Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Scotland for the First Time

I must confess, Scotland wasn't that high up on my travel bucket list. Mostly because I had been to Ireland a few times and I {wrongfully} assumed they would be basically the same. Spoiler alert: they are not! I'm glad that I allowed myself to experience it for myself. The dramatic landscapes, winding roads through the Highlands, tiny villages, castles, lochs, waterfalls and endless views felt like something straight out of a movie. I mean, we simply stopped pointing out waterfalls we'd see because there were just so many of them! Scotland really did surprise me in ways I wasn't expecting.

Not in a bad surprise way, but in a good way. Scotland ended up being one of those destinations that felt easier, friendlier, and more relaxed than I anticipated. But there were definitely some things I wish someone had told me before I boarded that plane. 

If you're planning your first trip to Scotland, here are some things I wish I knew ahead of time that would have saved me time, stress, and maybe a few moments of standing in the rain.

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Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Most Photogenic Residents

If you've spent any time scrolling through photos of Scotland, chances are you've seen them. Those shaggy, long-haired, golden brown beauties grazing against a backdrop of rolling green hills or misty lochs. Highland cows {or Heilan Coos as the locals lovingly call them} are one of Scotland's most iconic sights.
With their sweet personalities, long locks, and undeniable charm, spotting one in person is a highlight for many travelers. I'm not going to lie, I thought they'd be as plentiful as sheep are in Ireland, but alas, that's not the case. You really do have to do a little "hunting" for them, but if it's a priority for you to see them, this guide will help you get the chance to have an encounter with a coo!
Whether you're road tripping through the Highlands, exploring Edinburgh, or visiting a small farm cafe, there are plenty of places where you can see a Highland cow up close. You just have to work for it a bit. Below, I've rounded up some of the best spots to see Highland cows in Scotland, from farms and hotel grounds to organized tours, plus a few tips for making your visit unforgettable.

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Visiting the Cotswolds: The Villages Worth Visiting (and a Few to Skip)

The Cotswolds have been on my travel bucket list for as long as I can remember. I'm not sure how they ended up there, but anytime I'd see a photo of the area, I'd immediately clock it and would be like "of course that's the Cotswolds!" making a mental note to get there sooner rather than later. Rolling hills, honey-colored stone cottages, and charming villages, it all just felt like something out of a storybook. When we finally planned a trip, I knew I wanted more than just a day trip from London. We decided to spend three nights exploring the Cotswolds by renting a car, and I'm so glad that we did. It gave us the opportunity to explore and take it all in on our own timeline.
If you've been dreaming of an English countryside getaway, here's everything you need to know about visiting the Cotswolds, from renting a car to which villages are worth adding to your itinerary {and which ones you can probably skip!}. 

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Doha Layover Guide to Getting Rest

When a couple travels together, you might have different travel styles. I'm less, how do I say this, precious, and my husband has a bit more dignity. I would happily save money during a long layover and stretch out on the airport floor using my backpack as a pillow, but he would much rather stick to his normal regularly scheduled programming with a warm bed and private room. We found ourselves with a long layover in Doha, Qatar, a major hub for international travel on both ends of our trip to Africa during the evening hours, not ideal for exploring the city. We {read he} was looking for a place to rest, and we tried two of the best options within the airport-the Oryx Airport Hotel and Sleep n' Fly pods. Here's a  little comparison of both as well as some other ideas for spending your layover in Doha.

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A Guide to Hiking Croagh Patrick: Ireland's Sacred Mountain

Croagh Patrick, a majestic peak located near the town of Westport in County Mayo, is one of Ireland's most iconic and sacred mountains. It stands at more than 2,500 feet and is not only a destination for avid hikers, but it's also a place that holds deep religious significance. Each year, thousands of pilgrims make the trek up this rugged mountain, particularly on Reek Sunday, which falls on the last Sunday in July. Whether you're climbing for religious reasons, the stunning views, or simply the challenge, hiking Croagh Patrick is a rewarding experience. I'll guide you through everything you need to know about hiking Croagh Patrick, from the historical and religious significance to practical tips for a successful summit.

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A Guide to Visiting Skellig Michael on a Landing Tour: What You Need to Know

Tucked away off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland, Skellig Michael is one of the most remote islands you can get to. It rises dramatically from the Atlantic Oceans, its rugged cliffs and ancient stone structures barely visible when you first arrive, but once you focus in, you'll be so mesmerized by the adventure and the history that awaits. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, once home to a community of early Christian monks, offers a unique experience that combines natural beauty, history, and a little bit of a physical challenge. A landing tour to Skellig Michael is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there are several things you need to know before you embark on this incredible journey!

