Let's face it, there are so many interesting and unique places to travel in the world that deciding where your next international trip should take you can be hard. Should you go to Paris? Rome? London? There are hundreds of incredible places that your jet-setting could take you. Well, here we've listed some of the top reasons why Scotland should make your list for international travel.
The Scenery Is Second to None
Forget white sandy beaches and coral reefs; in Scotland you have stunning, untamed wild landscape that will steal your heart. Remember that scene in Parks and Rec where Ron Swanson is on the cliffs of Scotland with his beloved whiskey and a Robert Burns poem? That's just what Scotland looks like! And you can make your base in one of the two big cities, Glasgow or Edinburgh, and all that incredible countryside is literally just outside the cities. If you're looking for some of the top most gorgeous spots to visit, then you can plan where you're staying accordingly. Driving in Scotland is quite easy and safe, and you'll be able to get to pretty much anywhere you want to visit with less than a day's travel and keep yourself entertained while you're en route.
There Is Great Culture
Even if you don't head over for the Edinburgh Fringe, or Edinburgh International Festival (both of which are well worth adding to your bucket list as the world's biggest theater festival), then there is still so much to do and explore in Scotland. Edinburgh Castle is sure to take your breath away, built almost into the rock formation on the city center. Scotland's National Portrait Gallery is also located in Edinburgh, and admission is free to view some of Scotland's most seminal artists. If you're looking for culture a little more off the beaten track, then the Centre for Contemporary Arts in Glasgow is well worth checking out. They have a range of events from live art to installations and talks. The Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera, and Scottish National Orchestra are also based in Glasgow—if you're staying in the center nothing will be out of walking distance.
The People Are Friendly
There's a real community feeling to the cities in Scotland. Walk through one of the picturesque parks in the morning and the dog-walkers and people just out for a stroll will probably give you a nod and wish you good morning. If you need to ask someone for directions, or even want to get into a chat with a bartender about which beer or whiskey you should try, you'll likely find that many people are willing to chat with you or give you advice and tips on where you should go and the best things to see. And there's nothing like a recommendation from a local!
The Food Is Good
So you might not fancy the traditional Burns Night supper of haggis, neeps, and tatties, but there's still plenty of other great Scottish produce to try. With restaurants up and down the length of the country, you'll be spoiled for choice if you want to be wined and dined on your trip. It's definitely worth the money to eat at one of the gastronomic delights specializing in modern Scottish cuisine that are popping up all over Scotland. However, if you want a truly authentic Scottish experience, find yourself somewhere that does a fantastic fish supper (fish and chips) and eat it out of the paper while watching the world go by.
Scottish Pubs Offer Relaxed Ambience
Scotland has some of the most atmospheric pubs in the UK. There are plenty to choose from, but one of the best ways to get a feel for a place is to take yourself on a walk (it won't be far, don't worry) and stop at the first place you find and like the look of. Don't get stuck there but wander on after your first pint. Pretty soon, you'll have found a few places where the beers on tap are good and you like the atmosphere.
It Is Well Connected
There's so much to see and do in Scotland that you may never want to leave. And since it may require a lengthy flight, you might want to take advantage of being in the UK to tick some other places off your bucket list. There are also plenty of flight coming in and out of the international airports; so not only can you get to Scotland easily, but you can also effectively return home when you are ready.
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