Bucket List

Scotland 8: Day 20

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03.21.20 | Tobermory, Scotland | 19:53

I love the isle of Mull- and the town of Tobermory is such a great little spot. It feels like you’re on the edge of the world. You’re secluded from everything, but you’re with the community at the same time. This is one of the places that I would consider moving to one day.

Today I had a lovely walk. I walked to the lighthouse that is about a mile and a half from the town. It’s a fantastic trail because it’s easy to hike, and it’s wide enough to where you could safely run if you felt the need.

When I got to the lighthouse, I explored around the shore for probably about 40 minutes. I then decided it was a little bit too cold, as I forgot to grab my hat and scarf back at the house. It was 41°, but with the windchill, to me, it felt like it was below freezing.

When I got back to the town, it was just about lunchtime. I decided to walk around and see if any of the restaurants were open in the wake of this coronavirus business. I tried to get a meal at a hotel restaurant that I’ve eaten at in the past. This is a restaurant that generally lets anyone dine- they even display their menu outside to draw in hungry people. I walked in and asked the lady at the front desk if the restaurant was serving lunch. this is how the conversation went…

Me: Hi- are you guys serving lunch in the restaurant?

Lady: Unfortunately, we are not open to the public today.

Me: Oh? Is this because of the coronavirus?

Lady: Yes

Me: So if I was staying here, then I could get some lunch?

Lady: That’s correct.

Me: So, the fact that I’m staying here would mean I’m less likely to have the coronavirus?

Lady:

Me:

Lady:

Me: Ok, well I tried, have a good day.

As luck would have it, the co-op was open, so I grabbed some groceries and went back to the house to cook.

Scotland 8: Day 19

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03.20.20 | Tobermory, Scotland | 21:21

Check-out time in Oban was 10:30, but they were kind enough to let me stash my bags after I’d checked out. I found some breakfast (no, I didn’t go back for another waffle, although I was tempted!) and found a place to get my haircut.

I’m impressed with this barber. He paid it so much attention to detail! He’s only had the shop open for two days, but he knows his stuff. It reminded me of the old-time Barbershops where you sit down and you’re pampered. From here on out, I should plan my Scotland trips around getting into Oban for a haircut.

I got to the ferry terminal about an hour and a half before my scheduled departure. I decided just to relax since I didn’t want to lug around this large backpack more than I have to.

The ferry ride over to Craignure was great! It’s the perfect day! The sun was out, and although it was windy on the ocean, it wasn’t so much that I had to duck inside the entire time. I put together this video of the journey.

Once you reach the ferry terminal, it’s about a 45-minute bus ride to Tobermory. I contacted my host, and she said it was okay if I decided to check in earlier because the apartment had already been cleaned and prepared for my arrival.

After settling in, I walked out to take a few pictures of the city. I planned to go and eat at the Fish Café, a great restaurant on the pier. Today was their opening day of the season, however, and so it was impossible to get a seat. Instead, I opted for takeout Chinese food.

Scotland 8: Day 18

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03.19.20 | Oban, Scotland | 20:02

Today has been a good day! I woke up pretty early, found some breakfast, went to the grocery store, and then had a second breakfast. I know I sound like a hobbit, so we’ll call it an early lunch.

I had a good little walk/hike since I went up to see McCaig’s Tower. I’ve been here before, but I forgot the story behind the tower.

—–

From Wikipedia: McCaig’s Tower is a prominent tower on Battery Hill overlooking the town of Oban… It is built of Bonawe granite taken from the quarries across Airds Bay, on Loch Etive, from Muckairn, with a circumference of about 200 metres (660 ft) with two-tiers of 94 lancet arches (44 on the bottom and 50 on top).

The structure was commissioned, at a cost of £5,000 sterling by the wealthy, philanthropic banker,John Stuart McCaig.

John Stuart McCaig was his own architect. The tower was erected between 1897 and his death, aged 78 from cardiac arrest, on 29 June 1902 at John Square House in Oban.

