ISRAEL is making its debut appearance this weekend at Scotland's leading consumer travel event.

Up to 50,000 people are expected to attend the Holiday and Travel Show, taking place at the SECC in Glasgow.

Israeli tourist chiefs have arrived with the message that there has never been a "better or safer time" for holidaymakers to visit the area.

Ron Israel, a manager with the country's tourist office, said: "The Middle East peace process has resulted in a significant growth in tourists visiting the country to soak up the sunshine, culture, history and nightlife.

"In fact, we've seen the number of tourists visiting grow by more than 5% during 2006, despite the conflict with Lebanon in July and August."