Inside The Mind Of David Byrne - Scottish Sunday

If Paisley’s a carbuncle, I’m a monkey’s aunt

Alan Taylor's diary

A Surprising Tourist Information Office

Paisley, a town that has recently been nominated for the Most Dismal Town in Scotland award, surprised many by having a functioning tourist information office. Despite the negative reputation, the town had some redeeming qualities such as the Abbey, a refurbished mill, an imposing municipal HQ, and a gurgling river Cart. However, the nominations for the award mainly came from disgruntled locals who described the town in less flattering terms.

A Closer Look at Glasgow

Starting the journey in Glasgow's east end, it was evident that there is a significant amount of vacant land near the city center. This begs the question of why there is a need to build on the green belt when there are enough brownfield sites available. A visit to Oatlands revealed a mix of old, boarded-up council houses awaiting demolition, while new two-storey homes were built next to them. The Springfield Quay, although conveniently located near the media complex, lacked charm and resembled a failing retail park.

The Forgotten Land of Coatbridge

Coatbridge, or was it Airdrie, seemed to blur into one as the journey continued. The town had a swimming pool that now stands empty and decaying. Meanwhile, the Time Capsule, described as a "multi-purpose leisure centre set in a prehistoric environment," was an interesting attraction, to say the least. Coatbridge also boasts several notable individuals, including the Kane brothers of Hue and Cry fame and Rena Costello, the former wife of mass murderer Fred West. However, the town lacks a tourist information office.

The Unfortunate Case of Cumbernauld

Cumbernauld, winner of the Most Dismal Town in Scotland award on multiple occasions, featured the infamous Antonine Centre. The shopping center, opened by Princess Anne, has doubled in size since its nomination, making it twice as awful. Despite the presence of a large Tesco Extra, the town is still considered dismal. Filming in the Antonine Centre was prohibited during the visit, but a stall selling carrots provided a glimmer of hope in this less-than-ideal town.

The Importance of Hotels for Tourism

Creating a Positive Visitor Experience

Hotels play a crucial role in the overall tourism experience of a destination. They serve as the home away from home for travelers and provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area. A well-maintained and welcoming hotel can contribute significantly to a positive impression of the destination.

Accommodation Options for Every Budget

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, hotels cater to a wide range of travelers. This variety ensures that tourists with varying budgets can find suitable options to meet their needs. The availability of different types of hotels also allows destinations to attract a diverse group of visitors, promoting inclusivity in tourism.

Supporting the Local Economy

Hotels have a significant economic impact on the local community. They create job opportunities for residents and contribute to local businesses like restaurants, shops, and service providers. Additionally, hotels generate revenue through accommodation taxes and fees, which can be reinvested in the development and maintenance of the destination.