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No matter what is the season right now, it is never too early to start thinking about a cozy break from the routines of everyday life. When I was planning a trip to Edinburgh in Scotland, I was considering an escape with exciting scenery and historic architecture. Edinburgh is a perfect destination to inspire me.
My tour guide was not only informed and entertaining; he was also enthusiastic to answer my many questions. He made my journey to Edinburgh as colorful as it is comfortable, but it was his passion for Scotland that made my trip truly unique and keep me wanting to visit again.
Scotland’s official animal is the Unicorn. A fictitious creature seems an odd choice for Scotland’s official animal, but perhaps not for a place famed for its love for and long history of myth and legends. The unicorn has been a Scottish heraldic symbol since the 12th century. It was used on an early form of the Scottish coat of arms by William I.
In Celtic mythology, the Unicorn of Scotland symbolized innocence, joy, and healing powers. It was also seen as a symbol of masculinity and authority.
Whether it is the brand new blooms of spring, summer’s brilliant colors, the golden leaves of autumn, or winter’s frosty trees, Scottish gardens are always spectacular and unforgettable. These beautiful sights outlined my trip to Scotland’s capital.
I took a break at Princes Street Gardens. In the shadow of the castle crag, it provided a refreshing spot in the heart of the city where I watched the world go by right before my eyes.
So rich is the city’s literary heritage that, in 2004, Edinburgh was honored by UNESCO as the world’s first City of Literature. The Writers’ Museum, just off the Royal Mile, is dedicated to the lives and works of Scottish writers through a series of temporary exhibitions.
Scottish monarchs lived in Edinburgh as early as the 11th century, but the city didn’t become the royal capital until the reign of King James II (1437 – 1460). Political power moved to London with the Act of Union in 1707. The Scotland Act of 1998 created a devolved Scottish Parliament.
During my visit to Edinburgh, I encountered many friendly people on the streets and in various places that I sojourned into. They seemed always ready to welcome visitors and were generous in offering help to foreign visitors like me. I got to enjoy an authentic glass of Scotch because a local woman recommended this wonderful brewery to me.
In recent years, the robust economy has turned Edinburgh into a stylish metropolis, whose quality of life is rated among the highest in England. My wonderful trip to Edinburgh provided me with a tranquil retreat. That gave my traveling its ultimate purpose.
Time flies and runs through our fingers. Though we are subject to clock and calendar, our days do belong to us when we remember to take a cozy break.
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