Welcome to Scotland 😊
Aye, Scotland! The land of kilts, bagpipes, and spectacular landscapes. From the rugged highlands to the charming lowlands, Scotland has something for everyone. Want to explore ancient castles? Check. Love whiskey? Double check. Craving some hearty, delicious grub? You're in the right place.
Edinburgh, the capital city, will wow you with its stunning architecture, rich history, and famous festivals. Don't miss the Edinburgh Castle perched high atop a cliff or the Royal Mile, a bustling street filled with shops and restaurants.
If you're feeling adventurous, head up north to the Scottish Highlands. Here you'll find breathtaking scenery, including majestic mountains and tranquil lochs. Explore the famous Loch Ness and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Nessie.
But don't forget about the lowlands, which are home to charming towns and cities, including Glasgow, Dundee, and Stirling. Glasgow is a cultural hub known for its music scene and vibrant nightlife. Stirling is steeped in history and boasts a stunning castle overlooking the town.
No matter where you go in Scotland, you'll be greeted by friendly locals, incredible sights, and a warm welcome. So grab your tartan and let's explore this magical land!
Quick Facts About Scotland
- Currency: Pound sterling (GBP)
- Population: 5.5 million
- Languages: There is no official national language of Scotland, but English, Scots, and Scottish Gaelic are commonly spoken.
Money and Finances
The currency used in Scotland is the Pound Sterling (GBP). Coins in circulation include 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2, and notes come in denominations of £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available in Scotland, especially in the cities and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept international cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Scotland, particularly Visa and Mastercard. Some smaller establishments may not accept AMEX, so it's always a good idea to have an alternative payment method available. Contactless payments are also becoming more popular in Scotland.
Internet and Phones
In Scotland, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is around 30 Mbps. There is generally no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The major telco companies in Scotland are EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three. The average cost of a mobile phone plan in Scotland varies depending on the provider and package, but is generally comparable to other Western European countries. Sim compatibility should not be an issue for most visitors as Scotland uses the GSM network like much of the world.
Dialling to Scotland
To call Scotland from another country, you will need to dial the country code +44. When dialling within the country, you will need to include the area code, which varies depending on the area you are calling.
Transport Around Scotland
Air Travel
Scotland has six major airports, including Glasgow International Airport and Edinburgh Airport.
Train Travel
Scotland has an extensive inter-city train network, with ticket prices ranging from £10-£50 and journey times typically ranging from 1-3 hours.
Metro / Local Trains
Edinburgh and Glasgow have their own metro systems, offering easy transport within the cities.
Buses
Scotland also has a well-connected bus network, with ticket prices ranging from £1-£20 and journey times varying depending on the distance.
Rideshare
Uber and other rideshare companies operate in Scotland, with average travel prices varying depending on the distance travelled.
Driving by Car
Driving in Scotland can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and varying speed limits. The usual speed limits are 30mph in urban areas and 60mph on single carriageways, and Scotland uses left-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Scotland, it is not necessary to tip, although rounding up the bill in restaurants and giving a small tip to taxi drivers is common. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake and a simple 'hello' or 'hi'. Bowing is not a common practice. Scottish people are friendly and approachable, so striking up a conversation with strangers is not unusual. Men and women generally address each other with the same level of formality, although some people may use terms of endearment in familiar situations.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Scotland's health system is publicly funded and free at the point of use, providing access to medical and dental care. Some services may require a fee, such as prescription medication, but costs are relatively low. A visit to the doctor generally costs around 50-70 pounds.
COVID Situation
Scotland has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including social distancing and mask mandates. As of September 2021, the vaccination rate is high with over 4 million people fully vaccinated, and the number of new cases per day has been decreasing.
Common Health Risks
The main health risks for travelers to Scotland are related to weather conditions and outdoor activities. Hypothermia and altitude sickness can occur during hiking and mountaineering, and ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other infections in rural areas. Foodborne illnesses are also a potential risk, so it's important to practice good hygiene and avoid consuming undercooked meat or unpasteurized dairy products.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
The legal drinking age in Scotland is 18. However, it is illegal to purchase alcohol for anyone under the age of 18. There are also restrictions on the sale of alcohol in certain areas, such as near schools or during certain times. In addition, there are laws against public drunkenness and disorderly conduct.
Recreational Drugs
Recreational drug use, including cannabis, is illegal in Scotland. Possession and sale can lead to fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. However, there are some medical exceptions for cannabis use with a prescription.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Scotland has no laws prohibiting pre-marital relationships or cohabitation. The legal age of consent is 16. There are laws against sexual offences such as rape and sexual assault.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Scotland is considered one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2014. There are also anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ individuals in areas such as employment and education.
Firearms / Guns
Firearms are regulated under the Firearms Act of 1968. There are strict laws governing the use, ownership, and possession of firearms in Scotland. A license is required, and background checks are conducted before the license is granted. The use of firearms in self-defense is not permitted.
Regions in Scotland
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Scotland, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Scotland
