For waterlogged Scots yearning for a sunshine boost, this summer’s rain, grey skies, howling wind and chilly temperatures may well have prompted a dash to the travel agent. But elsewhere, Scotland’s less than scorching climate is increasingly being seen as a plus point for visitors seeking to chill out in cooler climes. Dubbed the ‘coolcation’, travel experts say they are seeing signs of rising demand among international tourists for alternatives to the blistering heat of southern Europe.
Rather than sizzle under clear blue skies and in rising temperatures – perhaps precisely the blissful escape many storm-lashed Scots are dreaming of right now – they’re turning their sights to northern destinations in the hope of cooling down. (Image: Newsquest) Much of the focus for the trend so far has been on Sweden, Denmark and Norway. It’s led to some flight operators, among them Air France and KLM, announcing extra services for Scandinavian destinations, while Norwegian Air has added ten new routes between northern Norway and European cities.
International arrivals to Norway, Ireland and Sweden are said to be all up by more than 10 percent. The boom in visitor numbers to some Swedish destinations has been so high, that it’s even sparked complaints of too many tourists. With demand growing, Scotland’s potential for a ‘coolcation’ is also being highlighted by international travel guides and tour companies , which are now actively promoting the idea and including S.