Backpacking tourists heading to the Scottish capital for the Edinburgh Fringe will no doubt be hoping this weekend's good start continues for the remainder of the festival.
According to organisers, some venues reported that ticket sales increased by 18 per cent compared to 2007.
Jon Morgan, director of the Edinburgh Fringe, told the BBC that "variety" has always been a staple component of the festival.
He said: "This year people are performing in all sorts of different areas.
"Under Arthur's seat, on top of Calton Hill, in swimming pools, at the city zoo, and Edinburgh lends itself so well to that."
This year's festival looks set for success despite problems with the event's ticketing service.
More than 19,000 performers are set to perform at this year's Fringe Festival, which runs for a three-week period.
This year's Fringe will also see the city council trialling a new on-street recycling initiative to encourage attendees to be eco-friendly when disposing of rubbish.
Last year the festival sold 1.7 million tickets in total.
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