What Buffy did next - [Scottish Sunday]

Part One: The Cyclone

By Neil Mackay and Jasper Hamill

Part Two: The Politics

By Nic Dunlop in Bangkok

Downing Street crackdown fails to end Labour chaos or speculation over Scottish leadership

By James Cusick, Westminster Editor and Paul Hutcheon, Scottish Political Editor

Breaking News

British Gas owner Centrica has warned of potential further bill hikes for customers after revealing that continued high wholesale gas prices would hit results this year.

International

Although Hillary Clinton will fight to the bitter end, last week Barack Obama effectively became the Democratic nominee, writes Andrew Purcell in New York

'Tsunami' of attacks interrupts station's broadcasts

From Gabriel Ronay in Budapest

Fighters follow al-Qaeda's example and plot campaign of bombings and suicide attacks

From Nick Meo in Kandahar

Opinion & Debate

EDITORIAL

Iain Macwhirter on Global crises

Joanna Blythman on Kirkcaldy

Sport

Ian Bell: columnist of the year

ON THE SPOT: Alan Campbell

George Burley

George Burley might be about to lose his strike pairing from the Barclays Premier League but, as Stewart Fisher discovers, the Scotland manager sees plenty to be positive about as he chooses his squad for the Czech Republic

Business

Expert challenges Scottish Enterprise's high-tech nurseries with private voucher plan

By Steven Vass

By Colin Donald, Business Editor

Despite large number of bidders, lower than hoped valuation likely

By Ian Fraser

Arts

Fame, riches, women ... Neil Diamond has had it all, but it took an album about loss to make him cool

By Craig McLean

It has the consistency of a boiled egg and holds the key to what makes us human.

So says Susan Greenfield, who has devoted her life to studying her brain. But why has this eminent neurologist been vilified by the scientific establishment?

After O Lucky Man, a Clockwork Orange and If...Malcolm McDowell's career hit the skids. Now he's reborn.

By James Mottram

Life

THE RED ROAD FLATS WERE BUILT ON HOPE. NOW THEY ARE COMING DOWN, LEAVING NOTHING BUT BROKEN DREAMS.

THIS IS THE STORY OF ONE TOWER BLOCK AND MANY LIVES.

BY PAUL DALGARNO

Some parents, fed up with competitive child-rearing, are looking to alternative strategies to produce balanced human beings at a gradual pace.

By Vicky Allan

Hotels: A Growing Industry

The hotel industry is witnessing steady growth around the world, with an increasing number of people traveling for business and leisure purposes. As this trend continues to rise, the demand for accommodation options is also on the rise.

Rise of Boutique Hotels

One of the notable trends in the hotel industry is the rise of boutique hotels. These small, stylish, and often independently-owned hotels are known for their unique designs, personalized services, and attention to detail. Boutique hotels provide travelers with a more intimate and personalized experience compared to larger chain hotels.

Focus on Luxury and Wellness

Another significant trend in the hotel industry is the growing focus on luxury and wellness. Many hotels are now offering upscale amenities, such as spa facilities, fitness centers, and gourmet restaurants, to attract high-end clientele. The wellness trend includes providing guests with healthy dining options, wellness programs, and access to activities like yoga and meditation.

Embracing Technology

Hotels are leveraging technology to enhance the guest experience and streamline operations. From online booking platforms and mobile check-in/check-out services to in-room automation and personalized guest preferences, technology plays a vital role in the modern hotel industry.

Sustainable Practices

With increasing concerns about the environment, many hotels are adopting sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint. This includes implementing energy-efficient systems, recycling programs, and using eco-friendly materials in hotel construction and operations. Sustainable practices not only contribute to environmental conservation but also resonate with eco-conscious travelers.

Future Outlook

The future of the hotel industry looks promising, with continued growth expected as more people explore new destinations and travel becomes more accessible. However, hotels will need to remain adaptable to changing trends and guest preferences to stay competitive in this evolving industry.