I had free time until 4:00 pm when I was to meet my fellow tourmates at our hotel, The Place. I decided to walk around and see some of the sights that Rick Steves recommends in his Scotland Tour Guide. I walked through New Town and saw the Queen Street Gardens. I was hoping to stroll through the gardens, but I discovered they were private gardens for the residents that live in the posh Georgian townhomes across the street. The gates were locked. So I continued my walk to see The Georgian House off Charlotte Square. A large tour group just arrived, so I did not venture inside. Next, I visited Rose Street. The street is lined with pubs and you have to keep your eye down to see the various tudor roses embedded in the brick sidewalk. Then I headed to Princes Street Gardens near the Scott Monument. As I entered the Gardens, there was a gentleman weeding the floral clock! I enjoyed walking the gardens. Afterwards, I grabbed a picnic lunch, then headed back to The Place Hotel to prepare to meet my tour mates. 

Everyone was so friendly. Our Rick Steves tour guide is Elizabeth "Liz" Lister. At the meeting I met my roommate for the tour, Cindy who is from Ohio. We also chose our "buddies". This is very important in a Rick Steves tour. We have "buddy checks" before we depart so we know everyone is accounted for. It is a very good system. My buddy is Lev, a delightful gentleman from Los Angeles.

After introductions, we shared wine and snacks, then took a brief walking tour of Edinburgh as we walked to our restaurant for our first tour dinner together. Liz told us the history of Edinburgh and described the architecture on the way. Our dinner consisted of soup, bread, fish with potato sticks, mushy peas (I loved them), and cheesecake. Very filling! After our dinner, most tour members decided to walk back to our hotel. Others took the tram. Tonight it is early to bed as tomorrow begins our first official tour day! I can't wait!!!

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