Edinburgh, Scotland
Our Edinburgh adventure has begun! We've arrived in this captivating city, Scotland, eager to meet with our wedding vendors and explore its vibrant streets. The journey started a little unexpectedly at Düsseldorf Airport, a smaller, surprisingly manageable hub about three hours from home. Despite its relative remoteness, navigating the airport was a breeze. We efficiently checked our luggage, passed through the swift security and passport control, and were soon ready for takeoff.
The flight was a quick hour, and thanks to the favorable time difference, it felt like we landed almost as soon as we departed! Edinburgh Airport greeted us with a short descent to another passport control, where a seamless scan of our passports and faces granted us entry. Luggage reclaimed and Pounds Sterling withdrawn (farewell Euros!), we made our way to National Car Rental.
The clearly marked, short walk to the rental counter highlighted the airport's excellent organization. Checking in at National was a genuinely pleasant experience. The staff were exceptionally friendly and efficient, exceeding our expectations at every turn. The representative patiently explained the details of our rental and personally escorted us to our car.
And then came the fun part: adjusting to driving on the left! I took the left seat, William the right, and with our hotel programmed into the GPS, we set off. William, piloting from the unfamiliar right side, couldn't help but comment on the novelty of it all. We even joked about car rental companies offering a quick "driving on the left" crash course! Exiting the airport proved to be a practical lesson in itself, involving navigating three roundabouts. Turning left into the left lane felt almost dreamlike, but William expertly handled the challenge. We're now eagerly anticipating the rest of our time in beautiful Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Holiday Inn Zoo
Our Edinburgh adventure began just twelve minutes after landing, pulling up to the Holiday Inn Zoo. The hotel exuded a welcoming charm, nestled in a safe-looking neighborhood with ample parking and an airy, tastefully decorated lobby. Our room, though simple, offered everything we needed for a comfortable weekend base.
Eager to explore, we quickly dropped our bags. A moment's pause revealed a travel oversight: European outlets. A mental note was made – UK adapter, stat! An Uber summoned, we were soon zipping towards the heart of the city and the enticing Edinburgh Street Food market for a mere £12.
Edinburgh Street Food
The Edinburgh Street Food market throbbed with energy. A vibrant tapestry of aromas and chatter greeted us as we wandered, eventually claiming a picnic table. Each table boasted a modern convenience – a QR code and number system. Ordering was as simple as a scan and click, with our food magically appearing moments later. Effortless, delicious, and refreshingly free of chaos!
The culinary temptations were irresistible. I succumbed to Chix's crispy chicken sandwich paired with addictive waffle fries, a refreshing apple spritz, and a swirl of unconventional miso & caramel soft serve from Softcore. William, not to be outdone, plunged into a bone-in beef rib sandwich and a classic hotdog courtesy of Mr. Boney. Every bite was a testament to freshness and flavor, amplified by the market's buzzing atmosphere.
Fully sated, our quest for a UK adapter began. Serendipity struck in the form of a 24-hour mini-mart, where we stocked up on the necessary converters before hailing an Uber back to the hotel. Travel-weary but invigorated by our first taste of Edinburgh, we gratefully surrendered to the promise of sleep, knowing two more exhilarating days awaited.
Edinburgh Zoo
Waking to the cheerful chorus of birds from the neighboring zoo, I immediately reached for my phone. Social media was ablaze with images of the elusive Northern Lights dancing across the Scottish sky. A pang of regret washed over me. We'd missed them again, a repeat of our Finnish misfortune! Iceland, it seems, is officially on the horizon.
The allure of a hotel breakfast quickly faded. The breakfast buffet, though offering the basics – eggs, hashbrowns, a few meats, yogurts, breads, and an espresso machine – proved disappointing in execution. The food lacked flavor, and we nibbled sparingly. Still, the promise of a full day in Edinburgh was enough to shrug off the breakfast blues.
