Scotland is a unique and fun travel spot with a rich culture, magical folklore and a storied history.
It’s the perfect destination for a first-time international traveler, and on my recent Study Abroad trip, I was lucky enough to experience an amazing new culture. Here are a few tips for those considering an International adventure to Scotland.
Plan for the spring
During the summer, Scotland, like most of Europe, is overrun with tourists. If you can plan to travel during the spring, Edinburgh and Glasgow will still be bustling, but the Highlands will be much easier to traverse and enjoy.
Try Haggis
While it may sound like a weird concept to most Americans, Haggis — a savory pudding made with sheep's heart, liver and lungs — is a staple of Scotland and delicious. Be adventurous and try Haggis, meat pies, fish and chips and all the other tasty foods.
Go to a pub
The idea of a lower drinking age is a draw for many student travelers, but the best part about Scottish pubs is the live music. You’d be hardpressed to find a pub without it. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Go dance and be merry.
See the Highlands
Visiting the Highlands is a must. Edinburgh and Glasgow are fun, but if you want to deep dive into the history of Scotland and enjoy beautiful scenery, plan a few days in the Highlands. There are multiple Airbnb's in the isles. You can also book a stay in Inverness. The city runs along the river Ness and is about a three-hour train ride from Edinburgh.
There are multiple tour services that will take you through the Highlands. You can pick the options that best suit you like searching for the Loch Ness Monster or visiting the Isle of Skye.
Learn your Tartans
Scotland is known for kilts, but did you know the pattern on the kilt represents Scottish clans? The patterns are known as Tartans. Each Tartan depicts a different clan. There are hundreds of clans. Check your last name and ancestory — you might be able to trace your origins to a clan and find your Tartan.
Bring a raincoat
Always pack a heavy rain coat and layer if you can. You might get lucky with sunshine, but like the pop-up storms in Florida, rain can start up at anytime.
Check out museums
Many museums in Scotland, specifically Edinburgh, are free. The National Museum of Scotland is a massive wonder open and free to the public, as is the Writers Museum tucked away in Old Town.
Roam Victoria Street
The colorful buildings on Victoria Street in Edinburgh served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in “Harry Potter.” if you are a fan of the series, this street is the perfect spot to visit with the first licensed Harry Potter store and a replica of the cafe where J.K. Rowling penned the famous book series.
Pay with credit ards
Carry cash if you can, but everywhere in Scotland has a tap-to-pay option available. You should be good to go if you have a credit card. Keep track of your expenses, because it can be tempting to overspend.
Go by foot or train
Getting around Scotland is relatively easy depending on where you are. If you're in the city, walking is your best option. It's great exercise and cheap. There are also buses and trams available. If you're planning on traveling to another city, take the train. You will need to purchase tickets for the bus, tram and train.
Explore folklore
If you're not into folklore and all things magical, you're doing it wrong. Scotland is rich with tales, and storytelling is a part of the culture. Read up on folklore and the legends surrounding the land from the Highlands to the city streets.
Try everything
Pubs offer a delicious array of foods, but branch out. Scotland, especially Edinburgh and Glasgow, are cultural hubs. Visit Victoria Market in Inverness for a quick bite or stop in one of the many fish and chips joints throughout the city.
Navigation
If you're walking around Edinburgh, remember it's built on an extinct volcano and double-check your street level. If you're not careful you could end up on the bridge above the street you need or down the wrong alley.
Castles
Make plans to visit the castles. They do charge admission, but the experience is worth it. There are ruins, replicas and castles still in use. Edinburgh Castle is still an active ceremonial and military installation.