Scotland: A Synopsis

Let me just start by saying that Scotland was amazing. The people, geography, and atmosphere combine to make one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been. I could honestly see myself living in some part of Scotland in the future, and being very happy indeed.

Since there was so much to the trip, I’ll just stick to listing highlights in a brief manner.

Edinburgh: Amazing city offering the best of modern delights (like Starbucks) next to ancient ones (like the castles.) It was also the first time in 9 months that someone heard my American accent and was glad I was a Yank. Hooray!
Isles of Staffa and Iona: The Scottish end of the Giant’s Causeway and the former religious centre of the Celtic peoples. It almost felt like you were removed from time. We were just disappointed we didn’t see the promised puffins on Staffa.
Corrour Youth Hostel: The one we feared was the best one. It’s in the middle of nowhere, next to a lake, and the most environmentally friendly hostel in the UK. I highly recommend it. It’s only a short train trip to Fort William and Ben Nevis from here.
Train from Fort William towards Skye: We rode over the Harry Potter Bridge on the train. I just had to fight old people for prime picture taking window space.
Isle of Skye: We opted to miss the Talisker distillery, but instead spent time in Portree. While there, we bought hand-milled soaps, ate amazing seafood, and encountered midges. I still had welts two weeks later. The Museum of the Isles in Armadale is well worth the money, and highly informative.
Inverness: Another fantastic city. I still think it’s incredible that that the City Council is housed in the castle, and I finally learned how to say Joao’s name correctly in Portuguese.
Drumnadrochit/Loch Ness: Yes, we rocked it in Drumnadrochit. Where else can you have your picture taken with an awful looking Nessie monster made of concrete and shop for a new kilt? We were supposed to go to dinner with Nessie, but she opted to get pissed on McEwans before we got there. I was highly disappointed with her antics.
Stirling: The castle, Holyrude cathedral, and William Wallace tribute made this one of my favorite places in Scotland. Even the drunks were very friendly.
Glasgow: The City Centre is amazing, and felt more urban than Edinburgh. Anywhere outside of the City Centre had me nearly pissing myself in fear. Oh yeah, you really can find deep fried pizza here.

All in all, it was one of the most amazing trips I’ve ever had. If I ever get around to it, I’ll throw some pictures from the trip online.