With time to spare before our wedding venue appointment, we decided to embrace the Holiday Inn Zoo's prime location. A short stroll brought us to the entrance. After paying the approximately £50 entrance fee, the zoo unveiled itself as a verdant oasis. Clear signage guided us along winding paths towards a symphony of animal sounds – the resonant roars of lions, the melodic chirps of birds, and the mischievous chatter of monkeys.
We opted to explore the lower levels, delighting in the antics of the red pandas, the inquisitive gaze of the meerkats, the imposing presence of rhinos, and the charming clumsiness of the pygmy hippos. The penguins, with their comical waddles and dives, were a particular highlight. The savannah animals atop a steep hill remained unexplored, energy being reserved for the day ahead.
Carlowrie Castle
The moment arrived to journey to Carlowrie Castle, our wedding venue. A mere fifteen-minute drive transformed into a scenic tour of rolling Scottish fields, culminating in the grand reveal. Through the main gates and down a tree-lined avenue we drove, until the breathtaking Carlowrie Castle stood before us, its stone walls softened by cascading greenery.
The hostess, informed of our appointment, directed us to parking and instructed to go inside, where we would meet our coordinator. She greeted us with warmth and professionalism, leading us on a personalized tour of the castle's interior. We discussed room assignments, sampled wines and champagne, explored the opulent reception rooms, and envisioned our ceremony in the idyllic outdoor space. Our coordinator meticulously reviewed the timeline and detailed the services they would provide.
The visit was beyond expectations. Seeing Carlowrie Castle in person solidified our excitement and instilled a profound confidence in our wedding day, now just a few months away. The dream was taking shape, and it was even more magnificent than we had imagined.
Café Nero & LiggyCakes
Our tour concluded, we hurried back to the hotel and summoned an Uber for another foray into the vibrant heart of Edinburgh. This time, our destination was Liggy's Cakes, the bakery responsible for crafting our wedding centerpiece. Stepping out of the car, we found ourselves near a charming café called Café Nero. Its warm interior beckoned, and with no queue to contend with, it seemed the perfect spot for a quick coffee and a bite. We indulged in a steaming cup and a toasted sandwich, surprisingly delicious even for a pre-made option.
Fortified, we strolled to Liggy's Cakes, where we were greeted like old friends. An array of cake samples awaited, accompanied by freshly brewed coffee. We savored each flavor, but one reigned supreme – a secret I dare not reveal, lest any eagle-eyed wedding guests stumble upon it and spoil the surprise! Suffice it to say, it was a symphony of deliciousness. The staff listened attentively as we discussed our vision, meticulously noting every detail. Their warmth and collaborative spirit made the entire process a genuine pleasure.
The Royal Mile
With the cake details settled, adventure called. We set our sights on one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks: The Royal Mile. According to Google Maps, the starting point was within walking distance, so we eagerly began our trek. Despite the unexpected humidity – the weather apps had promised rain! – our excitement remained undeterred. The longer-than-anticipated walk became an impromptu sightseeing tour, allowing us to absorb the bustling energy of downtown Edinburgh.
We passed the tranquil East Princes Street Garden, admired the grandeur of the Royal Scottish Academy of Art and Architecture, and caught glimpses of the gothic Scott Monument piercing the skyline. Continuing our ascent, we navigated Mound Street and the vertiginous Mound Place Street, finally emerging onto the Royal Mile—Castle Hill Street. Edinburgh Castle loomed majestically to our right, but we decided to postpone our visit and instead immerse ourselves in the immediate surroundings.
The Royal Mile pulsed with life. A kaleidoscope of shops, pubs, and cafes lined the streets, their doorways overflowing with tourists and locals alike. The haunting strains of bagpipes echoed through the air, weaving an authentic Scottish tapestry. It felt like stepping back in time, the ancient architecture and palpable history creating a truly surreal atmosphere. The experience felt genuinely magical, a distillation of Scotland's essence.
