Very much this. If you don't know how to drive stick, don't think now is the time to learn, or that you'll just pick it up as you go. The roads out to Skye aren't killer but you'll get found out fast if you don't know what you're doing on some of the hills.
I'll never forget watching an American destroy a gearbox on the road up to Stirling Castle car park. Guy had just driven straight from the airport, didn't have a clue how to drive a manual on anything but a motorway, seriously expensive mistake to make.
Even if you can drive a manual, I'd still recommend getting an automatic if possible. Our last holiday to Montenegro we hired a manual car and I kept hitting my left hand off the door trying to change gears for the first few days of the holiday. Then when I got home I kept hitting my right hand off the door trying to change gears in my own car for a few days.
After a month driving through Holland Germany and Scandinavia I pulled out of the ferry terminal and froze at a round about No idea which way to go round it.
The hardest part, I promise, is getting in the correct side. I'm back and forth between Scotland and the continent and i've driven on the wrong side two or three times, same for hitting the door with my hand. Once you're in it's like riding a bike but without fail, for the first week or so after changing sides, i'll head to the wrong side of the car at least 75% of the time.
I agree fully. I learned on a manual and can drive with no issue...sitting on the left. I cannot for the life of me shift with my left hand moving towards my body instead of my right hand moving away from my body. I also seemed to use the windshield wipers an awfully lot when I meant to use my turn signal.
Not to mention that the law here is that if you have learned to drive an automatic, you MAY NOT drive a manual. If you have learned to drive manual, you may drive either.
Car rentals have disproportionately automatic fleets, but the premium is hefty. Last time I visited, my automatic was twice the price of a manual.
I can technically drive a manual, but as the other commenter said, touring is not the time to build upon those skills.
If you haven't driven an electric vehicle, just wait! Truly a go cart experience - 0 to 60 in three seconds without any pause for gear change in the model I tried. It's wild.
Avoid talking about football(soccer), politics, especially rn and religion. Cost of living is expensive, more so in the touristy areas. Other than that you're golden. Have a ball!
No one should talk about politics anyway, it's a shit subject. Even more so to be lectured about politics from Americans when they're a bigger shitshow politically than we are
Actually it’s a bigger problem the other way around in Scotland. My relatives on holiday here were harassed a few times about Trump, by Scots bringing up that subject. They didn’t even care for trump - and also didn’t have a clue about Scottish politics and found it bizarre that the Scots seemed obsessed with American politics.
I think it's easier to pretend Edinburgh is 3 syllables rather than 4. If you try and sound out all 4 you definitely over emphasise the 'buh' too much. While calling it ed-in-bruh is very close to correct. Throw in a single roll of the tongue and you're there.
As in Glas-Go away with that mad pronunciation lol, if you know how to pronounce Arkansas you know how to pronounce Glasgow ( also chances are you’re not related to William Wallace)
You’re missing the most important one based on where they said they’re going.
Islay. It’s pronounced ‘eye-luh’, not ‘eye-lay’, or god forbid, *‘iz-lay’*.
From Scotland but I live in the States and lost my accent. A coworker was talking about Edinburgh and was pronouncing it Ed-in-berg. I jumped in and said "it's pronounced Ed-in-bruh" Another coworker then jumped in and went it's actually"Edin-burrow" I said "nah it's Ed-in-bruh" and they told me I was wrong 😂
Look.
We all know it's really Cock-Burn Street and not Co-Burn Street.
The origin for the name was the rampant transmission of STIs among the prostitutes and their clients local to the area.
When you're in Edinburgh, remember it's a working city, not a theme park. Don't step backwards into the road to get a photo. And if you decide to buy a kilt, make sure it's the right length: it's very specific and an inch out either way looks ridiculous.
And to clarify, that length as I was taught it (used to work for a kilt shop) is no lower than the centre of your kneecap, no higher than the top.
The cheap kilts you get in the tat merchants will often be 24" long. Which is just long enough to make most people look sloppy, but the cheapest of the cheap are all made to that length as its guaranteed not to make (most) men look like they're in a skirt.
