We had such an epic trip. There were so many varied events, here is the end of the tale.
The Great Outdoors
Scotland was magical. It is the birthplace of golf, so of course we had to hit the links. Wearing tam o' shanters, of course.
We also somehow made it up Arthur's Seat. That particular hike was a bit above our skill set, but I was so proud that we made it. The views from the top at sunset were stunning.
My favorite was a walk along the Water of Leith. That was like time travel. That was also the day I hit 24K on my Fitbit, a PB for this sandwich loving gal.
Get Ready for Your Close Up
We had such an amazing experience with Flytographer last year in Paris, we decided to do it again. Eventually, we would like to have a wall filled with pictures from around the world. We opted to meet our photographer in front of the Tower Bridge. This is hands-down the easiest way to work with a vacation photographer. (Use my code 'NICOLEALAEE' for some bucks off of your next photo session.)
Pinkies Up
I knew that when we were in the UK, I had to get my tea-drinking pants on. We opted to book an afternoon tea at the Palm Court at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. It surpassed all of my wildest tea-based dreams. The room is beautifully decorated, and high above us all sat an actual harp player. Next up, here comes the tea. Our server stood in front of our table, held two scalding pots over her head, and proceeded to pour the tea perfectly.
It was impressive, to say the least. The best part? It is an endless parade of delicious treats. We sampled everything from Haggis puff pastry (outstanding) to finger sandwiches (just like in all of the English books I have ever read) to the star of the show, scones with clotted cream and jam (sadly not my favorite).
The food...it just kept coming. I thought it would be tea and a few biscuits; it was a feast for a king and queen.
The only thing that would have made this better? If my friend Lori (a former resident of Scotland!) was there, and if I had a fascinator to wear. Maybe next time.
Honorable Mentions
It is definitely important to build in some rest time during a long vacation. We got facials in Edinburgh. Next time, I will also schedule a pedicure and a strategically placed massage.
One of our favorite lunches were at Borough Market in London (this place will be held in my memory as 'The Place Where I Ordered a Sandwich from One Vendor Whilst Eating a Sandwich from Another Vendor'). Class, personified.
The other favorite was a little shop in Brussels called Ton Ton Garby. We stood in line for a crazy long time; when we finally reached the front, the friendliest man alive made a sandwich just for me and my taste buds, then did the same for Spencer. Best wait-for-food experience ever.
We tried Turkish food for the first time at Tas Pide, it was delightful.
We rode on a train from London to Edinburgh and London to Brussels, it is my new favorite way to travel. I think my Dad will be proud.
It truly was the trip of a lifetime.
I came home feeling inspired, hungry for knowledge, and incredibly lucky to have gone with the love of my life. Thanks for coming along for the ride, friends.
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