Favourite Experiences:

• Watching the changing of the guard at Windsor Castle
• Trying haggis for the first time in Loch Ness
• Walking down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh
• Eating all the clotted cream fudge I could get my hands on

After the Contiki trip ended, I spent 6 weeks travelling throughout the rest of Europe and the UK. The change of pace from the organized tour to travelling solo was a welcome one. Although I missed my travel buddies and the partying that Contiki offered, I loved the ability to create my own schedule and take my time exploring.

My first stop was London, England. London has always felt like a second home to me. I have visited London four times now, and each time I visit, I love it even more. If I could live anywhere in Europe, I would choose London. There is so much to love about London – the cultural diversity, the historical architecture, the free museums, the tube, the theatre, the monarchy, the pubs, the shopping, the beautiful parks, the accent and (of course) the tea!. Below are a few of my favourite photos from London and day trips to the English Countryside:

From London, I took the train to Edinburgh, Scotland. Being my first time in Scotland, I didn’t know what to expect initially, but I ended up loving it! While in Scotland, I stayed in Edinburgh and Glasgow and also took day trips to St. Andrew, Fife and the Scottish Highlands. A trip to the Scottish countryside is a must-do if you get a chance to visit. The highlands are hauntingly beautiful and made for some amazing photos. Below is an assortment of photos from my trip to Scotland:

–Katie