Scotland, the northernmost country in the United Kingdom, has three distinct topographical regions: the Northern Highlands, occupying almost most of the northern half of the country; the Central Lowlands, with an average elevation of about 150 metres; and the Southern Uplands, with moorland cut by many rivers and valleys. The highlands claim the highest point in Britain, Ben Nevis at 1,343 metres, and Loch Ness, home of the of the fabled “monster”.

The largest city in Scotland, and the UK’s 4^th largest, Glasgow has re-invented itself from a rather economically depressed industrial centre to an interesting modern metropolis with a thriving arts and culture scene, which has earned it accolades like the ‘European City of Culture’ title in 1990, ‘City of Architecture’ in 1999 and the ‘UNESCO City of Music’ in 2008.

The city has more than 20 galleries and museums to complement the architectural heritage of architects like Alexander Thomson, renowned for his classical designs, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, master of Art Nouveau. Tourists find plenty to see and do in Glasgow, and can also use it as a base to explore the surrounding countryside, boasting some of Scotland’s most scenic mountains, glens, lochs and coastline

Edinburgh presents a distinctly Gothic cityscape as it spreads out below its ancient castle, reaching out to the port of Leith. The canny Scots have crafted a capital with enthralling culture and festivity, veneered with sophistication but seeped in history. It’s a heady combination that never fails to charm visitors to the city. The first thing that catches the eye in Edinburgh is the looming battlements of the castle, sitting atop sheer granite cliffs that can only be accessed from one steep ridge. The New Town; named a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Old Town, is the artistic heart of the capital, with an abundance of galleries, shops, cafes and historical sites.

Although, unquestionably engaging from historical and cultural perspectives, Edinburgh also has a strong culinary presence, with five restaurants sporting Michelin stars and a growing fine-dining and bar scene. A spirited city at any time of year, Edinburgh’s eclectic nature is never more pronounced than during the summer months, when the Edinburgh Festival fills the city with drama, creativity and colourful visitors from around the world.