Travel website TripAdvisor has struck a partnership deal with Scotland's tourism agency which could boost the Scottish economy by £150 million.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP confirmed the VisitScotland deal, a first for TripAdvisor in Europe, in New York.
Speaking on the final day of her US visit the First Minister said it would promote Scottish tourism to 70 million potential new visitors.
The two organisations will work together on a joint marketing campaign.
Ms Sturgeon said:
"Our tourism industry has always been strong. Spending by North American visitors leapt by almost 28% to £633m in the last year alone.
"However, it's crucial that we ensure Scotland's appeal reaches as wide an audience as possible.
"This collaboration will ensure that millions more people will understand Scotland's appeal, and boost our tourism industry for years to come."
Kenneth Gibson added:
"No doubt a major reason TripAdvisor chose Scotland as its first European partner is the the fact we were voted the second-best country in the world to visit by the Rough Guide.
"With excellent accommodation, good food, spectacular scenery, friendly people and lots to do, visitors are virtually guaranteed a good holiday."
Charlie Smith, of VisitScotland, said:
"TripAdvisor is the biggest tourism website in the world based on tourists' real experiences.
"This partnership will give us the chance to learn from those at the forefront of innovation while inspiring millions of potential new visitors.
"This collaboration will help us put Scotland's regions, cities and unique experiences on the world stage and to grow our tourism industry for future generations."
Pictured: Sunset at Lochranza, Isle of Arran.
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