tourism as he wrote in his comment. U.S. citizens would pay the tax as well.

[@kp8777]

My daughter and I are very excited to be coming to Scotland in October! We hope it will be a little quieter than summer. Thank you for sharing these thoughts, Shaun.

[@Alaya7]

i understand the problem the excessive amount of people can cause. I'm sympathethic with scottish people about it. But I must say I've been to Edinburgh when I was 18 years old. It was 15 years ago and there was no youtube. I was accidentaly in scotland on august and I didn't know about the international festival I LOVED IT so much, so much!! I came back to Brazil and told everybody about this fantastic city and fantastic festival.I was overwhelmed! I talked about coming back again on and on! I've just recently returnt to scotland, this year. I today I published a video guide to Edinburgh in portuguese for my channel and I had to talk about the festival So ok I understand how it can be a nuisance to daily life, but you know, it makes people fall in love with Edinburgh!

[@ciao614]

You spoke very well on the radio! I hope Scotland can resolve things! 💚🦄 from BOSTON! 🇺🇸

[@bellsTheorem1138]

I prefer traveling during off season. It's tons cheaper and less tourist trap and riff raff and more of just taking in the land and culture. I also love weather.

[@ladyguenevere3501]

I went off season (last 10 days of May 2018) and liked the fact that the prices were best then and it wasn't overcrowded. I know the Fringe festival is great but there are lots of people. It just depends what a person likes and feels comfortable with. I can feel for Scotland but I hope they can figure out how to expand accommodating this new surge of tourism as it is has really been a blessing economically for them. I also sincerely hope all tourists would be respectful of the beautiful place they are in. Shaun is a good man and I hope he can have a positive influence on them solving the problem. LOVE Scotland and Love your blog Shaun!

[@VivekaAlaya]

Yeah I went on april and drive around the whole country and it was fantastic

[@terizrioka4131]

Yep, traveled to Scotland in March and April, yes some things were not open, but pretty much everything we wanted to see was open. It's worth it not to see crowds everywhere.

[@bluesageful]

We came back in early June. Started to rent a car, but opted for public transportation instead...and glad we did. Those tiny roads aren't really meant for that much traffic. So, that's one way that the tourists could help. Instead of driving, and clogging up the roads. Scotland has an AMAZING transportation system....(Plus it's a great way to meet locals!)

[@shark2452]

It would be nice to see some of the tiny roads made wider. The more cars on the road the more congested it is. Most people that drive there, we did June 19, it is safer. It wasn't too crowded yet in the highlands but sometimes finding a place to park was interesting.

[@teresasmith6076]

Shaun, this was excellent. As an older person, the Rabbies tours is good info for me, timing as well. Think for a first visit I might miss August and try a calmer time of year. Still have Scotland on the bucket list.

[@rafventura]

I've been in Scotland in June 2019 and I fell in love with your country, at least the small part I saw, Edinburgh, Linlithgow and Bo'ness and it was beautiful, I would love to be there again.

[@michadrozd6059]

Edinburgh and Scotland is busier every year! Your good ambassador of Scotland mate!! Its a hectic time but give us a lot of money!!

[@xlxfx]

Yup, what's the beauty of Skye or Harris or Coe compared to m0rE m0NEy

[@quirkygal8]

@@xlxfx I think a cap could me made on the number of visitors to Skye. It is too popular for it's own good. I am afraid it will compromise the natural beauty of the place in the long run.

[@michadrozd6059]

@@xlxfx of course you can't compare, but if you working in tourist industry- its good moment to collect some extra coins

[@jenniferburnett2819]

My family has visited twice (2017, 2019, and we expect to visit again in 2021). I would have to say that the infrastructure issues are the only things that detracted from our visit. I agree with several early comments that so many of the things that make Scotland such a popular destination could be diminished by catering too much to building tourism. Wider roads, more toilets and better signage on highway exits alerting people to services,would be all that I would suggest. Thank you for your vlog, it has been highly entertaining and informative as well! It's no wonder that you are reaching 100,000 subscribers!

[@shaunvlog]

Have you seen my other channel about travel and adventure? Come and check it out: kzbin.info/door/DIM2joPZtvgj1P0XNp3Qyg

[@Brianna-vs8mj]

Ive been trying to educate people here in Washington state about Scotland and the history of its people since I was a kid. So happy to see the rise in interest and general knowledge about this amazing country!

[@chiefgilray]

Infrastructure is being improved by the Scottish government, we have had so many roads, bridges and upgrades. Something that we NEVER got with previous governments.

[@fionacook3347]

Good point . And most of the roads in outer Hebrides upgraded with EU money ; chances of Westminster supporting Scottish tourism are remote ; not sure why Scottish government and cash strapped local authorities are getting pelters here

[@chiefgilray]

@@fionacook3347 because it is too easy for people to blame and see negativity than to do some research...