McCaig’s intention was to provide a lasting monument to his family, and provide work for the local stonemasons during the winter months. McCaig was an admirer of Roman and Greek architecture , and had planned for an elaborate structure, based on the Colosseum in Rome. His plans allowed for a museum and art gallery with a central tower to be incorporated. Inside the central tower he planned to commission statues of himself, his siblings and their parents. His death brought an end to construction with only the outer walls completed.

This afternoon has been a little bit stressful. When I first booked this vacation, I went a little bit crazy. It started with the week in Hawaii with my family. Then after a day and a half at home, I planned this month in Scotland. Then, since enough is never enough, I booked nearly an entire month elsewhere in Europe.

As luck would have it, I had to cut off the last month, because of all the mess with the coronavirus. I had planned to go down to France, Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic, and even back through London before coming home. These are all places now that have been devastated by this virus, and even though I’m not particularly afraid of getting sick, nothing is open to the public right now.

No big deal, I can still have a good time in Scotland. So I had to change my return flight home from April 21 to the end of next week- not a problem.

I was set to fly on Norwegian, an airline that I’ve come to love, but come to find out-they have canceled my flight home. It looks like the flights the week before and the week after have been canceled as well. So today, I had to figure out how I am going to come home. I was forced to book another flight on a different airline, but I’m not going even to put that information out just because I don’t want to jinx myself. I guess you’re just going to have to keep checking this blog to see when and if I get home at all. Maybe I’ll just start a new life here.

The lesson here: Always try to be flexible when traveling. I’m not going to let this setback get me down, but I’m going to try my best to embrace each and every day while I’m here.

Scotland 8: Day 17

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03.18.20 | Oban, Scotland | 22:19

This morning was amazing mixture of at least three seasons. I woke up to rain, then the sun came out for a few moments, and then we actually had some hail!

Ahh Hail!

When I told my host, Steve, that my next destination would be Oban, he offered to give me a ride, since he had to be in Oban anyway.

I was very grateful as this saved me from having to walk the two miles back to the train station. Did I mention the three seasons we were experiencing? Steve and his wife, Sonja, are just the best people! As we parted ways, I told him that he’d more than likely see me again. They own several rental properties, including a castle somewhere near Stirling (no, not Stirling Castle).

Oban is just as wonderful as I remember. I left my bags at the hostel, and did three of my favorite things for lunch: First, I git a proper fish & chips. “Proper”, meaning they serve it to you with vinegar, salt, and on a piece of cardboard. Other places have tried to make the experience more posh, but it’s just not the same.

Fish & Chips

Second, I walked down to The Oban Chocolate Factory and got a cup of hot chocolate. They also do waffles, so I’ll hit then up again soon.

And finally, I got a milkshake at Cuan Mor. Think “Black Tap” in New York City and the scale it down a bit. I figured I’d hit all my must-haves today and reach for something healthier tomorrow. Well, once I have my waffle, that is.

I might as well get all my favorites out of the way, so I can start eating healthy- yeah right!

Scotland 7: Day 16

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03.17.20 | Dalmally, Scotland | 19:26

When I checked the weather report last night, it’s threatened to rain all day. When I woke up, however, it was only partly cloudy. I decided to take advantage of the fact and go for a long walk. I think I did about 4 miles in all.

There’s an old road that runs right in front of this Airbnb. It used to be the main road but hasn’t been kept up in years. My host tells me that this road has been around since the 1700s. It was a beautiful, although muddy walk. I managed to make it down to Loch Awe.

Loch Awe

I got back to the place just as the rain was starting. The rest of the day was spent inside, reading, listening to music and podcasts, and packing up for my next stop which happens tomorrow.

Scotland 8: Day 15

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03.16.20 | Dalmally, Scotland | 22:03

I’ve been watching the Coronavirus numbers rise from http://ncov2019.live. At least I’m going north. Maybe the virus will ignore the north for a few more days. I’ve already adjusted my trip a couple of times, and when though I was supposed to have a go in Europe, I’m now sticking to the U.K. Two more weeks is all I ask! Maybe I’m flirting with danger? On to happier things!

