Travel Scotland Festive Edition by Travel Scotland magazine

The Festive Edition

THE Festiv Seaso e Localn-A View 's

Using Public Transportation

MUSTHEB Your Selfies Part II

Guisachan Gathering Rest in Peace Sweet Shabbaa Issue 3 Edition 1 Autumn 2023

Travel Scotland is produced and published by BeeJay design and publishing studios for, and on behalf of Scottish Travel Society, LLC Design and layout by BeeJay Studios, USA

Cover Photo of Shabbaa graciously submitted by Ali Thom. Rest in Peace Shabbaa. We miss you.

Back cover of Morven graciously submitted by Ali Thom. Thank you Ali!!! Solicited, and unsolicited articles, contributions, photographs, images, and artworks regarding, or associated with Scotland are welcome. Advertising, advertorials, marketing and promotional inquiries please query to email below. Advertising agents, and media buyers enquiries open. Standard commission rated apply. EMAIL: beth@scottishtravelsociety.com

The opinions expressed in Travel Scotland Magazine are those of the authors, journalists, and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of BeeJay Publishing, or the Scottish Travel Society, or its editors.

Information contained in the Travel Scotland Magazine is from sources believed to be reliable, many of which are transcribed directly from varied sources and should be considered for information and entertainment purposes only. Neither BeeJay Publishing, nor the Scottish Travel Society guarantees the accuracy or completeness of any information published with in Travel Scotland Magazine, and neither BeeJay publishing, or the Scottish Travel Society, nor it’s contributors, journalists or editors shall be responsible for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages, including exemplary damages arising out of use, inability to use, or with regard to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in Travel Scotland Magazine or any associated publications. Paid advertisements appear in Travel Scotland Magazine. BeeJay Publishing and the Scottish Travel Society do not evaluate advertised products, services, or companies, nor any claims made in any advertisement, promotion, or marketing, or by any advertiser. Advertisers making claims are expected to have research data that substantiates these claims. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. BeeJay Publishing reserves the right to refuse, reject or cancel any advertisement, promotion or marketing content for any reason at any time without liability. BeeJay Publishing 2023 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No Part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording or other electronic or mechanical methods, or for digital controlled lending, without prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial used permitted by copyright law.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Summer's swelter is finally over and we can embrace the cool, crisp Autumn air, and marvel at the changing colors of the leaves. Winter and Festive Season will be here soon. This special edition of Travel Scotland will leave you with a smile. Within the pages you will find articles about how the holidays are celebrated in Scotland, the gathering of beloved Golden Retrievers, everything you need to know about public transportation, Christmas recipes, sights not to miss and more! Don't foreget to visit the Scottish Travel Society website https://wwww.scottishtravelsociety.com to check out the 2 outstanding tours we are offering. The Inverness Circular tour is perfect for the first time visitor, and the Speyside Whisky tour is perfect for those who wish to partake but won't drink and drive. Both are expertly guided tours. I am including "Your Selfies Part II" after the overwhelming response of selfies submitted to the STS Facebook group. Fear not if you don't see yours. I will get to everyone. Please don't forget to scroll down, and like and subscribe. It's free and you'll be notified when a new issue is published. Please share the link with your family and friends and any other Scottish groups you belong to. We want anyone with an interest in Scotland to read the magazine. May Autumn and Winter be good to you. May you be blessed with peace, love and joy during this festive season.

Love to all~ Beth

We are thrilled to announce the rebirth of Lindsay's Highland Tours. A family-run business deeply rooted in the heart of Scotland, we've undergone transformative rebranding. With a renewed vision, we now offer bespoke private tours tailor-made for those seeking the authentic beauty and charm of the Scottish Highlands. Our commitment has always been, and remains, to provide our guests with a uniquely experience that captures the spirit of Scotland. Journey with us, and discover Scotland like never before. **Upon booking, mention that you are a member of Scottish Travel Society and receive a 10% discount on your tour**

info@lindsayshighlandtours.com +44 7703 441 846

Contents • Page 3 Editor’s Note • Page 10 Your Selfies Part II

•Page 12 The Guisachan Gathering •Page 16 A Local’s View on the Festive Season • Page 24 The Weaving Shed, Western Isles Designs and 2 Sisters Tweed. Miriam and Martha Hamilton

•Page 32 Christmas Pudding Recipe • Page 38 Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

• Page 42 Mustheb • Page 44 Christmas Roast with Apple Mustard Crust

•Page 46 Your Selfies Part II •Page 50 The Locals View On Sports •Page 60 Your Selfies Part II •Page 62 Christmas Trifle Recipe

•Page 72 Getting Around Scotland by Public Transport •Page 86 Auld Lang Syne

*Hidden Gem*

Beth Jordan 2018 ©

contact: beth@scottishtravelsociety.com

Your Selfies Part II

d at i v a D d n a Pammy tle s a C n i b o r Dun

t e k r ma s s a Gr n i da n o h R

Tip i on the Ba nks Bo nn of Lom Loc ie h on d

Sonya is all smiiles

Kacey with beautiful Aurora!

stle a C t r a h q r Vicky at U

as m t s i hr C , n aro h S gh d r n u a b n y Edi , Rand t e Laura made it to Scotland!! Mark

The Giusachan Gathering

The Guisachan Gathering is an event that takes place every 5 years which brings together Golden Retriever lovers from all over the world. Held at Guisachan House in Tommich, Scotland, this gathering celebrates the rich history and heritage of the breed.

Guisachan House, built in the 19th century, holds a special place in the hearts of Golden Retriever Lovers. It was the home of Dudley Coutts Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth, who selectively bred a dog named Nous with a female named Belle. There were 4 pups in the litter; Crocus, Primrose, Ada and Cowslip. These pups were the beginning of the breed we know and love today.