Wingstop
Exhausted but exhilarated, we summoned an Uber and retreated to the hotel for a well-deserved respite. As evening approached, the question of dinner arose. Convenience won, and we turned to Deliveroo, a reliable food delivery service. Craving a taste of home, we chose Wingstop, an American fast-food favorite that's not so common in Europe, and we love.
The delivery arrived promptly, the wings still piping hot. Each bite was a perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat - not overcooked or soggy. I even indulged in a milkshake, a sweet addition that completed the feast. It had been too long since our last Wingstop fix, and the meal reignited our adoration for this simple pleasure.
Blackford Hill
Fueled by our feast, we felt a surge of adventurous energy. A friend recommended we check out Blackford Hill, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. The drive was a testament to Edinburgh's collective hope – the road was jam-packed with cars, and the park was filled with viewers.
Undeterred, we made our way up the hill, found a patch of grass, and settled in for a night of stargazing. Unfortunately, the clouds had other plans, veiling even the moon. Despite the lack of celestial fireworks, lying beneath the inky Scottish sky held its own quiet magic. Eventually, we surrendered to fatigue and headed back to the car, knowing that a new day of Edinburgh adventures awaited.
Tinderbox, Glasgow
Today was a whirlwind, a meticulously planned day squeezed tighter than a corset! We skipped the hotel breakfast, fueled instead by the anticipation of ticking items off our wedding to-do list. First stop: Glasgow, a scenic hour's drive away, where we were meeting a potential florist. Our rendezvous point was Tinderbox, a café handily perched on a street corner. Spotting the place was easy; nabbing a parking space, less so. After circling a few blocks, we finally found a haven for our rental car and hurried to meet the florist.
Inside, the aroma of coffee hung thick and inviting. We greeted our florist, settled in, and ordered iced vanilla cinnamon lattes – a perfect, cooling antidote to the unexpectedly warm day. As we sipped the creamy, spiced concoctions, the conversation flowed easily. The florist proved to be wonderfully professional and approachable, patiently guiding us through a landscape of floral possibilities. I appreciated her insightful suggestions and the way she truly seemed to understand our vision.
Stack & Still, Glasgow
With the florist appointment wrapped up and our appetites awakened, breakfast was a must. Luckily, a particularly tempting pancake haven I'd discovered on Instagram was conveniently nearby. This called for a slight detour!
Stack & Still on West George Street was exactly as Instagrammable as I'd hoped. We were seated immediately and immediately charmed by the quirky movie posters reimagined with a pancake twist. The menu was a "build-your-own" pancake paradise, boasting toppings to satisfy any craving.
I surrendered to the "Coffee + Cream" stack, a decadent tower featuring a buttermilk pancake base, slathered in Biscoff spread, topped with whipped coffee cream, Chantilly cream, caramel sauce, a crunchy Lotus biscuit, and a generous drizzle of chocolate. William, ever the health-conscious one, opted for the "Superfood Stack": buttermilk pancakes adorned with Greek yogurt, granola, plump blueberries, sweet strawberries, juicy raspberries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprig of mint. We rounded out our order with "Dirty" Tater Tots loaded with bacon, cheese, and chipotle sauce, and two cappuccinos to cut through the sweetness.
The cappuccinos arrived quickly, but my first sip was…intense. It was far too strong for my tastes. However, any disappointment vanished the moment the pancakes arrived. My Coffee + Cream stack was a masterpiece of sweet indulgence, a symphony of textures and flavors that somehow managed to be rich without being cloying. I devoured nearly the entire plate. William declared his Superfood Stack a triumph of freshness, lightness, and fluffy goodness. And the Dirty tater tots? Crispy, flavorful perfection.
Despite the slightly overly strong cappuccino, our Stack & Still experience was a solid 9/10. The staff were friendly and efficient, the food was ridiculously delicious, and the atmosphere was fun and relaxed. We would definitely return.