[@theCallsignMigs]

Shaun! Long time viewer from Washington State. My wife and I will be in Scotland 8/15-8/18 for our 10 year anniversary. Can't wait to check out your country!

[@chantelmcskimming6633]

Visited Scotland June 2019 --- loved every single bit of it!! Can only agree about having at least some more toilets. It felt like they were very few and far between. So glad I never had intestinal distress 🙄.

[@JoeBlow_4]

Shaun, I live at the beach in Southern California. This is what I experience EVERY summer. No parking anywhere near my house. Teens drinking and pissing behind the house. Taking 15 minutes to get out of the downtown area because pedestrians continue to cross the street and not letting cars get through. It's a nightmare, but I understand I chose to live in what is basically a vacation city and has a summer season.

[@SilverXeno]

Take it from a Floridian...while we appreciate the tourism income...it does get WEARY to be a "host" to people who only hang out briefly and then leave. We absolutely want our tourists, we also just wish they were a little less destructive and that we got to enjoy OUR OWN state without having to be subject to people who don't appreciate it as much as locals/natives. They hurt the wildlife, they don't appreciate local flair/flavor sometimes and only feed big chain pockets instead of using local small businesses. And I like your bit about sustainability - tourists take up a lot of space and create a lot of mess! With millions of tourists a year (and often all year 'round) it's just very tiring.

[@jcfh19981]

SilverXeno Ditto! I’m an Orlandoan and 4th gen Floridian.

[@jimbotheassclown]

Florida man .... lol is the typical Florida native .

[@ShiinaRingo13]

Same in Japan. And I’m the foreigner! I’ve just lived here for 10+ years, so I understand why the locals/natives get upset with tourists. Many of them do leave huge messes and often times, damage property and upset nature. I think that if anyone want to tour anywhere, regardless of how much money they have, they should have a crash course on not being a destructive/disrespectful person.

[@denirn8725]

We sold our PB FL home last yr. The crowds got too much during the “season". They do screw with the Mangroves & sea life, esp. when they rent boats & don’t know what the Hell they’re doing. Sure their $$$ are nice but it didn’t trickle down to the residents that much.

[@sincerelysally614]

We have a pact when we travel to always avoid the 'chains'. Nothing more fun that discovering a place off the beaten path!

[@ramirotauro]

I'm long time sub of yours and a long time ago I made a comment saying that you deserved more subs because of the quality of your content. I'm really glad to see your channel growing. Cheers from Brazil my friend!!!

[@rwbimbie5854]

"Tourism" Thats a really nice way to say _~Outsiders bring their money here, pay it to us, then leave without it~_

[@starsearchreject]

And Florida. I don't even live in the touristy area. I'm up north. But we're the first real (although little), city much of the country will hit as they enter Florida. It's nicknamed "The Gateway to Florida" because of that. We are an interstate town. Not many folks stay here to do anything touristy, but they do stop for gas, food and hotels on their way down South. So we get some of the money, with a bit less of the crowding. Except it is hell trying to get past the interstate to get home when I'm out running errands.

[@starsearchreject]

That said, people who blow past here to get down south, do miss some really beautiful stuff. Mostly rural up here.

[@randompete2204]

I've been going to Scotland for years at least once a year since 2000, and I've traveled by motorcycle, car and a couple of train tours. But over the last few years it has gotten a lot busier, to the extent that I tend to go just out of the normal holiday season March/April or November. 2 years ago I was on a motorcycle touring holiday, and the weather window was to good to miss the opportunity to catch a ferry to the Outer Hebrides, what a fantastic place just a shame I hadn't planned it. I will be going back but with better planning next time, things worked out good. I did the NC500 long before the rename, tourist route it used to be called 😉, and was a lot less busy. There's still a lot to see off the beaten track.

[@RichardDCook]

This is a fascinating topic Shaun and glad you're addressing it. During my travels in the Highlands, Inverness, Fort William, Oban, the ferry to Skye (no bridge!) the ferry to Arran way back in the 1980s I was amazed at how little Scotland was doing to monetize tourism, the millions of potential Pounds they were losing. At the height of the tourism season the entire city of Inverness was shut down for a week, tourists all turned away. Throughout Scotland the businesses shut their doors at 5pm, though the sidewalks were full of potential shoppers, and it staying light till 10pm. I was in one town at 5:15pm and every business in town was shuttered including the restaurants, the only thing open was the Pub. To me, who works in the Southern California tourism industry, it was insanity. Since my recent trips to Scotland have been only to Glasgow and Edinburgh I have to assume that the Highlands have got more tourism-savvy by now.

[@ehummingbird669]

Everywhere we went in Scotland we were met with lovely, kind, and helpful people. I feel that you are very representative of the kindness of the Scottish people. You are very correct about the bathroom concern and I hope this issue is addressed in the near future. The one place I felt was overrun was when the cruise ship pulled into Orkney and the historical sites were stressed in the cafes, bathrooms, and shops. However, none of these would keep me from visiting Scotland again. Is this an issue only in the summer?

