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Want to save money this holiday? Cut the costs of airport parking

So how can you save a bit of money this holiday? If you’re flying from a UK airport,  a study on airport parking by the British insurance provider Staysure casts some light on parking prices and popularity… CONTINUE READING >> 

Going on holiday is always exciting, but there’s no doubt about it – travelling can prove a seriously expensive business, especially if it’s a family trip.

From the plane tickets to the cost of a hotel stay to all the equipment you’ll need, the costs soon mount up and some corners can’t be cut. Whether you’re camping and need a solidly waterproofed tent or heading to the ski slopes with boots, poles and thermals, it isn’t wise to skimp on the cost of your kit.

So how can you save a bit of money this holiday? If you’re flying from a UK airport,  a study on airport parking by the British insurance provider Staysure casts some light on parking prices and popularity.

Staysure’s survey focuses on the top ten UK airports and includes:

1. Heathrow
2. Gatwick
3. Manchester
4. Stansted
5. Luton
6. Edinburgh
7. Birmingham
8. Glasgow
9. Bristol
10. Belfast International

3 out of every 5 passengers flying from the UK in 2017 did so from an airport based in London. However, online search data showed that there were three times as many searches for airport parking facilities at non-London airports.

This may be because – with Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton well connected by the public transport system and easily reachable by train and bus throughout London and the Home Counties – airport parking is simply a less practical option in the capital.

It may also be because Heathrow, as one of the most popular international airports, is a common destination for stopover flights. The biggest of the UK’s airports therefore sees many passengers who pass through it and onto connecting flights without requiring its airport parking facilities.

As parking facilities at London airports are also much more expensive, costing passengers on average £15 more per week to pre book parking and £30 more per week for last minute (on the day) parking in London than elsewhere in the UK.

It’s not surprising that if you live in London and are flying from a London airport, you might want to consider alternative transport options.

Nevertheless, pre booking your airport parking is sensible no matter where you are flying from. The average price difference, when pre booking is compared to last minute parking, is £3.70 per day which soon adds up.

Although the UK’s most expensive on the day airport parking belongs to London Luton, with a huge difference of £141.49, non London airports also charge much larger fees for last minute parking spaces. Edinburgh, with a difference of £77.00, is the most expensive non London airport to park at on the day.

So whether you’re escaping the English winter with a trip to the Caribbean, enjoying some culture in the cities of Europe or wrapping up warm for a trip to Scandinavia, it definitely pays to be prepared.

Take some time at least a week before your flight and pre book online. It’s also important to research your options beforehand and call car parks to see if you can find a better deal. It’s definitely worth giving your airport parking some consideration beforehand to stop your adventure from getting too expensive.

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The Ultimate Guide for a Safe & Exciting Campervan Road Trip

A little bit of planning can be the difference between the adventure of a lifetime and a total disaster, so if you’re heading on a campervan road trip soon, follow these five tips for a safe and exciting journey… CONTINUE READING >> 

A little bit of planning can be the difference between the adventure of a lifetime and a total disaster you’re eager to forget. If you’re heading on a campervan road trip soon, follow these five tips for a safe and exciting journey.

Plan Where You Want to Explore

Is there a purpose for your road trip? Do you want to visit national parks and explore hiking trails? Do you want to chill out at the beach and go surfing every day? Maybe it’s a bit of both, and that’s okay!

Do your research in advance to find the best places for the activities you’re interested in. This will give you an idea of what to expect and also get you excited for the trip.

Map Out the Ideal Route

Once you know the types of places you want to check out, it’s time to plan the best route to get to them all. Ensure you have nice places to make pit stops so that you aren’t driving for long periods at a time.

Even if you’re an adventurous person, you always want to remain safe. This means sticking to main highways as much as possible. If any unexpected issues arise, you don’t want to be too far away from help.

Find the Right Campervan

The next step, and possibly the most important one, is to find the perfect campervan for you. Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with your kids? There are campervans and caravans to suit every situation and individual need.

Sometimes it is a very good idea to rent an RV before you buy. With Campstar you can compare low RV Rental rates from top brands. Book & save big on RV Rentals near you and worldwide. ️Best rates are guaranteed, and they have 26000 RVs worldwide.

