Two Birds with One Stone (#14 and #19, down!)

Edinburgh! What to say about this grand capital city? Two friends, Witman and Berea, came along with me as we set out early this morning to see the sights. (As a side note, I really am enjoying coordinating these little trips. Who knows? I could be a travel guide in the making!) Our bus trip was very pleasant as we hugged along the Fife Costal Path, again reminding me of Scotland’s charm and natural beauty. Once we arrived in Edinburgh, I was sold. I would love to have seen Edinburgh in all its Scottish Enlightenment glory; absolutely stunning buildings, despite the fact that cheap tourist shops and thrills have set up camp over recent decades. Alas, the pressures of catering to mass amounts of travelers! Reluctantly, I do admit that I myself am a tourist – but my travelling buddies and I did draw the line at having our pictures taken with ‘Braveheart’.

We first stopped at the National Gallery. What an amazing art museum and it’s free, to boot! Depressingly the Impressionist floor was closed for renovations; I’ve noticed that Scotland seems to close down during the Winter months for such projects. Degas or no Degas, the National Gallery did house some amazing pieces – enough to happily fill an hour and a half of cultural literacy. I saw an original Gainsborough and two Rembrant’s. Just wonderful! I like to imagine out stories for the paintings I see, or imagine how the artist created his masterpiece. It brings everything to life.

Edinburgh Castle was quite impressive, like Stirling but far more imposing. Every visitor should be aware of the epic 1 o’ clock cannon firing – judging from the press of people, however, I would safely say that everyone was! My great joy was seeing the crown jewels, namely the Stone of Scone and Queen Mary’s crown. Today was the first time I think I actually got emotional over this whole trip. Those moments I’ve been waiting for, they just come when you least expect it! Staring at Mary Queen of Scots’ crown was like staring into the past. It was a window into another time.

Lunch at a very swanky restaurant, which I believe was also hosting some sort of wedding - lots of men looking dapper in kilts and women looking fancy in hats. Guys do look so nice in kilts. After we had food in our tummies, we set off for a Scottish Whisky Experience. Not only do you get to ride around in a barrel and watch a presentation of how whisky is made, you also get a sample! After a brief introduction to the four major regions of Scotch Whisky, I chose the Lowland Malt. My smelling bottle indicated that this malt would be sweet, like warm cookies. Well, let me tell you, it felt like I dipped my tongue in a bottle of rubbing alcohol! So far on this trip, I’m the worst alcoholic ever – which is, actually, quite a blessing. I do appreciate the art of whisky making; it really is a craft and such a beautiful, friendly piece of Scottish culture. Also impressive is the over 3,000 bottle collection of whisky the venue houses. The McIntyre Whisky Collection is easily appraised at millions of pounds, though the exact price tag is kept secret.

Warmed by our wee drams, Witman, Berea, and I decided to hit the outdoors again. By this time, the sun decided to shine all over the city. What a magical effect! (I feel like I use that word so often, magical.) Nipping in and out of shops, we made our way to the end of the Royal Mile which led us to Carlton Hill. Such a sight! A fantastic view of Edinburgh rewards those who can brave the steep climb. We lay out on the grass and soaked up the sun, the city, and the warmth which friendship (and malt!) brings.

To close our day, we decided to eat at The Elephant House – a restaurant which has been made famous by J.K. Rowling. Harry Potter was crafted in this trendy pub, and with a stunning view of the castle, I can imagine her inspiration for Hogwarts School. Mind you, I haven’t actually read the Harry Potter books – my parents were of the more conservative opinions towards Harry and his friends – but I whipped out my journal and composed a few lines at the table in any case. Who knows where my wee scribbles will take me?

As we headed towards the Bus Station, Edinburgh lit up. The nightscape view of the city is rather impressive. Surprisingly, we found our way to the station with little to no trouble. And, also surprisingly, we found our way back to St Andrews! Juggling public transportation still kind of freaks me out, but today, everything went rather smoothly. I was actually surprised to avoid one of my famed misadventures. Next week I’ll be in Edinburgh again for the evening, so there’s still plenty of time!

I’m really happy to have a chance to look at this city again. Edinburgh, as with all European capitals, is overwhelming at first. I always love when I can find ways to get off the beaten path and see little gems of a place. Edinburgh, I know, has so many of these hidden in its churches, closes, and castles. From what I did see, I know that Edinburgh serves Scotland well as a capital. A vibrant mix of Old Town charm and New Town industry, nestled between dramatic landscapes, the city is almost a symbol of Scotland itself.