[@TheWritersheart]

Hi Shaun, I just got back from spending a month in Scotland on a Fund for Teachers Fellowship and I couldn’t have been happier. I spent the first week in Inverness and it was welcoming. The last three weeks were spent in Edinburgh, which was a lot more crowded than I had expected. This was my second time to Scotland (first time was in April 2018) and I found the places you mentioned, like the Orkney Islands and smaller places in the Highlands to be crowded but necessary for the well-being of small businesses, towns/cities, and for Scotland itself. There has much debate about a Tourist Tax in Edinburgh going around while I was there but I think it is necessary in order to continue to keep Scotland the travel destination of the world and to keep it the most beautiful country in the world. Thank you Shaun for bringing up these questions.

[@deborahwitt8638]

We were in Scotland in June and we loved it. We took a 5 day tour of the Highlands and I was surprised by the number of B & Bs that had No Vacancy in Inverness. We also spent 5 days in Edinburgh and did day trips on our own. Scotland is the most beautiful country! The people there were incredibly welcoming! Thankfully our guide on the 5 day tour knew where to stop for bathroom opportunities and how to navigate the very narrow roads! I am in love now with Scotland. BTW, my husband and I both have Scottish ancestry, so that added to the fun of the trip.

[@FullaEels]

I was walking down the royal mile on easter and I was surprised at just how many people were out and about. The line to get into the castle was stretching around onto the road that emerges from princes street gardens. I live outside the city, but I know im gonna be shocked at just how many people show up for the fringe, when I do have to go into the city for appointments.

[@sallytaylorpsymedium]

I have a flight from the US to Scotland for a two week trip tomorrow. It is a bucket list visit for me and my husband, and we are looking forward to it. Everything I have heard is that the Scottish are a warm and welcoming people. I hope to validate that sentiment with first hand experience.

[@johnmcgrath200]

I worry about the infrastructure we have. One of the reasons Game of Thrones filmed in Northern Ireland instead of here was because of how woefully lacking we were in terms of our set up. That was a massive missed opportunity. But I also severely worry some of our cities will end up like Dublin -- half the amount of accommodation that is needed meaning prices will skyrocket. I wish the interview was 10 minutes longer, you made some great points and the Iceland comparison is encouraging!!

[@chiefgilray]

Infrastructure has gone up ten good in the last 10 years with the Queensferry crossing, the Aberdeen bypass, the new road between Glasgow and Edinburgh, the roads on the west coast and around Aviemore and the Highlands.

[@clayfada2384]

John Mcgrath Northern Ireland is very compact compared to scotland and even the republic of ireland.All the locations are only minutes away from belfast.Vikings is filmed in the south and similarly its filmed in the wicklow mountains only ten minutes from dublin.

[@soldier716]

I love, love, love Scotland. I swear there is magic in the air there. I've been twice now. I personally wanted to avoid foreign touristy areas and chose to go to more local attractions. I met some of the friendliest people I've ever met in my life in Galasheils and especially Oban. A random man came up to me in Oban one morning and simply welcomed me to Oban and wished me a great holiday (vacation). Nothing puts me in a happier mood and makes me smile more than thinking about Scotland and the wonderful people there

[@trippinwithkonnie801]

I’m a Travel Consultant/Tour Manager whom specializes in travel to Scotland. I organize and run group tours, I have been since 2009! I have definitely noticed a difference especially this year, trying to find accommodations has been absolutely insane every place has been completely booked up! I truly enjoy giving our money to the local people, not the big corporations! I use independent drivers and guides, and I do try to stay at some of the not so well known places. Scotland is like my second home, and I truly hope that with this boom in tourism it can become, as you say self-supporting, but yet not so overrun that it takes away from the beauty of the land.

[@steveforbes6283]

My son (21 years old then) and I visited in Sept. 2017 from Canada. We rented a car in Glasgow and stayed in hostels in both Stirling and Inverness. We drove every day visiting various sites and in only 1 case did we have a problem with crowds and lines of too many people. That was at Urquhart. We arrived by car mere minutes before a number of tour buses arrived. Things were nuts, wall to wall pushy tourists (mainly from the US). That was a bad morning, but the other 13 days were magical! We kept track and met people from almost 20 different countries in our 2 week stay. We'll be back!

[@Pato100000]

When my wife and I visited Glasgow and Edinburgh about four years ago we both loved the place. It was a bit cold for us since we are acclimated to Texas weather (it was early April too). However, our overall experience was awesome! We did not experience any lack of access to facilities due to always being surrounded by shops, restaurants, and whatever else we needed (with good access to toilets, etc.). I can’t speak for the highlands as we didn’t get to go there. The ScotRail train we took between cities could have been better. Besides the beauty and attractions, what struck me most was how ‘at home’ I felt while there. I am very glad to hear that so many people are experiencing the place. Plus a stronger economy is great!

