ProloguePolished by fat Atlantic waves, the island of Great Britain and the island of Ireland are like two gemstones worn by the Eurasia, unparalleled for their charming cities, compelling history and well preserved scenery. The United Kingdom politically comprises the island of Great Britain, the northern portion of the island of Ireland and most of the remaining British Isles. When it comes to holidaying, nature lovers and beach goers will make a beeline for the Wild Atlantic Way on the island of Ireland while most urban explorers often choose to wile away their vocations on the island of Great Britain. Both of them, however, aren't short of green parks, mesmerising museums, buzzing markets, captivating cemeteries, stunning churches, turquoise sea water, tantalising food and so forth.For fans of fantasy epic shows, Throners or Potterheads for instance, UK is always on the top of their traveling lists and has never failed to offer those location pilgrims the same scene as magical as they are filmed in the show.First time EdinburghClassic and stunning it looks as you step into the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh. Standing anywhere and looking around, you can always spot a medieval castle perched on a rocky hill, there's the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Walking along the buzzing Prince Street, you can't help marveling at the towering Scott Monument. Spare a half day and immerse yourself in the Holyrood Park where, standing atop the Arthur's Seat, daring travelers will enjoy unparalleled panoramic views and feel gusts of fierce wind blowing from the North Sea. As evening falls, find yourself a traditional pub or a decent restaurant and try to travel like a local.(The dawn sun casts a golden glow over the Edinburgh Airport)I always prefer arriving at one destination when the the morning twilight breaks. The problem with jet lag even seems to be cured by curiosity and enthusiasm.(Edinburgh Airport is where Scotland meets the world)How about starting your travel story with the story of Captain Eric Melrose Brown? You can learn the story of UK's greatest pilot once you step out of the Edinburgh Airport. His statue shows a great man's courage and self confidence. First flight from this very airfield at his age of eight, 487 different aircraft types, 2407 successful aircraft carrier deck landing, 2721 catapult launches, he got all these and beyond in his life.Probably the most convenient and economical way from Edinburgh airport to city centre is taking the bus Airlink 100 which costs 4.5 pounds for a single and 7.5 pounds for an open return. Furthermore, If taking buses is necessary for your sightseeing in Edinburgh, I highly suggest buying, from any bus driver, one day-ticket allowing you take any bus within a single day.Enjoy a Short Climb up Calton HillSet right in the centre of Edinburgh, Calton Hill is not just a hill with grassy slopes and volcanic base but its historic and literary tales are also told by a jumble of historic monuments, the Dugald Steward Monument, the National monument, the Nelson Monument and so forth.Ascending from the Regent road to the top of Calton Hill, you'll firstly find the Dugald Steward Monument in commemoration of the famous writer and philosopher Dugald Steward. William H. Playfair designed the Monument after the fashion of ancient Greek Monument of Lysicrates in Athens.Giant granite pillars holding up huge heavy blocks, the National monument was one of many public buildings with Greek neo-classical style in Edinburgh. It was initiated in 1816, a year after Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo, and modelled on the celebrated Parthenon in Athens. What we see now is only its facade and the remaining part was never completed when funds ran dry in 1829. It gains popularity with hundreds of thousands travellers from all over the world and Edinburgh the title of 'The Athens of the North'.Southwest to the National monument is the Nelson Monument, rising more than 30 metres high. It commemorates the naval hero Admiral Horatio Nelson who died leading his fleet to victory at the battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805. Besides commemorating the heroic figure, it was also put into naval use as the up-ended time-ball dropped daily allowing ships in Leith Harbour to set their chronometers by it.If you are searching for grand outlooks of Edinburgh, one perspective is right here, and the other is the top of Arthur's Seat. Silhouettes of spires, towers and the Castle are thrown into relief against an azure blue sky.Beside the giraffe-like Old Observatory House, two men are setting up tripods to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.Walking down stairs to the Regent road, you will spot a grand complex housing what looks like a government body. Your instinct tells you right, there's the Scottish Government.Explore the Highlights of the CastleAs part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh's World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle is a world famous icon of Scotland and the most popular attraction in Edinburgh. Its history dates back to 12th century when this fortress was erected atop an extinct volcano for military use. The whole castle, however, was not completed at one time and has a quite complicated building history.St Margaret's Chapel is the oldest part of Edinburgh Castle. This private chapel was once used by Scotland's royal family to worship and is continuing to host weddings and christenings.Queen Margaret, after which it was named, was King David I's mother and performed many acts of charity, thus being loved and esteemed by Scottish people.Most