How I picked my first overseas vacation
I’d love to say it took a long time of careful deliberation to come up with where my first big trip should be, but it was simple. I finally had the time after 7 years of university and it was time to satisfy a lifelong dream of going to Scotland. My late father promised me a trip to Scotland after high school, but he sadly passed away before we had the opportunity to go. It took a lot of convincing to get my mom on board because she hated to fly back then. However, she knew how important this trip was to me and she agreed. Then it was time to plan the trip!
Did we plan it ourselves or book a tour?
This was the biggest trip we had ever embarked on, and I was an overseas vacation newbie, so I was overwhelmed at the idea of planning such an important trip myself. I knew some of the most important things I wanted to see and do, but beyond that I had no clue how to plan anything in a foreign country. So, I turned to the tour experts and looked over various tour company brochures and their websites. I settled on Trafalgar tours Scottish Highlands, Islands and cities tour. This specific tour was set entirely in Scotland and hit almost everything I wanted to see via the main itinerary. The optional excursions hit on the rest. This tour included all our hotel rooms, breakfast every morning and most of our dinners. Since they drive on the opposite side of the road compared to us in North America, I did not want to attempt renting a car and driving ourselves, so a bus tour around the entire country was the smart choice. In another post I discuss the pros and cons of bus tours vs touring on your own.
My heart fell in love with Scotland
I have been a highland dancer for over 30 years and being in Scotland was fuel for my soul. I felt at home among the kilts, pipes, dancers and all the history. My paternal lineage is half Scottish and I have always felt a huge pull towards that side of my family history. This was my first taste of European travel, and it ignited a desire to see more and return in the future. My mom and I hoped to return 10 years later but for various reasons we were unable to. This year I made a return to Edinburgh for 2 days and spent the day going to some of our favourite places in the city. In 2023 I’ll be returning for another 2 weeks in Scotland with a bunch of friends.
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Thank you so much for the kind words! I also find I learn something new when I find new sites and being a new writer, I’m grateful for the feedback. Happy travels!
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Your kind words mean a lot. I am hoping to build my following as time goes on as this is something I am passionate about. I do hope to help people in their trip planning and such. I am happy to read you have enjoyed my posts so far.