Once again welcome to the 13th edition of The Good Hotel & Food Book - a personal selection. The 2008 edition includes many old favourites - however, I am afraid some, for one reason or another, have been deleted. From 20 'applications' or enquiries to be included only 4 made the grade. Operating a country house hotel is no easy task but certain standards must be maintained. Some country house hotels use other publications and that is their choice. For most of the year I am 'in the field' staying overnight at my hotels - the character and appointment of the hotel is important but what is more important is the welcome on arrival, service, good food, good housekeeping and a relaxed atmosphere - after all one is supposed to be on holiday! I like to read my newspaper in peace.... and enjoy my food without the over indulgence one encounters on occasions from the table next to you.

The plethora of food programmes on TV at the moment leaves me in despair, although I quite enjoy Rick Stein - 'celebridty chefs' do not form part of my plans and are not sourced. Other publications appear to welcome the endorsement. Once again 6 Michelin star chefs (Andrew Fairlie has 2) appear within this edition. These chefs are either hotel executive/head chefs or restaurants in their own right. Not an easy task to gain a Michelin star and even more difficult to retain it. Hope the 'foodies' visit and enjoy the Good Food Book at the rear of the book.

Finally, once again most grateful to my sponsors for their support, of which a list appears on page 4. Always a warm welcome assured - enjoy the beauty of Scotland no matter in which direction you travel. Since the 1940's (Portsoy, The Black Isle & Skye in those days with my parents) I never tire of my travels. Even nip into England for a wee look sometimes! Look foward to my 14th edition for 2009.

"Alan Stevenson's Good Food Book is vitally important, as it highlights the very best of what Scotland has to offer in terms of cuisine and hospitality." - Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles