Edinburgh, Scotland
Last June, I had the pleasure of visiting Edinburgh - a city that's steeped in history, culture, and ghosts! From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the warmth and friendliness of the people. Everyone I met was eager to share their love for the city and make me feel at home. Now my time in Edinburgh was unique to say it plainfully. I loved the city but, I did experience a series of unique events while I was there. When I planned my trip to Scotland I knew I wanted to experience Edinburgh but also to see the highlands. I found that it was easiest to both start and end in Edinburgh before venturing out to the countryside. Originally when this trip was planned my friends and I decided we would try something different and stay in an Airbnb to save money and give some of us who have already been traveling a few days to do laundry. However, that didn’t go exactly as planned. While I did stay in an Airbnb it was only for a night as opposed to the three nights we booked. Now you might have noticed that I mentioned ghosts in the first sentence well that was because a ghost truly did welcome us to the city. To put it simply our Airbnb was haunted and we ended up leaving the next morning to stay at the Balmoral. I’m honestly not upset we stayed at the Balmoral it was a highlight of the trip and one of my top hotel stays of 2023. I even got to see the room where J.K. Rowling wrote Deathly Hallows. I mean you can clearly see how Edinburgh inspired the novels. The city just looks like it was a set from the movie.
One of the things that struck me most about Edinburgh was the beauty of its streets. From the winding alleys of the Old Town to the grandeur of the New Town, there was always something new to discover. And with so many independent shops and boutiques, there was always a chance to find a unique treasure to take home. But Edinburgh's true beauty lies in its deep history. From the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the hauntingly beautiful Holyrood Palace, the city is full of landmarks that tell the story of Scotland's past. And with so many museums and galleries, there's always a chance to learn more about the city's rich cultural heritage.
Of course, no trip to Edinburgh would be complete without exploring the city's pub scene. From cozy traditional pubs to trendy bars, there was always a lively atmosphere and a warm welcome waiting for me. And the best thing about the pubs? The live music! Whether it was a solo singer-songwriter or a full band, the music was always top-notch and added to the already vibrant atmosphere. I spent many evenings hopping from pub to pub, sampling the local beers, and chatting with friendly locals.
Culinary Delights
Dining in Edinburgh is a culinary voyage that combines traditional Scottish flavors with contemporary gastronomic innovation. The city's diverse culinary scene offers a range of options, from cozy pubs serving hearty haggis and Scotch pies to elegant fine-dining establishments crafting artful dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Exploring the cobblestone streets, you'll discover charming cafes where you can indulge in afternoon tea and artisanal bakeries offering delectable treats. The vibrant street food markets, such as the renowned Edinburgh Farmers' Market, showcase the region's rich agricultural bounty. Don't miss the chance to sample Scotland's famous seafood, from succulent salmon to plump scallops, or to savor a dram of whisky alongside a plate of expertly prepared Scotch beef. Edinburgh's commitment to culinary excellence is further underscored by its Michelin-starred restaurants, where chefs weave their culinary magic into every dish. Whether you're enjoying a traditional meal in a historic tavern or savoring a cutting-edge creation in a contemporary eatery, dining in Edinburgh is a gastronomic adventure that mirrors the city's dynamic blend of heritage and innovation.
My recommendations include: The Outsider, Dishoom, The Witchery, The Gardner’s Cottage, Forage & Chatter, Timberyard, Baba, Alby’s, Archipelago Bakery, Elliot’s, Pickles, The Voyage of Buck, Toast, Soderberg, and The Little Chartroom.
Oh yeah and it would be a disserve of me if I didn’t share my favorite pubs and bars as well. I do think in general if your walking around Edinburgh and you hear live music just go in and see for yourself. My recommendations include: Nauticus Bar, The Royal Dick, Joseph Pearce, The Blackbird, Cloisters, Sandy Bells, Panda & Sons, Bramble Bar, The Last Word, Le Di-Vin, and Bullard & Worth.
Cozy Accommodations
Edinburgh is actually a rather small city and very easy to get around. I personally think you could stay in almost many of the neighborhoods but, some of the best to consider include Old Town, New Town, and Stockbridge. Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh, with its narrow alleyways and stunning architecture, while New Town offers a more modern feel with elegant Georgian buildings and chic boutiques. Stockbridge, on the other hand, is a trendy neighborhood known for its independent shops, cafes, and galleries. As for hotels, some of the best options include The Balmoral, Virgin Hotels, The Waldorf Astoria, Tigerlily, Kimpton, The Roseate, and Market Street Hotel,
