Neil Forbes

Managing Director

Neil was born and raised in East Lothian and has spent a lifetime exploring Scotland. His local knowledge, combined with years of experience guiding visitors from around the world, helps guests discover far more than the places found in most guidebooks.

Before entering the tourism industry, Neil served as a police officer with Lothian and Borders Police for 30 years. Following his retirement, he turned his passion for Scotland into a business, creating private tours built around the interests of each guest.

As a qualified Whisky Ambassador, Neil enjoys sharing Scotland’s history, culture and whisky heritage while helping visitors experience the country at their own pace.

From whisky and golf to history, ancestry and Scotland’s spectacular landscapes, every tour is designed around what guests want to see and experience.

Neil Forbes - Saltire Executive Travel
A man in a checkered shirt standing in front of a wall.

John Baxter

Brand ambassador USA
John was born and raised in Tranent, East Lothian, just a few miles from Glenkinchie Distillery. He later moved with his family to Southern California, where he still lives today.

 John spent many years working for Diageo, helping to develop brands including Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray and Captain Morgan. His career strengthened his connection to Scotland and helped fuel a lifelong appreciation of Scotch whisky. Today,

John shares his enthusiasm for Scotland and its whisky heritage with clients across North America. His favourite dram remains Glenkinchie 12 Year Old, a reminder of his East Lothian roots.

 Contact John: [email protected]
Tel: +1 949 751 7313
Private Tours, Personal Service

About Saltire Executive Travel

Saltire Executive Travel specialises in private driver-guided tours of Scotland, designed around the interests of each guest. From a single day exploring Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside to a multi-day journey across the Highlands and Islands, every itinerary is planned with care and attention to detail.

Our tours cover a wide range of interests, including whisky, golf, history, ancestry, sightseeing and Scotland’s spectacular scenery. With private transport and a flexible itinerary, guests can enjoy Scotland at their own pace and make the most of their time here.

In addition to private tours, we can assist with accommodation recommendations, restaurant bookings and local advice to help make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

We believe the best tours are the ones built around the people taking them. That’s why every journey is shaped by your interests, your schedule and the experiences you would most like to enjoy.