I’ve shared my love for Scotland here previously, and that love only grows stronger with each visit. From the humor of the people to the fascinating history and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a place I felt instantly at home, a feeling that’s hard to describe after so many moves. So whenever friends or family come to the UK, it doesn’t take much arm-twisting to get me on an LNER train north.

Next week, I’ll be taking several family members to Scotland for their first visit. So it only seemed right to make this month’s travel guide all about a place I’ll never tire of trekking to: Edinburgh.

motel_one

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If I know I’ll be mostly on the go, I prioritize location over extra bells and whistles when it comes to accommodations. With two locations near Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, Motel One is my usual pick when staying in Edinburgh. This three-star hotel chain offers comfortable rooms, a tasty breakfast, a full bar and excellent customer service to help you make the most out of your visit. Choose between the Princes Street location in New Town or the one on Market Street in Old Town — either way, you’ll have access to some of the city’s best sights and plenty of transportation links.

rabbies_tours

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Every time I emerge at street level from Edinburgh Waverley, the city honestly takes my breath away. Essential attractions include Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument and the National Museum of Scotland (as seen above). Grab drinks at the World’s End or dinner at the Sheep Heid Inn, then enjoy the view from atop Arthur's Seat. I also highly recommend booking a day tour out into the highlands if you can — I’ve used Rabbie’s multiple times because of their small tour group sizes, comfortable transportation and friendly guides.

walkerslater

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When I first visited Scotland, my main shopping priority was a tweed coat. Walker Slater was the first shop I walked into and that coat remains one of my all-time favorite purchases. You can also pay a visit to the flagship store of MIDDI brand pick Strathberry or wander into any of the shops lining the Royal Mile, there you’ll find tartans (anyone can don the Royal Stuart pattern), plenty of local treats like shortbread, Irn-Bru and of course, whisky, which you can drink out of a quaich, another excellent souvenir.

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