Walking Tour of the Royal Mile
Our bellies full of pancake happiness, we drove back to Edinburgh, ready for our afternoon adventure: a walking tour of the Royal Mile. We wanted to delve beneath the surface, to uncover the hidden history and fascinating stories that lay beyond the souvenir shops and bustling crowds.
We began by dropping off our car at the hotel and summoning an Uber to “Hot Toddy,” our designated meeting point. This charming café/bar offered a welcoming atmosphere with coffee, drinks, and snacks. While awaiting the tour’s commencement, we enjoyed the lively trivia questions buzzing through the café. Soon enough, our guide arrived and ushered our group of approximately thirty people outside, and our journey began.
Our guide immediately dispelled a common misconception: the Royal Mile isn't actually a mile long. He explained that the distance between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, while nearly a statute mile, is slightly longer when measured in the traditional Scots mile, allegedly about 200 meters longer. Thus, the Royal Mile lives up to its name, exceeding the expected distance.
Our first designated stop was the imposing St. Giles’ Cathedral, where we heard the captivating tale of Jenny Geddes. This Scottish market-trader famously hurled a stool at the minister during the first public use of the revised Book of Common Prayer, an act of defiance that ignited the riot that led to the tumultuous Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Geddes’ bold act cemented her place in Scottish history.
Next, we encountered the ubiquitous, and highly polished, statue of David Hume. Despite its depiction of Hume as an ancient Greek philosopher, the tour guide clarified that he was neither ancient nor Greek. Hume, a prominent Edinburgh resident, was an influential historian, economist, and writer. The shiny toe of the statue, a testament to the tradition of rubbing it for good luck, bore witness to his enduring popularity.
Further along the Mile, we paused at a modest plaque commemorating Dr. Elsie Inglis, a truly remarkable, and often overlooked, figure. A pioneering Scottish medical doctor, surgeon, teacher, and the founder of the Scottish Women’s Hospitals, she even received the Serbian Order of the White Eagle. The tour guide offered a concise overview of her accomplishments, hinting at a life story worthy of its own novel.
One of the most poignant narratives unfolded around Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who captured the hearts of Edinburgh. After the death of his owner, John Gray, a night watchman, Bobby steadfastly remained by his graveside in Greyfriars Kirkyard. The locals, moved by his loyalty, cared for him. In 1867, threatened by a new pound law, Bobby was granted an official dog license and collar by Sir William Chambers, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh. A life-sized statue was erected in his honor after his death at the age of 14, becoming the renowned Greyfriars Bobby Fountain. Sadly, the tradition of rubbing his nose for good luck has removed its original bronze patina.
The tour was a captivating blend of history and anecdote. Our guide peppered the walk with countless stories connected to seemingly insignificant plaques, statues, and overlooked corners. These included the gruesome tale of Half-hung Maggie, accounts of the Royal Mile’s building collapses, the chilling significance of the “end of the world” landmark, the identities of those buried near the Parliament building, and an explanation of the physical and social separation of the Old and New Towns.
Ultimately, this walking tour revealed the profound historical layers embedded within the Royal Mile and its surroundings. It transcended the surface level of tourist shops, offering a richer and more enlightening experience of Edinburgh. I wholeheartedly recommend embracing a walking tour to gain a deeper and more nuanced appreciation of this captivating city.
What We Liked About The Tour:
Engaging Guide: The guide was knowledgeable and animated, weaving fascinating stories with humor and depth. They brought history to life, making seemingly small details significant.
Hidden Gems: The tour uncovered lesser-known stories and landmarks like the plaque commemorating Dr. Elsie Inglis and the statue of David Hume, which might have been overlooked otherwise.
Rich Historical Context: The guide connected Edinburgh’s history to broader events, like Jenny Geddes’ role in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, making the history feel meaningful and impactful.
