Inverness, Scotland: The Mystery of the Lochness Monster

Travelling to Scotland? This tour is a must do!
I have always been amazed by mysteries such as this. While most people fear the unknown, I am fascinated by it. The Loch ness Monster is no exception. For years, I have searched the internet to look up the latest "sightings", and what evidence there is of this creature actually existing. I had hoped to find anything to prove there is some creature dating back to the Jurassic era, hidden in a cave 230 metres below the surface. Since I was in my teens, I have always wondered what it would be like to take a cruise on Lochness and hear all the great stories, and have the opportunity to see Nessie herself. Well, in June 2017, my dream came true. We started on a bus taking a tour through Inverness learning much about the area and what it has to offer. It was quite the rainy day but it didn't "dampen" the day at all.
We just had to bring our ponchos! Don't I look cute?

You can find the tour on Viator.com for about C$61. It includes a bus tour of Inverness leading to Clansman Harbour, a cruise tour of LochNess, a visit to Urquhart Castle, and the Nessie Expedition on the way back. When on the cruise, keep your eyes open! Nessie is pretty clever in avoiding detection. However, if you're like me and a Nessie-whisperer, you'll surely get a decent pose for the camera such as this:

In a matter of time, you will arrive at Urquhart Castle. The perfect combination of ruins and room to explore. Here, you will find plenty of gorgeous shots and views with your camera. This is truly a fascinating tour that I suggest you book for your next trip to Scotland. I think Urquhart Castle was my favourite castle out of the 4 or 5 that we saw. There was so much history, and so much to learn about it. In the souvenir centre, you will see a video of re-enacted footage of the history of Urquhart Castle, and saunter on through a souvenir shop. Upon pick up, the next stop is a small cafe and a "Nessie" expedition. The guides will show you a video of "sightings" and how most of them have been fabricated or staged, as well as the information they do have on this mysterious creature should she exist.
   

      
It's so fascinating to think that it is possible that a creature that has been the source of great debate for quite some time might actually be swimming around down there. Don't you think? Take the tour and let me know what you thought of this great adventure! Put your imagination to the test and take a trip to Inverness, Scotland to experience the wonders and mysteries of the Lochness along with her perplexing depths home to The Great LochNess Monster.

Dachau Concentration Camp: The First of its Kind

   *TRIGGER WARNING*

Some of the content in this article may cause strong emotional responses.

"Work Makes You Free"
A cruel and inhumane message

   Upon taking our first steps into this very dark and shameful era of our time, we were immediately overcome with a sense of sadness and anger combined. I cannot speak for Mark, but my legs felt like jello scuffing through the dirt on which countless humans walked, but would never again see the outside of these gates. Dachau is not only one of the many labour camps that were built. It was the first of the camps in Germany. It was the prototype that would serve as the basis for how the others would be constructed and would operate. After some digging and research, I found the camp was (at first) intended to hold political prisoners, but eventually, the criteria for being imprisoned here expanded to anyone who didn't identify as being a German. 

   While taking our independent tour through the camp, there was another tour walking through being led by a tour guide. I "stalked" the tour group for a minute to gather more information from the guide. He explained that the barracks which we were currently standing in was rebuilt so tourists could see just what it looked like inside. 

       

   

The beds that prisoners slept in. 

Though these were quite "luxurious" compared to what came later

What came later were the flat beds all the way across where prisoners had to climb over 50+ people to get to their spot. While these beds were rebuilt to show visitors what awaited prisoners, the toilets, sinks, "Showers", and ovens are all original and haven't been moved. 

BrauseBad means "showers" in German

When Mark and I were walking through, we had to step out because of how creepy this was. Prisoners were told they would be getting a shower, but were led to the gas chambers. After being "decontaminated" with chemicals and being stripped naked, they were guided through to the chambers where they were killed. Understandably, there were tourists crying and becoming very emotional as they walked the camp. One can truly feel the despair, hopeless and death as they explore the labour camp where thousands of humans horrifically lost their lives. 