of the chapel, the ornate arches for instance, are original, while other features such as the stained glass windows are inlaid anew.Wandering in Edinburgh Castle, you are bound to be attracted by many medieval guns showing the strength and prestige of Scotland's Kings. The most famous one is Mons Meg, named after the Belgian town where she was made and given, by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, to King James II in 1457. She had been put into military use since then and ended her fighting days around 1550.The Crown Square is the very heart of Edinburgh Castle with the Great Hall to the south, the Scottish National War Memorial to the north, the Royal Palace to the east and the Museum of the Royal Regiment for Scotland to the west. This quadrangle took shape over time and was not completed until the early 1500s.The magnificent Great hall was built for King James IV (1488-1513) as a majestic setting for ceremonial occasions, accommodating grand banquets and state events. Black beams rest on stones and iron swords fan out on red walls. Oliver Cromwell captured the Castle in 1650 and converted the Hall into a soldier's barracks. Over 200 years later, it was restored to its medieval splendour and used today for state and royal functions.The Great Hall today displays large quantities of weapons and armour, telling of its past of clashes.The Invaluable Crown, Sceptre and Sword of State, made of gold, silver and precious gems, are displayed in the Crown Room located on the first floor of the Royal Palace. James V firstly wore the Crown at the coronation of Queen Mary of Guise in 1540. The Crown and the Sceptre were together used in the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots in 1543.Located at the north side of Crown Square is the Scottish National War Memorial, which commemorating those who died in both world wars and conflicts since 1945. Gazing at the sculptures and stained glass, you will learn some moving scenes from the First World War. Other fine works symbolise courage, peace, justice and survival of the spirit. Remember to peer closely at the animal figures portraying the virtues and vices.Passing through the Castle's Gatehouse and looking up, you will see the Half Moon Battery set up in the late 16th century, with a crescent of guns hiding behind crenels. When Scotland was at war, these guns defended the Half Moon Battery and cannons rained down on enemies on their approach to enter the Castle.While the Half Moon Battery is defending the Castle's gate, the Mill's Mount Battery is guarding the north beyond the Castle.Dating from 1861, the firing of the One o'Clock Gun sent signals for ships to set their maritime clocks, one idea brought by John Hewitt from Paris. Everyday at 1pm, the gun is still fired, except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. It may bring a burst of shock to the people on Princes Street below.Compared to other highlights, the Scottish National War Museum was initiated later, after the First World War. It boasts many fascinating items well reserved from wars, including letters home from foreign campaigns, Highland broadswords and chemical warfare suits. Its home, built in the 1700s, was once used to store ordnance and later used as a military hospital.Having finished a satisfying tour in the Castle, do not forget to pause on the esplanade before leaving. It was laid out in 1753 as a parade ground for troops. More than 300 women, accused of being witches, were burned to death at the stake here in the 16th and 17th century. Next to the gift shop Castlehill Cashmere there is the Witches Well in commemoration of those women.Lining the north edge of the esplanade, a few monuments were erected in memory of Field Marshal Frederick Sleigh Roberts (1832-1914), one of the most successful British military commanders of his time, Colonel Kenneth Douglas Mackenzie (1754-1833) and men died in the South African War.Stroll around the GalleryBoth the National Gallery Building and the Royal Scottish Academy Building serve as the home of Scottish National Gallery, modern paintings displayed in the former whilst old ones in the latter.The Scottish National Gallery displays some of the greatest art from the early Renaissance to the beginning of the 21st century. Strolling around the gallery you'll find many renowned painters learned from history or art books, including Raphael, Velázquez, Vermeer, Monet, Cézanne and Van Gogh. By visiting the most comprehensive part of the collection which covers the history of Scottish painting you'll find major names like Ramsay, Raeburn, Wilkie and McTaggart.Fuel up in A Mouthwatering RestaurantAfter a morning tour looking back to Scotland's history, you must be in desperate search of a mouthwatering restaurant. With an array of excellent bars, cafes and restaurants serving up from quality coffee, local meals, craft beer to sweet stuff, you'll be spoiled for choice in Edinburgh.Hidden in the Old Fishmarket Close - many closes along the Royal Mile are worthy of exploration by the way - the Wings has a menu that lists various sauces or seasonings topping bowls of freshly fried wings. Probably you also need to order a beer to wash down.You may be stunned by countless photos hanging on the kitchen's wall the moment you enter the restaurant. That is its Wall of Flame awaiting brave challengers to claim a place upon it.Wander up ThoroughfaresIf shopping is more your bag than architectural or historic swooning, make a beeline for the Royal Mile or the Princes Street, both of which buzz with cobbled streets and many shops selling the holy trinity of tartan, cashmere, whisky, fashionable make-up, voguish clothing and