To find the perfect one, you may even need to build a DIY camper van yourself! Need some help with how to deck out your van? Parked in Paradise offers useful product recommendations, so you’ll know everything you need well in advance.

Create a Realistic Budget

Check the prices of any activities you know you want to do, including rental costs and fees at any caravan parks in the UK. Of course, you’ll also need to factor in gas.

Food is another cost to consider. If you want to eat as cheaply as possible, consider going grocery shopping in the towns you find yourself in. You’ll save a lot of money by preparing your own easy and healthy meals, rather than eating out at fast food places.

Get Smart About Your Packing

A successful and organized trip means packing with a plan. Once again, think about all the things you want to do on your trip and pack accordingly. Does it get cold during the nights? What types of shoes are required? Do you really need three bathing suits?

If you’re not the driver, you should also pack something to pass the time. Remember to load up your phone with your favorite music and bring an interesting book.

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How To Choose The Best Luxury River Chalets

Choosing a luxury chalet is a simple process that includes many beautiful locations, many spaces that you can enjoy, and remote locations that will change your perspective on travel… CONTINUE READING >> 

Choosing a luxury chalet is a simple process that includes many beautiful locations, many spaces that you can enjoy, and remote locations that will change your perspective on travel.  Take a look at all the different options you have when shopping around for a river chalet.  Staying in one of these places will delight you, and you could find a place that will make you feel as though you are in a new place.

1. Find A Place That Is Private

If you’re interested in something a little more private, you should choose places that are remote.  There are many remote locations that you will fall in love with because you are in a river gorge, and you could go to Europe or Australia where canyons and valleys have been cut over millions of years.  These are places where you will be far away from home, and you can recharge your batteries.

2. Find A Place That Is Easy To Access

You should come to the river chalet that is easy to access via boat or you could drive up.  The best places to go will be easy for you to get to, and this makes it easier for you to get the best possible results.  There are a few people who would like to get there by boat because they are on a cruise, or you could just drive in and make a day of it to enjoy the scenery.

3. Find A Place With Amenities

You must find a place with amenities that will help you have a good time.  Choose a place to get a spa treatment, choose a chalet with a sauna, or choose a location that has an indoor pool.  The amenities of these places might include dry cleaning shops, a gift shop, and even nice clothing stores.  There is a dock where you could rent a boat, and you might take a tour along the river.

  1. The Local Terrain

The local terrain that is around the chalet is something that will help you have a good time when you are in the area.  You could go on a hike in the evening, or you could hike down to the river to take a canoe or ride down the river.  There are a number of people who would like to come to places like this because of the terrain, and you bring out a tour guide who will show you around.

There are a number of beautiful river chalets that will help you have a nice time in a far away place.  There are some places that people will go that allow them to ride up in a boat, but there are even more that will allow you to go for a hike and have a good time.  You could spend the day in the spa, shop in their gift shop, get your clothes dry cleaned, and eat in the restaurant at the end of the day.  You have to check off all the boxes while planning your vacation.

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Top 9 Places to Visit Corfu in Greece to Make Your Holiday Full of Fun

How about looking for a place which is a bit off-beat and still hidden from the crowd of the world? Yes, we are talking of Corfu in Greece… CONTINUE READING >> 

If you are an avid traveler, you must have seen many places around the world. There are many of you who have their personal preferences when it comes to choosing a destination for a holiday trip? How about looking for a place which is a bit off-beat and still hidden from the crowd of the world? Yes, we are talking of Corfu in Greece. To make your stay luxurious, go for Corfu Villas for rent. But, why, of all, you should Corfu as your next vacation destination?

Basically, Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea which is getting quite popular among the tourists. The azure blue sea and the rocky cliffs will mesmerize you while the local Greek cuisine will lift your mood to enjoy your holiday. Now, it’s time to check out the best places to visit in Corfu. Have a look-

1. Spiridon’s Church

Once you are in Corfu, you shouldn’t avoid this place. This beautiful church is the epitome of the famous Greece architecture. But, that is not the only reason why this church is so popular among the locals and the tourists. The church is named after the Bishop St. Spiridon who was famous for his little miracles. If you visit the church during the Easter, you can be a part of the parade, made by the locals with St. Spiridon’s mummified body.

