Preparing for the Weather

Generally speaking, Scotland tends to be considerably colder than England and there are frequent rain showers throughout the year. Visitors should pack accordingly by bringing rain jackets and sweaters. However, there is often sunshine and warm weather throughout the year, especially in the spring and summer, so it is a good idea to wear layers and be prepared to change clothing throughout the day as the weather changes.

Smoking Bans

Smokers should note that there is a large number of laws and regulations governing smoking in Scotland and smoking in banned in many parts of the country such as bars and restaurants. Smokers can prepare for this and help prevent the harsh effects of nicotine withdrawal by using a different type of tobacco product such as SnusDirect when visiting the country.

Getting Around

Although Scotland boasts an excellent public transportation system, people who are planning to explore the wilder parts of the country should consider driving. The rules of the road are the same as in the rest of the United Kingdom, which means that driving is both safe and a lot of fun here. Car hire is readily available in Scotland and people who are flying into the country can pick up car hire at one of the dedicated desks at the airport or book it in advance so that their choice of vehicle is waiting for them when they touch down.

Holidays and Festivals

A wide range of special festivals are held throughout the year and these are great ways to learn more about the Scottish culture. However, the biggest of the festivals typically attract large numbers of people and it is best to book accommodation in advance.

St Andrews & Carnoustie

Of course, one can’t even begin touching the surface of Scotland without mentioning its influence on the world of sport. Foremost in the many things this country has offered the world throughout history, golf rates among its highest achievements, with the game now beloved by so many originating here in the 15th century. The first ever Open Championship, still considered golf’s most prestigious tournament, was first held in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club, which can be visited today. Meanwhile, St Andrews (situated on the east coast of Fife) and Carnoustie remain two of golf’s most famous and difficult golf courses. One surely can’t pass up the opportunity to see these courses for themselves while in Scotland.

Football

It isn’t just golf in which Scotland boasts a proud history, with football being an equally popular sport in the country. The famous Scottish Cup, a knock-out competition first contested in 1873-74, is in fact the world’s oldest national trophy in any sport. Celtic and Rangers are Scotland’s two biggest clubs and also boast arguably one of the world’s biggest sporting rivalries, both based in the country’s capital city of Glasgow. Celtic were also the first British football club to win the prestigious European Cup in 1967.

Diverse, historic cities & the Highlands

Alongside Glasgow, Scotland has another one of the world’s most beautiful cities of culture in Edinburgh. It has many picturesque streets that give it a unique feel different to any other city. Why not take the opportunity to visit a local casino while here – they’re easy to pick up if you’ve ever sampled online casinos before. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Scottish Highlands, a collection of sparsely populated mountain ranges unlike any other worldwide. Their vast wonder contained within a relatively small mass of land sum up Scotland perfectly.

Games available

Firstly, it’s always important to make sure that the game you want to play is in fact offered at the casino. While popular games such as roulette and blackjack can certainly be found anywhere, other games such as poker and baccarat are not always guaranteed to be available. And if you are playing games such as poker, it’s always good to make sure of the schedule and the waiting list to ensure you won’t be hanging around for too long before the game starts.

Deals and offers

While real world casinos don’t tend to offer as many lucrative sign-up bonuses as their online counterparts, there are still plenty of special deals to be found. Many casinos in Scotland will offer reward points if you pay in with your card, so make sure you’re not missing out while you’re playing. Some others will also have offers such as matched bets or free spins for introducing a friend – so if you do have company, be sure to check out that you’re getting any deals available.

How to play

Finally, if you are going to head to a casino to try your luck on the blackjack or roulette tables, be sure that you know how the game works before you go in. Most casino table games are relatively simple, but it helps to speed up the game when everybody is aware of the rules and etiquette. Some quick research will give you all you need to know, but if you’re ever not sure, feel free to hang back for a minute and watch what everybody else is doing to make sure you’re not slowing the game down for other players.

Play Online Casino Games

You might not want to venture too far from the safety of your hotel room but playing casino games online on sites with different bonuses is entertaining and will keep you busy. There are a multitude of fun website for new players that allow you to bet and win or just pass the time while you wait for the weather to clear up.

Pamper Yourself

Run a warm bath with some bubbles and grab a drink from the minibar. Soak in the tub with a cocktail and then try out the lotions and potions offered in your room to give yourself a spa-like experience.

Read, Read, Read

If you’re someone who doesn’t find enough time to read when not on holiday, consider catching up your novel or reading the newspaper to pass the time. It’s fun and will help you stay up to date on what’s going on in the world.

Take Photos

If you’re on holiday, chances are you have your camera with you. Take your time stuck in the hotel to do something creative. Take shots of your room or the view out the window. You might even want to wander the hotel and snap interesting things throughout.

Have a Picnic

You can’t go outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a picnic. Order a meal from the room service menu and then spread the blanket from the bed on the floor and pretend like you’re in the great outdoors.

Plan your next excursion

Take the time to decide where you want to go and attractions you want to see. Scotland has so much opportunity for adventure and culture that you can make an itinerary to cram in as much as possible when the weather changes.