Photo Essay: Extraordinary Colors of Edinburgh

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Evening Light in Edinburgh

Whoever said that it always rains in Scotland was probably right. But for an adventurous traveler, this shouldn't be an obstacle, right? Despite Edinburgh's bad weather last weekend, I got myself on my feet to make my way through this mysterious city. 

I must admit that, when I glanced outside the hostel's window and saw the snow, the simple thought of spending the saturday jumping from cafe in cafe felt really appealing. 

Soon after, the snow turned into rain, which made things even worse. How could it rain the only day I had in Edinburgh? (Ok, I know; this seemed less obvious when it only was in my head). After debating if I should simply order another warm coffee and keep on watching people suffer outside in the cold, I decided that I wasn't going to let weather come in my way.  

And I'm glad I did so. During my walk through the city's streets and alleys, I realized that rain suits to Edinburgh - It emphasizes the city's charm and character, and deepens its multiple colors. 

Little Alley starting on the Royal Mile

Edinburgh's Multiple Cafes and Bars

Wet street path reflecting the shops lights

I usually prefer classic buildings to eco-modern structures - the kind of structures you learn about in University - and Edinburgh's stone paths and buildings with colorful bars, restaurants and shops on the ground floor are like food for my eyes. Despite the rain, I couldn't stop smiling. 

For today, some facts that will hopefully open your mind to this beautiful and mysterious city.

1. In October 2004, Edinburgh became the first UNESCO City of Literature. Its world-famous authors include JM Barrie (Peter Pan), Arthur Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes) and Kenneth Grahame (Wind in the Willows).
2. Greyfriars Bobby is the bust of a dog (as well as the name of the bar in front of it), who spent 14 years guarding his master's grave in Greyfrienrs Kirkyard back in the 19th century. This is probably one of the most photographed monuments in the city!
3. Edinburgh's Old and New Town were announced as Wolrd Heritages 15 years ago. 
4. The Royal Mile deceived its name because it's a mile long street with two royal buildings on each end - on one side, Edinburgh Castle, on the other, Holyroodhouse Palace 
5. Edinburgh's Castle stands on the plug of an extinct volcano. After, the force of a glacial erosion created a crag and tail formation - being The Castle Rock the crag and the Royal Mile, the tail

What about you: Have you been to Edinburgh? What do you think about tourism when it rains?

Want to see more pictures of Edinburgh? Visit my Flickr Gallery!

Oh! And by the way, lovely Lauren from The Blog You're About to Read just hosted a guest post of mine about My homeland, Tenerife!