The gathering at Guisachan House provides a unique opportunity for Golden Retriever owners, breeders and enthusiasts to come together and share their love for these wonderful dogs. The event features a range of activities, including breed shows, obedience trials, agility competitions, and even a Golden Retriever parade.

One of the highlights of the gathering is the chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of Guisachan House. Attendees can take leisurely walks along the estate's scenic trails, enjoying the stunning Scottish countryside while bonding with their furry companions. In addition to the organized activities, the gathering also offers opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing. Experts in the field of Golden Retrievers are often invited to give talks and workshops, covering topics such as responsible breeding, health care, and training. This allows attendees to gain valuable insights and learn from the best in the industry. The Guisachan Golden Retriever Gathering is not only a celebration of the breed but also a chance to give back. The event often partners with local charities and organizations that work towards the welfare and betterment of Golden Retrievers. Through fundraising activities and donations, attendees contribute to these important causes, ensuring that the breed's future remains bright. Whether you are a seasoned Golden Retriever owner or simply have an affinity for these beautiful dogs, the Guisachan Golden Retriever Gathering is an event not to be missed. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, celebrate the breed's history, and create lasting memories with your beloved Golden Retriever.

BESPOKE, LUXURY TOURS OF SCOTLAND WWW.TARTANROAD.COM

If you Love Scotland, Join us.

Clan STS is over 41,000 strong and GROWING Take part in discussions, offer advice and suggestions. Share with the group about your time in Scotland and show us some pretty pictures. Get help planning your trip, be it a grand tour of Scotland, a city break, or even island hopping. Our members “Clan STS” are extremely helpful on ALL things Scotland and Scottish. The Scottish Travel Society Facebook group is highly rated by meta for being well run by its outstanding team of admin. We are free from Spam, trolls and other undesireable influences, making it a safe and enjoyable group. Follow this link and answer the the membership request questions. See you there!!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ScottishTravel/memberrequests

The Loccal’s View-- On the Festive Season They say in Scotland that there are two seasons, June and winter. They are not wrong. As I write this article in the middle of July the rain is currently of Biblical proportions and my attention has been momentarily distracted by the view from my 3rd floor Edinburgh flat; it’s Noah waving at me with his animals as he passes by.

The season that is winter does have a sub-season within it and that is the focus of this article. We shall be looking at the festive season, what it means to Scots, what it means to Scotland and how a visitor can best enjoy this time of year. The question does get asked – is midwinter a good time to visit Scotland? The answer is probably quite simple. No. That should probably be qualified, it can be a great time to visit Scotland, there is a lot to recommend to do, but you need to know what you are getting yourself in for. Firstly it is dark. In December the sun sets in the mid-afternoon, if the sun has even bothered to rise at all, if it does rise it is midmorning and then it only puts in a passing appearance. It is also, cold, wet, dank and generally miserable. Us Scots have words for the rain that do not really exist on other parts of the planet, a favourite is “dreich”; this is a sort of all- encompassing

mist of a rain that does not look like it should be too bad, on stepping outside you might mutter, “looks ok, just spitting a bit” and then on arriving at your destination minutes later you realise that you are so wet through that you can dry yourself by standing in an actual shower. But this does have advantages, that means you can head indoors, and one of the best types of indoors is the Scottish pub, a magnificent venue when the weather is atrocious. The best of Scotland can be found in a local pub, roaring fireplace, pint of beer, good Scottish roast food, maybe a whisky, entertaining chat with the locals and a head rub of the obligatory pub dog.

Drovers Inn roaring fire

The Festive season does not embrace Thanksgiving in Scotland. We give thanks to the fact that we are Scottish every day. That we live in this beautiful, albeit rain soaked, paradise. Christmas is mainly a time for families, people will be out in the run up to Christmas, in recent years Edinburgh has a Christmas market; right in the heart of the city in Prince’s Street gardens you can get a mulled wine, grab presents for relatives and enjoy the convivial atmosphere. If the Scott Monument is not high enough for you then there are fairground attractions too.

The pubs close by, especially Rose Street, will be heaving but it’s not hard to find a good pub full of locals enjoying the warmth, enjoying the atmosphere, the food and drink that warms from the inside.

In Scotland Hogmanay is where it’s at, and when it’s at. Hogmananay is Decemberthe 31st and is a bigger deal than any other particular day. Book ahead for a good meal, eat late afternoon or early evening and then head out to enjoy the party. In Edinburgh this is a big street party that takes over the entire city and certainly the centre. Listen to local bands playing live outside and watch the fireworks over the castle at midnight. Ever heard of Scotland’s most famous poet Rabbie Burns? Some have, some think they have not, but then ask if you have ever sung Auld Lang Syne? The second most sung song in the English language, after Happy Birthday, was written down by Rabbie Burns in the 18th century, recording a historical song that welcomes in The New Year.

Sing it with your new Scottish friends and go to bed happy and full of joy for thecoming year, with resolutions made and burgeoning friendships toasted with Scotland’s national drink. Then wake up on January 1st to discover that the party does not stop, that only in Scotland is January the 2nd also a holiday as everyone continues to enjoy themselves. Maybe one of your New Year’s resolutions is to return, to embrace your heritage whilst revelling, revelling in the warmth of the welcome you have received and will receive again on your return.

