The tourist trade in Glasgow is less seasonal than in Edinburgh with fewer visitors in general coming to Scotland's largest city. However, it has become a popular spot for business conferences while the increase in budget-airline flights from the European continent seems to have increased the overall number of visitors. So if, for example, an international association of dentists is in town, finding accommodation can be difficult.
Until recently, many tourism industry observers said Glasgow suffered from a shortage of hotel rooms, but new places such as the Radisson SAS have changed the equation. Whenever you're coming, it's recommended that you reserve a room in advance. Some rates are predictably high (especially so if the pound remains strong), but many business-oriented hotels offer bargains on weekends and the number of budget options is increasing.
The Glasgow and Clyde Valley tourism office (www.visitscotland.com) offers an Information & Booking Hot Line (tel. 0845/225-5121 from within the U.K., or 01506/832-121 from outside the U.K.). Lines are open (local time) Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, Saturday from 9am to 5:50pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The fax number is 01506/832-222. The fee for this booking service is £3 ($5.50).
Tourist Board Rankings -- The Scottish Tourist Board does rank the accommodations at hundreds of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and self-catering apartments. While helpful, these stars are largely based upon available amenities, such as 24-hour room service, ironing boards or spas, which may not be relevant for each and every traveler. Also, not all hotels and guesthouses are part of the scheme, although they may be no less attractive.
