Edinburgh, Scotland
April 17-21See photos below
Sightseeing is always a fun way to see a new place, but being able to see it with family makes it even more enjoyable. With so much of Ashleys’ family out of the States, it has been the perfect time for her to catch up after such a long while. For me, it has been an absolute treat to meet Ashleys’ aunts and uncles and cousins. It has been a unique experience for me as I am learning more and more about the woman I love from her family, some of whom she hasn’t seen in ten years. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming opening their homes to us. We are both so appreciative of their hospitality and truly enjoy the company and comfort of family whilst away from home.
At first glance the city almost looks fake, like something out of a film. In reality, however, it is that very feeling that made it so real as we were walking the cobblestone streets and through the tiny alleyways, or closes. There is so much history embedded in Edinburgh, from the castles perched high in the city to the nondescript pubs that you can walk by without even noticing they’re there. All this history in contrast with the modernity that has creeped in makes for an extremely unique feel. One that was very enjoyable to experience.
Figuring out ways to feed ourselves in the healthiest and cheapest way possible has been a bit of an adventure in its own right. There’s a small grocery store in the UK called Sainsbury which saved us when it came to healthy, affordable food. Our go to for breakfast was a protein yogurt with a banana which we got nearly everyday for a week. For lunch we got creative and bought mini ciabatta rolls, precooked chicken breasts, a mozzarella ball & rocket (arugula) and made it into sandwiches. It only cost us 6 pounds total for everything as opposed to spending 30 pounds at a restaurant, so that was a win. Later we learned that you can get a meal deal for 3 pound 50 at Sainsbury that comes with a sandwich, drink & snack. I wish we knew that sooner, but I don’t regret how tasty our sandwiches were.
Our 5 days in Edinburgh consisted of walking for hours on end, discovering different neighborhoods, parks & pubs. Initially we had booked a hostel that was located in the Old Town neighborhood right next to high street and near the castle. It was a decent place with comfy beds, but of course, like any hostel, the rooms smelled of dirty feet and old food. After 3 nights there, Ashley’s cousin Simon & Fiona offered for us to spend the rest of our stay in Edinburgh at their house, located on the other side of town. We took them up on their offer and ditched our hostel, which I am so glad we did. They have a beautiful home and two adorable children, Finley (5) and Flora (3). Ashley instantly fell involve with them and read them bedtime stories each night, with a gin & tonic in hand.
Ashley’s aunt Margaret took us out for several meals around the city & her uncle Mike took us on a beautiful hike up the Pentland hills which had sweeping views of the city and sea. We later learned that Ashley’s dad, Donald, spent many days hiking those hills as a boy, dreaming of a future as a famous global conductor- a dream that has since come true. With all of Ashley’s roots in Edinburgh, from her aunts & uncles, to cousins & dad, it was truly special to get a glimpse of her ancestry. We left Edinburgh with a bittersweet feeling, not wanting to leave but excited for the next adventure. Next stop, Aberdeen.
