Visit Britain while the pound is cheap

If you are looking for a destination on the budget side, Britain has recently entered that sector, with the value of the pound down as low as $1.35 from highs not so long ago of $1.80 and more. Despite the various global economic forecasters’ seeming urge to grind Britain even further into the dust of recession, there’s really no knowing how long this can last, as PM Gordon Brown has shown himself more financially savvy than they are on more than one occasion over the past 10 years or so.

So, if you’re hoping to take advantage of this low exchange rate, there’s definitely no time like the present, particularly with Spring just around the corner – 15 February is the first day of Spring in London and the south east, and with global warming, it’s already beginning to feel that way. Even Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland has given up its wintry chill in favor of a Spring-like feel well before the time it would normally be expected.

And if you’re visiting the UK, sure London is fine – I love it, as I’m a Londoner by birth – but far better in my view is the much more compact and friendlier Edinburgh, with its World Heritage architecture and fine shopping. And the advantage of choosing this city instead of its more brash southern cousin is that you are within easy striking distance of so many historical castles, beautiful spots and brooding lochs.

Truth to tell, at the moment the city itself is worth avoiding if you can, as there is a massive tramline construction in progress. It’s on hold during the Festival in August, but at other times, perhaps Glasgow would be more convenient. Both cities boast great hotels and wonderful restaurants. Make sure to sample some Cranachan while you’re here if you’ve a sweet tooth, one of our less well known delicacies, after you’ve had your Scottish smoked salmon or Aberdeen Angus steak supper.

Scotland is ready to welcome you with a smile whenever and wherever you come to visit, as drivers know. The roads leading into our beautiful country have a sign “Scotland welcomes you” on the border, whereas the sign in the opposite direction says nothing but “England”. Says it all, doesn’t it?