But it’s not all just deserted moors and moss-covered forests (although there are plenty of those too!), Scotland’s rich history and culture are also a big drawcard. From exploring the medieval city of Edinburgh, to the lively fun of a traditional pub where many a wee whisky can be enjoyed, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the hospitality of the local Scots beyond the clichés of kilts and bagpipes. Discovering areas like the enchanting Scottish Highlands, the modern hub of Glasgow and the wilderness of the Isle of Skye, all with the inside knowledge of a local leader is an entirely unique experience.
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Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in Scotland, you may find yourself traveling by:
Watch the countryside speed by on a train ride to Edinburgh. These trains are diesel-electric hybrid powered, with USB charging ports in the seats and an onboard café, bar and snack wagon.
Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When traveling with us in Scotland you may find yourself staying in a:
Stay in a mix of twin-share, locally owned hotels and hostels. For travelers who don’t want to share a room with a fellow traveler of the same gender, a single supplement may be available for an extra charge.
Visa regulations are always subject to change, which is especially likely after Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), so it's essential to check before leaving home at www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration. Citizens of EU countries, Australia, Canada and the United States have visa-free access to Scotland.
Tipping is customary in some situations in Scotland. Restaurant bills usually include an option to add a gratuity. If this option isn’t present, it’s still common to tip about 10 percent of the bill. Tipping about 10 percent is also standard in taxis.
You’ll have reliable internet access while in Scotland’s major cities and towns.
You’ll have mobile coverage across most of Scotland, except for some rural and remote areas. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
Scotland has Western-style toilets.
Cup of coffee = £2.5
Pint of beer = £4
Glass of wine = £4 - £5
Pub lunch = £12
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = £30
Drinking tap water is safe in Scotland unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, we recommend avoiding buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you.
You’ll be able to use your credit card readily in Scotland, however it never hurts to carry a small amount of cash on you to make things simpler if you are splitting bills or just want a quick cup of coffee.
ATMs are referred to as cashpoints in Scotland and are commonly found. You can use Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Cirrus, Plus and Maestro at most Scottish ATMs but you will also find international bank ATMs in major cities like Edinburgh and Scotland.
Yes. All Intrepid travelers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Please speak to your Adventure Consultant at the time of booking if you need assistance arranging insurance.
Scotland is an open country and legalised same-sex marriage in 2014. Edinburgh and Glasgow in particular have small but flourishing gay communities.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or Smartraveller before you travel.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects.
Eden Reforestation Projects
Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe.
Intrepid is committed to traveling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behavior, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while traveling.
In Scotland we stay in locally run accommodation including guesthouses, smaller-scale hotels and homestays in an effort to support the local economies. We also visit locally run restaurants and markets where travelers will have opportunities to support local businesses and purchase handicrafts created by local artisans.