Scotland - The WrapUp

Home all safe and sound after a really fabulous trip.  I really can't say that I spent time with all 48 folks who were on the trip, but some of them are really unforgettable for me.  Would travel with them again in a heart beat. 

The entire group at the foot of Edinburgh Castle

So....my final thoughts....it was a fabulous trip.  Covered everything I wanted to see and do.  There were however, some lessons learned.

• For a first time visit, I will always book some kind of tour.  It is such a great way to learn a lot and experience how things work in that country.  Having a tour director like Simone (lady to the far left in the photo) who has been a tour director for over 20 years all over the world, was priceless.  She took such good care of us and really does her homework.  You could ask her anything and she would either know the answer or find it for you.

• Next time, however, I will ask a few more questions.  Some days were really, really long!  Up and out by 7:30 AM and not back in your room until after 10 PM.  On the go all day.  All of us were exhausted.  Also, this trip was a bit too physical for some folks.  We had two guests who were walking with canes.  Tromping up and down hills and over cobblestones was really tough if not impossible for them!

•  When I do another tour, I will seek out a smaller group.  Speaking for myself only, it is hard to be packed in a coach all day with so many folks.  Right off the bat two people came down with colds and soon 5-7 folks had the cold.  No fun.  And, at least for me, it's hard to get acquainted with so many people.  Even over 2 weeks.  

•  Last but not least, I will never again fly through JFK.  OMG...what a nightmare!  There were literally thousands of people trying to get through Customs.  When that horror was over it was a VERY long walk to the gate.  Too big!  Not enough staff to help you.  Nuts Oh!!

I hope to go back some day.  Maybe actually play a round of golf at St. Andrews.  Spend more time in the Orkney Islands to see more.  Do some actual hiking through the highlands.  All of that would be fabulous.  We'll see.  Maybe someday.

Thanks for sharing this adventure with me.  It was fun to know that folks were following along back home.