2.Agni Bay

Go to the north-east coastline of Corfu and you will reach the beautiful Agni Bay which is really a gem to the tourists. If you travel a lot, you will know that the coastal area of any country has its own culture and history. Agni Bay is located on the coastal area of Corfu and it is not at all different from this norm. This is a historical fishing village where you can experience a unique lifestyle and culture. You can also take bath in warm water, relax on the beach and also gulp the scrumptious coastal cuisine. If you love seafood, Agni Bay will be your perfect destination.

3. Archeological Museum of Corfu

Knowing a new place can be done the best once you dig deep into its history and tradition. And that is only possible if you visit the Archeological Museum of Corfu. As Corfu is one of the oldest islands of Greece, it is natural that it has many things hidden under its sleeves. Visit the museum where you can see the Great Temple of Artemis which was built around 585 B.C. Besides that, you can also get to see the terracotta and clay pottery that will talk about the ancient Roman and Archaic era.

4. Cape Drastis

Nature will give you spectacular views abundantly once you are in Corfu. Head towards the northern part of the island and you will reach Cape Drastis that will welcome you with its amazing and serene natural beauty. As this spot is not always open for the visitors, you should go there during the summer. The best time to visit Cape Drastis is during the sunset when the setting sun slowly goes down behind the cliff, leaving a purple-red hue throughout the sky. That is really a dramatic and romantic view to experience once in a lifetime.

5. Vlacherna Monastery

Located on a completely separate island, this monastery is the place where you can feel the pristine natural beauty amidst a calm environment. Once you are here, you can have the amazing view of the Mouse Island, only a little far from the monastery. You can take a boat ride and explore that island too. As the monastery remains open throughout the year, you can visit it at any time.

6. Canal d’ Amor

Are you planning to propose your beau in a unique way? Then follow the folklore and swim through the canal while proposing. There is a myth that if couples swim through the canal, they get married promptly. If you have no such desire, still you can visit this place to enjoy the awesome natural beauty around. This is one of the most beautiful tourist spots of Corfu.

7. Loggas Beach

You are visiting an island and not enjoying the spectacular beaches is not the right thing you are doing. Once you are in Corfu, you should not miss the wonderful Loggas Beach. And if you want to experience the most romantic sunset in Corfu, you should visit this place. You can enjoy the view, sitting by the beach or you can relax on the cliffs. There are lots of clifftop restaurants where you can enjoy your favorite coffee and other snacks.

8. Palaiokastrista

Located on the north-west side of Corfu, this intimidated village is really worth to visit. There is a myth related to this village. The locals believe this is Scheria, mentioned in the Greek mythologies and Odysseus stopped here for the last time before returning home. You may believe it or not, but you can enjoy the scenic beauty a lot.

9. Royal Achilleion Palace

This was the palace of the Austrian Royal Family. Presently, it is opened for the tourists so that you can enjoy the beautiful building with architectural grandeur. You can visit this royal residency alone or take a guided tour to know the history of this palace.

So, here are some awesome places to visit in Corfu and you will sure get dumbstruck at this beauty. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set on for exploring a new island in Greece.

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Natural Wonders in North America You Need to Visit at Least Once

It’s easy to look for destinations that are far away, remote and very different to your everyday life. But keep in mind that you can find all sorts of amazing things to see and do closer to home in North America… CONTINUE READING >> 

When you’re an empty nester planning vacations around the world, it’s easy to look for destinations that are far away, remote and very different to your everyday life. However, keep in mind that you can find all sorts of amazing things to see and do closer to home, too, in North America.

While the continent boasts excellent adventure activities, romantic escapes and great shopping, restaurants, bars, museums, galleries and entertainment, you can’t go past some of the incredible natural wonders found in this part of the world. Read on for some of the best ones in North America you need to visit at least once, to put on your itinerary for this year.

Niagara Falls

Of course, one of the biggest natural wonder tourist attractions in all of North America is Niagara Falls. Situated on the Canadian-U.S. border between Ontario and New York, this natural phenomenon is composed of three separate waterfalls which, combined, lead to millions of cubic feet of water thundering down each minute.

