Scotland's Balmoral offers red-carpet welcome to Chinese tourists

Edinburgh's most prestigious address prepares a five-star welcome for Chinese visitors heading to Scotland.

The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel in Edinburgh, has announced a series of initiatives aimed at welcoming Chinese guests. In preparation for the arrival of visitors travelling on the new direct flight route between Beijing and Edinburgh, the guest journey at the five-star property has been enhanced to ensure they feel at home at the hotel.

Launched in July, the Balmoral's Afternoon Tea Masterclass, located in one of the hotel's private suites, promises to unlock the history of the tradition and be a unique offering for the city.

Over delicate sandwiches, homemade scones and the Scottish tea, an official guide with a Mandarin translator will share with Chinese guests the finer points of this very British tradition.

Guests can expect to learn the story behind the tea stand – from the Scot who first brought tea from China in the 19th century to the etiquette of the ritual – all the while enjoying Balmoral Scottish smoked salmon and homegrown Scottish tea.