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Circle the Emerald Isle in 15 Days: The Best Self-Driving Itinerary. Part 3: Heading to the South of Ireland

Welcome back to part three of Circle the Emerald Isle in 15 days! This is the PERFECT self-driving itinerary that will help you see, experience and explore the best of Ireland. In case you missed it, in part one we started by flying into Dublin and worked our way up towards Northern Ireland as we circled the island counterclockwise. We explored the Antrim coast and stormed a few castles. We continued to loop around the island in part two as we explored a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way. In this part of our trip we spent time in some of the more remote parts of Ireland and got off the beaten path as we hiked Sliabh Liag cliffs and Croagh Patrick. We went to big cities and small towns and started to get a real feel for the pub culture! 
In part three, we will be continuing our loop around the island by staying on the west coast before heading south and then completing our loop back to Dublin before the trip is over. On this part of our trip, we went to the most remote island in all of Ireland and experienced our biggest tourist trap disappointment! I can't wait to share with you all the things we found along that way that helped to make this the best Irish road trip out there!

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Circle the Emerald Isle in 15 Days! The Best Self-Driving Ireland Itinerary. Part 2 Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Welcome back to part 2 of Circle the Emerald Island in 15 Days! This is the PERFECT self-driving Ireland itinerary. If you missed part 1 of the trip, we started in Dublin and headed on a counterclockwise tour around the island. We've already explored Northern Ireland and the Antrim Coast and dipped our toes in the Wild Atlantic Way. We will continue exploring Ireland, with this portion focusing on some of the most beautiful rugged coastline and including some outdoor adventure. This part of the trip includes more charming towns and villages as we continue to immerse ourselves in the local Irish culture and hospitality. 

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Do You Need a Converter or Adapter For Your Upcoming Vacation?

Traveling abroad is an exciting adventure, but it can bring about some really complicated and confusing questions. For most Americans and Canadians, a crucial and sometimes confusing aspect of international travel is understanding the need for electrical adapters and converters. I'm part of several travel groups and this is a near daily question that brings about complicated answers, so let's dig into it. Even the most seasoned traveler can feel lost when it comes to knowing the answer. But hopefully this guide will help you understand if you will need a converter or adapter on your next international vacation. 

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6 Things That Surprised me on My First Visit to Ireland

Ireland was on my travel bucket list, but I'm not going to lie, it wasn't top of the list. I always have what seems like a zillion other places I want to go to, and really I thought of Ireland as a place where old people go and pile into a tour bus as they navigate the crowds while they stand on sidewalks and take photos. Oh, and maybe they go to a pub and drink a beer while wearing a cozy sweater. I was blindsided by the rich history, stunning landscapes, and legendary hospitality, and it turns out, the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure! Nothing could have prepared me for the reality of what this enchanting country had to offer. From the food to the music, the pubs to the people, the scenery to the adventure, Ireland is a place that surprises and delights at every turn. These are the six things that surprised me so much about my first visit to the Emerald Isle that I'm currently on my second visit because I just couldn't stay away!

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Day Hiking Essentials: Everything You Need to Know for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike

Day hiking is such a great way to get out and explore the great outdoors, get some exercise and experience the beauty of nature. And since we hate camping and have never tried backpacking because...camping, we have become the masters of a good day hike. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just getting started, having the right gear, the right mindset and the proper essentials can make your hike safer and more enjoyable. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to pack for a day hike, from clothing and footwear to navigation tools and emergency supplies. I'm sharing everything we've learned and love after clocking hundreds of miles hiking in the great outdoors!

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Discovering Bend, Oregon: A 48 Hour Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's High Desert, Bend offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, local charm, and a touch of nostalgia. From exploring scenic hiking trails to indulging in unique dining experiences and discovering a relic from the past, here's how to make the most of 48 hours in Bend, Oregon.

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Exploring Portland, OR Without a Car:A 48 Hour Adventure

Portland, Oregon, has a fun little slogan that says "keep Portland weird". It often appears on signs, bumper stickers and the occasional building and Portland has embraced it as their unofficial motto. Portland is a haven for urban explorers and food enthusiasts and has just enough quirk to keep it charming...or weird, whichever you like! With its vibrant food scene, eco-friendly ethos, and easy accessibility via public transit {or your two legs!}, Portland is the perfect getaway even if you arrive car-free. In this guide, we are going to delve into how you can make the most of 48 hours in Portland starting with your first adventure-taking the Amtrak Cascades route from Seattle or Tacoma, WA! Then we will explore downtown Portland without a car, indulge in a food tour and stay centrally located all while still savoring the delights of the renowned Portland food cart scene. Are you ready? Let's go!

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The Complete Guide to Booking a Cruise From Port Canaveral: Tips, Transfers and Top Picks

Are you ready to set sail on an unforgettable adventure from Port Canaveral? Recently, when looking for a trip with our family, we started considering a cruise out of Port Canaveral, Florida. While I've been on several cruises, I've never set sail out of Port Canaveral and ran into a few unknowns. Port Canaveral, is located on Florida's Space Coast, and it's one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. It serves as a gateway to popular destinations in the Caribbean and the Bahamas. There are a few important things to know to help you have the best cruise yet if you are planning on leaving Port Canaveral, and I'm going to share everything that I learned during our planning and through our travel with you so that everything can be smooth sailing!

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