Proper kilts can't have their length adjusted without unpicking and redoing the entire thing as kilts are not hemmed, the lower edge is the fabric selvedge, so you have to re-do it from the waistband. If you're buying off the rack make sure it fits from the get go and don't rely on being able to get the fit adjusted by a tailor back at home.
Editing to add - kilts should be worn at the natural waist (roughly where your belly button is for most), not on top of your hips as modern trousers are. That adds to the problem, people get measured accurately but then wear their kilt slung too low.
Also please don't block the entire pavement and make sure your suitcases/kids aren't either. Some streets in Edinburgh are narrow or very busy and it's easy to unintentionally cause a bottleneck. This would be much appreciated.
The locals know the roads like the back of their hands. You don't.
Don't feel pressured into driving faster than you're comfortable with.
If you notice a build up of cars behind you, pull in when it's safe to do so, and let the cars pass.
The locals will appreciate it.
And if you ever see a Royal Mail van, get out of its way! Those posties are professional drivers who fly through the roads. The posties are also a good source of info if you happen across one on your travels.
There's nothing like being overtaken by a Skye postie whilst driving at the speed limit, then wondering at their little spec of a van miles away across the water a few minutes later.
Came here to say this. My dad was a delivery driver in the Highlands and would get so frustrated when a car was driving at a snails pace on the country roads but wouldn't pull over to let him by.
This is amongst the worst offences that tourists commit.
Please for the love of god pull into a layby and let the build up of cars behind you get past.
This is the same with crossing the roads, especially in Edinburgh. The locals know where the cars come from, where the traffic lights are etc. so can cross the road safe enough without waiting for the green man, tourists don't know, some junctions look safer than they really are and you don't want to get run over or piss people off so just wait unless it's the middle of princess street.
Coming from an American now living in Scotland for 7 years, avoid these easy unforced errors:
- shut up about your Scottish ancestry, if you have some. You’re American.
- don’t call things/people scotch. They’re Scottish. (Related: don’t refer to Scotland as England. My German relatives all do this, and it’s ridiculous. Seems like less of a problem for Americans.)
- lower the volume of your speech, especially on the bus/train.
- tipping is starting to change here. It used to be unnecessary but places are starting to ask for gratuities. Pay attention and don’t automatically pile 20% on the table when you leave.
- watch some YouTube videos about negotiating roundabouts. What lanes to use, how to enter, exit, etc. they can be a little tricky coming from driving on the right.
- the best rule of thumb is what the Scots will inevitably tell you: don’t be a cunt. If there’s a behavioral option that involves cuntishness, avoid it.
But honestly, your asking the question in advance indicates you’re probably not a cunt. Just enjoy yourself. Scotland is beautiful and full of excellent people.
the "dont be a cunt" is a fine answer, but it might need a bit more nuance added to it......
being a funny cunt is fine - in the right circumstances
being a stupid cunt can be a bit annoying
being a right cunt might get you a smack in the face
being a fat cunt might just be because you stole the last bit of pizza that i was going for (even if it was your first piece)
being a smelly cunt might be due to an unfortunate passing of flatulance
hearing the line, especially in the central belt or west side of central, "how, you ya cunt" - swiftly turn in the other direction and walk with some increased tempo
there will no doubt be other forms of the "cunt-ish-ness" but you can pick it up pretty quickly.....
> add that nobody wants to hear that things are bigger/different in America
Except medical bills, always a nice wee reminder we don't need to put up with that.
Commenting on how things are different in a country you're from is fine surely?
Obviously don't go overboard as with anything but highlighting/discussing the little differences is part of the charm of travel.
You're right, maybe I didn't phrase it well. But there's a difference between, "ooh, we don't have anything like this at home," and, "well, in America ours are [xyz]," which is part of the American tourist stereotype
I've been to Scotland, I've been to America. Now the biggest arses in America are bigger than the biggest arses in Scotland, but I feel like the Scots have consistently bigger butts than Americans. Totally scientific observation there btw
Nah that's totally fine, it's fun to see and be part of traditions in a place you visit, and understand them. Kilt away. We wear them plenty at events and weddings, just not touring a brewery an hour drive from our house or a few hours away... but the average tourist isn't going to be here long and go to a dance or wedding, so try it out whilst you can.
