We’ve missed you!

IT GOES without saying, 2020 was a year we would probably all rather forget. Even now, tremendous efforts continue to rebuild, and to beat COVID-19 for good.

Here in Orkney, you’ll be glad to hear our famous community spririt has prevailed — and while we know that many didn’t make it to our shores last year, they will be itching to come as soon as they can!

Last year’s magazine was due to launch in the very week that the first lockdown struck the UK. Inevitably, our hopes of another bustling tourist season were dashed. But we needn’t have feared you would forget us . . . you kept in touch, and judging by your messages, you missed us just as much as we missed you.

In your absence, our businesses, attractions, producers and promoters made sure you could still taste, see and hear about us, thanks to online innovations. Those efforts have continued into 2021, and you will find we are probably more accessible than we have ever been — something very positive to come out of these challenging times.

This year, The Orkney Islander magazine maintains its main function, to highlight the best of everything Orcadian, across every local sector. From retail and food and drink, through to wildlife, arts, culture, accommodation and attractions — we really do have it all. And we locals have never known it more than we do now! Residents have made the most of all that is on their doorstep, perhaps more than ever before, during these times when we can’t venture far.

Orkney remains positive and resilient, and we very much look forward to welcoming our visitors once again. We hope this unique edition of our 34-year established magazine will help you plan your trip, and we’ll look forward to seeing you soon!