When I think of cool things I have done in Europe, flying in a glider of Edinburgh is high on that list. Sorry to disappoint the fans out there looking for a tip on where to do this… this was based on pure personal connection.

 

 

 

I take many flights a year but nothing could prepare me for the ultimate feeling of being Tom Cruise in Top Gun… or maybe I am more Ice Man? Well, in this picture I look more like Goose but who cares! It was an unforgettable experience to fly over those green mountains and picture perfect landscapes. For anyone who is a fan of the color green, the Scotland is your destination.

…just because I loved looking at the photos so much, here are a few more from the view!

But once you get on the ground, what is it like to be in Scotland? For one, I have never met a person more in love and more proud to be where they are from than a Scot. They have so much pride running in their veins that I find myself enamored with every bit of their culture. It is always such a treasure to spend time in Scotland to learn more about their heritage and the many many things that make it great.

Being a sucker for nature, it is one of my favorites to just drive from the south to the north of the country to see things like this: young students on their way to Hogwarts for a new school year. I can’t help but imagine young Potter on this train chatting it with up Hermoine regarding a questionable spell he had trouble mastering over the holiday. However, the main attraction is and seems to be the main cities of each country; in this case, Edinburgh.

 

 

Now, I love Edinburgh. The airport is highly questionable but the city is downright just the best. From the castle to the closes and the bounty of whiskey to taste, there is something for everyone.

It is a walking city (which I love) because you can feel free to move about the city at your leisure without the need of taxi’s, ubers or whatever your transportation preferences may be. Hotels? Pick one. You really can’t go wrong. But if you’re looking for suggestions, I have two: Radisson Blu on the Royal Mile due to its amazing location (especially to my top two favorite restaurants) and Princes Street Suites  if you are in a group of four or more. One of the best tricks I have discovered is the use of apartments instead of hotel rooms for groups of people who don’t mind to share a bathroom. The UK can be an expensive place to visit and this ideal location on Princes Street is perfect for weekend trips and close to the main train station in Edinburgh. It is also within a 5 minutes walk to Starbucks for all those lovers out there 🙂

Now, let’s talk food. Scottish food is among the least of my favorites in Europe but I can’t lie, there are some restaurants that know how to make it smell, look and taste appetizing! When I am in Edinburgh, I hit up either The Witchery or Wedgwood, both on the Royal Mile. The Witchery offers an old gothic dining experience, with everything from only candlelight inside the restaurant to old scroll like menus waiting for you at every place setting. It is truly a wonderful dining experience. Now, the Wedgwood is another story. It is the chic spot with excellent Haggis, yes it made me a believer, and wonderful wine.