Homecoming Scotland 2009 - Post Mortem from a Scottish Perspective

[thescot]

As always, you privide us with excellet photos.

So, as a Scot, do you think the whole thing was a success. Were you disappointed? Elated?

I'm always interested in what the locals have to say about such events. I find that here in Atlanta, when we get all excited about the Stone Mountain Games, many people are asking me, "What games?"

[cessna152towser]

So, as a Scot, do you think the whole thing was a success. Were you disappointed? Elated?

My personal view is that overall Homecoming Scotland 2009 has been a huge success for Scotland's economy with many more visitors from overseas throughout the season. Also it has re-kindled old family ties and friendships and brought new bonds of friendship.
As individual events go I felt that the Edinburgh gathering was an embarrassment and a disappointment, the fact that it was widely hyped overseas duped a lot of people into thinking this was the one must do event of the Homecoming year, personally I felt that the North Berwick Games in August and the Muster of the Clans in September were better showcases for what Scotland can do, fortunately these also attracted significant numbers of overseas visitors.
My first real sense of elation for Homecoming was the Muster of the Clans in September, I got a real buzz out of this event and because it was happening in my home area of Scotland I was very much aware of the big influx of North American accents on the streets.
California was undoubtedly the highlight of my year, my first visit to the USA and a trip which I had not envisaged at the start of the year and which only came about as a consequence of new friendships made through Homecoming Scotland 2009.

[KFCarter]

Alex, you were a great source of vicarious enjoyment for those of us who could not participate in the Homecoming and this thread ties that up very well.

Thanks very much for this thread and all the others! You've certainly done your bit to enthuse this North American with a stronger desire than ever to visit Scotland.

regards
Ken

[McMurdo]

What a great set of photos and report Alex, you've had quite the year indeed, thank you for yet again sharing your adventures. My only complaint is that your travels did not include Toronto this time, there are still things here that you missed last time.

[Mael Coluim]

Great thread, Alexis! The best thing for me in crossing the pond was meeting the XMarkers!

[andyfg]

Nice narrative Alex with good pics. It's been quite a year!

[thescot]

. . . I felt that the Edinburgh gathering was an embarrassment and a disappointment, the fact that it was widely hyped overseas duped a lot of people into thinking this was the one must do event of the Homecoming year, . . .

That's what I was wondering about. I often find that the "big events" of such things which are often planned by bureaucrats and politicos are disappointing.

Thanks so much for the photos and analysis. And for the commentary on the other events, many of which I'd not even heard of.

[shawhighlander]

Really glad you had such a grand string of events. Makes the year have warmth. Thanks for taking the time to pen a few thoughts, as well ith:

[Ozark Ridge Rider]

Alex,

Thank you so much for all your threads and pictures. A new granddaughter kept us home or we would have been at the Clan Scott functions. Will probably get over next year.

It is really enjoyable to see all your photos, and hope you had as much fun as it looks like you did.

Best to you and yours,
Dan

[starbkjrus]

Wow Alex, you have had a busy year. Thanks for the photos and perspective.

I'm going to have to start calling you Air Miles Alex. ith: