Travel Tips

Scotland

Scotland is a beautiful, relaxing, and just plain wonderful place to visit. There are really not a lot of surprises that you should be aware of, and if you are in a situation that you don’t know how to handle you can always ask one of the very friendly locals for help. Here are a few quick tips to help you prepare for your vacation.

[If you haven't read our general Europe Tips yet, that would probably be the best place to start.]

Weather - You probably already know what the Scottish weather is like. It can be damp and foggy, and it probably will be at some point on your tour, but it can also be sunny and warm. The Scots like to say that they experience all four seasons in one day and if it snowed that would be accurate. The weather changes quickly and often, but it very rarely turns into a hard or long lasting rain, so it doesn't dampen sightseeing.

How to Dress - Due to the oft-changing weather you should wear plenty of layers. A waterproof coat or umbrella is also something that you should pack. Other than that, dress however you feel comfortable, be it in sneakers, jeans, or a kilt.

Food - The food in Scotland is hearty, locally grown and made, and very filling. It is not fine dining, but it is good, although some of the ingredients would sound unusual to Americans. If fine dining is what you’re after, Edinburgh has its share of nice restaurants.

Scotch - Scotch whisky is world famous and a very popular drink in its homeland. If whisky is your thing, or if you are curious, you will not be short of fine options to try some. Typically a serving of Scotch is referred to as a “dram.”

The Scottish Accent - While delightful to listen to, the accent can make it hard to understand a Scot. The further north you go the thicker it gets, and if they happen to be imbibing in a dram of whisky, it’s even thicker. Don’t worry though, because they just laugh it off when you stare blankly at them, although they may give you a ribbing about your accent too.

Go Back to Travel Tips Main Page