[@ChrisJohnsonChannel]

My parents visited Scotland over a year ago I think it was And had a WONDERFUL time. They kept telling me how warm and friendly the Scottish People were. I think the tourism is due to a lot of interest in tv and filming locations. And your right Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 is probably having difficulty with the influx of visitors. There is a point where it is effecting the wild landscapes in a negative way. Thanks you for adding your radio session it was quite interesting!

[@risalangdon9883]

Here in the USA, at public parks,beaches and anything else that draws visitors,we have outhouses, public restrooms as well as rest areas along the interstate systems. Large truck stops also offer shower facilities. There is tons of hotels, roadside inn's, bed & breakfast, camping and other options. The various communities just need to brainstorm.

[@youniquelyflawed1314]

I absolutely love Scotland.

[@kacywatson6314]

@shaun muppet finder that wasn't very nice :/

[@Sasjuh1992]

I just came back from a 12 days road trip through Scotland and I absolutely loved it, especially the highlands! We rented a car and it turned out that that was the perfect choice. We didn’t experience any inconveniences with the roads in Scotland and speaking of tourism, the only places where I saw the endless rows of touring busses was at the village of Luss and Glencoe (especially Loch Tulla and The Three Sisters). On many occasions it was just a handful of people that were visiting the same places as we did.

[@MrsSmith-kx6ep]

My father and brother (our family has been in the states since 1687) finally visited Scotland for the first time in April 2019. They had all positive things to say about their two weeks holiday there. :-)

[@wesw2121]

Shaun, enjoy your channel and will be one extra tourist in Edinburgh in about 10 days. Third time to Edinburgh, though the last time was about 23 years ago as a drunken kid with a backpack. Now I'll be there as a drunken middle-aged man with a suitcase. Keep up the good work and maybe I'll see you out and about at the Festival. Cheers from Atlanta, GA.

[@bethfrazier414]

We are a very rural area here in SW Virginia. Whenever there are festivals the potapotties go up, And when it is over the potties go away. That is one way to deal with seasonal traffic. Works here anyway since they are not needed year round.

[@clarinetdream25]

I will definitely be visiting Scotland in the near future. The landscape is breath taking, I'm sure the food is amazing, and the history of Scotland is something I want to learn more about. This land is part of my heritage and I want to experience all Scotland has to offer. Thank you for being an advocate for tourism. Tourism is important for all countries and should be kept alive.

[@JaimieJo]

Great video Shaun! We had a similar problem when we hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. Our tiny Town was bursting at the seams. Since then, it has caused tons of new growth, hotels, restaurants etc. But the downside for locals is that the property values quadrupled! So it's very expensive to find a place to live! In my State we have a hotel tax. We have large distances between towns, but their are many rest areas with toilets and picnic tables. Those are built with our State Department of Transportation monies. So infrastructure is a huge thing to focus on. With a bed/hotel tax for Scotland's use only, that is the key. Many people are going to keep coming because of Ancestry DNA. So many Scots were sent to America during the Highland Clearances by the British government. And like my daughter, She is very proud of her Scottish ancestry. She has subbed your channel and wants to come to Scotland within the next 2 years. Sorry it's a long comment, but my experience with tourists is vast and the funding related to that. Infrastructure takes time, and many people want things to stay the way they were. But alas, that isn't going to happen. Change is hard. Looking forward to your new videos! Have a wonderful weekend! 😎☮

[@veronicasmith4578]

We visited last September. We loved our visit to Edinburgh and the Highlands. We had absolutely not problems at our apartment or hotels. There are obviously tourists who don't have common sense. We still laugh about the sign over the toilet in our splendid rooms at the Invergarry Inn, "Please don't flush nappies or tea bags"! Who flushes nappies or tea bags???? Obviously someone did, but hopefully most visitors are more respectful to your beautiful country. We are planning our return trip for next year. Thanks Shaun for your insightful vlogs!

[@tammykuchta8567]

Fantastic vlog!! Loved your BBC interview as well. 😃

[@emanalharbi4322]

I recently have been in Scotland, and I loved every moments there!! Locals are so kind and supportive!! I would love to visit Scotland again. BTW, I have stayed there for one month and I did spend a lot of money . I have enjoyed the food and visited many places!!!

[@allysonberry8708]

Recently did a modified NC500 tour just this past May. I lived getting into the northern most Highlands. John O'Groats and the Orkneys were amazing. Coming down the western coast was amazing as well. When we got Skye, Portree was packed. Couldn't find a place to eat! Did very little driving on Skye and exited the next day pretty quickly. Still loved the entire trip, but would definitely love to see toilets put in some of the larger pullovers along the NC500 and major trailheads.

[@shelbycarlson9416]

I'm planning a trip to Scotland for the first time in May next year. I am so excited to see your beautiful country!