The Weaving Shed; Western Isles Designs and Two Sisters Tweeds Miriam and Martha Hamilton by Miriam Hamilton I grew up in the Forest of Dean the oldest of three sisters and a brother. As a child I was incredibly fortunate to have a mother who, from the moment we were able to, encouraged us to sew, knit, paint, draw and write. On holiday we would keep diaries and sketchbooks, at home we would create Barbies latest outfit, knit our own winter woolies and paint the stunning forest in which we lived. My first solo creation was a satin ballgown with pink rose buds for Barbie of which I was inordinately proud.

From then on I was always getting out the sewing machine and experimenting. Some of those early works I look back on and cringe! We were home-educated for a couple of years, during which time our mother enabled us to try out all kinds of textile crafts including felting, dying, spinning and weaving. My mother bought me a table top Harris loom for my birthday and I experimented with yarns, colours and designs. After visiting the Isle of Harris for the first time I fell in love with Harris Tweed and dreamed of creating my own cloth. During another visit to the islands a few years later I was able to participate in a spinning session which increased my interest in creating my own cloth. I bought myself a spinning wheel and practiced spinning, dying my own yarn, and weaving into colourful fabrics. My dream to weave Harris Tweed I never seriously considered as the idea of moving to the Islands seemed unobtainable.

Aged 19 I worked in a menswear store in Birkenhead, and from there was head hunted to manage an independent mens tailors where I also carried out alterations to garments. This gave me access to a world of fabric and designs, and built my experience in measuring, creating and tailoring garments as well as enabling me to sell bags, waistcoats, jewellery and accessories through the shop. Years later, however, I was desperate to move out of the Wirral, where I had been living during university, and was pouring over property prices when I realised, we might just be able to do it. I told my mother and siblings that my husband and I were planning on moving to the Isle of Lewis, but far from dismay they said they were going to come too! This is when the little spark of excitement started that maybe becoming a weaver wasn't so unobtainable...

Two years on and I had purchased a rundown property in Crossbost and my sister had bought an even more dilapidated croft house in Ranish. We moved in autumn 2017, to a house with no heating, no insulation, bare concrete floors, broken windows and missing a staircase! My dream of becoming a weaver went on a back burner as with no funds and nowhere to weave that was going to have to wait.

Ten months after moving however, I was talking to a local weaver in the shop where I had been selling my clothing and jewellery and I mentioned my desire to become a weaver. Speaking with him ignited that excitement once again and I began to seriously look into making my dream a reality. When the same weaver rang me only a couple of weeks later to say he had found me a loom, I decided to just go for it!

Being blessed with a builder for a husband we decided to build a weaving shed in the garden. Some generous donations of materials, a bank loan and some serious scrimping later I had the most stunning shed a girl could wish for! In 2018 I passed my test piece, produced my first paid roll for the mill and moved the loom into my new shed, I then started weaving my own unique designs, selling some of the cloth and using the rest to create my clothing, bags, homeware and accessories. In 2019 we purchased our first croft and a small flock of Hebridean sheep. My original intention was to use their fleeces to weave tweed however I found the fleece quality quite poor and the horns quite painful! I had been after gotland sheep for years and finally found three girls and a ram for sale in Aberdeen. They have become 9 pure bred Gotlands and a couple of heb/gotland crosses who we are keeping since the fleece quality is superb.

We use the fleeces to weave our own tweed, taking the product right through from sheep to finished garment. Something I dreamed of doing from a very young age! We have fenced, ditched, cleared and rush cut the first croft and it is considerably better than when we bought it. We purchased our second croft this spring which needs significantly more ditching, fencing and rush clearance. Plus we are now building a barn to store machinery and feed and bought Rosie two ponies. Things are never quiet around here!

In 2019 I taught my sister Martha to weave as I had my daughter Rosie in April 2020. After passing her test piece and becoming a registered weaver, Martha now weaves on my loom and her own loom which my husband got running for her this spring. We stopped weaving Harris Tweed this past winter as finishing times were too unreliable and slow, we now weave Two Sisters Tweeds and get the cloth finished on the mainland within four weeks meaning we can expand and plan our stock. My other sister Mary is now also making small pieces for me and helping out as the shop has gone from strength to strength! We have so many more plans, so looking forward to seeing what the future holds!

*Hidden Gem*

Beth Jordan 2018©

Christmas Pudding

Christmas Pudding is a traditional British Dessert that is typically served during the Festive Season. It is usually made with a mixture of suet, flour, breadcrumbs, sugar and a variety of dried fruits such as currants and sultanas. The mixture is then flavoured with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves and soaked with brandy or rum. Once the Ingredients are combined, the pudding is steamed or boiled for several hours to achieve it's rich and dense texture. It is often served with a warm sauce such as a brandy butter or custard. Christmas Pudding has a long history dating back to Medieval times and was originally called "plum pudding" The dessert was often associated with wealth and prosperity due to the costly ingredients used, such as imported fruits and spices. In earlier times it was customary to make the pudding weeks, or even months in advance, allowing it to age and develop its flavours. Some families still adhere to this tradition and make their pudding well in advance.

One of the most iconic aspects of Christmas Pudding is the tradition of adding small objects such as coins or charms to the mixture before steaming. These items were meant to bring good luck to the person who found them in their serving. The Christmas Pudding holds a special place in British culture and is enjoyed as a festive centerpiece to conclude a Christmas meal. Many families have their own treasured recipes that have been passed down through generations making it a cherished tradition.

