 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
Day 12
Morning: Today we set off around 9am for a 1.5-hour drive to St. Andrews. Quaint stone buildings, cobbled streets, and crumbling ruins instantly transport you back to the old days of this historically-rich city. Considered to be the ecclesiastical capital, St. Andrews was the first location to feel the stark changes of the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. The introduction of the new ideas of Protestantism and the traditional beliefs of Christianity ignited conflict within Scotland and the country's ruling parties. We'll take a deep dive into this period of Scotland's history as we explore St. Andrews today with a local guide. We'll also have the opportunity to visit Scotland's oldest university and one of the oldest colleges in the world, the University of St. Andrews. The school was founded in 1413 because of Scotland's lack of higher education opportunities. Notable alumni include Kate Middleton and Prince William. During our time here, we'll meet with a scholar who attended the university and served on its board of trustees; he will tell us about how this college paved the way for other higher education opportunities in Scotland. We'll dive into the school's history and discover how it has transformed into the university it is today by learning about the resources that it offers its students. Our walking tour will wrap up around 12:30pm. Lunch: On your own in St. Andrews after 12:30pm. You might like to seek out bridie, a popular meat pie that is typically served with beans. Afternoon: You'll have some time to make your own discoveries in St. Andrews. Golf fans might like to visit the Old Course, where the game of golf originated in the 15th century. Follow in the footsteps of some of this sport's greats, like James Braid or Old Tom Morris, by taking a few swings at the putting green. You can also learn more about the history of the game by stopping by the Gold Museum. We'll regroup around 3:30pm and drive about 1.5 hours to our hotel in Edinburgh. Depending on where we stay, amenities may include a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and gym. Typically, each of the hotel's rooms features a TV, coffee- and tea-making facilities, wireless Internet access, and a private bathroom. After checking in to our hotel, you'll have some free time to unpack, settle in, or begin exploring on your own. Then, at about 6pm, we'll take a short orientation walk around the vicinity of the hotel, ending at a local bus stop. Tonight, we'll travel as the locals do--on the public bus. Our destination: A local restaurant in the center of town. Dinner: At a local restaurant around 6:45pm, featuring the traditional Scottish dishes we have come to know. Evening: We'll return to our hotel by bus, arriving around 8:30. Or, if you'd like, you can remain in the city center to take advantage of the capital city's nightlife. Freedom to Explore During your three days in Edinburgh, you have the freedom to explore this capital city on your own during your free time. Below are some recommended options for independent explorations: Set off on an Invisible City Tour: Join a tour group that is making a difference in Edinburgh and shining a light on the struggles that locals without homes face. These tours are led by homeless people, and not only provide insight into the history of the city, but also what it's like to sleep on the streets.
How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute taxi ride, about $15 USD one way.
Visit Roslyn Chapel: Built in the 15th century, this historical site took around 40 years to finish. As you explore the church, notice the impressive number of stone carvings that depict nature and sacred symbols. The church is an active site of worship and is still in use today.
How to get there: A 35- to 45-minute bus ride, about $7 USD one way.
See the inner workings of Parliament: Discover the moving parts of Scotland's government during a visit to Parliament. Scottish Parliament can be traced back to the 13th century, and today you'll learn how this body of government has changed since its establishment. You may even have the opportunity to meet with a member of Parliament to get an authentic glimpse of this Scottish authority.
How to get there: A 25- to 30-minute taxi ride, about $13 USD one way.
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
5/7/21 |
|||
 |
|
 |
|
Overland to Edinburgh
Breakfast: Served at the hotel from 7am-9am, with Scottish and American options available.