Scotland may be one of the countries with the most impressive culture. Although it’s part of the United Kingdom, it holds its own remarkable history dating from the Gaelic Kingdom since the ninth century. It’s also where history was best preserved, and you can see entire Neolithic villages there, as the Skara Brae found on the west coast of the Mainland.
People didn’t alter nature here, so you’ll see it in one of its most pure forms. Lochs have freshwater, highlands have wildlife, and castles have magic symbolism. However, be prepared to face one of the cloudiest days in Scotland all year round. While it may sound like an infinite autumn day, this gives Scotland that specific feeling.
Here’s what else you need to know before traveling to the land of the Scots.
Internet connection may be disappointing
The proof that Scotland is made for sightseeing stands in their poor internet connection. While most citizens have access to it, their broadband is rather slow, so only around half of them have speedy internet. At the same time, some areas lack good connection more than others, such as Shetland, Bute, or Galloway, where you’ll need an eSIM card to access the internet, talk to friends and family, or post photos on social media.
Getting a digital card is also a way to save money on your international trip because while visiting the country is not that expensive, you might be charged a lot if you come from another country. Another way to get a good connection is to buy a local sim for a limited amount of GB, which might be pricier than a digital sim. This system also allows most smartphone brands to be compatible, so you can even have a Google Fi eSIM.
The freedom to roam lets you explore more of Scotland
Most countries have trespassing signs all over, so you can’t really see what’s around them. However, Scotland has this wonderful “freedom to roam” rule in the countryside that lets you explore the land of citizens or private companies.
So, if you see a remarkable piece of land and want to walk over there, you are allowed. This applies to almost anything but houses, gardens, porches, and military bases. At the same time, you take full accountability for your actions by being allowed to walk on someone’s land. That means you must be responsible for the damage you might do in that place because the right to roam includes respecting people’s interests and the environment.
Travel seasons in Scotland are different than in other places
As you may know, the weather in Scotland is cloudy all year round. However, you might be able to catch some sun in the high season, which starts in July and ends in September. During this time, the sun is out most of the time, and the weather is more pleasant. Considering this, you must expect many tourists to form crowds in bigger cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Aberdeen.
There’s also the shoulder season, which occurs during different times of the year, from May to June and late September to November. These are the months when the weather is rather chilly, with many rainy days, meaning fewer travelers. Therefore, you might get great deals and prices for your trip.
Finally, the low season, which lasts from late November to April, is the coldest one. Rain and snow storms are frequent during these months, so it might not be the best time to roam around Scotland. It is also the time with the lowest demand, so prices are highly affordable, but you must be prepared with raincoats, boots, umbrellas, and sturdy clothing. Participating in Scottish holiday festivals might be worth it during this season.
Learn a little bit of the local language
Since Scotland is part of the UK, everyone here speaks English, but with a sprinkle of Scottish dialect, which may be one of the most confusing. Luckily, Scots are friendly and will gladly make you understand them, but you’ll still need to learn a thing or two about the local language.
For example, lochs are known as lakes. Everywhere you go, you’ll hear about Loch Ness, Scotland’s freshwater lake, of which fame came from the Loch Ness Monster. There’s also Loch Maree, part of the UK’s oldest National Nature Reserve.
Hills or Bens is used when talking about mountains. Ben Nevis is the highest peak in Scotland, at 1,345 meters above sea level. Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano hill that is famous for climbers.
There are also glens known as valleys, like Glen Clova or Glen Coe. Knowing these basic terms will save you a lot of time and also help you roam around the country by actually knowing what you’re seeing and visiting.
Get ready for the best whisky and foods
Scotland is the land of over 140 distilleries, producing the most and best whisky in the world. Scots make the best whisky by distilling and maturing it in specific ways. At the same time, their recipes include lots of fruits and less peat, giving the drink a unique taste. If you want to taste authentic whisky, go to Islay, Highland, or Campbeltown. Still, other regions offer the possibility of visiting distilleries in which drinks are left in oak casks for many years.
Of course, Scotland also has remarkable cuisine. Scottish people usually eat mashed potatoes or turnips next to a glass of whisky. But the country’s national dish is the haggis, a meal made of sheep heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with plenty of vegetables like onions and spices. You should also try the full Scottish breakfast, the Cullen Skink, and the black pudding.
What do you think about Scotland?
Scotland is one of the best countries in the world to visit, but while it’s not always sunny there, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, the rich history, unique culture and architecture, and people’s good hearts will amaze you.