Local Legends: Stories like Greyfriars Bobby and Half-hung Maggie added a personal and emotional touch, showing Edinburgh’s unique character and quirky charm.
Exploration Beyond the Tourist Trail: The tour went beyond the surface-level experience of the Royal Mile, offering insights that enriched our understanding of the city and its culture.
Good Starting Point: The meeting point at "Hot Toddy" was convenient and offered a chance to grab a drink or snack while waiting for the tour to begin.
Small Details Matter: Learning fun facts, like the actual length of the Royal Mile or the reason behind Hume’s polished toe, made the tour feel immersive and interactive.
What We Didn’t Like:
Large Group Size: A group of approximately thirty people felt a bit too large, making it harder to stay close to the guide or ask questions at times.
Crowded Stops: Some stops, like Greyfriars Bobby or St. Giles’ Cathedral, were popular with other tourists, which made it harder to fully enjoy or take photos without a crowd.
The guide’s engaging storytelling brought the Royal Mile’s landmarks and legends to life, uncovering hidden gems and weaving together history, culture, and personal anecdotes. While the large group size and occasional crowding detracted slightly, the insights and stories more than made up for these minor drawbacks. We would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Edinburgh. It’s a fantastic way to move beyond the surface-level tourist attractions and truly connect with the city’s rich history, quirky charm, and vibrant character.
The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour
Following a captivating exploration of the Royal Mile, we eagerly anticipated our next adventure: a visit to the Chocolatarium. The proximity of the two attractions offered the perfect opportunity for a brief detour. We indulged in a bit of souvenir hunting, carefully selecting taster sets of Scottish whisky and gin to bring home, before continuing onward to our chocolate destination.
Upon arriving at the Chocolatarium, we were quickly checked in and directed to a room at the back. As we took our seats, the space rapidly filled with fellow chocolate enthusiasts. Our guide, radiating enthusiasm, soon appeared bearing cups of rich, intensely flavored hot chocolate – a pure, melted chocolate indulgence that set the stage for the delectable journey ahead.
The tour began with an engaging introduction to the origins of the cacao bean, tracing its rich history and global journey. This informative prelude seamlessly transitioned into the Chocolate Factory Kitchen, where the magic of chocolate creation unfolded. We witnessed the fascinating transformation of raw cacao beans into the smooth, tempting treats we all adore.
The highlight, undoubtedly, was the opportunity to craft our own personalized chocolate bars. I eagerly chose milk chocolate and a charming Bobby mold, while Will embraced the spirit of Scotland with a Loch Ness monster design. Pouring the molten chocolate into the molds was just the beginning.
A dazzling array of toppings awaited, promising endless customization possibilities. I opted for a classic combination of rice krispies, white chocolate, and a touch of elegance with gold sprinkles and a hint of mint. William, ever the adventurous one, boldly incorporated a chocolate brownie into his bar, showcasing his creative flair.
While our masterpieces solidified, we moved to the final stop: the tasting room. Our guide surprised us with a traditional Aztec chocolate drink, a concoction of intriguing ingredients that offered a uniquely earthy and slightly spicy flavor profile. It was unusual, yet surprisingly palatable.
Next came a comparative chocolate tasting, as we sampled varieties from different regions and bravely attempted to identify the percentage of dark chocolate in each. Finally, we were released into a chocolate paradise, free to select our favorites from an extensive and tempting array. Flavors like coffee latte and cinnamon toast caught my eye, while William, nearing peak chocolate saturation, cleverly opted for a whisky-infused chocolate – a fitting end to our sweet adventure.
What We Did Like About The Tour:
Informative Introduction: Learning about the origins and history of the cacao bean was engaging and educational.
Hands-On Chocolate Making: Crafting personalized chocolate bars was a fun and creative activity.
Diverse Toppings: The wide variety of toppings allowed for endless customization possibilities.
Aztec Chocolate Drink: Trying the traditional Aztec chocolate drink was a unique and memorable experience.