Ovens  used to burn the bodies

Walking down the paths, we found walls along which prisoners were lined up and shot. Drains were built so the blood would flow into the trench that was built making escape much more difficult if not impossible. For me personally, this was the most difficult thing to see as I could visualise these terrible events taking place. We could feel the helplessness those people must have felt. Having no control over whether you lived or died, and being totally at the mercy of the firing squad. Knowing you were going to die, and horribly. Seeing your loved ones be shot before your eyes. Just writing this brings tears to my eyes. We witnessed burial grounds and grave sites that were used before the ovens were brought into use. We could almost see the spirits of those that were lost. 

If you are interested in these historical sites, I invite you to step into Dachau Concentration Camp and explore this era of World history. However, I strongly advise against taking smiling selfies in front of the camp gates...or really anywhere in the camp. We witnessed people doing this and it was very disrespectful and tacky. 

Admission was free to enter, and there is a nice cafeteria that serves sausage and fries so packing a lunch is not necessary. There is a bus you can catch that takes you right to the entrance. 

   I know this may have been a tough read for some which is completely understandable. If you have any questions or concerns, or if I have any of the information incorrect, please send me a quick message. Thank you for reading!

Salzburg, Austria: Taking a Tour Through a Controversial Past

 

   

   In the above photo, you are looking at what is called "The Eagle's Nest". It is also known as "Hitler's Mountain Retreat". As the Right-Wing extremist rose to power, he had his men build him this beautiful, and luxurious retreat. It is said that he fell in love with the scenery and location. It is also where he and his mistress spent most of their time. The Eagle's Nest lies 1834 meters above sea level (or 6017 feet). You can hike it, but I strongly recommend booking a tour and getting the bus. Through a long tunnel, and up a gold plated elevator you go, to reach the famous, yet infamous retreat. This building that Adolf Hitler was so fond of is situated right on the border of Salzburg, Austria and Bavaria, Germany. You can book a tour on Viator.com for about 25 Euros I believe. It is a very educational, yet entertaining adventure. The tour guides have a great sense of humour and are very knowledgeable about the areas they are taking you to. The photo that you see above was taken from the very top of the mountain. They give you about 45 minutes to an hour to explore the entire area and "nest" inside and out. Inside, you will see original photographs of meetings held in the conference rooms, articles about The Nest, and original newspapers updating the public on the ongoing conflict, we now know as World War 2. Take a step inside of this contentious structure, visit the restaurant that now resides there, and take a peek in the gift shop. When you make your way through Bavaria again, you will stop and have time to do some shopping before the tour concludes.

   

That long, dark tunnel I was telling you about

Well I guess I can let him conquer the mountains with me.

You will find this relic inside one of the shops in Bavaria when you stop

Me, conquering the Bavarian Alps. 

Next, I take you to experience the Theatre of Marionette. We ended up seeing this Marionette play by accident. Let me tell you, it was one hell of a happy accident. The play we saw was "The Sound of Music". Growing up, I enjoyed the movie for the music and the storyline. I understood that there was impending conflict but didn't really grasp the weight of the storyline, and the impact of it....until now. Now I realize just how heavy the storyline was, but still managed to keep it light hearted, with Frauline Maria being so musical, and even capturing the heart of Captain Von Trapp. 

   The Captain and Maria lived peacefully in Austria until he was called upon by the Germans to serve in the war as a German. However, Captain Von Trapp was very set in not sacrificing his identity as an Austrian. He and Maria escape to Switzerland with their seven children to avoid serving in the German Army. I believe I gained a much better understanding of the movie through this play, than through the movie itself.

   For obvious reasons, we were not permitted to take photos during the play, so at the end, Mark and I got some of the theatre room. 

   Mark and I also had the pleasure of visiting the Mirabell Gardens and Mirabell Palace. While this historical building now houses Government Officials, the location gardens were also used to shoot the scene in "Sound of Music" where the children sing "Do Re Mi". I mentioned to Mark how neat it would be to plan a wedding here, but he promptly changed the subject. I still can't figure out why ;) 

   

A building right across the street from Mirabell Gardens

 
   I truly hope that you get the chance to step into the history of Salzburg, Austria like we did. It was an eye-opening endeavour that is definitely on our "to do again" list. 

