Every tourist destination has it’s attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary’s gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.          .

Edinburgh is the essence of Scotland. It epitomizes Scottish culture and offers great variety to the tourist. Be sure to include Edinburgh in your Great Britain itinerary for at least the following reaons:

1. Edinburgh Castle sits at one end of the Royal Mile, a treasure of Scottish ambiance which is the most popular part of town for travelers.

Edinburgh Castle

2. At the opposite end of the Royal Mile is the Palace at Holyroodhouse, a royal residence which is primarily associated with Mary Queen of Scots.

Holyroodhouse

3. Edinburgh’s New Town contains a memorial to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s great writers.

Sir Walter Scott Memorial

4. St Giles Cathedral is located in the middle of the Royal Mile and is typical of the churches here.

St Giles Cathedral