After lots of research (watching Monarch of the Glen and reading Outlanders) and much preparation (new luggage, rain sloggers, guide books and more), we are ready for the long-awaited journey abroad. Bon Voyage gifts are rolling in (thanks to PeaKay and Linda!), airport shuttle is reserved (thanks to George!), house-sitter is ready to move in (thanks to Sue!), Fiona’s own holiday is planned (thanks to Lynn, Sally and Mikee) — it’s time!

First stop: London. See one of Queenie’s houses (Kensington Palace), have tea (ugh!) and biscuits, ride the double-decker red buses, shop at Harrod’s! The Brits will be celebrating our arrival with bonfires and fireworks, as it happens to coincide with Guy Fawkes Day celebrations.

Next: Hop the train for Edinburgh. We’ll see another one of Queenie’s houses (Holyrood), shop at Grassmarket, pub hop to sample the local brew, and enjoy a special day trip to Rosslyn Chapel with friends!

Then: Up to the Highlands we go, for a week’s stay in our own apartment at a country estate.  Stag stalking and fly fishing with a ghillie could be on the schedule. Eat world famous fish ‘n chips, tour every distillery we pass, shop for tartan, tweed and paisley! Enjoy tatties; avoid neeps. Remember that dessert is called pudding. Pounds are what you spend, not what your suitcase weighs.

There’s more.
Stay tuned for our travelog and photographs.