We wanted to squeeze in a quick trip to Edinburgh before the Winter took hold. And look what welcomed us.
So what else to do with sunny weather but to explore. My first impression was that one again, everything moves a lot slower when compared to London and there is more greenery. Admittedly it was a great time of year, with plenty of green grass and an amazing array of colours in the trees.
One of the nearby hills. Another novelty when compared to London. The ability to get just a little bit of altitude to survey your surroundings. Below is a rare shot that gives evidence that we do actually travel together. Thanks Jen (our host, a friend from college).
Rest assured it wasn't too long before I heard and spied a piper, red hair and all. Huffing and puffing and squeezing away.
They are actually quite common on the Royal Mile. Below is part of the Royal Mile. It stretches from the castle on top of the hill. The Royal Mile stretches to the city wall that surrounds the castle. This use to be the safe place to live. Given all the raiding and violent history it may have been to keep the English out or to keep the Scots out. The royal mile became so built in that they actually started digging 5 levels below ground. These were terribly cramped, dark and damp places that were used to house the poor and sick.
A view of the castle from the hills next to Edinburgh.
And a view out the other direction. Over the other palace and the Firth of Forth (North Sea). Apparently Elizabeth still spends 1 month a year up here.
And of course, what tour would be complete without some haggis (with Neeps and Tatties (Turnips and Potato)). They also do a vegetarian option, which I find a little weird considering it is still cooked in a sheep's stomach.
Overall, Edinburgh was great and we are keen to go back. But we are also keen to get to the highlands and see the heart of Scotland.BRUSSELS
With back to back weekends and burning the candle at both ends, the next weekend we were off to Belgium. We booked this trip ages ago (Aug/Sept), because this is how far in advance you had to book to get cheap Eurostar tickets. This is the train that takes you under the sea and over to Europe. We heard that it was the only way to travel and it sure did live up to its reputation. No airport way out of town, you just head to King's Cross station in the city. Only need to arrive 30 minutes before hand. A much more streamlined customs and security check. And only 1hr and 55min from London to Brussels, and you bring on your own food and drinks.
People have mixed feelings about Brussels. It doesn't really have any European icons, no major cities and not even it's own language. But there was only one thing I was there for. Food. Beer, waffles and chocolate.
The beers were great. So tasty and so much variety. Some have been brewing for nearly 1,000 years. A few bad choices which were a little too fruity. Just beware the 9 and 11% ones on an empty stomach.
Waffles. What can I say. They are great. Hot and sugary. One can never have too many. Although the waffle with Haagen Daas ice-cream and Dulce de Leche did leave me satisfied for a little while.
Of course, there was the obligatory walking. Primarily to get to the next eatery but to also work up the appetite.
And the standard church and plaza.I won't be rushing back to Brussels, but I will be back to Belgium to indulge once again.
Here are some more photos to keep you clicking.
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| Edinburgh and Brussels |