[@debbieorourke6752]

I am coming to Scotland in 3 weeks, and so excited to see where my ancestors came from. From all those that have been there, numerous times, they have nothing but love and stand in awe of your beautiful country. I know already that it will be an experience that I plan to repeat in the future 💓. Love your vlog, btw, Shawn.

[@Objective-Observer]

You are absoltutely correct: Sustainablity. That is the challenge everywhere! Capitalising on the money from tourism, but take care of the tourists properly, so they want to come back, or encourage others to come. You are spot on: it is the responsibility of the local governments to prepare for those invading hordes ready to give you money. We could banter back and forth on all of the finer details of this challenge, but the single most important things is: Scotland is new to this level of tourism. They don't know how to plan and prepare for this level of friendly invasion. They haven't learned all the tricks to keeping those hordes coming back... like festivals all over the countryside. They don't know how to alter the infrastructure and taxes and zoning and planning to successfuly provide a positive experinece for the tourists AND the locals. The only thing any one can recommend is talk to the towns and areas that DO experience tourism like this, and learn what to do.

[@ShiinaRingo13]

Objective Observer Don’t forget about taking care of the locals so they don’t get tired of the tourists and drive them away.

[@Objective-Observer]

@@ShiinaRingo13 I didn't forget the locals, did you not read that far? In the States, that is where Planning and Zoning, and infrastructure have helped to develop Tourist Zones that are isolated away from homes and 'normal' business districts. Tourist traffic is specifically channeled away from the locals' daily lives. Parks and tourist areas have permanent toilets and wash up facilities. Local 'Attractions' have designated roadways to isolate that traffic away from the local business and shopping areas that tourists would have no interest in. Communities can truly have their cake and eat it, too; they can take advantage of the tourism economy, and not be a burden to the locals' daily lives.

[@ShiinaRingo13]

That may work for the US. I know, I was born and raised in California. But America is a newer country. We have had time to adapt to tourism. But older countries like Japan and Scotland, it isn’t so easy.

[@Objective-Observer]

@@ShiinaRingo13 Wow, That's offensive to inferr they aren't capable of adapting. They aren't idiots. They aren't stupid. And this isn't some ground breaking industry where there isn't a million different places that have successfully done this- that they could learn from. Victiorian Brits were the Original Tourists traipsing all over Europe and the far east visiting their colonies. All demanding THEIR standard of living from primitive places, then whining and complaining that it wasn't as good as home. The Scots can do whatever they want, and the rest of us must respect their sovereingnty. If they don't want tourism, that's their choice, but then they need to SHUT IT DOWN PERMANENTLY. That certainly won't make them look any more backwater ignorant, than refusing to install the proper mechanisms for human sanitation. They have something unique and valuable, that other people are willing to pay money to see. They can turn their assests into cash with investments that can be done in increments that will improve the lives of their people, and all Scots who want to visit these places.

[@ShiinaRingo13]

I didn’t say they couldn’t do it. I said that it’s not as easy to upturn centuries worth of structure to rebuild and make accommodations for the flood of tourists. Scottish people are extremely innovative and intelligent. Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone. The first people to clone anything came from and did so in Scotland. I’m not doubting their abilities. I’m just saying that it’s not good to assume that every country can just do things because America did it. Japan is the lead in technology, but they still struggle with making things work with tourism. Especially when it comes to handicap accessibility. It can be done. They are making changes and plans to make things easier. But in some areas, the infrastructure would require leveling the entire city and rebuilding from scratch.

[@climer588]

You gave a good interview. Ya'll will figure it out because you have to. The barn door is open now. We were there late May , early June this year. Didn't feel crowded at all. After being herded through airports, train stations etc in England , Inverness and points north seemed restful.

[@shalayneabbott8212]

Greetings from Las Vegas, NV. I work in the hospitality industry and we depend on tourism. One thing about American’s is that we’re a free ppl. If we want to go somewhere, we want to be able to do so without restrictions of someone telling us to go somewhere else. As for me personally, Scotland has always been my dream trip. I want to walk where my ancestors walked. I want to experience the culture, especially the Highland games etc. there’s a lot to see and I’d want to see as much of it as possible.

[@douglasbuchanan4203]

Shaun.... I visited Edinburgh for the first time in May this year..... I spent most of my time in the Leith area away from the city center.... I had the best time...... Looking forward to visiting again next year.

[@TomDeBlende]

My wife and I did a small road trip this summer. It was our first visit to Scotland. We did Edinburgh-Inverness-Applecross-Portree-Fort William- Glasgow-Edinburgh. One week. We loved it! Even managed to fit in the Inveraray Highland Games. The only issues we had with infrastructure were a flat tire on the pass to Applecross and finding a place to eat at night up North. The tire was due to a pothole. The man from the garage in Lochcarron said around 50% of his income in summer is tourists busting tires on the bad roads. 50%! We were his 6th of the day. The lady in our b&b in Applecross said 50% of their customers that summer have had a flat. So yeah, some roadworks would be nice. And in places like Portree, Applecross and even Port William it was very very hard to find a pub or restaurant to eat. Queues everywhere. All in all we had a blast and were thinking of coming back to do NC500 (bought the book already). Not so sure now...