Christmas Pudding Recipe 100 gm flour 2 tsp cinnamon powder 1/4 tsp ginger powder 1 tsp of nutmeg 100 gm fresh bread crumbs 100 gm grated gur / sugar 150 gm chilled butter 400 gm raisins 1 apple-peeled and sliced in small pieces 50 gm dates-stoned 2 Tbsp honey 2 rind of lemons, grated Juice of 2 lemons 2 eggs 60 ml whiskey 1 tsp caramel colour, burnt sugar To finish: 2 Tbsp castor sugar 2 Tbsp whiskey For the rum butter: 100 gm butter 2 tsp orange rind 100 gm icing sugar 3 Tbsp rum 1 Tbsp orange rind

How to Make Christmas Pudding 1.Mix flour, cinnamon powder, ginger powder and nutmeg. 2.Stir in breadcrumbs & the sugar. 3.Rub butter into flour with fingertips. 4.Now add the raisins, apple, dates, honey, lemon rind, lemon juice, 2 eggs, whiskey, and caramel color to darken. 5.Mix all well to form a smooth batter. 6.Pour the batter into oiled pudding tins. Cover with butter paper and tie with some foil. Cook in a pressure cooker for 30-40 minutes or till puddings are firm to touch. 7.When cool place in an airtight box and store in a cool place. 8.While serving, turn out onto a warm platter, sprinkle some castor sugar and flambe with whisky. Flambe is a type of glaze done on cake sand puddings. For this just heat a little whisky in a spoon and as it bursts into flames pour over the dessert. 9.For the rum butter: 10.Beat the sugar and butter with the rind until soft. 11.Gradually beat in rum & orange rind to flavor.

*Don’t Miss*

Calanais Standing Stones

Happy Holidays from Scottish Travel Society.

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd Brought to Scotland from Sweden in 1952,, these 150 reindeer are the only reindeer in Britain. The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is a unique group of animals that inhabit the beautiful landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland. These reindeer have become a beloved symbol of the region, attracting visitors from all over the world. Experience the unique thrill of trekking with the majestic Cairngorm reindeer in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. This unforgettable adventure allows travelers, with knowledgeable guides leading the way, to explore the reindeer's habitat, capture stunning photographs, and have the opportunity to interact with and feed these curious and gentle animals. Embark on a guided trek that takes you deep into the heart of the reindeer's mountainous home and discover the ancient folklore and mythology that surrounds them. Additionally, gain insight into the conservation efforts aimed at protecting and preserving the Caringorm reindeer population, creating lasting memories, and forging a deeper connection with nature.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Cairngorm reindeer as knowledgeable guides provide insights into their biology and behavior. Learn about their evolutionary adaptations, unique physical features, and how they have thrived in the challenging mountain environment.

Learning an understanding of their social dynamics, communication methods, and feeding habits, visitors will develop a deeper appreciation for the reindeer and their place in the natural world. This special trek offers travelers the opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level and gain a newfound respect for these magnificent creatures.

Embarking on a trek with the wild Cairngorm reindeer offers travelers a unique opportunity to unleash their inner explorer in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.

It was in January 2017 when Heike woke up with the word ‘Mustheb’ in her mind’s eye; just a ‘word’ you would say but for her, it was so intense that she had to find out what this dream wanted to tell. She knew the syllable heb stood for the Hebrides, but what could be a Must-Hebrides? She felt a tingling in her hands and grabbed a book

from the shelf to calm herself down. Another book fell to the floor, she looked at the page that fell open and could only focus just a single word in the text: mustard.

Could that be it? Should she follow her passion for foody things, making mustard and other delights? She decided: Mustheb should become a budding brand that would grow - Made inthe Hebrides. The idea took more and more shape, and The Hebridean Mustard Company was born. In September 2017 the first jar of Mustheb mustard was sold.

Originally born in a German mustard stronghold, Düsseldorf, where the oldest existing brand of mustard in Germany is still made, Heike emigrated to Scotland in 2016. She feels blessed when making mustard, when the sound of the mill at work fills the kitchen and her nose inhales the aromas of fresh mustard, spices and vinegar. She is as happy as a child at a fair when the ingredients combine into a paste and the texture transforms into a mustardy liquid.

Heike is The Hebridean Mustard Maker and in that capacity she shares with us a recipe for a lovely Christmas Sunday roast. Of course you can use any mustard you like, but Hebridean Mustard makes it extra special. And best of all, it is Christmas Mustard. This limited edition mustard is seasoned with seven typical Christmas

spices to add a warm, festive flavour to the dishes you use it with.

Your paragraph text

Premium Organic Fairtrade Cinnamon instead of the cheap cassia substitute you often find when cinnamon is mentioned, Cloves with their warm, sweet and aromatic taste reminiscent of a humid tropical climate, Coriander also known as Manna in the Bible or Bread of Heaven, Cardamom with its pungent flavour, Ginger is in for it’s spiciness and warmth, the sweet taste of Anise with its liquorice aroma surprises, and finally Mace which is sweeter and milder than the otherwise similar taste of Nutmeg. All this makes this superb mustard an essential addition to any festive table. This mustard adds a little bite to Christmas ham, turkey sandwiches and pies. And it is the perfect partner for cheese, vegetables and cold meats. And here is the promised recipe for a delicious crust on a Sunday roast that will also work on a vegetable roast such as cauliflower.

Christmas Roast With Apple Mustard Crust 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

30g dried apple slices 1 Tbsp Mustheb Christmas mustard

1 tsp golden syrup 35g breadcrumbs 70g soft butter 3 tsp freshly ground red pepper

-Chop the dried apples into small pieces and soak them in a few tablespoons of water, just enough to keep them from floating.

-While the apples are soaking for about 15 minutes, mix the mustard, golden syrup, thyme leaves, butter and breadcrumbs in a bowl. When the apples have absorbed the water, mix together.Fry the roast until crispy on all sides.

