I can’t say enough great things about Scotland. I truly think that it is one of the most underrated countries that is on the planet Earth. Not only is it much more affordable than other countries in the United Kingdom but it is safe and incredibly diverse in the activities that you can do. The following is the ultimate guide to solo travel: Scotland.
Reasons to Visit Scotland:
- Scotland has a young population. I am on my way to the ripe old age of 27 and love when I run into people my age while I am traveling. The young population brings many perks such as budget accommodations. Destinations with budget travels means that other travelers will want to stop by. Scotland is a great way to add to your travel tribe.
- Scotland is a country that is big on women’s rights. Not only do they walk the walk politically but they talk the talk socially. They are strides ahead of other countries in treating women with respect.
- Street harassment is known for being low in Scotland. This goes a long way in making a solo traveler feel safe. More than likely you should be able to walk up and down the street without being harassed by men who are approaching you with unwanted advances.
- The locals in Scotland are known for being very friendly. I don’t see any reason why a female traveler should have difficult getting directions or finding someone to help you find a place to eat or get a good beer.
- Did I mention that it is easy to get around? You should be able to find a bus or other forms of cheap public transportation. You can also use a taxi. Scotland is incredibly easy to walk around while you are in the city.
Things to do:
Trains:
There is a steam train that you can take on the Glenfinnan Viaduct. If you are interested in the most epic of train rides you can take the Jacobite in the Highlands. This is the train that served as the Hogwarts Express in several of the movies. If you are a huge fan like I am then this is a must.
Castles:
Scotland is steeped in history. With this history comes several medieval castles that are definitely worth going to see. Some of these castles include Duns Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Castle Stalker, St. Andrews Castle, and Dalhousie Castle.
There is also:
- Lock Ness: Where the famous monster that no one has actually really seen currently resides.
- Kilt Rock
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Ardnamurchan Peninsula
- Arthur’s Seat
- Isle of Skye
- Cities other than Edinburgh and Glasgow such as St. Andrews, Aberdeen, and Dundee.
- Take a hike: there is Ben Nevis which is over 4,000 ft. There is also Iona, Sandwood Bay, Dun da Lamb, and also Quinag.
Budget Tips:
- If you are getting a rental car you should pick it up and drop it off at the same place.
- Try to book all of your tickets in advance.
- Pick buses over trains if possible. It may take longer but it will save you some money.
- Longer stays are cheaper than shorter stays in most accommodations that will be available to you. Also, weekdays are cheaper than weekends.
- Sleep in a Bothy for free. Scotland is the first time that I have ever heard of a thing called “bothy.” They are basically just houses at the base of mountains. You will have to bring some of your basic supplies like toilet paper but it’s free lodging. Check out the “Scottish Bothy Bible” for all the tips.
- Scotland has a “Groupon” type of website called Itison that has a bunch of ways to save money. It’s something to check out.
- Food Markets and “take away places” are cheaper than a lot of restaurants. Supermarkets often have meal deal which will also save you money. In addition, the tap water is safe to drink. I would suggest that you bring a reusable water bottle.
- Visit in the “off” months. This means that you should avoid May – August and around Christmas time. If possible of course.
Some Extra Notes:
Road trips are a great idea. You can see large amounts of the country and you should be able to have greater control of your trip. I can tell you from experience that some of the best parts of a country are outside of major cities.
At all times you should pack rain gear. Rain is a possibility at all times of the year. Make sure that you have some sort of rain gear no matter when you go.
Many of the pubs in Scotland don’t take cards. It is a good idea to make sure that you have cash on you. Getting a beer at a local pub is an experience that you don’t want to miss. Make sure that you plan accordingly.
There you have it! That is my guide to Solo Travel: Scotland. Leave a comment below and let me know about your travels.