I have been reviewing your suggestions for Patty's trip and plan to use it for myself and my daughter (23 and teaches grade 5). Her time is limited this summer and we will travel the last week in July and first week of August, returning to the US on the 5th. I just read a note that indicates that Hollyrood Palace and the Cathedral are closed in July. Is this correct, should we reverse our plans and tour the countryside first and complete our trip with Edinburgh? I have already inquired about accomodations at the Elmview B&B but I have not confirmed these. Also, what can we do to keep the midges away? This may be a problem for my daughter. We are open to suggestions.

That old grouch 'the Queen' likes to use the place at her whim but not sure if its shut ALL month. Plenty of other things to see if it is anyway. <BR> <BR>Midges not a problem unless you go up north to the predominantly rural areas. <BR>No midges in Edinburgh, i guarantee it. <BR> <BR>Email me if you require any help <BR> <BR>regards

Take Tony's advice on Edinburgh. There's masses to do there even if yu never go near Hollyrood. <BR> <BR>I'm just back from the very rural west coast, and whilst I have not been bitten the midges are clearly setting themselves up for a good summer. <BR> <BR>Firstly...do not panic. They are jus litle flies. they are not repeat not like mosquitoes. they are irritating rather than dangerous. DEET will do it. Or there are a number of local remedies you can try. Where are you going?

We plan to spend several days in Edinburgh (with Tony's help on the must see and do's that only a local can give). I have been reading everything from books, your postings, etc. on Scotland. Skye and Iona were high on my list, as well as, Ben Nevis, Atholl, the Wallace Monument, and St. Andrews. I'm not a golfer, but I'd like to see it. The photos of Tobermory in my books are breathtaking, as are all the sights. I would like some specific help in mapping out our iteniary as soon as my daughter confirms some unexpected plans. As things progress, would you help? The previous plans for Patty seem perfect. I don't think we shall be doing a great deal of climbing (we'll see). Enjoyed your recent post, and we are nature lovers as well.

Terry, I will help if you let me know what you are after with respect to Edinburgh/St Andrews etc ..

Happy to help. Give us the bones and we'll see what can be done. I was in Mull in Tobermory myself last weekend. It was great. <BR> <BR>Midges should only affect you seriously in Skye, Mull, Iona and Lochaber. Pray for wind!