There are numerous ways to see this awe-inspiring site, so check out Niagara Falls packages for vacations which include things like hotel rooms with a view of the Falls, rides on the Niagara SkyWheel (where you can see the waterfalls from up high) and trips on the popular boat tours that take off from either country’s side of the natural wonder. These excursions transport passengers up so close to Niagara Falls that they can get drenched by the water.

Mammoth Cave National Park

If you’re looking for somewhere truly atmospheric to explore, head to the state of Kentucky in America. Here you will find Mammoth Cave National Park, a World Heritage Site and U.S. National Park that happens to be an underground destination. The park is part of the Green River Valley and the longest known cave system in the world.

As you walk through this area, you’ll have a wide variety of fascinating chambers and subterranean passageways to choose from. In fact, more than 400 miles of caves have been discovered to date (though there is plenty that still hasn’t been explored). This historical spot is thought to have been visited by humans for at least 6,000 years, according to researchers.

During your time in Mammoth Cave, you need to ensure you get to the Frozen Niagara section. This part gets its name from Niagara Falls, as the flowstone formations resemble waterfalls. In addition, make your way to the popular Gothic Avenue. Here you’ll get to see a ceiling covered with signatures of people who have trekked into the cave from the 19th century onwards.

Hopewell Rocks

It pays to get to the province of New Brunswick to see the Hopewell Rocks. These unique formations are one of the most visited spots in New Brunswick because they showcase the power of Mother Nature. The Rocks have been carved out by erosion over thousands of years as tides empty in and out of the Bay of Fundy around Hopewell Cape.

Exploring this attraction gives you the chance to check out the bottom of the ocean without having to scuba dive. At low tide, when billions of tons of water flow out of the bay, you can make your way along the ocean floor, with the “flower-pot” sculptural rocks towering above you. There is more than a mile of beach to explore. Make sure you spend time in the nearby interpretative center; it’s reached by just climbing back up the stairs from the beach.

Everglades National Park

If it’s wetlands you’re interested in, plan a trip to the Everglades National Park in Florida, U.S.A. This International Biosphere Reserve is the largest subtropical wilderness in the nation, and both a World Heritage Site and a Wetland of International Importance. The Everglades National Park is huge, covering almost 1.5 million acres; however, it still only protects a fraction of the total Everglades ecosystem (20 percent).

Listed as a specially protected region in the Cartagena Treaty, this Park is vital as it’s a crucial habitat for all sorts of endangered creatures. Here live animals such as the American alligator, Florida panther, sea turtles, Cape Sable seaside sparrow, manatees, American crocodile, bald eagles, wood storks, Everglades snail kite, wood storks and many others. The Everglades is home to many threatened flora species too, like Krug’s holly, the Florida thatch palm, tree cactus and buccaneer palm.

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5 Ways to Help You Move to a New Country

Looking for some helpful ways to provide ease in your moving process? Well, there are many useful ways that can make moving to a new country effortless… CONTINUE READING >> 

Amongst the major transitions of life that one can ever make is moving to a new country. As a matter of fact, it is daunting and equally exciting. Whether it is for your personal reasons or for professional purposes, being prepared beforehand is going to help you a lot in this regard. Looking for some helpful ways to provide ease in your moving process? Well, there are many useful ways that can make moving to a new country effortless. Here are five such ways that will aid this type of life transitioning to a greater extent.

1. Make Research About the Culture of The Country in Advance

It is essential to have prior knowledge about the culture and norms of the country you are deciding to move to. You can read relevant blogs, articles as well as watch related videos in order to adapt to a new culture in advance.

2. Have Prior Knowhow Regarding Language Basics

If you are switching to a new country and you don’t know about its language, it is favorable to have prior know-how about the basics. Although the language learning process would be easier when you start interacting in it with the natives there, knowing the basics and pronunciation is advantageous. You can take advantage of the many available online tools for learning a new language. For instance, you will easily find one or more online tools for learning Spanish Pronunciation and Vocabulary in case you are moving to Spain.

