Scots called home to celebrate in 2009
June 2008
There is a bus leaving Edinburgh next year that more than two million Australians would love to be on. That’s the estimated minimum number of Aussies who claim links with Scotland through family ancestry.
The coach tours are part of the country’s Homecoming Year celebrations which take place throughout 2009, and allow patrons to trace their ancestral history through a series of specialised ‘clan’ family tours.
Next year adds special appeal for Scots, as it coincides with the 250th anniversary of the birth of the great Scottish poet, Robert ‘Rabbie’ Burns, who penned a catalogue of masterpieces including Auld Lang Syne, which still reverberates across Australia at midnight every New Year’s Eve.
A total of six different clan tours will be conducted by tour hosts, Rabbie’s Trail Burners, exploring the history and homelands across Scotland.
The MacDonald and MacLeod tours will concentrate on discovering the romantic Isle of Skye and the far northwest, while the Campbell, Macgregor and Cameron tours will explore the western Highlands.
Rabbie’s general manager, Calum Macnee, said the Scottish ancestral tree stretches across the globe so travellers will discover how their clan played central roles in the rich and bloody history of Scotland.
“For those unsure of their clan history, or who they are related to, we have a unique clan finder on our website.
“You just need to type your name into the search field and find out who you really are.”
Macnee said for those who do not have connections with a specific clan, other tours are organised to help visitors discover their broader ancestral routes across Scotland.
The six clan tours are packaged into a visit to Edinburgh during the Homecoming Gathering of the Clans event at the end of July 2008.
Those looking to travel outside peak seasons will welcome additional tours being conducted throughout the northern hemisphere’s spring and autumn.
Prices start from $500 (£250) per person twin share for a three day tour with bed ‘n breakfast accommodation. Price includes ensuite accommodation; choice of three-star hotels with breakfast or bed and breakfast; and a mini-coach tour with professional driver/guide.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 16 travellers. Lunch and dinner are not included.
For more, visit http://www.rabbies.com
Warwick Sinclair