How Did a Scotland Superfan Secure 22 Hotels Before the World Cup Draw?

Daris Nesbitt's lifelong dream of witnessing Scotland in the World Cup finals is finally becoming a reality as he meticulously plans his trip to the USA for the tournament. Having pre-booked 22 hotels across the host nations, he is ready for what could be a historic moment for the men's national team, who last participated in the World Cup in 1998. The excitement surrounding Scotland's qualification is palpable, especially as fans await the draw which will determine their potential opponents.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Scotland's qualification for the upcoming World Cup has ignited a wave of excitement among fans. With the tournament set to kick off in June 2026, the national team will compete in a historic 48-team format across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The draw to determine the groups will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on 27 October 2023 at 17:00 GMT. Fans like Daris are eagerly preparing for the event, which will shape their travel plans and expectations for the matches.

Key takeaways

• Daris Nesbitt has booked 22 hotels in anticipation of Scotland's World Cup matches.
• The last time Scotland qualified for the World Cup was in 1998, making this a significant moment for fans.
• The draw for the tournament will happen on 27 October 2023, determining Scotland's group stage opponents.

Timeline: how we got here

Scotland's journey to the World Cup has seen several key milestones:

• 18 November 2022: Scotland defeats Denmark 4-2, securing qualification for the World Cup.
• 27 October 2023: The World Cup draw will occur at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC.
• 10 June 2026: The World Cup tournament kicks off.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The excitement builds as the draw for the World Cup approaches, with fans eagerly anticipating the potential matchups for Scotland. Daris has made significant preparations, including booking numerous hotels, to ensure he can witness every possible match.

What was already established

Scotland has not played in a World Cup since 1998. The team's recent performance in the Euros has revitalised hope among fans, with many believing that this time they can make a significant impact on the world stage.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For many fans, the World Cup represents an opportunity to experience top-level football. However, with soaring prices for travel and accommodation expected, fans like Daris are taking proactive measures to secure their plans ahead of time. The financial implications of attending such a major event can be significant, particularly for those making long-distance journeys.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in the host cities can expect an influx of tourists, which may boost revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other services. However, the logistics of accommodating a large number of visitors can pose challenges. For those involved in travel and hospitality, this is a chance to capitalise on the excitement surrounding the event.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and relevant authorities will closely monitor the situation as the tournament approaches, particularly regarding travel regulations and safety measures. Fans should stay informed about any updates that may affect their travel plans.

Numbers that matter

• 22: The number of hotels Daris has booked across the three host nations.
• 4: The number of times Scotland has qualified for the World Cup (1962, 1974, 1978, 1998).
• 48: The total teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, an expansion from 32 teams.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Tartan Army: The name given to Scotland's national football supporters.
• World Cup: The premier international football competition contested by the men's national teams of FIFA member countries.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should keep an eye on the World Cup draw and begin making arrangements for travel and accommodation. Finalising these plans soon after the draw will be crucial to avoid inflated prices.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As match schedules are confirmed, fans will need to be flexible with their travel plans. Staying updated on ticket sales and availability through official channels will be key for securing entry to matches.

Signals to watch

• The announcement of match fixtures and times, which will significantly influence travel logistics.
• Updates on ticket sales from the Scotland Travel Club and FIFA.

Practical guidance

Do

• Book accommodation with flexible cancellation policies.
• Stay informed about travel regulations, especially for international travel.
• Engage with fellow fans to share tips and experiences.

Don’t

• Don’t wait until the last minute to secure travel arrangements.
• Don’t overlook the importance of checking hotel reviews and cancellation policies.
• Don’t assume match tickets will be easily available on the day of the match.

Checklist

• Confirm travel dates and book flights early.
• Research and book accommodation across different host cities.
• Join fan clubs for updates on ticket sales and match schedules.
• Plan for local transportation in host cities.
• Stay updated on health and safety guidelines for travel.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Daris's proactive approach to booking hotels is commendable, it comes with risks. The possibility of hotels being overbooked or cancellation policies not being honoured can create significant stress for travellers. Fans should ensure they fully understand the terms of their bookings and keep a close watch on their reservations as the tournament approaches.

Bottom line

As Scotland prepares for its first World Cup appearance in 28 years, fans like Daris are making extensive plans to ensure they don't miss a moment of the action. With a mix of excitement and logistical challenges ahead, careful planning will be essential for a successful experience at the tournament, particularly as the draw approaches.

FAQs

When does the World Cup draw take place?

The World Cup draw will occur on 27 October 2023 at 17:00 GMT, determining Scotland's group stage opponents.

How many hotels has Daris booked for the World Cup?

Daris has pre-booked 22 hotels across the USA, Canada, and Mexico to ensure he is prepared for Scotland's matches.

What was Scotland's last World Cup appearance?

Scotland's men's national team last appeared in the World Cup finals in 1998, making their upcoming participation highly anticipated.