Scotland the brave!

Well let me tell you, Scotland was a wee bit of awesome. 

I hadn't realized the Fringe Fest had started (bad research on my part) and so we ended up lugging our suitcases through massive crowds of performers and tourists along the Royal Mile. I have to say, it is truly magical to see crowds of young people roaming the empty street early in the morning, singing pop songs in harmony. Also equally wonderful: cheeky magicians juggling with axes, actors being actorly, crowds cheering for clowns (honestly, I have never seen such clown appreciation before in my life), awestruck toddlers with their jaws hanging open watching a puppet brought to life, and bagpipes everywhere (ahhhh, so amazing). A once in a lifetime experience.

And then, holy moses, the Tattoo! What a total treat! Performers from South Korea, Mexico, Mongolia and New Zealand joined the Scottish military bands and dancers. Wowowowow. I have to admit, I have always watched events like the Olympic opening and closing ceremonies mostly so I can mock the proceedings. But there's something about being in a crowd that totally whips you up and I was almost teary afterwards, humming Scotland the brave on loop.

Loved Edinburgh. The men in kilts. The smoked salmon sandwiches on oatmeal bread. The grand castle. The narrow streets. The cold North Sea air. The woven tartan scarves. I'd go back in a heartbeat.