Scotland is educational for children, excellent for couples seeking romance and a great trip for families who want to trace their history. But like most European vacations these days, Scotland is not a cheap trip. This article outlines ways to make the visit affordable and fun.
The least expensive time to travel to Scotland is from November through mid-December. The price goes up slightly around Christmas, then falls again in January through early March. Traveling to Scotland in winter is an invitation to bundle up, play in snow and see historic monuments at their most forbidding. For the intrepid traveler, this is an invitation to an adventure.
Scotland in winter is bone-chilling. It snows, the ground is frequently icy and it gets dark early. You should pack like an arctic explorer. Bring warm, waterproof shoes that have great traction. You'll need sweaters, overcoats, scarves, hats and gloves. Make sure your health is reasonably good. A cold can take a serious turn in the wrong conditions. Unless you are comfortable driving in bad weather, you should plan to stay in locations where cabs and trains are easily available.
Scotland in winter is romantic. You will be spending many an evening near a fire sipping hot drinks before retiring to fluffy beds for long rainy nights. If you are taking a special someone to Scotland, you will probably find this is the best vacation you've ever had.
Families who need to entertain children will probably find themselves out and about during the day. This is a good time to look at castles and rings of standing stones. You can stay out a bit later in the afternoon to check out museums, but remember that it's best to be close to your hotel when it gets dark. Sometimes rain and snow make travel more exciting than you would like them to be.
Have a great book to read, art supplies to work with, a journal to keep, good family or friends to spend time with and you'll have an excellent vacation in Scotland. If you stay in a city such as Glasgow or Edinburgh, you will find that pubs, restaurants, concerts and plays are frequently an option. If these things interest you, you can elect to book a hotel room near city centers. You'll pay more, but it will be worth the investment.
Scottish people are welcoming and kind, the countryside is beautiful and the cities are unforgettable. If you are looking for a winter vacation you'll treasure for a lifetime, Scotland won't disappoint you. Plan carefully, pack correctly, take the right people and you'll have a wonderful time.