abundant trinkets.For Potterheads and Throners, head to the gift shop Castlehill Cashmere which is just set beside the Castle's esplanade and sells countless souvenirs of globally famous Harry Potter and Game of Thrones.The Royal Mile is also an open-air theatre. A witch floating on her broom makes passers-by wonder how she makes it happen. A bagpipe performer with traditional garment - formally including kilt, kilt shirt, argyle, jacket, sporran, belt and buckle, kilt hose, ghillie brogues, kilt pin and flashes - is attracting a kid for a group photo. A magician standing on a suitcase with a firing torch in his hand is earning a circle of applause.Royal Mile's beautiful architecture is the main draw for visitors in Edinburgh's Old Town. With the Castle at its one end and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other, the Royal Mile also has lots of historic buildings stuffed in between, for instance, the St Gile's Cathedral, the Museum of Edinburgh and the Scottish Parliament. Apart from grand buildings, you will come across many statues as well, including Adam Smith, known as 'The Father of Economics', and David Hume, a Scottish Enlightenment philosopher, historian, economist and essayist.The Princes Street is dominated by the Scott Monument, built in memory of novelist Sir Walter Scott in 1832. Get inside to see an exhibition on his life and enjoy a grand view atop the spire.“Birthplace” of Harry PotterLeaving the Royal Mile and walking down the George IV Bridge Street, you'll find a striking red cafe, the elephant house, attracting Potterheads from all over the world to pay a visit. It is said that JK Rowling used to order a cup of coffee in this house and sit for a whole day, composing the story of a boy wizard. The cafe is usually crammed with customers and you cannot be luckier if you happened to get an available table. One thing that Potterheads must do in this cafe is paying homage to Harry on the toilet walls.A few doors down the elephant house is Greyfriars Bobby's Bar, well known for a dog named Bobby. The story is that Bobby held a 14-year vigil at the grave of his master, a policeman named John Gray who was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard when Bobby was only two. Bobby's nose has been rubbed discoloured by visitors for good luck.Hike up Arthur's SeatHolyrood park is the largest green park in Edinburgh and the top choice for weekend hikers. Here you can enjoy views as stupendous as the Highland will offer you. There are cliffs, lochs, ruins, marshland, and wildflowers. It reaches 251m above sea level at its highest point. Robert Louis Stevenson, one of the world's greatest novelists in 19th century, once described it as 'a hill for magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design'.To clime up the mountain, you can choose to start from either the entrance in the south or that in the north, both are on the Queen's Dr Road.In May, the mountains in Holyrood Park are clad with heather and gorse. Bold or not, you can always pick an appropriate route in the park. Those who fancy the climb will take their steps along the cliff edge, rewarding them with panoramic views across the city. Ambling along the route down the valley, you have sea gulls as constant companions.English people like doing sports, cyclists and joggers being the most frequently spotted, and you will spot ever more around the park.The St Margaret's Loch situated at the very north of Holyrood Park is a gem often missed by visitors. Circling around the lake offers you superb views. Clusters of swans, sea gulls and pigeons land beside the lake and fight against each other for the food cast by visitors.Everything here is so tranquil and seems to be made for a purpose. Though heavily worn, this bench is preserved in loving memory of Ian Shein, a witty, generous and proud Edinburgh man cherished by all fortunate enough to have known him.Where to Buy Cost-effective Items?Edinburgh locals often go to Meadowbank for shopping. There are quite many supermarkets and stores selling items with great prices, from luxury goods to daily use. Pay only 9.99 pounds for a CK shirt and another 16.99 pounds for a Diesel one. Is it true that twelve fresh eggs only cost 1 pound?Hit the Road of Scottish HighlandsA journey to Scotland is not complete unless you have enjoyed the picturesque landscape of the Highlands, which covers roughly half of Scotland. The area is very sparsely populated, with a lot of mountain ranges dominating the region and isles spreading along its western coast.One moment, you are thinking grand skies, tranquil lochs, mind-blowing landscapes, authentic food and hospitable people, and, the next moment, Scottish Highlands appears from your imagination. Drive through Britain's largest National Park, marvel at the dramatic beauty of Glen Coe, explore the mysterious Loch Ness. It is true that a Highlands holiday will see you get lost. If you don't get so much time nevertheless, the Luss Town situated on the western shores of Loch Lomond is a popular stopping-off point for visitors.Luss is particularly famous for its beautifully decorated cottages, made of slate and garlanded in rambling roses. There are no more than 500 residents living here. It also appears as a backdrop in television programmes, most nobly the drama series Take the High Road.As the largest freshwater lake in mainland Britain, Loch Lomond is 24 miles long, 5 miles across at its widest point and 643 feet from its surface to the deepest bottom. A narrow, sandy, pebbly strand runs between the lake and the town, frequented by local residents to kiss the nature. Presided over by Ben Lomond, Britain's highest peak, the lake