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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. It’s like having your own, free, personal tour guide.
A delicious 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. True it’s a New Year, but nothing feels too different.
We wander over to Queen Street, grab some brunch from Greggs, and ride the train one hour between Glasgow and Edinburgh. It’s New Years Eve, and if you’re heading to Edinburgh on this day it means only one thing – Hogmanay. Celebrations range from markets to concerts and from street festivals to traditional dances. There’s no place more exciting in the UK on December 31st.
Sleeping in and having 10 minutes to get up, dressed and packed isn’t the most encouraging start to a week long trip. Nonetheless, we made it to the port of Belfast 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. No, it was onwards to Glasgow.
Edinburgh is one of the UK’s best destinations for a weekend break. It’s got culture, history, entertaining nightlife and a friendly population. Whether you’re there with friends, family, your partner, or alone, there’s always something to do. For me it’s especially good because I have friends who live there that can show me around and provide me with free accommodation any time I visit.
