Leaving Edinburgh

Ironically enough, as I write this post I am listening to "There's No Leaving Now" by The Tallest Man on Earth. I am about to leave Edinburgh. As part of my study abroad program's orientation, I have spent the past three days in Edinburgh. I must say that it has been an amazing three days. I certainly plan to return to Edinburgh at some point during my semester at St. Andrews.

Day number one, which was Monday, was mainly about getting acclimated to the fact that all us students are now in another country. At first it was extremely overwhelming and a little scary. I was coming off the Broadway production that is flying international. Overall my first day in Edinburgh was fairly low key. Following an evening of introductory activities. A small group of us did venture to the pub, but we were in early; for we wanted some sleep.

Yesterday truly was about exploration. Our morning consisted of more program activities, but the afternoon was set aside for city roaming. A group of us ate lunch out in the city and then visited the Edinburgh castle. It was nothing short amazing. In my opinion it is the perfect place for grasping the beauty of Edinburgh. There is this open area up on the castle, almost like a deck, where you can stand and look out at the "new town" in Edinburgh. That area was developed during the 19th century. Inside the castle, you can learn the history of the Scottish royalty and its crown jewels. I found it to be extremely interesting. Best of all, it was presented in an obtainable fashion. I highly recommend a visit to the castle. It is part of the "Royal Mile", which is a great stretch of St. Andrews.

Today we concluded our Arcadia Orientation activities. Following lunch at a local cafe, one which boasts a 15% backpacker discount, we were treated to a tour of the Scottish National Gallery. As with most art museums, I will definitely have to go back. Our tour guide brought us to the Scottish collection. I want to explore all that the museum has to offer. On the walk back from the museum we passed the bus stop, Waverly Bridge, where I was dropped off two days ago. As I walked down the bridge and onto Market Street, I walked with so much comfort in my step. I walked as an individual who has come to love Edinburgh in three days and vows to return again.