The Rough Guide to Scotland Book

In the last few years Scotland has undergone a political and cultural renaissance--with its new Scottish parliament, Glasgow's urban renovation and café culture, Edinburgh's impressive National Museum of Scotland (opened in 1998) and a heightened "sense of identity and importance" it's certainly hip to be Scots. This fourth edition of The Rough Guide to Scotland reflects this optimism, with up-to-date information on what to see, where to go and the festivals and events (Edinburgh Festival or Highland Games anyone?) to visit. Coverage of the country's two major cities is lengthy, although visitors to Edinburgh may prefer to take Edinburgh: The Mini Rough Guide with them for a more pocket-sized read. Where the Scotland guide is especially useful is in its travel and accommodation listings for the highlands and islands--areas geographically not far from Glasgow and Edinburgh yet in holiday terms a world apart. From the lochs to the glens, and from the Isle of Iona to the Shetland Isles, the authors suggest places to stay off the beaten tourist track. What the guide lacks in photographs it makes up for with its quirky contexts section containing fascinating information on Scotland's history, architecture, music and literature. The book has plenty to keep you amused during the north of the country's seemingly endless nights. Plus if you've ever wanted to know how to order a beer in Gaelic, here's your chance to learn. Mine's a leann if anyone's buying. --Anna Hornsey Read More