A Weekend in Edinburgh
New weekends call for new adventures. This weekend, I'm hoping on the plane and off to Edinburgh, Scotland. Before going I was more than excited to be headed somewhere that has been on my bucket list for years. Edinburgh offers something for everyone visiting it from tasty pubs, Scottish whisky tours, film locations from movies, outdoor adventures, and plenty of shopping.
Image Credit: Spence David
The city of Edinburgh revolves around the castle of Edinburgh which is perched above the city on a hill. The castle is where Scottish royalty used to live but now is used for tours and individuals looking to embrace their inner king or queen. After visiting the castle, on the walk down, is a whiskey tour that is welcoming for all individuals whether they are whiskey lovers or not. The interactive experience takes people on a ride through the whiskey making process and even gives them a chance to witness the largest Scottish whiskey collection in the world that contains some of the oldest and most expensive whiskies.
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No need to worry about food options because there is plenty for visitors to choose from. The streets are full of pubs and restaurants. Considering you are in Scotland, I recommend going to a few of the many pubs in Edinburgh to get the full Scottish experience. One night I order a Scottish pie stuffed with vegetables and beef and it definitely hit the spot. I was also sure to get my dose of whiskey with each meal, even getting it in a milkshake one night.
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Harry Potter fans, Edinburgh is where some major Harry Potter moments and inspirations went down. On your search to feel like you are actually part of the movie series, you can walk Victoria Street which is believed to be JK Rowling’s inspiration behind Diagon Alley, and visit a tombstone with Tom Riddle’s name on it. You can also hang at some locations like the Balmoral Hotel, Spoon, and the Elephant House where JK Rowling went to write multiple books for the series. On top of all that Victoria Street also is filled with many shops that are packed with everything Harry Potter including robes, t-shirts, broomsticks, and wands, such as Diagon House.
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Looking to explore nature? The Scottish Highlands and the hike to Arthur’s seat are a must. There is nothing like hunting for the Loch Ness monster or exploring Alnwick Castle where Harry Potter first learned how to fly a broomstick on the outside lawn. The highlands are easily accessible by either taking a day tour or traveling over a few days where you are treated to breathtaking scenic routes that will make guests feel like they are in another world.
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The most amazing view of the city is right outside of Edinburgh, where you are able to take about an hour hike up a hill. The top lookout point is named Arthur’s seat after the legend of King Arthur. Individuals are treated to stunning views that stretch beyond the city boundaries.
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Do not worry if you are not looking to explore the outdoors or historic ruins, because the city offers all types of shopping from high-end shops like Louis Vuitton to TK Maxx, which is the European version of popular American sale store TJ Maxx. Other stores on one of the main shopping streets, Princes Street, include Urban Outfitters, Zara, All Saints, H&M, and Primark.
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Cheers mates to Edinburgh and weekend travels!