has a pier providing visitors with boat riding service.Near the pier is a gift shop where you will find a carefully chosen collection of stylish, Scottish inspired gifts and handcrafted products made lovingly by local craftspeople.The Luss Parish Church, built in 1875, is surrounded by towering trees, so you may overlook it if you don't notice with attention. It contains many interesting stones and is well worth a visit. A father is putting his adorable boy on the fence stone and snapping a photo with the church as the backdrop.Tracing the earlier religious history of Luss, you should go further south. A big wooden cross standing at the center of a vast grass land, marking its history as a pilgrimage center and maintaining the Christian message for over 1500 years.Your stomach will be feeling the emptiness after a thorough walk around the town. The Luss Seafood Bar provides fine dinning for visitors. On its smokehouse platter is a generous selection of smoked salmon, seafood from its neighbours at Luss Smokehouse, artisan bread, lumps of cheese and fresh basil. Its elegant terrace is an alternative when indoor dinning hall is packed with growing visitors. Bon Appétit!Check Out the Art Scene in GlasgowAs the cultural capital and the largest city of Scotland, Glasgow often attracts visitors from Edinburgh to call at owning to the short distance between these two cities. Glasgow may not have looks as stately good as Edinburgh's, yet it isn't short of famous art scenes, decent restaurants, passionate night life and friendliness of its people.The house of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a Victorian red sandstone building, is surrounded by grass expanses of Kelvingrove Park and the River Kelvin. It is home to 22 themed and staggering galleries displaying roughly 8000 objects.If you visit the Gallery at 3pm of every Sunday, you will be very lucky to hear the the Organ Recital coming from the second floor of the central hall's end. The huge and magnificent organ is built for the 1901 Glasgow International Exhibition. At the very heart of the central hall stands a dinosaur's complete skeleton, and square pillars covered with copper plates writing names of the Gallery's donors line the central hall.The Gallery's collections are truly wide-ranging and extensive, including art from many art movements and periods of history, creatures of the present and the past, Scotland's wildlife, items of ancient Egypt, arms and armour, etc. There is even a Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling of the west court.Leonardo da Vinci: A Life in DrawingThe small exhibition of Leonardo da Vinci's drawings, set on the lower ground floor of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, marks the 500th anniversary of the death of the Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci with a display of his 12 extraordinary works, which reflect the full range of Leonardo's interests and greatest achievements in painting, sculpture, architecture, music, anatomy, engineering, cartography, geology and botany. It is held from 1 February to 6 May 2019 and the entry is free.The exhibition has drawn a close in Glasgow, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t get any chance to appreciate them any more. A piece of good news is that in the summer of 2019 all of these works will be brought together in a single exhibition at the Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace in London, followed by a selection of 80 works at the Queen’s Gallery in Edinburgh in the winter of 2019-20. For more information, you can visit www.rct.uk Walk in Famed Visionaries' FootstepsThe iconic tower of the University of Glasgow overlooks Kelvingrove Park and the River Kelvin, as seen from the steps in front of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Taking five minutes' walk from the Gallery to the northwest and across the Patrick bridge spanning the River Kelvin, you will get to the gate of the University. It truly doesn't have an outstanding gate, as most of universities in Britain does, but it does have an acclaimed reputation as the fourth-oldest university in the English speaking world.The campus is perched on Gilmorehill overlooking the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the buzzing West End. The Gilbert Scott Building, named after its designer Sir George Gilbert Scott, is striking and grand to eyes. George actually designed many of the buildings in the campus. The Gothic bell tower in the middle is 85 metres high. In front of the main building is a downward garden with fully blossomed tulips pointing skywards.The University's main building is a rectangle complex with two open-air quadrangles inside, one cupped by the University Chapel. It is said that walking across the grass land will bring the University's students bad luck before they graduate, so the first thing for most of fresh graduates here to do is taking full advantage of the freedom. The renowned Adam Smith Business school is set in the West Quadrangle. What connect the East and West Quadrangle are impressive cloisters with fluted columns and transverse ribbed vault.Heading up north from the main building, you'll meet a forest of modern skyscrapers, comprising the University Library which hosts more than 3 million volumes.The university has nurtured remarkable talents in areas of philosophy, economy, physics, politics and so forth, including Adam Smith, The Father of Economics, James Wilson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Lord Kelvin, an Ulster Scots Irish mathematical physicist, and Francis Hutcheson, one of the founding fathers of the Scottish Enlightenment.To be Continued