Spread and press the apple-mustard topping on one side (~5mm thick) and place the roast in the oven (100°C for 2 hours for ~1kg - time will vary depending on the size of the roast). The meat should reach a core temperature of around 58°C. If the crust is not crisp and brown at the end, place under the grill at 200°C for a few minutes. Peace, Love & Mustard from Scotland

Mustheb Christmas Edition

Your Selfies Part II

Jonathon at Arran Distillery Glen t a y b b u H Janet & Etive

n i y p p a H an d r o J h t e B s d n a l h g i the H

Jenny at Staffa

Jim and Jennifer John O G made it to roats

ons s 2 s i h d n a Jason in e n i h s n u s g enjoyin Oban

Elizabeth happy to see the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow.

Gen in MC Vahalla, Scapa Flow

Have the best of both worlds! Enjoy the convenience of a private driver ( as in a bus tour) AND appreciate the sites at your leisure. Our Aim is to provide you with a unique experience, to maximize your time and make lifelong memories. When you join one of our private tours, you can settle into the journey. We can design the tour according to your desires, make lengthy pauses, or create a bespoke itinerary. We have access to a large fellt of vehicles, so we can take any number of people on out tours, from very small and intimate ones to much larger groups. You have your journey your way with Celtique Destination

The Local’s View on – Sports By Graham Davidson Sport plays a big part of life in Scotland, some of the most popular international sports started in Scotland and us locals will never let you forget it. As we all know, Scotland and the Scots invented everything, not happy with inventing, or claiming to invent all of the things, such as the television, the telephone, penicillin, modern economics as well as the cloning of sheep Scotland will also claim that many sports are ours too. Let’s have a look at how you can get involved in participating, playing, watching and supporting when in Scotland.

Golf was invented in Scotland centuries ago, we know that King James II banned it in 1457 as it was deflecting attention away from the practicing of archery, but the more enlightened KingJames IV lifted the ban in 1502, with The Old Course in St Andrews being the recognised homeof golf. Coincidentally, Scotland remains famous as a nation famed for it’s lack of prowess in archery, and on such minor details history is written.

Many visitors to Scotland do so solely purely for the golf and an entire article can be written on this, but playing golf is pretty straightforward. To play a famous course that hosts an Open Championship such as St Andrews, Carnoustie, Troon, Muirfield or Turnberry is certainly possible, albeit pricey and requires some booking. Playing a traditional Scottish links course on the coast is not difficult with myriad courses suited to all playing abilities. If you are not a golfer you can still get involved; at St Andrews there is a public putting course next to The Old Course, it is called the Himalayas – the name giving a subtly clue as to how undulating it might be. So anyone and everyone can say they have played golf in Scotland.

St. Andrews the Old Course

The most popular sport in Scotland is football, note NOT soccer, Scots will lay claim to the invention of football as well as everything else, hosting the first International match in 1872 inPartick. The two biggest teams are Rangers and Celtic, both are based in Glasgow, the rivalry between them is enormous and is based on historical differences that go back for centuries.

Crowds in excess of 50,000 watch home games and tickets are hard, but not impossible to get hold of. The exception to this in when these two teams, The Old Firm, play each other – then tickets are impossible, not hard to get hold of.

However, watching football in the pub is always an option, just tread carefully until you gauge the mood of the room. If there is a huge roar for a particular team then find out which team that is and – good news, that is your new adopted team and fans of that team will be delighted to have you as an honorary fan. This is especially true if you buy a beer for your new found friends and bond over your recently acquired love of {insert team name here} and their obvious superiority, both morally and on the pitch of those hated {insert name of rival team here}.

All other sports are played in Scotland, rugby is popular and the Six Nations is an annual tournament between Scotland and their near neighbours. Matches will sell out to huge crowds and the match between Scotland and England is particularly acrimonious. Scotland will field 15 heroic conquistadors, representing their nation with dashing skill and Herculean endeavour, whilst England will be represented by whichever 15 orcs don’t happen to be in prison at the time of kick off.

Other sports are available, the rise and popularity of Andy Murray means many tennis clubs, but whatever sport or pastime you are fond of, from squash to Scrabble, from curling to canoeing, from Bridge to badminton – there will be a local club that will be happy to host a visitor.

that can be played in a pub and can boast international champions at snooker, pool and darts. If you are in a Scottish pub and, for example, the pool table is free – then have a game. Be warned, that if you are in a remote village and there is one pub, with that one pub boasting one pool table, then it is probably not a great idea to challenge a local. The complete and total lack of anything else to do, means theyare probably quite handy.

The Crafty Pig, Glasgow

Finally if you are visiting and wish to watch a sport that is not so well known outside of your country, it is probably on in a sports bar. In Edinburgh and Glasgow I know of bars that will show American Football, Aussie Rules and pretty much anything else you can think of. Providing it does not clash with anything us locals wish to watch, we will be happy to accommodate you.

So come to Scotland for lots of reasons, to see the beauty of the countryside, to reclaim your heritage, to meet the people, enjoy the atmosphere and everything else besides. But if sport is your thing, you will find a proud nation of people that will share and indulge your passion.

*Hidden Gem*

The Maiden Stone

Beth Jordan 2016 ©

YOUR SELFIES PART II

ly r e Wav t a a i th ion t Cyn a St

Dal e, Dar at Thr cy & O eav e C liver ast le

Brenda loving the Kelpies!

he t at m To & g n n i a ra Je i u Q

Bla Barb ckn ara ess at Cas tle

Alanna Van Pelt Atholl Palace

Christine is all smiles at the Kelpies

Christmas Trifle

In Scotland, the Christmas trifle holds a special place on holiday tables, offering a delightful blend of festive tradition and culinary creativity. It’s a way to share the rich Scottish heritage, and a piece of tradition with loved ones. Known for its rich history and distinctive culinary heritage, Scotland has put its own unique twist on this classic dessert, creating a version that reflects its culture and local ingredients. Whether enjoyed in cozy homes surrounded by snow-covered landscapes or in more temperate settings, the Scottish Christmas trifle embodies the spirit of togetherness and festive indulgence that defines the holiday season in this vibrant country.

