Preparing for Edinburgh: Tips & Hints

1. Tourists are advised to observe basic safety precautions - do not take valuable items for a walk and do not leave bags and coats unattended. The best way to wear camcorders and cameras is by binding them with your belt.

2. Medications in Edinburgh are available not only in specialized pharmacy shops, but also in many large supermarkets or shopping malls.

3. In most restaurants of the city tips are included into the total bill. Tips here rarely make up more than 10% of the total bill.

4. Smoking is forbidden in many public places, so you need to pay attention to special characters and signs. There are many special areas for smoking in the city, so you may find no inconvenience with this aspect in Edinburgh.

5. When you plan to make a visit to the locals, you should definitely buy gifts for hosts. A bottle of good wine will be a proper gift for a man, and a bouquet of flowers – for a female.

6. Large part of public institutions, shopping centers and restaurants is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so before you go somewhere, you should definitely clarify working hours of the institution of your choice.

7. Travelers, who want to save on hotel bills and get all value-added services, are recommended to stay in the so-called "domestic hotels". The owners of houses located in the heart of the city will gladly rent a room to tourists. In addition, guests are allowed to use kitchen and bathroom. Such luxury costs as much as a standard three-star hotel guestroom.

8. Interesting promotions and theme nights take place in the city's restaurants and cafes every day, so vacationers can easily dine in one of the most prestigious institutions for a very reasonable fee.

Other articles about Edinburgh:
Traditions and lifestyle
Edinburgh sightseeing
Best restaurants and cuisine
Edinburgh attractions and leisure
Edinburgh cityguide
Photogallery of Edinburgh