As we travel professionally, sometimes we tend to miss some of the scenery along the way. We can get a bit of tunnel vision as we busy ourselves with client meetings, conferences, socializing with potential new clients, and uncovering new ways to improve and expand ourselves globally.
My first official trip to Edinburgh snapped me out of that. Edinburgh, Scotland’s compact, hilly capital, is a magical place. From its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with gardens, I couldn’t help but slow down and take the time to appreciate my surroundings.
As I slowed down, little details caught my eye. I marveled at the public transport – so connected, punctual, convenient, and cost-effective. Not to mention the jovial nature of the Scottish people and the greetings and smiles I received every morning from strangers.
Between meetings, I squeezed in a visit an ancient monument – the Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s most-visited paid tourist attraction. The Scottish monuments were quite spectacular and intricately detailed.
It was interesting to read that at the time of second world war, the Crown Jewels were kept in the Castle under a toilet! Of course, I had to see them, they didn’t allow a picture of the original but here is a photo its brass replica.
(more…)