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Edinburgh, Scotland: Home to Arthur's Seat and The Crown Jewels

   This popular tourist destination is known for its appeal in the travel world. It is a spot that (more than anywhere else in Scotland), people flock to in hopes of experiencing the smells, tastes, sights, and sounds of life in Scotland. Instead of taking the train to Edinburgh, we rented a car with Budget. They are great if you want to spend 600 pounds (1000$ CAD) on insurance for just a few days. We opted out of that option at our own risk as that was far too steep. Driving through the highlands was a stunning venture, as the hilly greens are so lush because of all the rain Scotland endures. Beautiful rich colours, from the blue sky, the green grass, and the colours of the homes we passed stood out from all else. It was like nothing we had ever seen.

   When we arrived in Edinburgh, we stayed at a Bed 'n' Breakfast called the "Blink Bonnie Bed 'n' Breakfast" on Grimsby Road. A very quaint and peaceful spot with lots of character is what you will find here. The Blink Bonnie holds a communal dining room and bathroom, as well as a wonderful sense of community as you eat the delicious breakfast that is served. The best thing you can do while travelling is getting to know the locals, and different folks from all over the world that are visiting the same places as you. You will already have established a common interest. Mom and I met lots of Brits, Americans, someone from Czech Republic, and someone from Germany, as well as a Canadian who had been living in Scotland for 2 years! Anyway, I digress. The eggs served at the Blink Bonnie along with beans, bacon, and various hot beverages are delicious and exceed ones expectations.

   The above photo was taken off the internet as I apparently didn't take one myself. I just wanted to show you the place we stayed, as well as what you're looking for if you decide to book a night or two here. The top floor window that you see is where Mom and I stayed during our adventure in Edinburgh. The way the housing is constructed is very antique and makes a person feel welcome. When you make your way down to the dining room, you will notice artefacts and souvenirs from all over the world. Sam, who was our host was so friendly and warm. Guests have given him many gifts and memorabilia over the years to thank him for being such a wonderful host. Mom gave him something from Nova Scotia to add to his abundant collection. 

   After a night of rest, we were up at the crack of dawn to make the most of our time in Edinburgh, Scotland. We made a plan to walk down to the city centre so we could catch all the sights, and take our time to soak it all up. It was a beautiful, sunny, and warm day to boot! So we packed a small bag with water, an extra sweater, some snacks, and hit the road. Our first stop we made was at a modern art gallery called "Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art". 

   

We arrived about 10 minutes before opening, but there were 2 lovely people waiting outside that advised of the beautiful park hidden behind the building. So we went exploring the other side of this grand museum and were not disappointed. Statues and carvings being just a glimpse of what we were to see are what we would find on this mini excursion. Beyond the statues lies a path leading to a wooden stairway, that would take us to a river, waterfall, and more green forestry and landscape. The first photo in this article was taken in this very location. 

                                             

                                             

As well, there are lots of beautiful exhibits and displays inside that demonstrate modern art.

   After we got our fill of breathtaking and unique art exhibits, we continued on down the road, following closely to the GPS to ensure we would end up at the city centre of Edinburgh, and not somewhere like...say, Beijing, China because I suck with directions. The stop we made next holds part of the reason we came to Scotland; to see thousand year old stone structured cathedrals that would blow your mind to think about how they were built, and maintained for all these years. Saint Mary's Catholic Cathedral. And she is beyond question, magnificent. This structure is by donation only, so leave a couple of pounds in the donation box, as donations keep the cathedral maintained. 

Original Order of Execution of King Charles

Finally entering the City Centre of Edinburgh, we made a few small stops to take some photos and appreciate the scenery, but made a beeline for The Royal Mile where you will definitely not be the only adoring and awe-struck tourist, I can assure you. However, this is an excellent place to pick up souvenirs from the gift shop, grab a bite to eat at one of the many pubs and restaurants, and even take a tour of none other than Edinburgh Castle. The Holy Rood is also an option but it was sold out by the time we got there. The Holy Rood is where the Queen stays when she is in Edinburgh. 