While the core elements of the Christmas trifle remain consistent, Scotland's diverse regions might add their own twists. From the bustling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the tranquil Highlands, you might find variations that incorporate local ingredients and traditions. For instance, a Highland trifle might showcase heather honey or heatherinfused whisky, while a coastal version might feature sea buckthorn berries or edible seaweed garnishes. Whisky Influence: Given Scotland's renowned whisky culture, it's not surprising that whisky finds its way into the Christmas trifle. Instead of using traditional sherry or brandy, Scottish trifle recipes may incorporate a splash of Scotch whisky for a distinctively Scottish touch. This not only imparts a rich flavor but also pays homage to one of Scotland's most cherished spirits

Berries: Scotland is famed for its luscious berries, and the Christmas trifle takes full advantage of this natural bounty. Juicy raspberries, strawberries, and even brambles find their way into the trifle's layers, infusing each bite with a burst of tartness and vibrant color

to the trifle's base, some variations use crumbled shortbread cookies or oatcakes instead of traditional sponge cake. This adds a unique texture and flavor, with the buttery richness of shortbread or the nuttiness of oats complementing the other layers

Cranachan Inspiration: Cranachan is a classic Scottish dessert made with oats, whipped cream, honey, and raspberries. The flavors and textures of cranachan can inspire elements of the Christmas trifle in Scotland, with oats possibly making an appearance as a crunchy topping or additional layer

The Christmas trifle in Scotland is more than just a dessert; it's a testament to the nation's rich history, vibrant culture, and unwavering sense of community. It's a sweet embodiment of the holiday spirit that warms hearts and brings smiles to faces, whether against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes or the cozy comfort of a Scottish home.

INGREDIENTS • 12 Trifle Sponges/Ladyfingers • 600ml custard • Approx 500g Raspberries to decorate • 320g (1 small jar) of raspberry jam (1 cup) • 250ml of double cream (1 cup of heavy whipping cream) • 8 Tbsp Scottish Whisky or whisky liqueur • 8 Tbsp Orange Juice Custard *See Note 3 • 600ml whole fat milk (2.5 cups) • 3 egg yolks • 25g caster sugar (2 tbsp) • 2 tsp cornflour • 1 vanilla pod .

INSTRUCTIONS

• If using trifle sponges then cut each sponge in half and spread with jam, then put back together as though you were making a sandwich. For ladyfingers or spongecake spread jam on one side. • Cut the sponges to fit into your bowl or glass. We cut into 1.5cm strips for smaller glasses but you can cut larger rectangles or squares for a large bowl.

• Begin placing the sponge strips into the bowl/s. We start by working along the edge to make sure the visible layer looks good and then fill out the middle. Pack them in tightly, cutting smaller pieces of sponge to fill any gaps. This makes sure the rest of the pudding has a firm foundation to build layers upon. The layer should be at least an inch thick, depending on the size of your bowl. • Once the layer is packed in firmly in each serving place them to one side. • Gently heat the jam in a saucepan or microwavesafe bowl to thin it out. Take off the heat and add the whisky and orange juice. Allow to cool and taste to see if you want to add more whisky or orange juice. • Pour over the sponge layer, making sure the whole thing is well soaked. There shouldn't be any dry sponge, although you don't want it totally soggy either so don't feel you need to use it all if you find it's too much. • Make sure this layer is totally cool before adding the next. We like to do this earlier in the day and keep in the fridge.

Layer 2 - Custard *See below for how to make your own custard • If using raspberries, cut enough raspberries in half place the cut half facing the glass of the dish in a layer on top of the soaked sponges.

• Once this outside-facing ring of raspberries is in place you can fill in the middle with raspberries too if you like, but it's not essential. • Pour the custard over this layer of tightly packed raspberries. This layer should be of the same thickness as the sponge layer. • Allow the custard to cool/set in the fridge

Layer 3 - Cream • Tip the double cream into the mixing bowl and whip until the cream forms stiff peaks

• Place cream gently on top of the custard layer. It's easiest to pipe if you can so that it doesn't sink into the custard, or you can spoon small amounts over the whole thing. • Decorate with whole raspberries and put in the fridge until required. For making your own custard, do so as below: • Cut the vanilla pod lengthways and scrape out the seeds • Put the seeds and the outside of the pod into a saucepan with the milk andgently heat until almost boiling

• Set aside to allow the vanilla to infuse • Meanwhile, split your eggs and keep the yolks (you can use the whites for meringues if you like!) Mix the egg yolks with the cornflour and sugar in a heatproof bowl until it comes together as a paste

• Remove the outside of the vanilla pod from the milk and then slowly pour into the paste, stirring constantly, until it is combined • Tip back into a clean saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly. The custard will start to thicken at around 75C/167F. You can measure if it's ready by using a thermometer or coat the back of a spoon, draw a line with a fingertip (carefully!) and if the line stays then it is ready. • Set aside to cool completely

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Getting around Scotland by public transport by Matthew Ross Nervous about driving in Scotland? Uneasy about having to drive on the left? Using public transport may be a better option, particularly given the high price of petrol (gas) and the difficulty in finding parking places in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Even if you do wish to drive for part of your visit, using public transport has many advantages.