[@datdudehoppy]

My wife has Scottish heritage, I have Irish heritage.. our plan is to come and visit Scotland & Ireland here soon. So see you hopefully in the future brother

[@StMyles]

Hawaii has endured tourism even before it became a State in the United States of America. If the situation has come to a point of Scotland being unable to sustain a tourist industry, maybe its time to cut back on the promotions of Scotland. Scotland needs to center their tourism on only areas that are both willing and accommodating to tourist coming in. Unless the local councils, townships, and Cities local people are willing to increase infrastructure for accommodation, maybe it is better not to intrude in those areas. Friends of mine going to Scotland during the next week will let me know what they think. But, Thanks for Sharing Shaun.

[@tracycopland1007]

I just got back from Orkney last night and had no issues at all. Roads were quiet, all the sites were easy to get round- not too busy. There were a few places that could benefit from toilet facilities, spent a couple of our days out in pain holding in the loo. And eating places tend to be concentrated around Kirkwall, often had to buy sandwiches etc at supermarkets and take with us as there were no places to eat en route. But numbers of tourists were never an issue.

[@Bocaschild]

Hello! I saw tons of your videos and just came back from Scotland, I visited your city, and I loved it. Thank you for all the travel tips.

[@francine740]

I’m Canadian and I’ve been to Scotland in 2016 and 2018. Completely fell in love with your country. First time we went, it was a birthday present for my husband to discover more about his ancestor that came to Canada with the Wolfe army in 1758. We had his family tree and knew we had to head north of Inverness. Because of the weakness of our canadian dollar, we had said that we could only afford Scotland once in our lifetime...little did we know, we would go back less than 2 yrs later. If I could afford to move for a year to Tain area, (my husband’s ancestor was from the Clan Ross)I would do it in a flash. Unfortunately, with the exchange rate, it is not feasible as we are newly retired. Will I visit again? Most definitely, as long as accomodation stay at a reasonable rate. I do love your country, your culture, the people, the way of living. I am Canadian so the weather doesn’t scare me a bit. You have a beautiful country, try to keep it that way because Sometimes, tourism will destroy the beautiful landscape.

[@dr.gernott.dambacher3985]

I have travelled to SCO since many years, recently 3 times per year on whisky and family/nature. This July for the first time I noticed issues, particularly on the Isle of Skye. It was packed! And we actually had to wait for a toilet in Portree. So I get your point, SCO is probably reaching its limits in certain areas, however, please also note and discuss that SCO travel is very seasonal. I don´t have numbers but I assume that Jul/Aug sees at least 10 times more tourists than Jan/Feb. That is a serious challenge for those who provide infrastructure. Not that I have a solution, sorry...

[@sincerelysally614]

We were in Edinburgh on a 5 country tour in February and it was FANTASTIC. Friendly people, gorgeous, magical city, sooo much to see and do. We want to go back! It was our favorite place of the whole trip. But we went in February on purpose--we wanted to avoid the summer crowds. We had no trouble getting a wonderful B&B and even the Royal Mile/castles/tourist places were manageable crowd-wise. So timing is important. On our next visit we definitely want to do a driving tour of the major towns--ending in Edinburgh for the piece-de-resistance! I hope that your video makes a difference because over-tourism can cause problems, so proper management is a must. I don't think tourists want to spoil anything--they just want to be part of the magic that is Scotland (and we're not even Outlander fans!)

[@srice6231]

I lived in Alaska for four years and it gets a HUGE amount of tourism, the majority of which is from May-September. Many small towns and villages swell with people in the summer and then are quiet again in the winter. Many people make their yearly income during those five months and then can do what they want (such as travel) in the winter months without having to work. It can be a really great way to live!

[@lout3921]

It's clear that beautiful places will get a huge influx of Tourism as time goes on. I think local businesses need to be educated specifically on supply and demand. Prices just might need to be higher. That will keep the locals happy and keep the crowd low.

[@desertrose9483]

I hope that the government and local officials and agencies can sort out all that is necessary in order to help tourism in Scotland to thrive and succeed. Scotland has such a wealth of spectacular places to visit, so much history, so many creative arts and music events. I could go on and on! The hospitality of the people there seems to be exceptional. So, I agree with you. It's important to get things sorted out in order to best support the tourist industry in Scotland!

[@Likesyurp]

I want to live in Scotland. So much history to see there. I hope to come there some day.

[@tittaa4241]

Went to Scotland for the first time last summer and coming back in two weeks time! Can't wait to get back! Love-love-loooooved it!

