The Gathering - a warm welcome awaits

[Stratherrick]

Well, folks, I'm posting here for the first time in over a year. A year back, I had been reprimanded over bringing historical politics into the story of the kilt, but I now I'll promise to keep my thoughts to myself. So, having ordered a large portion of humble pie and swallowed it along with my pride, I'm happy to announce I'm back, and just in time.

So, Scotland, and more particularly Edinburgh awaits many of you. Reading the latest news about the city, I'm sorry to say it may not look its best for anybody coming to The Gathering, what with the tram works on Princes Street and the bin men (trash collectors, for our North American cousins) in dispute with the city council, some of the city centre is looking a tad tawdry.

HOWEVER, I expect the Old Town, the part centred around the Royal Mile and the castle, to be tidied up. The views of the castle, St Giles' Cathedral, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur's Seat, the Parliament building etc will be unaffected, of course. Inside the shops and pubs, all will be as usual. What I'm saying is that if you've never been to Edinburgh, be prepared to be mesmerised by the history and majesty of it all.

The locals, and returning exiles like myself, are sure to try our hardest for you to get the most out of your visit. For once, I'll not be one of the few in a kilt. Maybe I'll be taking photos of tourists in their outfits, instead of the other way around! Either way, if I can help with information, directions, tips/hints of any sort, I'll be doing my best to help anybody looking a bit lost.

Edinburgh truly is a magical place. Its history can be seen in the way people made the tenements tall as they had to rise upwards within the old city walls to live in its protection. It's a maze of narrow closes (alleyways) and cobbles forming the road. The New Town, off the back of Princes Street is as grand as any old city in Europe. Here's one quick run through of what you might discover:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McK_bNO8kQc

That was by a lively Australian Lonely Planet chap. This is another viewpoint from the esteemed TV presenter David Dimbleby:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swjtKUBV8ls

As you can see, Edinburgh has many faces for you to find. I hope you meet them all!

Roll on this weekend coming!

Love and regards,

Bruce Fraser

[McFarkus]

I wish I could be there. I had a delightful time in Edinburgh back in the 70's during the festival. What a great city!

[Stratherrick]

McFarkus

Aye, it is a great city, in all the senses of the word. No doubt there'll be a DVD of the events produced at some stage.

I'll have a wee dram in your name on Saturday!

Bruce