Jam Packed

Definitely a late start to the day, but once I got up and running I was off like a shot. First, to see if the Camera Obscura was fixed. Thank goodness it was. The history behind it was amazing, but even more impressive was how clear the image was, and the person controlling the camera made sure we all had fun. We even got pieces of paper to "smack" the people on the street we saw with the camera. From there I was going to head to the Scott Monument, but along the way I saw someone with a red umbrella advertising the free tour with Sandemans; the same company I used in London. I got right on it, and booked a Harry Potter tour while I was at it. If I'm a true glutton for punishment I'll book a ghost tour for tonight. Definitely a worthwhile tour, and when you've learned so much from such an enthusiastic guide, you tip well. There is so much history to be had in Edinburgh, and even the week I'm spending here isn't enough to take it all in. One fun fact for all you Game of Thrones fans out there, the red wedding was inspired by the black dinner in Edinburgh castle; perhaps a bit morbid, but still something you may not have known before. We covered half a dozen famous authors, including J.K. Rowling, but also the real inspiration behind Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I even learned of Greyfriars Bobby, a sweet little tale of a dog, who ended up with voting rights... before women. Thank goodness those days are long behind us. People actually still leave him gifts at his gravestone, the craziest of which was an airline ticket to Germany for Oktoberfest. I can't wait to see how this next tour goes, and I'd better hurry so I don't miss this one like I did the one in London.Read more