We're going to Scotland!

We did it! We signed up online for the Rick Steves Best of Scotland in 10 Days Tour! "Why Scotland?" you may ask. Well, Dennis loves bagpipes and whisky, they speak English (although it may need translationfor us), so it seemed like a good way to begin Dennis's world travels. Myj visited Scotland in 1975 with her friend Cathleen Greiner on their college "backpack through Europe" trip and has always wanted to see more. We chose Rick Steves after researching a number of other tour companies as well as talking with friends who have done tours, traveled on their own, etc. After 40+ years as a professional driver, Dennis's idea of vacation is to drive as little as possible. We thought the combination of expert guides and planning, free time, relatively small groups and Rick's "through the back door" philosphy sounded right for us. We're ready to join the Rick Steves cult!

In February, we combined a trip to SEA-TAC airport for Dennis's Global Entry interview with a trip to the Rick Steves Travel Center in Edmonds, WA. Edmonds is a charming town on the Puget Sound waterfront. It was a beautiful day, and we enjoyed walking from our hotel to the center and window shopping the quaint downtown area. We were able to have a trip consultation with Lisa Friend, who helped us decide what to do with the extra few days we will stay in Scotland after the tour ends. At the center, there are maps, guide books and lots of information for research and planning, and of course, you can shop for travel products!! That evening, we attended a free lecture about Scotland, presented by Lisa. We learned lots and are even more excited! After the lecture, we had an excellent dinner at Epulo Bistro in Edmonds.Read more