Scotland is hoping to grow visitor numbers as it hosts a conference of 40 tourism press officers from around the world.
The press officers due to attend the conference this week in Edinburgh are all VisitBritain staff currently promoting the UK in 35 countries.
It is hoped Homecoming Scotland 2009, which is aimed at encouraging tourists with Scottish heritage to visit the country, will help further drive tourism.
VisitScotland chief executive Philip Riddle said: “It is an honour to host this even in Scotland and a great opportunity for us to showcase Homecoming Scotland to this important group.
“These press officers do a fantastic job, working with our in-house PR teams, promoting Scotland around the world already and we are sure that this conference and the associated familiarisation trips will fill them with even more enthusiasm for all the great things we have to offer.”
VisitBritain head of press and PR Patricia Yates said: “Our annual PR conference is a prime opportunity for VisitBritain’s press officers around the world to update their knowledge with the latest destinations, events, attractions, accommodation and experiences.
“Thanks to VisitScotland hosting us this year, we can ensure that the world’s media is fully aware of all that potential visitors can enjoy during Homecoming.”
As well as attending the conference sessions, delegates will be taken on familiarisation trips across Scotland as part of the three-day event.