Left, Right, Left, Right

Whoaaaa!!!! Hiking in the UK is much much easier than driving.  I have driven in many other countries.... So, I thought I'd give it a go here.  Our drive North to the Highlands was exciting...

First, instead of a quick exit from Edinburgh, our GPS  managed to route us through city center and all the contourted cobblestone streets.  It truly was a challenge fighting the natural instict to drive on the right.... And we did wander right a few times. 

Driving on the dual carriageway was much easier, but glancing in the mirrors could be confusing.  I felt like an idiot constantly looking right for a non-existent rear view mirror.

Edinburgh

We have spent the last two days exploring Scotland's capital.  The Edinburgh Castle was a rock solid attraction.... We marched down the Royal Mile..... Wandered through museums..... Browsed in Jenners, the world's oldest department store.... Our boots were never idle.

A late night "murder and mystery" guided walk was both entertaining and informative.  Did you know Scotland had the most Witch execution's in the world?

Welcome to Scotland

We have arrived in a magical land.  So far, the weather is great for sailors, ducks, and seals....  and we are fitting right in.  Daytime highs are in the upper 50s with a persistent wind.  The sky is continuously changeable; cloudy, then showers, then sun, then fog, then repeat. 

We're properly outfitted so hiking about is actually pleasant and comfortable.  However, who could resist a nice hot chocolate at the Elephant House.... Where the first Harry Potter book was penned by JK Rowlin. 

Hogwarts Express

Our train originated from Kings Cross Station in London and the kids knew exactly what gate to find our train to Edinburgh.  What a fast magical ride to Scotland!!!

Fish, Chips, and Pilsner?

Johnny wanted a real English fish and chips dinner, so we found an establishment (recommended by locals) in the Covent Garden neighborhood.  The meal was good, but no English ale..... Just Czechoslovakia pilsner.....which reduced the spirit of authenticity.

Tourist Trapped

Today we were certified tourists.  After an early breakfast we took a Thames River cruise to London Tower to hear about all the midevil beheadings.  We got out with our heads, but my wallet was much lighter.

Next we boarded a doubledecker bus and cruised about central London on the open upper deck. We stopped at Madame Tussaid's wax museum and survived the crowd.  New York's museum was much better and less crowded.

The common theme today was the crowd.  Everywhere we went it was extreme people density.  They say Americans are rude and obnoxious..... But the Londoner's and tourists today make New Yorker's seem like gentlemen.  

Afternoon Tea

When in Britain do as the Brits do... Our feet were on fire from six hours of non-stop walking.  So, it was tea time at our hotel to enjoy excellent tea and scones.