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.

The Self Drive

Nobody to answer to, no fixed plans, and no one else to deal with; the self-drive is an ideal option for the true-blue roadster. Scotland offers breath-taking drives along mountains ridges, coast lines and architecture-rich cities. The best part is that you can drive down from one tip to the other on butter-smooth roads that only enhance the experience.

Guided Group Tour

If you are visiting Scotland with a group, then a guided tour with a local will unlock some of the secret places that you may have otherwise missed. The other advantage is that you receive a deeper understanding of the culture and the cuisine of the land. Then, there are the fantastical stories that only a local guide may be privy to. All in all, a guided tour takes you deep into the heart and soul of Scotland.

The Heritage Trail

There are some of us interested more in the history of a place and the myths that surround it. You will not be disappointed with the imperious castles, the towering fortresses that convey the heritage of battle, of conquest that seeped through the land. A walk inside a castle can bring alive many an interesting incident that took place in the nation’s past.