Obviously, 2020 has been a difficult year. We’ve all had to come to terms with varying degrees of lockdown, potentially losing loved ones, and a very different way of life. I have greatly missed travel in my life. Christmas and holiday trips are some of my favourites, as there are so many special markets and events happening. I had started to plan a Christmas trip to Edinburgh, but I am now hoping to visit during the holidays in 2021! This post is in collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views are my own.
Travel in the Covid-Era
I think that we all need to adjust our expectations and behaviours for travel in the time of Covid-19. Ensure that you are following all requirements and recommendations for where you live, where you will be visiting, and anywhere you pass through. If you need proof of a negative Covid test, proof of a vaccine, temperature checks, masks, etc, double check that you have everything necessary.
Make sure that you have any needed insurance or policies handy for your plane or train tickets, and your hotel accommodations. Consider when booking if you want to do non-refundable options, as you may not get your money back if you are unable to travel. Many hotels are doing contactless check-in and check out, have enhanced cleaning procedures, and offer different virtual services, so reach out before you book to see what they are offering.
In other words, be prepared and read everything before booking!
Edinburgh at the Holidays
I adore Edinburgh. Yes, it is quite a northern city, but I love colder climates, and the winter suits Edinburgh well. I did spend a long weekend there, and ever since I’ve been itching to go back. Edinburgh looks absolutely amazing for the holiday season. There are so many markets, lights, events, and celebrations throughout the season, in the gorgeous historic setting of Edinburgh. Christmas was legally banned in the 16th century in Scotland and it wasn’t declared a legal holiday until the 1950s. Even then, Christmas wasn’t widely celebrated in Scotland until the 1980s. However, they more than make up for it now in Edinburgh.
Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year, on December 31st is also a popular holiday in Scotland, and a highlight of the Scottish holiday season.
Edinburgh Christmas Markets
Edinburgh has several large and popular Christmas markets. There are actually two Christmas markets at the top of my Edinburgh to-do list. The first is a European style market with traditional German and European stalls in the Princes Street Gardens. The second Christmas market is on George Street, and is known as the Scottish Christmas Market- you will find all sorts of Scottish food, baking, and gifts there. Christmas markets have a long and rich history, and seeing how they have evolved and adapted across the world is a favourite subject of mine. I am hoping that in 2021 it will be safe and approved for us to get back to markets!
Festive Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh
I always try to fit in a festive afternoon tea on my Christmas season trips, as they are always so well done. The Dome (on George Street) is one of the most iconic Christmas light displays in Edinburgh- those Corinthian columns! And luckily for us, they also have an incredible festive afternoon tea in the Georgian Room. Many other hotels and restaurants also offer special afternoon teas during the holiday season. No matter where you go though, book your slot ahead as they tend to sell out days before!
Christmas Lights in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is no slouch when it comes to holiday light displays. On the third weekend of November, there is a Light Night where the Christmas Tree on the Mound is lit along with other light displays, with fireworks and musical performances to go with it. Depending on when my trip ends up being, I may be able to catch this ceremony (if it happens), and it looks incredible.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is also a favourite light display. The gardens are covered in different Christmas lights, along with festive music and Father Christmas. If you are new to Edinburgh, the RBGE is over 300 years old and is still a centre for botanical study- no matter when you visit Edinburgh, head to the RBGE.
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Here is hoping that by the holiday season in 2021, we are safe to enjoy travel again and take in the season! I’m going to keep planning my trip in the hope that all will be well and I will find myself in Edinburgh.
Have you done a Christmas trip to Edinburgh?
Cheers,
The Historian
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