Scotland has a fairly good public transport system – although, like most countries, there’s always room for improvement. The system includes trains, buses, ferries and domestic airservices. There is good co-ordination between trains and ferry services, unfortunately coordination between trains and buses is less well developed.

Trains Most trains within Scotland are operated by ScotRail, which is owned by the Scottish Government and provides services entirely within Scotland. Most ScotRail trains are Standard Class only, but First Class is available on some longer distance services (such as Glasgow-Aberdeen). Queen The busiest service is the Edinburgh Waverley -Glasgow – Street service, which takes only 45 minutes and operates every 30 minutes.

There are also frequently local trains in the Glasgow and Edinburgh areas. Tickets can be bought online (at

the ScotRail website www.scotrail.co.uk or app) or at ticket offices or machines at many stations. Rover tickets offering unlimited travel are also available. It is not necessary to buy

tickets in advance for local trains, but it is best (and cheaper) to do so for distances of about60 miles / 100 km or more. It is a good idea to reserve seats if travelling in the summermonths on the West Highland line (Glasgow Queen Street – Oban, Fort William or Mallaig)or the Highland line (Edinburgh or Glasgow to Inverness). You can travel as far north asThurso by train, from where you can take a short taxi ride to Scrabster for the ferry to Orkney.

Daytime trains to and from England are operated by (1) LNER (mainlyAberdeen-Edinburgh-York-London King’s Cross), (2) Avanti West Coast (mainly Glasgow Central-Carlisle-PrestonLondon Euston), (3) Trans Pennine Express (mainly Glasgow Central and Edinburgh toManchester Airport) and (4) Cross Country (mainly services to destinations other thanLondon). There are many stations in London, so do check that you are using the right station (King’s Cross for LNER trains to Edinburgh and Euston for Avanti trains to Glasgow Central).The Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight train service between London Euston and Edinburgh, Glasgow Central, Fort William, Inverness, Aberdeen and many other stations in Scotland. The Caledonian Sleeper offers a range of accommodation, from seats tocompartments with beds (with or without a shower); there is also an onboard restaurant

Glasgow has two main railway stations in the city centre. Glasgow Central is the station fortrains to Ardrossan Harbour (for the ferry to Brodick, Isle of Arran), Ayr, Birmingham,Carlisle, Dumfries, Gourock (for the ferry to Dunoon), Kilmarnock, Lanark, Largs (for theferry to the Isle of Cumbrae), London Euston, Manchester, Motherwell and Wemyss Bay (forthe ferry to Rothesay, Isle of Bute). Glasgow Queen Street is the station for trains toAberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Fort William, Inverness, Linlithgow, Mallaig, Perth, Pitlochry,Stirling and Stonehaven.

Edinburgh has two stations in the city centre. Edinburgh Waverley is city’s main station: it isin the heart of the city centre and is served by all trains. Haymarket station is located at thewestern edge of the city centre and is mainly used by commuters, it has a tram link toEdinburgh Airport. There are also two somewhat-confusingly named stations calledEdinburgh Park and Edinburgh Gateway. These are both smaller stations used by local trains only and have a tram link to Edinburgh Airport. If you want to go to Edinburgh city centreget off at Edinburgh Waverley station (often simply called Edinburgh) – not Edinburgh Parkor Edinburgh Gateway.

If you are a wheelchair user, please contact the railways at least 48 hours in advance oftravel. A member of staff will be present to assist you (and a ramp will be arranged for youto board and leave the trains) – but only if you make arrangements in advance.Check the railway operator’s website (such as ScotRail) for ticketing and other information,including any delays or disruptions. There are occasional closures or replacement bus services in the event of scheduled maintenance work.

Edinburgh Trams Edinburgh is the only Scottish city with a tram line. There is only one line, and this connects Edinburgh Airport with the city centre, Leith and Newhaven. If you wish to visit the RoyalYacht Britannia, take a tram to Ocean Terminal tram stop. Buy your ticket from a machine at each tram stop before boarding the tram. Day tickets issued by Lothian Buses (Edinburgh’s local buses) are also valid on the tram. The trams are fully accessible for wheelchair users and there is a dedicated space in the middle of each tram

Glasgow Subway Glasgow is the only city in Scotland with an underground railway. The Subway has only one line, operating in a circle in both directions, with 15 stations. It is particularly useful for travel between the West End and University area (served by Hillhead and Kelvinhall stations) with the city centre (served by Buchanan Street and St Enoch stations). Glasgow Queen Street railway station is linked by a moving walkway with Buchanan Street Subway station.The Subway was opened in 1896 and unfortunately is not suitable for people with limited mobility, such as wheelchair users. Stations are marked with a distinctive orange letter S symbol.

Local buses Local buses in cities are mainly provided by a single company: First Bus in Aberdeen, LothianBuses in Edinburgh, First Bus in Glasgow and Xplore Dundee in Dundee. Buy single tickets orday passes from the driver. If possible, please try to pay for your ticket with a contactlessbank card or Apple Pay. Coins are accepted but no change is given. If paying with coins, please try to have the exact fare ready to avoid delays to the bus. Please check the websites below for more information. Local buses are wheelchair accessible. There are also “hop on hop off” buses for tourists in the cities. These are a great way to get to know the cities.

There are bus services linking Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow with their airports. See the section on “airports” below.

