Scotland Revisited

Scotland is one of those places that mysteriously steals your heart and captures your imagination. I was seduced by this land rich in history and natural beauty. Whether you are traveling as a backpacker or a five star client take this one piece of advice, don't rush. Scotland has too much to offer and should not be taken advantage of by the hostile, over worked, traveler. I could write forever about this country that I love so much however in this piece I am going to focus on the backpacker and offer up some of my choice finds on tours and hostels in the enchanted areas of Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye.

Major airline carriers such as British Airways, American Airlines, United, and Delta all fly inbound to Edinburgh, which is Scotland's second largest city. This magnificent city has uniquely blended ancient and modern worlds throughout time and leaves the traveler with a feeling of mystique and a hunger to explore all its secrets of the past. I recommend staying at St. Christopher's Inn located right above Belushi's Bar and right across the street from Waverly Station. Belushi's Bar offers up classic American pub grub, a fun and vibrant atmosphere and on any given night you can chat it up with the local actors from the Edinburgh Dungeon that is located right across the street.

Edinburgh also has great shopping so be sure to bring a pair of good shoes. For the best tour of both the old and new city hop on the vintage bus offered by Mac Tours, and once Edinburgh has satisfied your curiosity hop on a train at nearby Waverly and head over to Glasgow for a day or two.

Glasgow sits on the banks of the River Clyde and is Scotland's largest city. Glasgow, since the 18th century has been the hub of transatlantic trade with the Americas. The city itself is known for its art and culture and is home to the University of Glasgow. For an excellent introduction to the city I suggest taking The Glasgow Tour by Guide Friday. Incredible shopping can be found at the High Street stores, and for a little rest and relaxation visit the Merchant Square and Italian Center. If you are a night owl, you better get your game face on as Glasgow boasts top of the line nightlife. If you are looking for a simple but efficient place to lay your head try Glasgow Backpackers Hostel or the High Street Hostel.

After you have seen two of the most remarkable cities on earth, pack your bags and head up north, way north to the Isle of Skye. The history of Skye has been traced back to nearly 8,500 years and attracts adventurists of all types. A must see while on the Isle of Skye is Dunvegan Castle. A dear friend of mine is apart of the MacLeod Clan, therefore I have a very special place in my heart for this particular castle, which has been home to the MacLeod's for nearly 800 years. The castle is rich in history, has beautiful gardens, is surrounded by entirely by salt water, and has managed to keep its original roof intact throughout the years. There are many things to do while visiting the Isle such as hiking, trekking, camping, and shopping. A great hostel in the area is Skye Backpackers. Hostel bus services provided by Mac Backpackers will take you around the Isle to all the must see sights.

Whether you are in the lowlands or highlands, Scotland's landscape is one you will never forget. The country itself leaves the travelers soul well rested. I wait with eager anticipation to return to the country I love so much. Have a great trip, be safe. Cheers.

Resources:

How to Get Around:
Brit Rail
http://www.britrail.net/
Rail Europe
http://www.raileurope.com/us/index.htm

Hostels

St Christopher's Inn
Located above Belushi's
9-13 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1, Scotland

St. Christopher's Inn Website:
http://www.reservations.bookhostels.com/st-christophers.co.uk/hosteldetails.php/HostelNumber.507

Glasgow Backpackers Hostel
Telephone: 0141 332 9099

High St. Hostel, Glasgow
Telephone: 0131 557 3984

Skye Backpackers
Telephone: 01599 534 510

www.scotlands-top-hostels.com

City Tours

Mac Tours: http://www.mactours.co.uk/

Guide Friday Tours: www.hoponhopoff.com

Isle of Skye Tours: www.macbackpackers.com

Points of Interest

Dunvegan Castle
http://www.dunvegancastle.com/

Airlines

British Airways
Opening hours (EST)
Reservations and general enquiries 1-800-AIRWAYS - Daily
7am-1am
www.britishairways.com

United Airlines
1-800-538-2929, International
www.united.com

American Airlines
1-800-433-7300, 7 days a week
www.aa.com

Delta Airlines
800-221-1212
www.delta.com