3. Participate in Some Volunteer Work

You form a strong relationship with new people by getting to know them when you take part in volunteering. It is a marvelous way of building good contacts particularly for those who want to participate actively in the new community. In order to find positions for volunteer, you can check related online ads. Or else, you can ask yourself about it by going out in the community. Teaching people a new language or certain skills that you might possess can be a good idea regarding volunteering.

4. Take Advantage of Social Media

It will actually be supportive to be a part of the relevant social media groups when heading towards a new country. In this way, you will have a platform to know about the people, culture, language and a lot more about that particular country. Different social media platforms like Facebook and Quora provide some useful forums to ask queries and concerns regarding a new place. However, sharing too much personal info is not necessary in this regard since some strangers can ruin your privacy. Beware of scammers and try to avoid trusting any stranger who wants you to pay for his helpful services. When we move to a new country, we need a guide, a native, or a translator to help us out with the initial stuff. But, trusting a stranger at that point is not a good option.

5. Explore New Places as Much as Possible

You will probably be going to have an entirely different experience of living when moving to a new country.  Hence, exploring the new places there as much as possible will hugely benefit you. In fact, it is an interesting way to familiarize you with new things. To serve this purpose, you can head towards a long roadside walk, visit attractions and observe the happenings in your surroundings.

About the Author:

Lara Smith has worked for Wall Street English for 20 years. After studying at Stanford University and subsequently doing a CELTA course, she began her career in teaching. She is obsessed with languages and currently writes blogs at https://www.mimicmethod.com/.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

3 Reasons Why Empty Nesters Should Travel to New Zealand

New Zealand is a fascinating place that blends dramatic natural landscapes with modern luxury. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or someone who’d rather read a book by the beach, there is plenty for you to enjoy… CONTINUE READING >> 

New Zealand is a fascinating place that blends dramatic natural landscapes with modern luxury. With views fitting for a fairytale, it’s hard not to appreciate what you have when you are there. It’s perfect for new empty nesters who have a sudden jump in freedom–you’ll find a balance between relaxation and adventure!

After all, New Zealand is packed to the brim with exciting spots. It’s a great place for a fun new start, whether you are looking to settle into one spot or explore all the country’s hidden gems. The laid-back atmosphere here lets you choose your own pace.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or someone who’d rather read a book by the beach, New Zealand will have plenty for you to enjoy. You’ll find your corner of the country and be calling yourself a ‘Kiwi’ in no time. And with sites like www.movingtonewzealand.com to guide you along your travels, you won’t have to worry about coming up with ideas of things to do!

If you’re still on the fence, check out these three reasons to see exactly why New Zealand might be the perfect destination for you after becoming an empty nester. You may also want to check out this guide to emigrating to New Zealand.

1. The Delicious Food

While New Zealand might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of food capitals of the world, you would be totally in the wrong if you discounted this country. Whether you choose to dig into the delicious and wide-ranging Maori cuisine, feast on the abundance of fresh seafood, or even tuck into some classic New Zealand lamb, you won’t be sorry. You can eat as exotically as you’d like or stick to the classics of home.

Just make sure to save room for dessert! After all, you deserve the sweets once you’ve made the trek, and what could be a better way to celebrate life than with dessert? With the classic Jaffas (satisfying sugar-coated orange chocolate balls), Hokey Pokeys (decadent caramelized Honeycomb flavor ice cream) or the time-tested Pavlova, you’ve got tons of choices. And no matter what you choose, you are sure to walk away from any table happy and totally bursting at the seams.

2. Incredible Nature to Go Wild In

Once you’ve eaten your fill, it’s time to explore. New Zealand is home to stunning seascapes, towering trees, and magnificent mountains – for such a small country, there’s a lot to take in.

A third of the country’s land is designated as nature preserves or parks. There are hundreds of unique flora and fauna species to be found. It’s easy to see why people flock to New Zealand to seek out breathtaking hikes.

New Zealand is a sort of pilgrimage spot for naturalists. It’s perfect for anyone to get a look into the great and truly awe-filled world of the outdoors. Whether you prefer to do that on foot, on a pair of skis, or from the end of a bungee cable, you’re sure to enjoy it.