[@saalbudoor]

Just came to visit the highlands from Dubai with my family and we loved the places and the people you guys are awesome and welcoming , true what u said need more attention for public services

[@caliope1962]

I visited Edinburgh last November and I will go at the end of this moth again. I felt very good, comfortable and secure. I understand tourism could be sometimes bad for locald because I live in a historical city too. Difficult to manage sometimes. Thanks for yours videos!

[@rippingale100]

La Musa Calíope far more to Scotland than Edinburgh

[@julieberg8820]

Love your interview and your welcoming attitude for us tourists to come to Scotland! In fact, I'm almost on my way: coming to Scotland in the middle of August (Tattoo and some days further up north) While planning this trip, I had some real challenges planning it for a person in a wheelchair. Not so much the sites, I found all the information on the internet for museums etc. But I had a tough time finding accomodation - in general, but especially for a disabled person as soon as it wasn't in the bigger cities. Looking forward to my visit (and to pushing a wheelchair over cobblestones in Edinburgh ;) ) Greetings from Germany

[@Teri8D]

Handicap Accessibility is a must.

[@ShiinaRingo13]

I completely agree, but know that it’s no easy task. Japan’s older infrastructure and the way cities are designed make it next to impossible to make everything Handicap accessible. You’d have to knock down entire cities and rebuild them from scratch. But in rural areas and suburbs, elevators and ramps are being built. It might be more challenging for Scotland’s cobblestone roads.

[@ShiinaRingo13]

Kris Moodley, true. I didn’t say it can’t be done. But it’s just a lot easier said than done.

[@TheEggmaniac]

Handicap? This is an expression that went out of date in the 80s. Wow, not heard that for a long time. I take it you mean disabled? Scottish institutions are very aware of disabled access and Im sure scores highly on disabled access. Its expected these days in the UK/ EU.

[@akascha81]

Same thing here in switzerland. Tourism is needed but the increasing amounts of the last years brings countries to an edge.

[@lisaanderson8113]

Got home from Scotland a few weeks ago and had an amazing time! We flew into EDI and then stayed mostly on the east coast and rural areas, with the exception of South Queensferry and Balmoral. We felt like the tourist infrastructure was pretty well in hand, with only a few exceptions. For example, in St Andrews, you can buy a pass that's supposed to be good for admission to all the places noted on the map. However, Dunnottar castle didn't accept it and we had to pay again. They need to keep that map updated! The only other thing I'd say is maybe businesses should consider the fact that tourists are most likely jetlagged by several hours and need places that keep slightly longer business hours. It was a bit frustrating to see most doors locked by 5pm.

[@isabelpereira7797]

I’m a Brazilian living in Scotland and completely agree with you. Tourism can be great for local business and therefore for the country’s economy. There is so much potential to be explored over here.

[@shaunvlog]

Que legal! Aonde em Escócia você tá ficando? I miss Brazil a lot, hopefully going back next summer

[@isabelpereira7797]

Moro em Perthshire . Entre Dundee e Perth.

[@harriettfoshee3235]

Visited Scotland last year in September and I was blown away by the people of Scotland. Friendly and very gracious to us. I agree with others on the posts, Florida has thrived with their tourist tax and taken some of the burden off of their citizens. I don’t see anything wrong with Scotland doing the same and ensuring that the infrastructure and sustainability remains to keep Scotland the beautiful country that it is.

[@moonglow630]

I’ve been to Edinburgh twice and am planning a trip throughout Scotland for next year. It’s such a beautiful country.

[@choccyfrolick]

What you said in this video is bang on Shaun. In 2018 & 2019 we had an increasing number of cruise ships visiting Shetland, but take for instance Jarlshof , an incredible multi- era archaeological site (way better than Skara Brae in my opinion!!) (on UNESCO World Heritage site tentative list) run by Historic Environment Scotland, no car perk and no toilets, embarrassing in my opinion! The coachloads of tourists have to park in the car park of the next door hotel, and probably use their toilets. Not a great idea to ramp up tourist numbers without the needed facilities.

[@robertahall4960]

About 6 years ago, my friend and I were in Scotland. Did a driving tour. Loved it except for a few rental car problems. But the country is fabulous. This was about my 4th trip over there. We didn't find it that busy then but I can imagine now with the recent tv shows etc. Thanks Shaun..

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you for stressing the importance of developing more infrastructure. I'd love to visit.

[@BlackSNSmoke]

I went to Scotland a year ago and have an amazing time. I didnt find any of the problems you mentioned because I went through a tour company who took care of most of those arrangements. I do understand the need to get away from the city when big events are happening being from a city who puts on a week long event every year.

[@Pops1959]

Planning a visit in June 2020 for about 10 days. Edinburgh and the borders. I haven’t decided on all the details yet.

[@denirn8725]

Don’t just stay in the south country. We want you to see the “real Scotland Beauty”….in the Highlands.Have a Safe Trip!

[@timdaugherty5921]

I will be there same time!