                                         I don't know who this guy is, but he's famous now :)

To get around the entire castle is easily a day trip. We were in the royal mile until dusk. Inside Edinburgh Castle, we got to see The Crown Jewels, though we weren't allowed to take pictures inside that room for a multitude of reasons. While exploring the castle, be sure to visit the cafe restaurant they have integrated called "Red Coat Cafe". Being the original Crown Jewels, they consist of the original sceptre, The Crown, and the original sword the king would have carried with him. Personally, my favourite part of the castle was getting to sit in the original seats of the king and queen in the mess hall. "OFF WITH HIS HEAD!" Is probably my favourite thing to say since then. 
   After you have had ample time exploring the ins and outs of Edinburgh Castle, I encourage you to walk The Royal Mile. There is a souvenir shop where it looks small but there's an entire tartan factory down below. This is the perfect time for you to pick up something with Scottish origin that you can wear back home.

The attire I bought below this souvenir shop

It reminds me of Santa's toy shop. You can see the stuff being made and sometimes you can even cut a deal with the clerk. 

So continuing down The Royal Mile, we had the amazing experience of seeing street performers. There were wizards and witches, people with food drives, and a guy with a pet owl. He said he has had "Sophia" since she was 6 weeks old. Sophia had imprinted on him. For 4 pounds, I could hold her. He had one of those special gloves because her talons are like razors. 

I was crying. This was such a dream come true, as I have always been fascinated by birds (Especially owls and birds of prey) since I was a little girl. I even got to kiss her on the cheek. I asked the gentlemen if Sophia gets overwhelmed with the crowds, and he explained that when she gets overwhelmed, she lets him know. There are so many of my dreams that have come true in Scotland. This was easily one of them. 

   After this, we were quite hungry so we made our way into a pub restaurant called the "Tolbooth". This is when I came to find out how much of a bad ass my mom is. We both got a whiskey and sat down. Our phones were nearly dead. The kitchen didn't open for another half hour or so. The waitress kindly explained that we were not permitted to just sit to wait for our phones. So we went to leave, and without a second thought, Mom shot back her whiskey without so much as a wince. WAY TO GO MOM! 

   Anyway, I love telling that story. We made our way down to the other end of The Royal Mile, and were hoping to get a chance to explore The Holy Rood but it was all sold out. We took a couple of photos of the outside of the Palace and trekked on towards Arthur's Seat. Arthur's Seat is a giant hill you can climb all the way up to the peak of the mountains in Edinburgh. It's one heck of a climb though! 

The view from near the top of Arthur's Seat

   After we climbed the steep, and gruelling Arthur's Seat, we had reservations for a ghost tour that takes place in and around The Royal Mile. If I had to choose just one thing to do in Edinburgh, Scotland, it would be to go on a Ghost Tour with a guide from France. His accent alone made it 100 times more dramatic. Towards the end of the ghost tour, we were offered a glass of whiskey or orange juice that was included in the ticket price. Beheadings, botched executions, hauntings, voices, dimly lit rooms, fading natural light, and dark stone underground tunnels is what you're in for on these tours. 

 

   By the end of this exciting and eventful day, we were absolutely exhausted. We decided to get transit back to Blink Bonny. What a wonderful day it was. Upon return to our Bed and Breakfast, we were hungry and tired, so we ordered some pizza and cracked open a bottle of wine. Being such an insanely busy city, Edinburgh will make you want that drink at the end of the day. With endless things to do, and see, Edinburgh is an exhilarating place to visit. Scotland overall is a very welcoming and warm place. In conclusion to this post, Edinburgh, Scotland will leave you mesmerised and in disbelief that culture, architecture, and food that good actually still exists. I can't wait to return! :)

AnneMarie - Global Travel Writer

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