August is When to Travel to Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland is located in The United Kingdom of Great Britain. When August arrives, it signals the start of the Edinburgh International Fringe Festival. Other festivals include the Festival of Spirituality and Peace, International Book Festival, Military Tattoo Festival, International Film Festival, and many more. If you enjoy art and culture, like to meet new people, and can handle an overload of your senses, then Edinburgh is for you!
Walking is the best way to discover Edinburgh; it’s great exercise. After your leisurely walk, visit The Elephant House Café. This eclectic café is where J.K. Rowling wrote some of the Harry Potter books. You may not be a fan of Harry Potter, but the café is a great place to have a spot of tea or coffee and a scone. The staff is friendly and ready to serve you.
Expect the Royal Mile to be packed with people. From tourists to artists, it’s organized chaos. Here is a hint: Do Not Be a Tourist! Many people like to take photographs to commemorate their trip. Here’s a tip, buy some postcards. Send a postcard to family and friends. It will be exciting for them to receive a postcard with the “Royal Air Mail” stamp on it!
Most people believe that the Scottish only eat “Haggis,” a traditional meal made with sheep’s pluck, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt. This cannot be farther from the truth. Thai, Italian, Asian, Fusion, and even Subway restaurants can be found in Edinburgh. Many dining options are available to suit even the pickiest of eaters.
The art and culture of Edinburgh, Scotland are brilliant. The museums are FREE! From the National Museum of Scotland to The National Gallery of Scotland, which sits on three sites, the collections are spectacular. Each year, one and a half million visitors walk through the doors. The Millennium Clock at the National Museum of Scotland is very popular. Hand carved from top to bottom, it envelopes you when you stop to look and admire it. The clock chimes every hour on the hour. Be sure to read the placard to the left and to the right of the clock. The placard on the right explains the intricacies of the clock and the story that it tells.
The Scottish people are very warm and inviting, and Scotland is awe inspiring. Edinburgh is a vibrant major city that has something for everyone. Ditch the car and SUV and take public transportation or walk. You will feel better physically and the environment will thank you!