Old Town Edinburgh was as I expected – beautiful old buildings almost overshadowed by shops, restaurants and tourists. As I mentioned in my first post, I had been to Edinburgh in 1981 while doing my junior year abroad. I don’t remember many specifics, but I remember the romantic feeling of exploring ancient history. I didn’t get that feeling this time as the crowds swarmed and we passed one Kildane after another.

That said, the small, cobblestone streets are still charming, and we didn’t have to walk far to get into a quieter, more atmospheric area on the University of Edinburgh campus, just outside of the concentration of tourism.

Jim and I get another shot at the city at the end of our trip, and I plan to visit a couple suburbs accessible by tram that are said to be quieter and charming. But now we’re enjoying our time in the charming coastal town of North Berwick. More on that soon.