Scotland - Edinburgh

We set our foot into the UK once again, but this time to depart up North to Scotland. We put our 'damages' from Europe trip into Big Yellow before heading out for our Scotland trip. On our way, we had a chance to visit the Angel of the North in Newcastle, where it is located too far away from the city of Newcastle we visited during our weekend trip. Located on a hill, the steel structure is HUGE, spanning its wings 54m wide, easily noticeable from far.

I look good in the photo below, Europe trip has slimmed me down LOL

Not far away from Newcastle is the border between Scotland and England. Not sure what's so special about this place other than the signboard showing that behold is the border between the two countries. We were dumbfounded when our Scotland tour guide gave us the photo opportunity to take photos here, as we felt that it is lame to stop by here and take photo with just the signboard LOL

Once we reached the city of Edinburgh, we were dropped off at the base of Calton Hill. With just a map as guidance, it was our first instinct to climb the Calton Hill so that we can get a better overall look at the capital of Scotland. It was a short hike, and we were able to see many monuments and old cannons at the peak of the hill.

Standing on the National Monument, on top of Calton Hill.

We then descended Calton Hill and moved on to the busier side of Edinburgh. It was relaxing while walking on the The Royal Mile (a street which leads to St. Giles Cathedral and Castle of Edinburgh) here. The amount of vehicles were minimum and was not flooded with visitors too. Pubs and souvenirs shops were abundant along the street.

High quality scarfs, a little expensive though.

After purchasing a refreshing drink (instead of something with caffeine) from Starbucks, we reached St. Giles' Cathedral.

A photo with the St. Giles' Cathedral and also a guy in kilt!

Walk further up a low gradient slope will take you to Edinburgh Castle. Not much to see on the inside unless you pay a small entrance fee...

Scotland is a country famous with its food (haggis, shortbread etc.) and drinks. Scottish whisky is one of them! 

Blowpipe performance on the street side. If you sees this, it's confirm that you are in Scotland!

Scott Monument. It can be climbed via a series of spiral staircases, where the reward for successful climbers is a panoramic view of the city of Edinburgh.

Forth Rail Bridge, the world's second-longest single span cantilever bridge.

Here's another part of our Scotland trip which is whisky-themed! Deep inside some rural places emerged a beautiful 'world of whisky' - Dewar's. 

We witnessed the fermentation process, how they stored the whisky in barrels, like hundreds of them!

90 Pounds per bottle, anyone?

How does whisky taste like? First of all, it's not as tasty as any movie or drama would suggest, where the actor and actress drink them to their hearts' desire. One small sip will make your throat choke slightly, with the taste gradually ascend to your nose. Certainly, tasting whisky has its own art, which uses of all your senses including your nose, tongue and palm's heat!

NEXT - John o' Groats