The greenery, the stunning coastline, the accents, the warmest welcomes I've ever received, the energy, the accents, the food...did I mention the accents?
Yes, I'm biased, but I can't shake the feeling that I come from this land. The connection I've felt when wandering, driving and taking the train around this country has been nothing short of breathtaking. I even visited the city where my great-grandfather was born and raised, and was quite close to meeting a distant cousin.
It is a truly magical place, and the fantasy / fairytale lover in me got a hearty dose of magic as I wandered through forests and castles with a dear friend and tour guide. She complimented me deeply when she told me that I steadily renewed her own sense of wonder in her country - being the newly registered driver, she leveled up a fair few times driving me around Scotland (roundabouts every four and a half feet, really?!), and I think my frequent exclamations of admiration and wonder gave her new eyes through which to see her ethereally stunning country. We took the scenic route a fair few times, and it was only fitting that we blast the soundtrack from The Lord of the Rings trilogy during such long drives. I won't lie - the music from those films coupled with the breathtaking scenery of Scotland did make my eyes water just a wee bit...on multiple occasions.
We visited ruins, beaches and castles. We attended a gig, and I met people who made me feel like I've been their friend forever. We went to a Viking festival, and yep, we were asked if we were witches. And no, it wasn't a sarcastic question. We visited some of the areas that gave JK. Rowling her inspiration for the Harry Potter books and had tea in the café where she wrote most of books 2, 3 and 4.
The other major thing about Scotland was the impending referendum, and the energy and tension that created. Now, those who know me well know that I am against Québec separation. But that doesn't mean I'm against ALL sovereignty movements. That being said, I came to Scotland with an open mind, and after a mere week of listening to debates, conversations and passionate speeches, I'm returning to Ireland a "yes". Alba gu bràth!
I am definitely planning to return to Scotland before Christmas. I've made some magnificent friends, seen breathtaking scenery and felt a soul-deep connection to which words simply cannot do justice. What's not to return to?
Hakuna matata!! xx
Yep, more picspam. Most of these photos are from Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy!
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| I love jellyfish. I especially love picking them up. They're so pretty!!! ^_^ |
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| View of Edinburgh from the castle window...breathtaking. |
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