I made it. After a long day that began in Miami with a storm delay, followed by more turbulence—not just meteorological, but human—on the plane, I finally touched down in Scotland.
Yes, you read that right: over the Atlantic, two passengers got into a fight. By the time we landed at Heathrow, the police were waiting. One of the men was escorted off the plane—before any of us could even get off. Strange how moments build: earlier in boarding I spotted him pushing into group 2, fidgety, clearly upset about the delay. Who knew he’d be involved in something more dramatic later. It’s weird being right about something you don’t want to be right about.
Afternoon Treats & Mugs
Once in Heathrow, I needed something comforting. I found a Starbucks, bought an almond croissant, treated myself to a pumpkin spice latte—and picked up three “You Are Here” Starbucks mugs: Scotland, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Now I won’t have to hunt for Starbucks mugs in each city (although—yes—I do wish I’d gotten the Aberdeen one too).
With Friends, in Scotland
I’m traveling with five of my travel-agent friends. There’s something extra special about being with people who love travel, know what to pack, and can laugh when things go sideways.
For lunch today, I had a late Italian meal with two of them: perfect pizza, good calamari, lots of catching up. Then in the evening, we all met up at a bar called The Last Bookstore. Very “bookish” vibes—and yes, there was a bouncer. I didn’t expect it. Scotland surprises in small ways.
Oh—and say hello to Ferguson, my stuffed Highland cow, who’s doing great. He’s seen airports, fights, coffee shops—he’s basically my travel mascot.
Getting Ready for Bonnie Scotland
Tomorrow begins the Globus “Bonnie Scotland” tour. If you haven’t heard of it, here’s a preview of what’s ahead:
The tour is 7 days, between Glasgow and Edinburgh, where we’ll see many of the Highlands’ highlights. We’ll cruise on Loch Lomond, ferry to the Isle of Skye, visit St. Andrews (the home of golf), see the legendary Loch Ness, travel past “Harry Potter”-iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, and peer at Eilean Donan Castle, perched on a tidal island. Also stops at Culloden Moor, Tomintoul, Perth, plus time in Edinburgh at the end.
It’s the kind of tour that balances epic scenery and culture with comfort and camaraderie. Exactly what I crave.
Glasgow: First Impressions
Because Glasgow is our launching point, here are a few things I’m already soaking in (or plan to):
It’s Scotland’s largest city, with warm, approachable people. There’s culture, music, energy. Architecture here is a mix: historic Victorian facades, bold modern builds, and lots of character. Museums are excellent and many are free: Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum is high on my list. Shopping streets like Buchanan Street, Argyle Street, and Sauchiehall Street offer both high end and local flavor. Good for wandering.
What I’m Most Looking Forward To
Catching up with my friends in this magical place, sharing meals, stories, laughter. There’s something deeply renewing in traveling with people who “get it.” Fresh Highland air, rugged landscapes, and photo moments—lochs, mist, castles, sheep, and yes, more mugs if I can find them — Aberdeen, I’m looking at you. Letting the pace of the tour unfold: sometimes those guided parts, plus free time, let you soak in a place in ways you don’t expect.
End of Day 1. I’m tired and excited—and already thankful that despite the oddities and delays, I’m here with friends, breathing Scotland. Tomorrow the real adventure begins. You know I’m tired when I didn’t bother to take pictures! I only took a few today, after a good night’s rest, I’m sure I’ll make up my lack of photography in the coming days!
Slàinte mhath 🥂 (that’s “good health,” if you were wondering!)
Cleared For Take-Off! 