[@wendybenedetto1015]

I am already planning my trip to the Scottish Highlands for next June. I'm so excited to be able to make this trip as I've wanted to go there for a long as I can remember. And even though I am happy for Scotland and it's booming tourism, which is certainly deserved, I am a little bummed that there will be so many people- LOL

[@vickieranz]

Just got back from a fabulous Scotland vacation.... toured with one of the big travel coach companies. They did a good job of stopping where they knew RR facilities were available and of course hotels were prearranged. Found the people of Scotland to be wonderfully friendly and outgoing. I made a point to break away from the tour group to interact with locals. The Highlands certainly could benefit from greater hotel choices, but not at the expense of the natural uncluttered beauty of the landscape. The car parks surrounding big tourist spots is an area that I saw that could benefit with major improvement...not enough spaces and some huge potholes. It was so nice to be somewhere without billboards screaming at you and more mom and pop businesses.

[@lesliegriffin3867]

Yeah! Fringe videos! I want to come and visit Scotland but first have to save for the trip (me and hubby)! I am aware from you and other Scottish vloggers that August is so busy! Festivals, Tattoo, and I think a Comic-Con (somewhere)! Yikes!! I want to see alot of Scotland without having to fight the crowds and when it's not so hot (summer)! Cooler weather and rain won't stop me! Waiting to see next installment of Orkney!

[@bryanc2262]

The locals should use a sales and hospitality tax to pay for infrastructure changes. Use the tourists help pay for it.

[@iceman27406]

lol no that is a bad idea. They already pay for it when they buy or use items and services. nobody likes getting double taxed. why should i go to a place that charges a tax for hospitality when i can go to places a few hours away? if i want to see Scottish highlands i have two options go to Scotland or go to the Appalachian mountains. Guess which one would be more appealing if you started adding extra taxes to tourist.

[@ibosquez5238]

I'd be glad to pay it. Call it a "fee" instead of a " tax" though so as not piss people off so much.

[@xlxfx]

Yeah! That wild landscape you're coming for and ruining? Let's build trains!

[@tygrahof9268]

Also show people different places. As a tourist; I hate too many tourists.It just gets irritating as we go away to get AWAY from crowds and other Americans. Would rather see a far off castle than deal with a million tourists.

[@candyeskridge1825]

I agree with you, Shaun. To quote a famous line from the movie "Field of Dreams", "If you build it, they will come." All one has to do is look at Highclere Castle in northern England (Yorkshire area, I believe) where "Downton Abbey" was filmed. The Earl and Countess of Carnarvon are still reaping the tourism benefits from that one particular show. Downton Abbey ended about three years ago or so and they haven't seen a drop in the numbers of people coming to visit their estate. If Scotland Tourism would get moving on improving infrastructure, it could be a long-lasting benefit to Scotland's economy.

[@marthaguenther9827]

We were there in August 2018 during the Fringe Festival. We went to the Tattoo, Isle of SKye, had an unfortunate incident with our reservation being “‘lost” at the B&B in Inverness and cut our visit short there. We decided to head to Pitlochry and had a purely Scottish experience with that town’s festival. I did notice the lack of toilets and the lack of smooth shoulders on the road’s edge while there so I patronized restaurants and pubs and got full coverage on the rental car. No problems with either. I’m sure Edinburgh lodging was more expensive because of the festivals but we loved it all! Could you do something about the rain ;) ?

[@cybergal99]

My mom was from Calderbank and I've been visiting since 1970 .. I LOVE Scotland and I'm so happy the rest of the world has discovered it! That being said .. we climbed Glen Coe (the most popular mountains in that part of the country) .. three words for the tourist agencies who manage the area .. Port-O-San!

[@alexwood3459]

Love your energy man. Scotland is a beautiful place. I'm considering moving for a number of reasons (I'm a British citizen but I live Australia, spent half my youth in SE England(and a tiny bit of time in Scotland- one of my first accents haha, I get back the long ooos when I return). The only tourism experience I had there was a coach tour with a bunch of older people because I went with my 70yr old aunt (I was 18, 23 now). Was great value and great fun tbh, I was such a novelty in the group. Our stay was in the highlands and basically just day trips from the hotel, including iona and other islands. I never really noticed a lack in infrastructure but it is a shame there's not more bus tours or hostels for younger travellers. The coach tour was my only real option. No regrets but I love independent travel and if you're too young to hire a car (under 25) travel in Scotland feels impossible. Funny about that trip my mum would visit the highlands regularly when we lived in Edinburgh and it was always gloomy weather, I went for one week and it was blue sky everyday. I was actually overheated because I was walking all day and didn't think to pack shorts (black trousers and dark jeans only) haha.

[@Belegalorleave]

I am from Tampa, FL and although not a tourist destination like Orlando or Miami, we are always dealing with growth. It is an ongoing problem that stresses the natives. It really is an issue that the gov't must address to make tourism a serious industry. Would love to come to Scotland and hope to someday.