Jimmy Hoseason - A Self-Catering Pioneer

Jimmy Hoseason
published 15 November 2009, The Telegraph

The following excerpts is from an article published in The Telegraph as a tribute to Jimmy Hoseason, a self-catering pioneer, who died 7 November, 2009.

“Jimmy Hoseason, who died on November 7 aged 82, was one of the best-known entrepreneurs in the travel business and became head of the world's biggest provider of holidays afloat.

Taking over from his father, who had founded the family boating business during the Second World War, Hoseason made his reputation as a travel trade pioneer, and was the first to introduce direct telephone bookings, computerised reservations and "dial-a-brochure" requests.
The firm also catered for landlubbers, diversifying into self-catering cottages, chalets and parks, and became known for its television commercials for homely, if unglamorous, holidays in Britain...”

“During the years that followed, Hoseason steered the company through a period of rapid growth, adding holiday parks and holiday cottages to the boating business.

In the face of stiff competition from operators offering cut-price sunshine holidays in Europe, Hoseason stressed the importance of providing quality accommodation, amenities and service if visitor numbers to UK destinations were to be maintained...”

To read more, click here

Edinburgh's Christmas Festival: 27 November to 4 January 2010

Tis the season for Christmas Festivals!

One of Europe's finest Christmas festivals returns with a month-long program bringing warmth and festive cheer to Edinburgh as the city transforms itself into a magical winter wonderland. Activity is centered around the world-renowned Princes Street Gardens. With a glittering choice of festive celebrations, chic shopping and fine dining set against the shimmering backdrop of this historic city - at Christmas, Edinburgh sparkles.

Plans for this year's festivities are well underway. Expect the return of Edinburgh's Christmas Festival favorites such as The Light Night, the Traditional German Christmas Market, Santa's Reindeer Garden, The Edinburgh Wheel, The Great Scottish Santa Run and Winter Wonderland, plus lots of surprises that make Edinburgh's Christmas the ultimate festive experience.

Have a very happy Edinburgh's Christmas 2009!

Highland Santa Run, Inverness: 29 November 2009

Would you like a wild day out? Then come have a blast, & raise money for charity too!

The Highland Santa Run is an iconic charity event that aims to get the entire Highlands together for one huge outdoor extravaganza, whilst raising funds to truly step up the fight against global poverty. Starting from Inverness Leisure, participants fully decked out in Santa attire, will follow a 6km loop around the River Ness, returning back to the Queens Park stadium at Inverness Leisure.

Entry is open to all, from experienced runners aiming to tear around the course in record time, to more relaxed participants wishing to have a fun stroll whilst soaking up the atmosphere. There’ll be plenty of extra things going on throughout the day, with music, entertainment and awesome games happening at Inverness Leisure.

It promises to be a great day out for the entire family.

Homecoming Scotland's Finale Weekend: 28 November to 30 November 2009

Homecoming Scotland's Finale Weekend
across Scotland

In November around St Andrew's Day and as a sensational finale to the year, Homecoming Scotland are working with some of Scotland biggest music promoters to present a truly unique, major celebration of Scottish Music, the likes and scale of which has never been seen before.

This will encompass the fullest possible range of Scotland's popular musicians from traditional Scottish folk heroes to the most cutting edge of contemporary Scottish bands currently making their mark internationally.

St Andrews Festival 2009 - Scotland's Celebration: 23 November to 30 November 2009

Join us for St Andrews Festival 2009 - Scotland's Celebration in the iconic town of St Andrews to celebrate our nation's Patron Saint.

A unique week of festivities including the premiere of a spectacular 'son et lumiere' - depicting the nation's historic journey - projected onto the medieval walls of the Town.

Scots Trad Music Awards: 27 November to 29 November 2009

Scots Trad Music Awards are promoting an amazing weekend of music in Dumfries.

The weekend of celebrations starts with a spectacular ceilidh dance, followed by The Scots Trad Music Awards Gala Award Ceremony and, new for 2009, a Sunday concert featuring the winners of the Scots Trad Music Awards.

EmbraceScotland November Homepage Highlight: City Sophistication

EmbraceScotland November Homepage Highlight: City Sophistication

Freedom in the City

Scotland's cities, towns, and villages attract thousands every year with arts, culture, history, and architecture. Whether you want to join in with the locals, or wander on your own, self-catering can give you an authentic insight into the real Scotland. Your own holiday house or apartment can be an ideal base for a wide range of city activities, promising you a warm and comfortable place to rest your feet, whatever time you make it back!

With EmbraceScotland you book direct with the owner, giving you access not only to the best prices, but also a wealth of knowledge and advise about the pleasures and hidden gems of the their town.

EmbraceScotland November Homepage Highlight: Little Bit of Luxury

EmbraceScotland November Homepage Highlight: Little Bit of Luxury

Indulge yourself and enjoy it!

Sometimes you just need to get away to somewhere really lovely. It may be an anniversary or other special occasion, or just that you've been working hard. Whatever the reason, staying in accommodation that offers luxury, up-market touches or that indulgent feel can make the break really special. And staying self-catering means you will have complete freedom to make it your own for the length of your stay, with no interruptions and no one else's timetable!

With EmbraceScotland you book direct with the owner, giving you access not only to the best prices, but also a welth of knowledge and advise about how to make the most of the area, and how to make your stay really special.

Autumn’s Colours at Your Doorstep

At this time of year, woodlands change colour and dazzle us with gold, copper or crimson foliage before the leaves fall.

Although the Scottish weather has a reputation of being wet and windy all year round, during the autumn months it is often dry, bright and sunny.

Take a stroll through the oak woodlands of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, or the botanical gardens of the Cowal peninsula and witness nature's fireworks. Autumn in the Highlands is truly awash with colour as the lush greens turn to warm golds and reds as some leaves hang from the trees and others line the winding romantic paths.

Autumn can offer the perfect chance for some late season sightseeing or outdoor activities without the crowds. The changing seasons make cosy nights by roaring fires in local pubs much more enjoyable too.

So why not indulge yourself with an Autumn short break. The October availability offers on the EmbraceScotland website will ensure you have a great holiday at an affordable price.