A Solo Journey through Ireland and Scotland

My solo journey to Ireland and Scotland was an unforgettable experience. I began my adventure in Dublin, exploring the city with a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get my bearings. I then spent several days walking through the city, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. While I was eager to experience the renowned Irish music scene at The Temple Bar Pub, I was somewhat disappointed to find primarily American music playing. For me, truly immersing myself in the local culture was paramount.

A highlight of my Irish adventure was the P.S. I Love You tour, which took me to the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains. The rolling green hills, stunning lakes and picturesque creeks created a truly unforgettable landscape.

From Dublin, I traveled to Clare, Ireland, a region of significant personal connection as my grandmother's family hails from this area. This visit provided a unique opportunity to connect with my family history. I made sure to send my grandmother a postcard from Clare, a gesture I hoped would evoke cherished memories.

From Ireland, I traveled to Scotland, where I met up with friends for an unforgettable portion of the trip. Edinburgh proved to be a captivating city, and a guided tour of the city's fascinating underground network provided a unique and insightful perspective. A highlight of my Scottish adventure was a road trip with a friend to see the Kelpies, a truly awe-inspiring sculpture of two colossal horse heads.

The Da Vinci Code Tour, which took me to locations along the Scottish border, including Melrose and the Tweed Valley, was another highlight. The historical narratives and breathtaking landscapes combined to create a truly captivating experience.

Weather

Be prepared for unpredictable weather in both countries. Pack layers, including waterproof outerwear and comfortable walking shoes. Temperatures can vary significantly, and rain is a common occurrence.

Driving

If you plan to rent a car, remember that driving in Ireland and Scotland can present challenges, with narrow roads, frequent roundabouts and the potential for changeable weather conditions.

Daylight hours

Summer in both countries offers long daylight hours, which can make it easy to lose track of time. Remember to factor in the long daylight hours when planning your itinerary. Consider blackout curtains for your accommodations to ensure quality sleep.

• Solo female travelers: Research areas and take necessary precautions, especially when traveling alone at night.

• Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to ask for help if needed.

• Consider staying in accommodations with social spaces to connect with other travelers.

• Download offline maps and travel guides to navigate without relying solely on data.

• Have dinner at the bar, strike up conversations with locals and embrace the opportunity to meet new people.

• Consider working with your advisor to join a solo travel group or booking a solo travel tour to connect with other independent travelers.

• Sample local cuisine and enjoy live music in traditional pubs.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Scotland page.