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Glasgow’s reputation precedes it. Apparently it’s dangerous, dirty and unforgiving. This may be true in parts, but it’s best to come with an open mind to cities, and realise that different places mean different things to different people. A good idea is to spend a couple of days seeing around with someone who knows their way.
A delicious New Years Dinner at a nearby Italian Restaurant (owned by real Italians!) is followed by a care-free walk in the tenuous mist to Princes Street where we find the festivities still in full swing. The crowds have dispersed and the atmosphere is more subdued compared to the commotion of the night before, but it’s a pleasant change.
We made our way to Queen Street Station. But first thing was first: food for the train, from Greggs! The trip from Glasgow to Edinburgh takes just under an hour. We get off at Haymarket and meet Lucinda. After dropping luggage at the flat, her and Kira are kind enough to take us into Princes Street and advise a route home for later.
Sleeping in and having 10 minutes to get up, dressed and packed isn’t the most encouraging start to a week long trip. However, we made it to Belfast port on time, and set sail for Stranraer on board the Stena HSS – a ship on which I once had a birthday party. Unlike that time, I wasn’t just staying on board and coming back to Belfast.
I’m in Edinburgh! Yes, I flew over yesterday in time for Lucinda’s birthday, and as it happened, ended up sitting beside her sister, Andrea, on the plane! Lucinda met us both at the airport and we drove to her new apartment near to Princess Street, which also overlooks some of Edinburgh’s oddly nice residential architecture.
A few weeks ago I had the random idea of going to Edinburgh for Lucinda’s 21st and not telling her about it. I floated the idea to Leigh and Gareth and they were keen. So, we duly booked our flights. Then, during the car journey, I turned to Gareth and the conversation went a little something like this:
Yesterday was mainly spent around Edinburgh town centre. We must have walked a good few miles but the weather was pleasant and sitting around Princess Street Gardens was great. In the evening I met more of Lucinda’s friends and we went out into the town for some drinks and a spot of intoxicant fueled dancing.
Short breaks are always nice, and there are few better cities in the UK to go than Edinburgh. I flew over, and within a matter of hours was walking (accompanied by Lucinda) through the bright suburban streets to the Usher Hall. What was on? Only my favourite band Idlewild. Coincidence? You decide.
