Perfect Connections
The people of the Outer Hebrides are probably more conscious of their ancestry than any other community in the UK. The islands form a centre of excellence for genealogical resources.
In Harris 'Co Leis Thu' (Gaelic for Who Are You), the Genealogical resource based in the Seallam! Visitor Centre is internationally known as the authority on genealogy from the Outer Hebrides. Virtually every household on the islands in the last 200 years has been researched and a resource bank of over 30,000 family trees has been collated.
The Outer Hebrides are very involved in Homecoming Scotland 2009, which marks the 250th anniversary of Scotland's bard, Robert Burns. There are a number of key events to mark this occasion, including the Hebrides' very own Tattoo which takes place on 7-8 August and includes Dougie MacLean, who wrote the signature tune to the Homecoming advert, Caledonia.
Other events include:
Art on the map - visit ancient sites redolent of the passage of those leaving and arriving on the islands
Conference on Emigration from the Outer Hebrides - Learn the remarkable story of emigration over 250 years
Isle of Barra Whisky Galore Festival - Take part in the hunt for whisky on the island of Barra and a golf tournament
For more information on these and other events log onto www.homecomingscotland2009.com
Paradise Made Affordable
With ferry fares to the Outer Hebrides reduced by up to 40% on all routes and 5 routes to choose from, there's never been a better time to discover your Perfect Day in the Outer Hebrides. Welcome to Paradise made affordable.
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Other things you may like...
Archaeological Splendour
People have been attracted to the Outer Hebrides and its possibilities for over 6000 years. They have fished the seas, farmed the land, and defended their homes. They have moulded the landscape, and have been moulded by it, and have left behind a rich legacy for you to explore.
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Produce to perfection
With the very best of local produce served up to stimulate the taste buds, the Outer Hebrides is renowned for the honest quality of its food. We can only tell you what is on offer in this area - to savour the taste you will need to come and experience it for yourself.
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A Perfect Day for Wildlife
An isolated, peaceful and unspoilt land with a wide variety of interesting, beautiful species and habitats; The Outer Hebrides are recognised internationally as being a globally important wildlife environment.
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A unique experience
A deep sense of history can be felt throughout the islands, with much of that history kept alive through song and verse. Culture is the backdrop to every holiday in the Outer Hebrides.
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