Scotland- Edinburgh

A well needed trip to to the Scottish highlands, Edinburgh. After such a horrendous year 2020 has been, with travelling coming to an almost halt wherever you are in the world. It was completely and utterly refreshing to get on a train to another part of the UK and have those travelling excitement rush through your veins once again. It is not quite Bali but Edinburgh itself speaks volumes of majestic and magic, every where you turned you'll come across a compact hidden alley way that will divert you to another striking part of Edinburgh. It was such a pleasure to visit the small but underrated town, such exhilarating, beautiful scenery and people. Not to mention the vast options of vegan restaurants and cafes was overwhelming, really sucked me in with that! 

I can't fault a single minute spent in this wonderful city and it most certainly isn't our last visit either, before leaving we were already planning our return. I thought to not be so selfish and share the joys we had in Edinburgh and places to visit and eat. 

We (me & the hubby) decided to stay in a lovely apartment just outside Edinburgh castle, which we found on Airbnb, with a striking view of the castle from the living area. However, I am sure with a little bit of tapping on the keyboard and rigorous online searching you'll be able to find a few places with similar views. 

PLACES TO VISIT

1. National Art Gallery

It's a good idea to book your slots before visiting as with new guidelines most places required a booking before visiting. As always Art galleries are always number one on my list of places to visit when exploring a new city or country. I always get a feel of a place through art, and oh boy did I when visiting 'National Galley Scotland' such outstanding pieces! Unfortunately, the national portrait gallery was closed though there were modern art galleries open which also required booking before visiting. 

2. Dean Village 

Dean Village did require some walking from the centre, though we had no issue with this, what better way to explore a place by walking and getting lost ay? This little village is most certainly a hidden treasure, absolutely magical and invigorating to witness and wander through, almost as if you're not wandering through UK but another country alone. 

3. Armchair Books

Not so far from where we were staying, another hidden gem. Holy grails of book store, don't underestimate the amount of paper it holds! Literally lost in a world of novels and stories in the place, bagging myself a couple of Jane Austen books for under a fiver! Feeling as though you were on the set for one of the Harry Potter movies. I must point out, Edinburgh is more or less Harry Potter central, I mean I wasn't fan girling about that at all pshhttt! 

4. VICTORIA STREET

A brightly and bold coloured street, filled with tiny remarkable stores and restaurants a few of which were Harry Potter related. I mean you'd be silly to say 'no' to such a place right?! I absolutely loved walking up and down this street, always getting a sense of welcoming and mystic feelings which drew you back. I have noted below a few stores we visited. 

If you are massive Harry Potter fans like so and unbelievably distraught at the fact you never received that letter to join Hogwarts, then the stores below are for you. 

- The Great Wizard

- Museum Context

5. Edinburgh Castle 

We spent one evening climbing ( I mean climbing stairs) to visit Edinburgh castle, which had a stunning view of the city, it was definitely a moment to soak in and embrace. Though in terms of going into the castle and visiting we didn't do so. However you are still able to visit inside the castle as long as you book beforehand. Something we plan to do when returning on much better circumstances because sis 2020 just ain't the one. 

6. Vennel Steps

Funnily enough this was literally minutes away from where we were staying and we were under the impression we would have to walk miles! Climbing up these stairs you'll be taken back by an impressive view of the castle, instagram worthy. 

PLACES TO EAT -Vegan

1. Holy Cow

We had the pleasure to devour scrumptious burgers from this place on our first day arriving. I can not stress enough how divine these burgers were! I definitely recommend the 'Portabella Mushroom' burger! Their smoothies and milkshakes are lovely too, favourite being the peanut butter and chocolate milkshake. Oh wow just thinking about it is making me want to hop back on the train. 

2. Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery 

If you're looking for somewhere more health orientated this is surely a place to eat in. It's on Victoria Street, bang in central with beautiful views of the colourful street. They have options ranging from Acai bowls to hot poke bowls, such a delight to dine in! 

3. Nova Pizza

As much as I would love to rave tremendously positive things about this place, unfortunately I just can't. I would highly recommend pasta dishes from this petite vegan/vegetarian Italian restaurant, though Pizza's are a definite NO NO. You have to book in advance, which you're then given a slotted time (e.g. 7.30pm-8.30pm) to eat which was a little off putting, not to mention the waitress would also give you a little nudge to hurry!

4. Considerit

Vegan donuts? YES COUNT ME IN! There isn't anywhere really to sit in and eat and with restrictions they only allow one person in at a time to make an order and collect. However, this place hit a high note for me, I couldn't get over how scrumptious they were. Favourite being the triple chocolate donut, though I will point out how sickly chocolatey it is, if that's your cup of tea ;) They also do a range of vegan milkshakes and hot chocolates. 

5. Kalpna 

An Indian vegan restaurant we managed to find for an evening dine in experience. This was undoubtedly different to many Indian restaurants I've been to in the past (and that's been many). Though I just couldn't get into the food here, when I say different it was different for my taste palette. The atmosphere felt as though it was missing something and not sure if it was down to music choice. Overall I wouldn't massively rate it or highly recommend. 

I have also jot a few other places to eat that we unfortunately didn't get to try due to limited bookings, however would recommend booking when planning your trip! 

Harmonium 

Paradise Palms

Seeds For Soul