Comparative Chocolate Tasting: Sampling different chocolates from various regions and guessing their dark chocolate percentages was an interactive and enjoyable challenge.
Wide Selection of Chocolates: The freedom to choose from an extensive array of chocolates, including unique flavors like coffee latte and cinnamon toast.
What We Didn't Like:
Crowded Space: The room filled quickly with other chocolate enthusiasts, which may have made it feel a bit crowded.
Chocolate Saturation: By the end of the tour, there was a sense of chocolate overload, especially for William.
The Chocolatarium tour was a rich and engaging experience for us chocolate enthusiasts, blending education, hands-on activities, and delightful tastings. From learning about the cacao bean's history to crafting our own personalized chocolate bars, the tour provided a variety of enjoyable and memorable moments. If you have a passion for chocolate and enjoy trying various flavors, I highly recommend the Chocolatarium tour. It's a delightful experience that offers a blend of education, creativity, and tasting opportunities that will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.
Biddy Mulligans
A post-Chocolatarium exploration led us to Biddy Mulligans, a traditional Scottish pub nestled in the heart of the Grassmarket. The promise of fresh air and local flavor drew us to an outdoor table. Perusing the menu, William, ever the whisky aficionado, opted for a whisky flight featuring Auchentoshan Three Wood, Macallan 12yo Double Cask, and Bowmore 12yo. I, seeking something lighter, went for an El Bandarra Spritz, a gamble on an unknown delight.
The arrival of the whisky flight was promising, but immediately fraught with peril. The server helpfully identified each dram upon delivery, but alas, no labels accompanied the glasses. This immediately transformed William's tasting into a blind (and slightly stressful) experiment. He found two of the whiskies undeniably smooth and enjoyable, each sip a warm embrace against the Edinburgh breeze. The third, however, proved less appealing, leaving him puzzled and label-less. My Spritz, on the other hand, was a simpler disappointment. The taste simply didn't resonate, a tangy clash that didn't quite align with my palate. After finishing (or, in my case, mostly finishing) our drinks, we retreated to the hotel, ready to regroup and refocus our dining strategy.
Luxford Burgers
Back at the hotel, faced with the allure of convenience, we succumbed to the siren song of Deliveroo. Luxford Burgers, with its promise of guilty pleasures, seemed like the perfect antidote to our earlier disappointments. The presence of mozzarella sticks, a personal weakness, sealed the deal. We both enthusiastically ordered the Chicken Run Sandwich: crispy garlic chicken fillet, double American cheese, crispy smoked streaky bacon, and their signature "lux" sauce, accompanied by an Oreo milkshake.
This time, victory was ours! The food arrived promptly, still radiating warmth. The Chicken Run Sandwich was a symphony of satisfying flavors, the crispy chicken and smoky bacon mingling harmoniously. The "lux" sauce, with its uncanny resemblance to Chick-fil-A's iconic condiment, was an instant hit. Even the mozzarella sticks delivered, providing that perfect combination of crispy exterior and molten cheese. The Oreo milkshake, however, stumbled slightly. While not unpleasant, it lacked the intense Oreo flavor we craved, leaving it a bit bland. Overall, though, Luxford Burgers was a resounding success, a delicious and comforting indulgence that fueled us for our final day.
Scran New Town
That final morning, armed with a curated list of Instagram-worthy breakfast spots, we were on a mission. Scran New Town, a trendy establishment known for its photogenic dishes, was our chosen destination. Forewarned about its popularity, I pre-emptively made a reservation. An Uber whisked us downtown, reminding us to avoid confusion with Scran Bistro (same owners, different menus!).