This morning I said goodbye to Dicky and Drew and caught the 10:33 train out of Glasgow. I wanted to spend some more time in the Highlands. Dalmally is one of the towns that I’ve always wanted to see. So here I am, about two miles outside the city.

Leaving the Clyde
I’d love to call this land home!
  • Downtown Dalmally
  • Breathtaking View
  • The Glamping Pod

Stay Here!

I found what is referred to as a “glamping pod” on Airbnb, which is another way of saying that they are not going to provide Wi-Fi. Staying in this little pod is somewhat like I imagine it would be to live like a hobbit. It’s a small, intimate setting, miles from the nearest street light. No Wi-Fi is needed, however. Thanks again to my Skyroam. It’s a great setup!

Tonight I have stayed in, listening to the rain hit the roof of my little hobbit hole. It’s quite relaxing, but I am hoping that tomorrow brings at least some sunshine. There is a nearby road and a barn that I would love to explore if possible.

Scotland 8: Day 14

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03.15.20 | Glasgow, Scotland |

When I woke this morning, I had a message from my friend James. He informed me that they had added the U.K. to the banned travel countries, and he asked me how I planned on getting back home. Upon further research, I discovered that they will still allow US citizens to come back home, even during the ban.

With all the virus doom and gloom, I’m just going to hope for the best. But I’m still going to do my best to enjoy my time while I’m here. It always feels great to travel!

When I’m out and about in the morning, I love to smile and tell random strangers, “Good Morning!” Nobody is ever expecting it, and most people respond in kind. Nobody expects it either. It’s brilliant!

I decided to take a day-trip up to Balloch, which is the closest station to Loch Lomond, and nature is probably one of my most intimate connections to God that I have felt. Add a spiritual thought or music to the mix, and that is something that I need!

When we boarded the boat, they made us all use hand sanitizer. I wasn’t planning on touching anyone, but now I just may have to, since we’re all “safe” from the virus.

My time on the boat was terrific. My only complaint is how loud the passengers onboard were. They were pretty rude and inconsiderate, too.

I did get some good video of the beautiful Loch. I have put it together for you and dubbed in Peter Hollens’ version of Loch Lomond. Enjoy!

The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond

Scotland 8: Day 13

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03.14.20 | Glasgow, Scotland | 19:00

It cost me £14 to get an Uber one-way to Apple Braehead. Apple Buchanan Street is only a few blocks from me, but they are the more popular destination and had no appointments today. So I get to the store, and five employees are standing on the doorway.

“Didn’t you get the email?” I tell them I didn’t and knew precisely where this is going. It’s this ridiculous over protection from the Coronavirus. They have closed their doors. This is ridiculous and stupid. Can you guys please plan your absurd apocalypse practice for a time when I’m not on vacation? Is that too much to ask?

The only good thing about this is the fact that I grabbed half a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts while I was waiting for my Uber back to the flat. I guess every cloud has a silver lining? I’m trying to make myself believe this very thing.

Other than the death of my computer and the stupid coronavirus, today was pretty good. I got an excellent walk all around the city, and I was even able to go shopping for some new socks.

Glasgow

I considered going out tonight and finding some music, but it is raining, and so I am tempted to stay in and possibly watch a movie on my phone. We shall see what happens.

Scotland 8: Day 12

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A Clear Day As I Leave Brodick

03.13.20 | Glasgow, Scotland | 20:59

Today has been filled with some good news and some bad and depressing news. First- let’s talk about the good news. I managed to get the first ferry from the island Erin this morning and arrived in Glasgow just before noon. I’m happy to get back and spend a few days in this remarkable city. I always used to tell everybody that Edinburgh was my favorite, and even though it still is, sometimes, I feel like you can’t compare apples with oranges.

