Edinburgh - the mystical city

Royal Mile

Based in the Old Town and within a World Heritage site, the area is culturally and historically important to the city and jam packed with things to see and do. A ‘’Scots mile’’ long, and connecting two royal residences (the Castle and the palace of Holyrood House), it is also home to parliaments old and new, law courts, a cathedral and churches, and a vast range of visitor attractions, walking tours, shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs. This street is a must for your city trip. There is so much to see and it is simply beautiful.

Castle

Edinburgh Castle, whose history is closely linked to the fate of the Scottish nation, towers majestically on a rock above the city. The castle is very easily accessible. Walk along the Royal Mile and you will reach the castle at the end. Unfortunately, I’ve never been inside the castle, as I was mostly only in the city in the evenings, and it closes at 5 o’clock in winter. Many people I know from Scotland told me that it is worth a visit, so I mention it here in my blog. The second picture is from the view behind the castle. 

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Why do I mention a kirkyard as a place of interest? Quite simply, it is beautiful and the stories behind are interesting. The kirkyard has attracted a well-known visitor who found a special inspiration in a gravestone. One of the graves bears a special inscription: "Sacred to the Memory of Thomas Riddel". Harry Potter fans might prick up their ears at the name. Tom Riddle was the young man who later became the dreaded Lord Voldemort. Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling has said that she often walked through the kirkyard and perhaps unconsciously picked up the name. There are other names in the kirkyard that have appeared in the Harry Potter stories, such as McGonagall or Mr. Moody.

And of course, one story must not remain untold. That of Greyfriars Bobby, the little Skye terrier, who did not leave his master's side even after his death and lived in the graveyard. He so moved the people of Edinburgh that they made a bronze statue in his memory, which stands outside the pub of the same name.

Sightseeing with the Ghost Bus

I was in a funny mood, so I decided to take the Ghost Bus. With this bus you will encounter all the top attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, Greyfriars Kirkyard, the old town, and the Royal Mile. It was a great comedy-horror theatre experience on wheels, and I can guarantee you won’t be able to get the smile off your face.

Weather

All houses are built very high, so you don’t see much sun. I am an absolute sun child, but in this city, it didn’t bother me at all. Somehow, I even found it fitting when it rained. An umbrella or rain jacket is a must in your luggage. I believe, there is never a day when it doesn't rain. But what is very likeable is that the Scots are totally relaxed about the weather. They always make jokes about their own weather. I always found that very funny.

Language

As I already mentioned in the travel information Scotland, the national language is English. But what I would like to mention here is not all English is the same. It often happened that I didn't understand the people there even though I speak English. Depending on which part of the country they come from, they have a strong accent. Of course, it doesn't matter if you don't understand them. If you are in the same situation, just ask them again if they can repeat the question.

Hotel & Restaurant

We stayed at the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal, situated on the Market Street and I can highly recommend it for a city trip. It is reasonably priced and still has everything you need. The location is also great. We could reach all the sights on foot. I would choose it again.

There are many things about Scotland that you like at first sight - the landscape, the hospitality of the people, the rich tradition. But there are a few things you must get to know before you can appreciate them. Haggis is one of them. Opinions are divided on haggis. Initial reactions usually range from amazement to disgust. But anyone who has enjoyed freshly prepared haggis made to a traditional Scottish recipe knows that haggis is anything but repulsive. You will probably distrust these words the next moment when we tell you what haggis is. The Scottish specialty is nothing more than sheep's stomach stuffed with offal and onions. Spicy and served with "neeps, tatties and nips", as they say in Scotland (mashed turnips and potatoes, seasoned with a little nip of whisky), it makes for a delicious Scottish dish.

Yes, I was someone who first thought oh no, I'll never eat that. BUT... Whenever I'm in a country, I try to eat the way they eat there, and I haven't regretted it. I found it delicious. So, if you would like to try haggis, I can recommend the Arcade restaurant. They specialize in haggis.

If you prefer to stick to the typical food, I can also recommend the Pub Whiski, situated at the Royal Mile.