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 tell this city is unlike any other I've visited. The moment I stepped off the train at Waverley Station, I was greeted by the sound of bagpipes echoing through the streets — a fitting welcome to the heart of Scotland.

Edinburgh is a city that feels like it’s been plucked from a fairy tale. Its medieval old town, with its narrow cobbled alleys and historic buildings, gives the impression of stepping back in time. I started my day by wandering through the Royal Mile, the main street that runs from the Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Every corner seemed to hold a story, and I could almost hear the whispers of history in the wind.

I visited Edinburgh Castle first, which sits high on Castle Rock. From there, the views of the city are breathtaking. The castle itself is a mix of ancient ruins and modern architecture, and I spent a couple of hours exploring its halls, learning about Scotland’s rich history, including the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

In the afternoon, I made my way to the Grassmarket, a vibrant area filled with cafes, shops, and street performers. I had a delicious lunch at a local café, where I tried haggis for the first time. It was an interesting experience — a bit gamey, but definitely something I’d want to try again.

As the sun began to set, I climbed up to Arthur's Seat, a hill just outside the city. The view from the top was absolutely stunning. The city stretched out below me, bathed in golden light, and for a moment, I felt as if I was on top of the world.

Tonight, I’m staying in a cozy boutique hotel in the Old Town. As I sit here writing this, I can hear the distant sound of music coming from a nearby pub. I think I’ll head there later to experience some traditional Scottish entertainment — maybe even a few dances. I'm looking forward to it.

Edinburgh has already exceeded my expectations. It's a city that blends history, culture, and beauty in a way that's truly unique. I can't wait to see more of it tomorrow.

— David