Liu Yang

**Travel Diary – David's Journey to Edinburgh, Scotland**

**Date: April 5, 2025**  
**Location: Edinburgh, Scotland**

Today marks the first full day of my trip to Edinburgh, and I can already feel the magic of this city. As I stepped off the train at Waverley Station, the sight of the historic skyline with its castle perched high on Castle Rock was breathtaking. The air was crisp, the streets were quiet, and there was a sense of history in every corner.

I started my day by walking up to Edinburgh Castle. The climb was a bit steep, but the view from the top was worth every step. From there, I could see the entire city—old buildings, cobblestone streets, and the beautiful Royal Mile stretching out below. I spent some time exploring the castle itself, learning about Scotland’s rich history, and even saw the Crown Jewels of Scotland. It felt like stepping back in time.

After the castle, I wandered through the Royal Mile, which is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. I stopped at a traditional Scottish café for a cup of tea and a scone. The scone was absolutely delicious—flaky, buttery, and served with clotted cream and jam. I tried to resist the urge to eat another, but it was hard!

In the afternoon, I visited the Scottish Parliament building. Its modern architecture contrasts beautifully with the medieval surroundings. I took a guided tour, which gave me a deeper understanding of how Scotland governs itself. The views from the visitor centre are stunning, especially over the city and the surrounding hills.

As evening approached, I made my way to the Grassmarket area. It has a lively atmosphere with lots of bars, restaurants, and street performers. I grabbed a pint of local ale at a cozy pub and listened to a fiddler playing traditional Scottish music. It was a perfect way to end the day.

Edinburgh is a city that blends the old with the new, and I’m already falling in love with its charm. The people are friendly, the food is hearty, and the history is everywhere. I can’t wait to explore more tomorrow—maybe visit the National Museum of Scotland or take a walk in Holyrood Park.

**David**