THERE'S been good news this week about Scotland's tourist industry - we've been attracting more visitors than ever with bookings up 14% on last year.

Tourism chiefs estimate this adds up to an extra £310million, cementing tourism as one of our key growth industries.

This is great news for Scotland, and as the country's biggest city, Glasgow plays a huge role in this success. But this should come as no surprise, given how much our city has going for it.

As a former European City of Culture and UK City of Architecture and Design, Glasgow currently holds the title of Unesco City of Music, reflecting our status as a real cultural hub on the international scene.

But formal titles only go so far in highlighting why Glasgow is such a great place to visit.

With the best shopping in the UK outside London, some of the finest museum collections in the world, wonderful parks and a rich history to explore, there is huge potential for us to exploit Glasgow's strengths as a major tourist destination.

It is little wonder a poll for travel website Trip Advisor rated Glasgow as one of Europe's top 10 destinations, the highest rated UK city on the list.

Next year's Commonwealth Games gives us a brilliant chance to sell our city to the whole world.

For nearly two weeks, Glasgow will be in the ultimate international shop window as a destination to visit.

What a great opportunity to show off the good things about our city.

However, we will only entrench our position as one of the most vibrant, interesting and stimulating destinations in the UK if we maintain our reputation for fairness and hospitality.

So, it was disturbing to read reports recently about vastly inflated prices in some of our city's hotels for the duration of the Commonwealth Games.

One report suggested a rise of 1282% during the Games, an eye-watering increase.

This has the potential to put off potential visitors and reduce repeat business, and create the wrongful perception that some retailers are only interested in cashing in on next year's sporting festival.

While we do wish to maximise revenue from the Games, it is important that our hoteliers do not risk the long-term benefits and reputation of Glasgow for a short-term hit during the duration of the 11-day event.

WE want people to enjoy Glasgow and return to the city year on year.

Value for money has to remain one of the key factors in helping to maintain Glasgow's reputation as one of Europe's leading destinations.

VisitScotland is committed to offering value for money during the Games and hoteliers need to look at the bigger picture and prioritise longer growth and repeat business over the quick hit.

2014 is set to be a huge year for Glasgow and, if we play it canny, it can be a massive springboard for many great years to come for our great city.