As I reflect on the time I’ve spent in Edinburgh, I’m surprised to see just how much has changed in a short 3 months. I’ve gone from being intimidated about taking public transit to it feeling more normal than driving somewhere would be. I’ve gone from not knowing what food to buy and eat to having a craving for haggis, the national dish of Scotland. Most of all, I’ve gone from feeling like an outsider to having a proper community and place in my host university. I’m so endlessly grateful for the opportunity to study abroad, and I’ve come out of the experience having gained so much to take back to my life in America. Over the course of this semester, I managed to travel to 4 different countries and experience a countless number of cities. I got to see the mountains of Glencoe, and the actual Loch Ness, alongside the amazing cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Of all these experiences, my favorite thing this semester has got to be the food. Getting to experience new flavors and national dishes that I’ve never had before is such a treat, and there are so many highlights. Of the desserts, I have to give the award to Belgian Waffles in Brussels. Having actual reindeer in Norway was an absolute delight as well, and probably takes the cake in terms of meals. Having these foods has brought a deeper appreciation for the differences in culture based on where in the world you are, and how much there is still to explore.

Of the stunning sights, I’d have to give it up to Norway and their beautiful waterfalls and mountains. The Scottish Highlands are a close second, with their rich vast landscapes. If beautiful architecture and big cities is more your vibe, then Brussels wins by a landslide with its deep history and stunning buildings.

All in all, I leave Edinburgh feeling excited to go on my next adventure, knowing that I’ll always have a little piece of my heart that has stayed here.

---

Learn more about this blogger’s study abroad program: Heriot-Watt University