Climbing Cairn Gorm wasn't part of the plan. To be frank, little of my time in Scotland had turned out the way I'd anticipated but after chickening out of a driving tour of the Scottish Highlands, I'd missed my chance at climbing Ben Nevis, Scotland's tallest peak. In Inverness on my last day in Scotland, I decided that the nearby Cairn Gorm would have to do. Topping out at … [Read more...] about Cairn Gorm: The Mountain That (Almost) Ate My Memories
Europe
Up, Down, and Around Edinburgh’s Old Town
It’s been said that Edinburgh is the most beautiful city in Europe but until I got there, I didn’t believe it. It’s not that I expected Edinburgh to be unimpressive. It’s just that cities like Paris and Rome are usually on the receiving end of such accolades and, well, I hadn't even heard of Edinburgh being beautiful until I started planning my visit there. But now that I’ve … [Read more...] about Up, Down, and Around Edinburgh’s Old Town
5 Highlights of Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is a highlight for many visitors who visit Scotland’s capital city each year. Its historic and cultural significance and its imposing presence overlooking the city from atop its perch of jagged black volcanic rock makes it one of those sights you just have to see. … [Read more...] about 5 Highlights of Edinburgh Castle
A Date with the Dead at the Glasgow Necropolis
Of all the things to do in Glasgow, the Glasgow Necropolis was my favorite attraction, hands down. They call it the “City of the Dead” and it really is like a city unto itself. The inhabitants just happen to be--well--deceased. … [Read more...] about A Date with the Dead at the Glasgow Necropolis
Memories of Antwerp
Although I’m not a blonde, I felt every bit like Goldilocks sampling Belgian cities like the porridge of the three bears. Brugge was too hot. Too much activity and too many people in the city center. I enjoyed my trip off the beaten path but I’m not sure I’d go back again. Brussels was too cold. As the capital of Belgium and of the European Union, Brussels felt a bit too, … [Read more...] about Memories of Antwerp