Man, what a day in Edinburgh! Seriously, I’m still buzzing from it. So, I wake up in this cute little flat on Leith Walk. You know, the kind of place that’s got character? Yeah, that one. I’m all set to give a lecture at the uni, but first, coffee. I mean, who can function without it, right?
I stroll down to this wee café on Elm Row. The barista’s got a killer accent. I order a flat white, and she looks at me like I just asked for a unicorn. “You mean a latte?” she says. I’m like, “Nah, mate, I’m fancy today.” She rolls her eyes but makes it anyway. Bless her.
So, I’m sipping my coffee, feeling all cultured and stuff, when I get a text. My lecture’s been moved to a different building. Great. Just great. I’m already late, and now I gotta sprint to the other side of the campus. I dash down South Bridge, dodging tourists like I’m in some kind of obstacle course. Seriously, why are there so many people taking selfies in front of the statue of Greyfriars Bobby? It’s a dog, people!
Finally, I make it to the lecture hall, panting like I just ran a marathon. I walk in, and it’s packed. I mean, who knew my class on Scottish literature would be such a hit? I start talking about Robert Burns, and these students are actually engaged. Like, they’re not just staring at their phones! I’m feeling like a rockstar.
But then, mid-lecture, this fire alarm goes off. I’m like, “Are you kidding me?” Everyone starts filing out, and I’m just standing there, flabbergasted. I mean, I’m trying to teach about the beauty of poetry, and now I’m part of a fire drill? Classic Edinburgh, right?
Once we’re outside, I’m chatting with some students. They’re all buzzing about the Fringe Festival coming up. I’m like, “You guys better take me to some shows!” They laugh, but I’m dead serious. I need to experience that madness.
After the chaos, I decide to take a stroll down the Royal Mile. It’s a total tourist trap, but whatever. I’m feeling adventurous. I pop into a few shops, and there’s this guy playing the bagpipes. I mean, c’mon, it’s Edinburgh! I throw a couple of quid in his case, and he gives me a nod. I feel like a local for a second.
Then, I spot this little pub called The Bow Bar. It’s got that old-school vibe, you know? I walk in, and it’s like stepping back in time. I order a pint of local ale, and the bartender’s got this wicked sense of humor. He tells me about the ghost stories of the place. I’m all ears. Ghosts? In Edinburgh? Sign me up!
But then, outta nowhere, this group of rowdy lads comes in. They’re loud, obnoxious, and spilling drinks everywhere. I’m trying to enjoy my pint, and they’re just ruining the vibe. I’m getting angrier by the second. Like, can’t a person enjoy a quiet drink in peace?
I finish my pint and head out, feeling a bit tipsy but mostly just annoyed. I decide to walk up to Calton Hill. The view from up there is insane. You can see the whole city, the castle, Arthur’s Seat, everything. I take a deep breath, and it’s like all my worries just float away.
As I’m standing there, I spot a couple getting engaged. The guy’s down on one knee, and I’m like, “Aww, that’s sweet.” But then, I realize I’m standing right in their shot. I awkwardly back away, trying not to photobomb their moment. Classic me, right?
The sun starts to set, and the sky is all pink and orange. I’m feeling all the feels. Edinburgh, you’ve got my heart. I head back down, and as I’m walking, I can’t help but think about how this city is just full of surprises.
I finally make it back to my flat, exhausted but happy. I plop down on the couch, and I can’t stop smiling. What a day! Edinburgh, you wild, beautiful beast. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!