7. Scotland, the land of funny english speaking people who could just use some more sun

While Dave had to stay for some days in London to work, I decided to spend a couple of days in the land of the kilts.

The hostel in Edinburgh was lovely, and while the people there were very friendly, Scottish people in general seemed a little bit grumpy, probably for the lack of sun and blue sky in their cold and rainy days... Edinbra (as they would say) is small enough to be done by foot, though after 20 days walking, my body was begging for some rest, so I decided to go for the city tour bus again. At night, went to a typical Scottish dinner and show, full of men wearing kilts and playing the bag pipes (Show was called "Taste of Scotland - I definitely recommend it!). My table had the best view and had the company of some cool guys from Australia and New Zealand, which made it more fun. By the way, I challenge all of you to one day eat the famous scottish "Haggis"!!

On the following day, I went on a tour with other 7 people to St. Andrews, home of the Golf. It was a full day tour, stopping at a nearby historical city (Falkland) and a fisherman's village (Crail Harbour). St. Andrews is a lovely town, still cold, though beautiful sky and sun, and nice people. All buildings are really old, though very well preserved, and with the North Sea surrounding the city, just made it a perfect scenario for the most famous golf course in the world: the "Old Course"

Check List:

- Edinburgh Castle
- the Royal Mile
- Haggis
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- St. Andrews Old Golf Course
- Ruins
- Mary, Queen of Scots' Palace
- First Tennis court in the world ("Royal Tennis court")
- The North Sea

Haggis:

"Haggis is one of those national dishes that is both beloved and reviled by natives, and sometimes horrifies people who hear it described for the first time
Traditionally, a Haggis is made from the lung, liver, and heart of the sheep. These are mixed with oatmeal and a few spices and stuffed into the sheep's stomach. After being boiled, the Haggis is brought to the table with a great deal of ceremony. A piper ushers in the Haggis and all raise a glass of Scotch whiskey and "brrreath a prrayerr for the soul of Rrrobbie Burrrns!" It is then served with "neeps and nips," mashed turnips and nips of whiskey. I think you have to drink a lot of Scotch before you can truly enjoy this dish, but a party of Scots without a Haggis is simply not heard of."

Taste of Scotland Videos:

1. Sword Dance
2. All Instruments
3. Girls Dance
4. Folk Music
5. "Amazing Grace"