Now on to the other news – I found out late last night that Country to Country, the concert that I love to attend while I am here has been postponed. This is frustrating because I came to Scotland this time of year and planned this whole trip around this event. This is all because of the scare that everyone is experiencing with this coronavirus.

Most of the day, I have been thinking and trying to decide what I would like to do about all of this. Part of me wants to go back home to the states, but I know that if I do that, I’m just going to go back to work. In my line of work, I am more likely to catch the coronavirus then I am traveling overseas.

Let’s face it: as a flight attendant, I am near so many people during my day, and it’s not like I can distance myself from most of them.

To be honest, I’m not afraid of catching the coronavirus. I think things would be different if I was very young, elderly, or had a corrupt immune system for whatever reason. This is not the case, however. Chances are- if I did catch this horrible flu, I would be down for a few days, and then I would be fine. I know things could always be worse, but that’s no way to live a life.

As of now, I think I’m going to continue this adventure. I plan on paying attention to the news, and hopefully tuning out some of the things that are being spread all around social media. A lot of these people are idiots. Some of them happen to be my friends. Don’t give me wrong- know the natural thing to do is freak out and run out and buy all the toilet paper.

Enough of that nonsense –today was a pretty good day. I did walk around Glasgow for a little while but had to get some stuff done around the apartment. I am now back with Dicky and Drew, so even though I love to travel by myself, it’s nice to have this company for a few more days.

Tonight my laptop died. I can’t get the screen to turn off, and when I try to use it, it gives me a horrible beeping sound. This machine is about seven years old, so it is time for something new. I just hoped that it would last me till the end of this trip. I have an appointment with one of the Apple stores tomorrow morning.

I’m hoping this is something that they can fix by doing some sort of reinstall, but if it’s something like needing a new hard drive or something that’s going to cost me very much money, then My adventures with this particular MacBook Pro are over. Perhaps Dicky, Drew, and I will have a memorial service for this laptop that I’ve have carried around the world for the last few years.

  • Glasgow Flat
  • Glasgow Flat 2
  • Glasgow at Night
  • Glasgow at Night 2

[update: Link to this AirBnb]

Scotland 8: Day 11

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03.12.20 | Brodick, Scotland | 10:05

Sunrise

I’m sitting in the CalMac ferry terminal and am the only one here at the moment. I woke up this morning at 06:30, gathered the rest of my stuff, and left the Airbnb. A friend from the states has been tracking my travels and let me know that there were delays and cancelations in the ferry service today due to expected high winds. I should get an update in two hours, letting me know if there will be any service today.

Being stuck on the Isle of Arran wouldn’t be the end of the world- this is a great place, after all. Yes, I’m keeping up to date on the whole Covid-19 situation, wondering what my next move should be. Part of me wants to run back home to the states, but when I step back and think: according to the current numbers, I have less of a chance of catching a virus here in Scotland than I do in my own country, especially in my line of work.

12:21

It appears that I’ll be in Brodick, at least one more night. As I said earlier, it’s not the end of the world. I should be upset since I have a place reserved at my next location… but such is life, I guess. It’s not like it’ll go unused, though. Dicky and Drew are staying with me, after all.

I found accommodation at The Belvedere, which is an old home/ hotel. It is 100 years old this year! It’s a good location, too, just up the hill from the main street through town, but quick access to town. I can still walk down to Crofters’ for a fourth night, if I so choose.

When I arrived, the nicest man came to the door, and he told me he just received my booking request and apologized that the place was a mess. To be honest, the old home looks incredible. All I saw was a few dog toys in the living room area. I told him not to worry because I’m a dog person. He said I was the only one here, so he upgraded me to the more excellent room, for no extra cost. He is also giving me a discount because I told him I’d be leaving for breakfast in the morning.

22:29

For the fourth time in four days, I Had dinner at ‘Crofters’’. I was hoping for more live music, but unfortunately that wasn’t planned for tonight. I ordered a chicken dish, and I pretty much think that’s the best thing that I’ve had there so far.

Let’s hope I make it back to the mainland tomorrow!