Scottish magic (beyond castles)

Living in Edinburgh has been one of the best experiences of my life. Scotland is a multicultural, respectful, and friendly country. From the very first moment, you feel welcome and, most importantly, incredibly safe.

Upon arriving in the city, the first thing that catches your eye is its antiquity. From the buildings to the streets, everything feels like a perfectly preserved time capsule.

When I arrived in early September, the weather was amazing, with very long, sunny days, and everyone enjoying the streets (and the beer).

I ended up living in a building built nearly a century ago. I could have never imagined it: a beautifully maintained apartment with high ceilings and spacious windows. That space hosted me for almost a year and brought me so much joy.

Scotland is a dream destination for students. While I had the privilege of experiencing it in Edinburgh, and exploring famous castles is great for a couple of days, the true essence of the country lies in the famous Highlands.

I was able to travel around the north of the country with my parents in a campervan, which is an affordable and budget-friendly option depending on the season. The country is perfectly adapted for this type of travel, and there is an incredible camper culture.

During our road trip, we encountered breathtaking landscapes, national parks, the famous Highland cows, sheep, whisky everywhere, and dozens of castles. We met people from all over the world, and the locals always showed the best vibes.

What surprised us most was the trust of the local people. In many spots, you could spend the night simply leaving a contribution in "honesty boxes", relying entirely on mutual trust. In the same way, you can buy fresh eggs or products right at the entrance of local farms.

The biggest challenge was getting used to driving on the left side of the road, but after just a couple of hours behind the wheel, you easily get into the rhythm without any issues.

I highly recommend choosing Scotland as your study destination without a second thought, especially if you are looking for peace, stunning nature, and a beautiful journey back in time.

- Javiera