A Soldier’s Story: Rediscovering Edinburgh, Scotland’s History

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Ah, Edinburgh—where kilts are as common as morning fog and the ghost stories are thicker than the Scottish brogue. Welcome, brave members of the US military, veterans, and families, to a city that’s steeped in more history than your great-uncle Bob’s war stories. But unlike those snooze-inducing yarns, Edinburgh’s tales are guaranteed to thrill and chill, even if retold by the local pub regulars.

First things first, if you’re using militaryfares.com (and if you aren’t, you should be because let’s face it, you’ve earned every penny you save), you’ll land in this gem of a city with a bit of extra coin in your pocket. Perfect for partaking in obligatory souvenir shopping—or should I say “tartan” shopping—without feeling a sting in your wallet.

Now, let’s lace up our combat boots and march straight into the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. You’ll find yourself on the Royal Mile, a cobblestoned stretch that connects the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. In case you’re wondering, yes, it’s exactly one mile long, not a marketing gimmick. The Royal Mile is the spine of this ancient city, hosting an assemblage of historical and eccentric spots. You’ll pass by St. Giles’ Cathedral with its distinctive crown steeple, and if you listen closely, you might hear the ghostly whispers of Covenanters imprisoned in the adjacent graveyard.

Speaking of ghosts, imagine a PT drill set in an underground vault. That’s exactly what you get with Edinburgh’s haunted vault tours. Once upon a time, these vaults below the South Bridge were bustling with taverns, cobblers, and… let’s just say less reputable businesses. Today, they’re hauntingly empty, promising to give even the hardiest soldier a serious case of the shivers.

But not all of Edinburgh’s offerings will send chills down your spine. Let your taste buds tango with some local delicacies at the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market. Located at the base of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, this market offers a gastronomic odyssey from haggis (don’t think, just eat) to mouthwatering shortbread. Grab a Scotch pie and take a moment to indulge, clouded by the castle’s ancient stones, and imagine what it was like to be a medieval soldier stationed there. As you savor each bite, remember that even the toughest soldiers deserve a treat!

For the history buffs among us, the National Museum of Scotland is an unmissable trove of treasures. From medieval weaponry to saucy artifacts buried with Viking warriors, you’ll find yourself drawn into epochs of conflict and valor much like your own. Plus, it’s a lot more comfortable than a jungle recon mission. If nothing else, revel in the fact that your museum pass didn’t cost you an arm and a leg—props to militaryfares.com for making this adventure affordable!

End your day with a jaunt up Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano that rests majestically just beyond the hustle and bustle. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view at the top is your well-earned medal of honor. Overlooking the city, you’ll feel the layers of history beneath your boots, each step narrating a tale older than the last.

So, dear soldiers, veterans, and families, gear up for an expedition of a different kind. Edinburgh isn’t just a destination; it’s a chapter of history brought to life. With militaryfares.com as your trusty sidekick, dive into the past, savor the present, and buy that extra tartan scarf without a second thought.

And as they say in Scotland, “haste ye back!”—Albeit, perhaps without the spooky ghostly encounters next time. Cheers!

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