3. A Feeling of Safety 

Another reason to consider traveling to New Zealand is the country’s excellent standard of safety. When you’re thinking of calling a new place home, it’s important to feel safe. In New Zealand, anyone can feel secure as they walk around the cities. The country has a low rate of violent crime and is recommended by many for solo female travel.

All in all, New Zealand is a great place to call home for many different reasons. If you’ve got a deep desire for adventure, this country will call your name until you decide to book your ticket there!

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5 Unusual Places to Stay in Scotland But Is Definitely Worth The Trip

Try some unique accommodations to immerse yourself in the history of Scotland. Here are some of the most unusual places you can stay that you definitely don’t want to pass up… CONTINUE READING >> 

You travel because you want to explore and experience different things. Usually, you browse for hotels where there’s an available room for you. When you visit Scotland, you’ll find lots of options in a Scottish accommodation website, but skip the hotels. Try some unique accommodations to immerse yourself in the history of that place fully.

Here are some of the most unusual places you can stay at in Scotland that you definitely don’t want to pass up:

1. Cottages

Experience Scotland as if you are a local in one of their cottage accommodations. Stay in a Scottish village and cook meals made from local produce and ingredients. Scotland’s self-catering cottages let you experience the place at your own time. You get to prepare your meals and explore the surroundings whenever you want.

You can look for cottages near the Lochalsh peninsula and enjoy leisurely walks on the coral beaches. You can also try ones that are on the outskirts of Glasgow to see the beautiful culture, architecture, and festivals in the city. Staying in cottages will make you feel like you are at home.

2. Castles

Have you always wondered what it would be like to live life as a royalty? Unless you have a royal bloodline, the royal status may not be easy to achieve for ordinary citizens, but you can experience living in a castle. Scotland offers accommodations in their historical castles.

One of the places you can try is the Inverlochy Castle Hotel. It was built in 1863, and it used to be a private residence back then. It was only in 1969 when it was turned into a hotel. There are many activities you can do while you stay here, like water sports, tennis, and clay pigeon shooting for example.

You can learn a lot by staying in Scotland’s castles. You can get to know its history and how the people who once lived there lived their lives. And you get to gain some knowledge while you experience what’s left behind of a past era.

3. Modern Brochs

Brochs are stone structures that are supposedly roundhouses that are complex. The historic brochs of Scotland are mostly in ruins since they are believed to have been built when the Romans invaded Britain which is around 100 BC to 100 AD. You may not be able to live in those ancient structures, but you can stay in modern ones that are suitable for living.

You can try the Brochs of Coigach. It is situated at the end of a private farm track with four acres of ground. The view of the surrounding area is quite lovely with mountains and coastlines that is considered as one of the most unspoiled regions in Europe.

You can also learn about contemporary Scottish painters because the interior has artworks. Aside from that, there are also activities you can do like sailing, motor cruising, and seeing animals like minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

4. Farm

If you’re looking to take a break from the busy city life, why not try living the farm life? Breathe some fresh air, interact with adorable farm animals, and bask in the peaceful country life. Scotland has lots of vast farming areas and a lot of those offer accommodations so you can experience an authentic working farming life.

One of the farms you can stay at is the Drumbuie farm. It was the home of the Urquhart family who was the same clan as the one who lived in the Urquhart castle. The farms have lands that are suitable for growing crops, and it houses animals such as horses, sheep, and cattle.

The farm also has an overlooking view of Loch Ness. You never know, maybe you’ll be able to get proof that the Loch Ness monster really exists.

5. Traditional Inn

Scotland has a lot of historical places where you can stay, including inns. Back in the day, travelers in Scotland who had horse-drawn stagecoaches sought inns where they can pass the night before heading on their way come morning. Inns have a pub-style setting complete with log fires and hearty meals.

The Inn On The Tay is one of the traditional inns you can find in Scotland. It has six family-sized rooms which are maintained to the utmost standard. From the bar, you will be able to see the Tay river.

Final Thoughts

Scotland indeed has a lot of unusual places which you will not find from anywhere else. Those places are even rich in history, and you can learn so much simply by staying in and talking to some of the locals. Blessed with magnificent views, these unique places to visit in Scotland will bring you a memorable trip.

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