Today is a full day in Edinburgh.  We arrive around 11am (a later start today since we were up so late last night) and I head straight to the castle.  We see the sites, including Scotland's crown jewels.  I learn about Mary Queen of Scots.   

After the castle, we stop for lunch (at the nearly as plentiful as home Starbucks).  We continue down the Royal Mile to the Holyroodhouse Palace and the new Parliament building.  Touring the Palace, we learn more about Mary, Q.o.S..  She was very tall (6 feet).  I was intrigued by the small bed and how a tall woman would fit there.  The guide explains to me that in those days there was a big fear of lung diseases, so people slept somewhat upright, thinking this would help.  I also learn that many of the portraits on display now were not up when she lived there and some of the portraits were painted after her death.

The misty and rainy weather is a bummer and limits the photos, but not the sightseeing.  I've found a place with worse summer weather than San Francisco.  After touring the palace and gardens, we head back up the Royal Mile to take a look at St. Giles Cathedral.  We luck out in that there's an organ concert going on.  After wandering around, I do a quick internet check and continue my unsuccessful hunt for Scottish souvenirs.

For dinner, we have a Scottish evening of food and music.  The big event here is the opportunity to try haggis.  While it sounds totally gross, I give it a try.  I'm not normally too adventurous with food, but it's not that bad.  I have a few bites, think about what I'm eating, and eat no more.  Some people actually finish their serving of it which impresses me.  The main course and dessert are good and our private bag pipe entertainment is fun.  

View the Edinburgh photo album.