We need a bit of luck sometimes, and the announcement by Prince William and his fiancee that a Royal Wedding is being planned has been welcomed enthusiastically by the British tourist industry. Sites of historical importance have always been a draw, especially those with royal connections, and now the world will be reminded of our special status as a consitutional monarchy.
On top of this, such has been the success of ITV's Downton Abbey we can expect it to be broadcast in many countries - hopefully inspiring people to come and get a taste of the country house lifestyle themselves. That's certainly what happened when Brideshead Revisited became a smash TV hit almost 30 years ago.
And as if that wasn't enough, Pride of Britain has just become the official hotel partner to the National Trust.
Now that's what I call lucky!
As one of those lucky enough to attend the Hotel Cateys on November 12th I was struck yet again by the generosity of spirit within our industry.
The behaviour of guests at many of the awards bashes I have been to in the drinks, media and publishing world can be shameful. The announcements of worthy winners are often drowned out by chatter and I have even witnessed a famous host being booed off the stage. Not so the Hotel Cateys where 750 professionals applauded their peers with gusto and allowed each winner their well-deserved moment of glory. Perhaps the loudest cheers came from rival finalists - a perfect example of the generous attitude of hotel and catering people.
If asked to dream up the ideal dinner guests I would not hestitate to include colleagues within the trade - a more courteous group of men and women would be hard to find.