Other buses and coaches For all public transport timetables (including buses and coach) please see the Traveline Scotland website www.travelinescotland.com. Most villages and small towns are connectedby bus services, but these are often infrequent, and you should check the timetable carefully. Bus 95 is a useful local service serving towns and villages along the picturesque Fife coast,including St Andrews, Crail, Pittenweem, Anstruther, Elie and Leven. Check times at the Traveline Scotland website.Long distance coaches depart from St Andrew’s Square bus station in Edinburgh and Buchanan Street bus station in Glasgow. Scottish Citylink coaches serve many destinationswithin Scotland, including the Isle of Skye (which is not served by train). West Coast Motors operate services to Campbeltown on Kintyre Peninsula,which is also not served by train.There are also coaches to England, Northern Ireland, Wales and continental Europe operated by several different operators, including NationalExpress, Flixbus and Megabus.St Andrews is not served by train. Stagecoach operates bus services connecting St Andrewswith Edinburgh and Dundee. There is also a bus between St Andrews and Leuchars railwaystation.

Ferries

çaledonian MacBrayne (or Calmac for short) operate ferry services to/from islands in the Firth of Clyde (including Arran, Bute and Cumbrae) and the Hebridean islands. These include ferries from Oban to the isles of Barra, Coll, Mull, Tiree and South Uist. The Main ferry service to the Isle of Lewis operates from Ullapool on the mainland to Stornoway. Other routes include the isles of Islay, Skye, Harris and North Uist. Check the Calmac website forinformation and tickets. NorthLink operates ferries linking mainland Scotland with Orkney and Shetland. For Orkney,there is a ferry between Scrabster (near Thurso on the mainland) and Stromness (Orkney).For Shetland,there is a daily overnight ferry between Aberdeen and Lerwick (some of which also call at Kirkwall in Orkney). Check the NorthLink website for information and tickets.There are also several ferries provided by other operators, such as Pentland Ferries betweenGills Bay (mainland) and St Margaret’s Hope (Orkney), Western Ferries(to/from Dunoon),

Stena Line between Cairnryan and Belfast (Northern Ireland), P&;O between Cairnryan andLarne (Northern Ireland) and the Kintyre Express passenger-only ferry between Campbeltown and Ballycastle (Northern Ireland). There are also inter-island ferries within Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles.

There is currently no passenger ferry service between Scotland and continental Europe. Thenearest option is the overnight car ferry between Ijmuiden (near Amsterdam) andNewcastle (England) operated by DFDS.

AIRPORTS

Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s largest airport and is now served by several direct transatlantic routes, as well as direct flights to Doha and Dubai (with onward connections to Asia, Australia and New Zealand).If flying on British Airways via London Heathrow, please note that no change of terminal is normally needed. Almost all British Airways flights use Heathrow Terminal 5, but do check.You will go through passport control at Heathrow, not in Scotland, so please allow time for this when changing ‘planes.

If you are flying to/from Scotland on Aer Lingus via Dublin you will go through passport control in Dublin, but not in Scotland – this is due to the “Common Travel Area” agreement between the United Kingdom and Ireland. Dublin Airport also has pre-boarding US passport control and customs, which is very useful for passengers flying TO the USA (as it saves time on arrival in the USA).Holders of passports issued by the UK, EU/EEA countries, Canada, USA, New Zealand or Australia can use the automatic passport gates which saves time (but you won’t get a stamp on your passport). There are public transport links to/from Scotland’s main airports. From Edinburgh Airport,take either the tram or the Airlink bus to Edinburgh city centre; there is also the “AIR” coach operated by Scottish Citylink to Glasgow’s Buchanan Street bus station. From Glasgow Airport, take bus 500 direct to Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central railway stations in the city centre, as well as Buchanan Street bus station. There is a bus link between Aberdeen rail and bus station with Aberdeen Airport, but check times carefully as this is not very frequent. Inverness and Prestwick airports have their own railway stations. Car hire is available at all of Scotland’s main airports. We recommend Celtic Legend www.celticlegend.co.uk (who offer a 10% discount to Scottish Travel Society Facebook group members *note must mention STS UPON booking); other car hire operators are also available.

If you are driving a car or a pedestrian, please do remember that traffic in Scotland drives on the LEFT. Please take extra care when crossing roads. Car drivers should familiarise themselves with the UK Highway Code. Taxis are available throughout Scotland. By law, local taxi operators must be licenced bytheir local council and their fares are strictly regulated with a meter. Uber is available insome urban areas, but their “surge pricing” policy at busy times may make it moreexpensive than conventional taxis.

For all public transport timetables the Traveline Scotland website is very useful: www.travelinescotland.com

* Avanti West Coast trains www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk * Caledonian Macbrayne (ferries) www.calmac.co.uk *Edinburgh Airport www.edinburghairport.com * First Bus (Glasgow and Aberdeen) www.firstbus.co.uk * Glasgow Subway www.spt.co.uk

* LNER trains www.lner.co.uk * Loganair (flights within Scotland) www.loganair.co.uk

* Lothian Buses (Edinburgh) www.lothianbuses.com * NorthLink (ferries to Orkney and Shetland) www.northlinkferries.co.uk

* ScotRail www.scotrail.co.uk * Scottish Citylink coaches www.citylink.co.uk * Trans Pennine Express trains www.tpexpress.co.uk * Xplore Dundee (buses) www.xploredundee.com UK HIGHWAY CODE

This list is not comprehensive. Please use an online search engine for websites of other public transport operators.

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Auld Lang Syne Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind? Should old acquaintance be forgot, and old lang syne?

For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne we'll take a cup of kindness yet,for auld lang syne. And surely you'll buy your pint cup, and surely I'll buy mine And we'll take a cup o' kindness yet,for auld lang syne. We two have run about the slopes, and picked the daisies fine; But we've wandered many a weary foot, since auld lang syne. We two have paddled in the stream, from morning sun till dine But seas between us broad have roared, since auld lang syne. And there's a hand my trusty friend, And give me a hand o'thine And we'll take a right goodwill draught, for auld lang syne

Snow Coo Morven