Scotland

Frigid, frazzled, and slightly frightened, I stepped off the train in Edinburgh, Scotland. The sharp, stiff air hit my face and I instantly knew I didn't pack enough clothes. The train ride was beautiful. Scotland was exactly how I imagined it to be: green, rollings hills, hedges for fences, and tons of sheep. Jacob "thought" he knew how to get to our hostel, but he was mistaken. Finally, we found our hostel. The four of us were the only ones in our room the first two nights, but unfortunately we were accompanied by 8 more people.. strangers.. the last night. For dinner, we ate at Mama's Pizzeria.. delicious! Then we wandered aimlessly around the city, walking roughly 8-9 miles until we found the Playhouse, which was showing The Sound of Music. I have to tell you that we got our basically front row tickets for 17 pounds!! I've seen many plays and musicals during my lifetime, but this show was absolutlely to die for amazing! Before the show we went into a massive department store called John Lewis and I purchased an adorable black vest for 19 pounds woohoo! Friday we toured Edinburgh Castle -- OMG! The castle was breathtaking and splendid to say the least. I saw the crown jewels of Scotland.. yes, I was completley jealous. Next, I searched the city for my family's tartan--no where to be found. Apparently, we aren't very popular. For dinner, I had chicken strips ( big shocker I know) at the Filling Station. Saturday we traveled by train to St. Andrews, a beautiful city known for its famous golf course. Yes, I walked across the famous bridge on the famous golf course where all the famous golfers walk on.. Travis Funk if you ever read this I bet you will be feeling a bit of jealously? maybe? Right next to the golf course was the beach. STUNNING. Yes, it was almost unbearable freezing, but so so so much fun. No, I did not get in the water, the weather was cold enough. The four of us played on the rocks and took great pictures! Next we ate at a hotel. Jacob and I split two entrees: lasagna and a chicken panini.. yummo! Later, we toured old ruins of a castle and a cathedral. When we arrived back at our hostel, we were welcomed by 8 other people--terrific. All 8 were from Spain and spoke very little English. The hostel was quite the experience-living, sleeping, and sharing a bathroom with complete strangers. I felt very safe mom and dad do not worry. Sunday we woke up, walked the Royal Mile, and took the 6 hour train ride back home to Oxford :) This trip was perfect.. really perfect. I couldn't have asked for anything better!
Random fact about Scotland: no one eats ice cream. Literally.