We arrived at Scran New Town to find it surprisingly empty. The restaurant's interior, a curated chaos of neon signs and floral arrangements, buzzed with a vibrant, youthful energy. The menu was a tempting array of brunch staples, and we deliberated carefully. I settled on avocado on sourdough with smoked bacon, while William, seeking a cure for any lingering travel fatigue, ordered the "Hangover Pancakes" – a stack loaded with pancakes, eggs, and bacon. The Lotus French toast caught our eye, but the waitress wisely suggested waiting, lest we be overwhelmed by portion sizes. We heeded her advice, ordering a mocha for myself and a cappuccino for William while we waited.
Despite the lack of a crowd, our food took an unexpectedly long time to arrive. When it finally did, presentation was definitely on point. My avocado toast was visually appealing, but the taste, while pleasant, was unremarkable. Sadly, the Hangover Pancakes proved to be a major letdown. They were disappointingly dry, and neither of us could muster much enthusiasm for them. The coffees, however, were expertly crafted, providing at least some solace. We decided against the French toast, fearing another disappointment.
In the end, Scran New Town was a mixed experience. The ambiance was undeniably fun, and the service, though slow, was friendly. But the food, while visually stunning, failed to live up to the hype. A 6/10 felt generous, but fair. With breakfast concluded (and our expectations recalibrated), we checked out of the hotel and headed to the airport, dropping off our rental car and stepping into the next phase of our adventure.
Navigating the Edinburgh Airport
The departure from Edinburgh Airport proved to be a more memorable experience than anticipated, a frantic dance against the clock that tested our patience before we could finally relax and reflect on our Scottish adventure. Our initial hurdle was passport control, a necessary evil to secure our Ryanair boarding passes. The queue stretched out, seemingly lengthened by a substantial cohort of school children ahead. With only two agents staffing the counters and our flight looming a mere two and a half hours away, a knot of anxiety began to tighten in my stomach. Fortunately, a perceptive staff member redirected passengers not affiliated with the student group to a separate queue. We were promptly processed after a short wait: passports scanned, boarding passes and luggage tags printed, and our bags swiftly dispatched.
The real adventure, however, began at the TSA checkpoint. The experience was, to put it mildly, unconventional. The waiting area felt less like an airport and more like a theme park queue, with a limited number of individuals being admitted at a time, creating a bottleneck of anxious travelers. Once the gates opened, a chaotic surge ensued as everyone clamored to join the same line, creating a seemingly endless path to the actual security check. Finally reaching the front, we were directed to a specific lane behind three other passengers already unloading their belongings.
Retrieving our luggage after the arduous screening process was an equally disorienting experience. The area was a scene of mild pandemonium, with discarded trays littering the floor and travelers hastily repacking their possessions. Navigating this obstacle course required a deftness of foot, and after successfully reuniting with our bags, our journey continued. The layout of the terminal then presented a further challenge: a seemingly illogical route involving two flights of stairs up, a meandering passage through duty-free shops and a restaurant, followed by another two flights of stairs down before finally reaching the gates. Despite this architectural quirk, we ultimately arrived at our designated place of departure, a welcome sanctuary after the preceding chaos.
The respite at our gate allowed us to finally exhale and mentally rewind through our Edinburgh experience. Despite the stressful airport ordeal, the trip itself had been a resounding success. We reminisced about the wonders of the Edinburgh Zoo, the grandeur of Carlowrie Castle, the delightful treats at Liggycakes, and the captivating history echoing through the Royal Mile. Edinburgh had undeniably been a captivating adventure, and as we prepared for takeoff, we looked forward to our next destination, hoping the journey ahead would be as fulfilling, if hopefully less chaotic, than the one we were leaving behind.
Table of Contents
- Edinburgh Holiday Inn Zoo
- Edinburgh Street Food
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Carlowrie Castle
- Café Nero & LiggyCakes
- The Royal Mile
- Wingstop
- Blackford Hill
- Tinderbox, Glasgow
- Stack & Still, Glasgow
- Walking Tour of the Royal Mile
- The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour
- Biddy Mulligans
- Luxford Burgers
- Scran New Town
- Navigating the Edinburgh Airport
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