03.15.16 | Stirling, Scotland | 07:51

Just before I went to bed last night, the receptionist announced that there had been an infestation of bedbugs, so my room had recently been “de-bugged”. Luckily, It appears that I was not bitten in the night! Also, a sleep report: I did sleep incredibly well, even though I ended up with three roommates. Now I’m sitting in bed, getting ready to have a shower. I hope this place still has hot water left!

Earlier, I was looking at pictures on Instagram, and I spaced the fact that yesterday was National Pie Day! I guess it’s ok since I don’t know where I can buy a pie in Stirling yet. I have seen meat pies here but don’t know this area. If I see one when I’m out and about, I probably need to buy it.

08:56

Breakfast was right around the corner. I forget the name of the pub, but I ordered eggs with smoked salmon. It was so delicious! I’m not sure what they seasoned the eggs with, but there was some creme in them.

I just tried to get into the Old Town Jail, but there was a sign on the front to let me know that it wouldn’t be open again until June. This is a classic example of “off-season traveler prejudice.” Yes- that’s a real thing, and it’s way too familiar! It’s my entire platform when I run for POTUS against Kanye. I’ve chosen the slogan, “Make America Sexy Again!”

21:08

I continued up the street, looking for Stirling Castle, and I came across an ancient and very medieval-looking church. I wished it was open to going see inside, but nobody was there on a Tuesday morning. Next to the church was, of course, a cemetery. This piqued my interest as they tend to do. I spend the next 30 minutes or so walking around reading the names.

Next, I climbed the hill to visit Stirling Castle. I lucked out by getting there just as a free tour was starting. The tour lasted just under an hour, and it was so cool to hear all the stories that the tour guide shared. I wish I could go back in time, as a shadow, unseen, to witness these people and events first-hand! I don’t want to be visible, though- I’m sure I’d get myself killed.

After walking for quite a while, I made my way back to the hostel and tried to take a nap. If I did fall asleep, I don’t remember, and it wasn’t very long. I think I had too much on my mind to relax. For dinner, I found an Italian restaurant called Mama Mia. It was excellent food! I got there just after 17:00 when they first opened the doors, so I was the first one there. The gentleman showed me up a flight of stairs to the dining room, and I had the entire place to myself. It was kind of nice.

As you can see, today was a great day- I probably put in a few miles of walking. I look forward to getting a great night’s rest tonight, and even though I have to leave Stirling tomorrow, at least I’m off to my next stop tomorrow.