Timeline & Photos | A Wee Dram Of Scotla

Timeline & Photos!!

What does "Wee Dram" mean?

Firstly, I should probably explain the title of this website. During the tour, our wonderful guide Jeanie would provide a few samples of whiskey over the course of the 8 days spent on the tour. Every time she offered, she would state: "anyone up for a wee dram?"

To be specific, this is a Scottish saying combining "wee" (small) with "dram" (a traditional measure for spirits) to suggest a modest, friendly pour. As such, please enjoy a "wee dram" from my time in Scotland!

Flight from Seattle to Inverness

The flight consisted of flying from Seattle to Chicago, Chicago to Heathrow, and then Heathrow to Inverness. Almost a full day was spent traveling across the globe! The tour began on August 6th, so I had just enough time before the new school year!

Day 1 - Welcome to Scotland

On the first day in Inverness, we met the tour guide Jeanie, and the others in the group. We then took a nice stroll around the town, learning about its history and seeing the sights! Afterwards, we enjoyed a nice meal together and got to know each other!

Day 2 - Castles and Culloden

On day 2, we took a bus ride to the infamous Loch Ness, taking a boat ride over the loch to Castle Urquhart. Nessie went unseen, remaining hidden below the waters.

We then toured the Culloden battlefield, where Bonnie Prince Charlie suffered a defeat back in 1746, effectively ending the Highland clan system.

Day 3 - The Rugged, Romantic Highlands

Today was probably my favorite day on the trip, there was so much to do! We explored a local distillery, enjoying a "wee dram," toured a wool factory, visited Neil and his sheepdogs, seeing the fascinating animals in action. Finally, we had a private showing from Gillie McNab, displaying the bagpipes at their finest.

Day 4 - Crannogs and Hermits

On the 4th day, we got an insight to the life of the Iron Age Scotsman, touring the crannogs (prehistoric defensive huts built on lochs). We then were on the road again, touring the quaint town of Dunkeld, viewing a midievel cathedral. Lastly, we took a small hike through the Hermitage, and had a relaxing wee dram once more!

Day 5 - Charming St. Andrews

Day 5 brought up the lovely and historic St. Andrews. We toured the ruins of the medieval cathedral, saw old duffers play on the famous St. Andrews Links, and strolled the beach from the Chariots of Fire movie! There was lots to see on our bus ride, and we sadly said goodbye to our wonderful driver Steve, he proved his worth!

Day 6 - Edinburgh's Historic Heart

Today was about Edinburgh, in all its glory. We walked the Royal Mile, learning facts about everything you could think of. We saw its amazing architecture, the Fringe Festival going on all around, and then got to enter into the Edinburgh Castle, learning about this military stronghold and the Scottish Crown Jewels!

Day 7 - The Politics of Scotland

Talk about complicated! Today we learned about the political history of Scotland and England, and let's just say...it's been quite messy! We toured the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the King stays on business. We had lots of free time on our own to explore this regal city. Finally, we had our last meal together, bidding our goodbyes to new friends!

Day 8 - A Long Journey Home

After breakfast, it was so long to Scotland, but only for now! Departing Edinburgh, I had a connecting flight in Helsinki, Finland! From there is was straight to Seattle, a long 9.5 hour flight over the Arctic in time for the new school year to begin! This was the experience and adventure that dreams are made of, and I am thankful to Rick Steves for the opportunity!

Epilogue - New Friendships

Months after the tour, I still keep in contact with a few other members who I got to know on a deeper level over the course of the trip. This is one of the hidden perks of Rick Steves' tours: the wonderful people you get to meet along the way. So what are you waiting for? Book a tour today, you won't regret it!