Edinburgh Highlights

Kk and I spent four nights in Edinburgh. On our first full day, we took a free walking tour of the city. We learned about the dark history of Edinburgh - before it was rebuilt, the city was very dirty, full of murderers, theives and cheats. But the city has improved greatly since then (no worries, mom and dad).

The highlight of our day was the traditional Scottish storytelling and music night we went to, hosted by the Edinburgh Storytelling Society. The night was full of silly stories, serious stories, ballads and all kinds of music by local and visiting Scots. 

Some of the instruments shared were the accordion, bagpipes, and one I've never heard of: a Jew's harp. All in all, it was a favorite night for both KK and myself. 

Our second day took us to the summit of Arthur's Seat (featured in Chariots of Fire). We took a few wrong turns but we did finally end up on one of the steeper trails to the top. We were passed several times by people running up the hill! These Scots are built tough! The rocky summit has a 360 degree view of Edinburgh... when the many hikers and tourists aren't in your way.

After hiking back down, we strolled up the Royal Mile: a mile-long stretch of road connecting the Edinburgh castle with the Holyrood Palace. We toured the castle, saw the Crown Jewels and got caught in the rain. 

On our last day, we took a day trip to Stirling (just about an hour from Edinburgh). What's in Stirling, you ask? The Wallace Monument, of course, which is a tribute to Mel Gibson... I mean, William Wallace...

It was a good 40 minute walk from the train station to the top of that hill. But once there, we were pleasantly surprised with dressed up characters telling the history of William Wallace, but who would question the historical accuracy of Braveheart? Anyway, on the way up the 246 stairs to the top of the monument, there were a few rooms about Wallace and the monument itself; one contained the Wallace sword!

If the sword and KK were standing at the same level, it would be taller than her! The top of the monument had better views of the land where Wallace actually fought for Scotland's independence.

But who cares about that when you can get free archery lessons from Lomond Archers?? And KK's instructor may or may not be the girl from Brave, which is pretty awesome. 

And that's all from Edinburgh! Expect a bonus post soon about a well-known author who wrote a best-selling series right in Edinburgh!