oing some research before planning a vacation to faraway countries is a necessity. This is because very often many destinations that are not so popular among tourists can cost much more than those visited by millions of holidaymakers each year. One such getaway is the amazing country of Scotland, teeming with vast areas of pure natural beauty, historic castles and many museums and galleries full of Scottish history.
One of four constituent nations which form the United Kingdom, Scotland occupies the northern third of the island of Great Britain (with an area of approximately 31, 500 square miles) and includes over 780 islands, 26 rivers, a great number of Lochs (this name is generally used for lakes in Scotland) and numerous mountains that make it a unique spot for photographers looking for colorful and picture-perfect scenery.
However, the strength of the pound sterling makes Scotland an expensive destination for non-Europeans. To make the most of your visit to this truly amazing country with minimized expenses, TravelVivi comes with some simple strategies budget-minded travelers will surely appreciate.
Getting To
The first thing budget traveler should do is to find cheap flights. There are many airline sites that offer cheap prices (especially when you book well in advance), and if your travel dates are flexible, you can check out the cheapest days in the month to fly. One of the quick and affordable ways to get to Scotland is to fly from London. Some of the most famous airlines that promise good savings include Ryanair with flies from Stansted outside of London to Prestwick near Glasgow; British Midland providing flights between London and Glasgow; and Virgin Atlantic Airways, recommended by Frommer’s among many others.
Once in Scotland, you’ll find an extensive bus and train network, which will take you to the outer edges of the countryside, and, like the larger national services, discounts are also available, of course if you book in advance.
Getting Around
Getting around Scotland and making your way among the sights can add up to a costly experience. To avoid spending much, first of all be sure to make use of train and bus services; moreover you can also buy a BritRail Pass, which will allow unlimited travel throughout Britain during the validity period of the card.
Budget-friendly travelers can find many different and interesting tour options in Scotland that will bring them close to the country’s most famous cities, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, each with its own attractions and places of interest. From motorcoach tours and sightseeing tours of Edinburgh to Scotland walking tours and shore excursions to British Isles Cruises and castle hopping tours, this wonderful country will leave you with great memories and the desire to return again and again. Cheap self-drive tours are also available, during which you have the freedom of exploring history-steeped towns and idyllic villages, but this does not mean that the tour representatives will desert you. And no matter which tour you’ll choose for your vacation, do not forget to compare prices and grab a bargain.
Budget accommodation
Another great way to save money is to choose budget accommodation. Instead of splashing out in high-end luxury hotels with state-of-the-art facilities and top notch services, budget travelers will find many hostels and B&Bs across the country, offering affordable beds and private rooms. It’s again highly recommended to some research when choosing an accommodation and consider not only low-star accommodation but also 3,4, and 5 stars, because very often, especially during holidays, most high-end hotels offer fantastic discounts and great last minute deals.
Here is a selection of several quality, self catering holiday cottages and apartments across the country that provide good value, clean and comfortable accommodation and are ideally suited to anyone on a budget: Castle Rock Self Catering Apartment in Edinburgh Old Town; Bakers House Flat in Elie, East Neuk of Fife; Kiltaraglen Cottages in Portree, Isle of Skye; Loch Awe-Side Forest Cabins in Loch Awe, Dalavich, Argyll and others.
Save on Food
And least but not least way to save money is to eat cheap food. Cheap meal can be found everywhere in the country’s pubs, hotel bars and cafes. For a one-course meal be sure to have around 5 pounds or less and do not expect gourmet food.
The first cheap dish that comes to mind is haggis, made with lamb, beef, oatmeal, turnips and tatties (mashed potatoes. Other cheap dishes that can be enjoyed for reasonable price include pints, soup, fish and chips. Fish and chips can be enjoyed down at Leith.
The highest season to visit Scotland is during the summer months, while the cheapest is during winter, when most hotels offer last minute deals on airfair, accommodation and other services.
