Soggy but worthwhile fall day in Edinburgh

Hi Everybody! We made it to Edinburgh about 6am in the morning while the city was still mysteriously dark and sleepy. Took the bus straight from the airport to the city center, near our hotel in old town. Unfortunately our bus had an accident where the car in the next lane bounced off the curb, then collided with our bus, and ended up sideways. A bit of an upset to start out the morning but we were quickly esqorted onto a new bus. Soon after we arrived at the hotel to drop off the luggage and they graciously let us check in, unpack and unwind before Naz's arrival.

We decided to meet Naz at the Edinburgh Castle. After a quick cat nap, leaving the hotel we look up to immediately see the isurprise of a beautiful castle on the hill above the city. Looking down from this magnificant fortrage, an incredible view of the city landscape below. The architecture is dark, gothic, medieval. But the public parks were lush, bright green grasses contrast the vibrante tree fall colors.

We make it too a dark pub, located on the beginning of the Royal Mile to temperarily dry out and have a bite to eat. I have bangers and mash while Warren trys the traditional haggis. Curious, I give it a try as well and it's not as bad as I expected. Not bad at all!!! Good job Warren for sampling it.

After that we make our way onto the 3 National Galleries where I find more works of Picasso, Monet, and Andy Warhol. A perfect way to stay out of the dampness. Temrature and weather...pretty much the same as Seattle. Pouring rain and cold wind. After spending several hours walking from one sight to the next, jet-lagged and now without about 24 hours of no sleep. I'm beginning to fizzle out. We took a few cabs more than I expected but given the current weather status, I'd rather not risk a cold. And I'm definitely cranky. Chilled to the bone we decide to go back to our hotels for hot baths, another cat nap to refresh, and meet again for a late dinner together.

Recharged again, at 8pm we meet Naz in our lobby and find a great Indian restaurant. The night still damp but now only a drizzle. We end the night with great food and great friends. Thank you Naz for such a warm welcome back to the UK!!!

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Part of trip: November in Scotland and Ireland to celebrate my 40th

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