Ian Fraser

Ian is another born and bred Highlander, and a true Invernessian. His mother was a good Catholic from Belgium who married a Presbyterian Scottish Highlander ! Though fortunately that is mostly an irrelevance today it could have been a problematic union for some people back then. Through the influence of his mother and grandmother, Ian has a good command of Flemish (Dutch), and not surprisingly he has paid many visits to that area over the years.

He is of the local Lovat Frasers, and proudly boasts of his ancestry in this ancient clan, to the extent of emulating his clan chiefs by naming his eldest son Simon. In the 18th century their Clan Chief (the 11th Lord Lovat – who was executed for his part in the 1745 Jacobite rebellion) was somewhat concerned that numbers in his powerful clan were dwindling so he came up with the scheme of offering food (oatmeal) to members of other smaller clans if they would join (and fight for) the Frasers. They became known as “Bowl O’meal Frasers” – having sold their name for a bowl (or boll) of meal. Now Ian is a big guy in every sense of the word, indeed one guest suggested that “he has not missed too many breakfasts in his life”. Despite his strong denials we think the evidence that he is in fact a Bowl O’meal Fraser is therefore pretty strong!!

About thirty years ago Ian, and Jim Johnstone formed a partnership aimed at providing touring holidays in the North of Scotland. Though ultimately that did not work out they fortunately remained good friends, and on frequent occasions continued working together on various touring related projects. In addition Ian has, for many years, worked as a freelance guide, driver/guide, touring throughout Scotland.
About a year ago he “retired”. Quite ridiculous considering he is only in his early sixties! However we are delighted that he has agreed to join us in Private Tour Scotland, not least because he is one of the best driver/guides in the business and we know he still gets a huge “buzz” out of touring with individuals and small groups.

As with Jim, Ian has the knowledge and experience that allows him to cover extended trips throughout Scotland, and indeed many other parts of the United Kingdom as well as his native Highlands.