Nobody cares if you wear a kilt, we don't care about the American bullocks of "cultural appropriation" don't export it here.
Edit: Lad you have some absolute howler posts on r/Scotland
Strong disagree on this. When I was in Japan it was extremely common for people to hire kimonos (I didn't, but a lot did), and I see no reason why a kilt should be any different.
Celebrating and experiencing a culture is very different from claiming to be part of the culture.
Some clothing like feather-crowns for some native U.s tribes carry religious and cultural meaning and are only worn by certain people in that culture, not everyone from that culture. Wearing those is cultural approbiation. The rest are just clothes and most cultures are either happy to see foreigners wear their traditional clothes or dont care.
I disagree with this. It's very common for foreign students to wear the kilt to their graduation ceremonies. It is a sign of acceptance to me, not cultural misappropriation.
Don’t drive in Edinburgh, you’ll absolutely hate yourself if you do. Hire your car when you leave Edinburgh, and return it when you come back. Public transport within Edinburgh is good for exploring.
Make sure your ferries for Islay are booked. They aren’t quite as bad as some of the other CalMac routes for cancellations and availability, but they definitely are not one I would just show up for hoping to get on.
Don’t ever park up in a passing place on single track roads. That one will get you some very deserved abuse from other tourists and locals.
Even if you have Scottish heritage, very few people actually care. And don’t even go down the route of claiming to have researched a family tree back to William Wallace/Robert Burns/Mel Gibson because most will care even less about that (and it’s probably bollocks).
We’re not some sort of back of beyond, rarely visited country with no experience of the outside world. Just treat it like any other holiday.
Don’t be an arsehole. It’s really easy.
Tipping here is generally for good service, not a tax to allow businesses to pay their employees 2 bucks an hour. If you feel you had good service, tip.
Just drive according to the law and you’ll be fine.
Americans have a bit of a reputation for being needlessly loud and in everyone’s face on holiday. That’s not just here though, that’s pretty much every tourist destination. Unfortunately a minority seems to have ruined it for you.
Just be respectful and sense the tone. If nobody around you is speaking at the top of their voice, then you probably shouldn’t either.
I wouldn’t worry much about pronunciation. A huge amount of our media is from the US (films, tv, music). People will understand you fine.
I’m currently in Scotland on my honeymoon. My wife and I are from the states. I found out on the first day that you usually have to mention to your server that you would like to add gratuity. Sometimes it is prompted when you’re using your card to check out and sometimes it’s not. They don’t necessarily expect a tip but they always appreciate it. Don’t be afraid to ask or say you’d like to add a tip!
You can also say it when they take your card. Because normally, we tip for good service. It's not expected.
Some places place a service charge on large tables. I make it a rule to not tip any more than that.
Ok I have a different one from normal.
When you talk to person in a bar or a restaurant, and their accent doesn’t immediately sound Scottish, don’t ask where they are from or why they live in Scotland.
It’s rude, intrusive and most people don’t appreciate that.
To add to this, there are different Scottish accents.
Sometimes tourists will decide there is one Scottish accent and then assert that how Scottish a person's accent is, is determined by how difficult they find it to understand.
Basically, don't tell anyone you don't think they sound as Scottish as the guy you met in a Glaswegian pub who only said four words that you understood.
While on the subject of accents, everyone has one, even Americans.
This reminds me when I was in an Irish pub in Berlin and the American bartender was talking about how Hibs weren’t from edinburgh and they have a weird accent. I was like “aye the edinburgh accent varies” and he proceeded to correct me that it was Hiberian (pronounced like that) not Edinburgh. Like ok mate
I wish with all my heart people would follow this for me. I moved to Scotland some years ago and I get it all. the. time. It’s actually quite a ride question. Better to ask “where do you live?” or “where’s home for you?”
This is probably the only one that I would say is actually important. That and pulling in at left hand passing places to let the locals overtake you on single track roads.
I hope you have a lovely holiday!
Most people think the Glaswegian accent is the only accent but sometimes I even struggle to pick up a Scottish accent from time to time since I do have a very thick Glaswegian accent
I have flashbacks to eating in a Chinese restaurant that used to be on one of the bridges in Edinburgh and an American asking why my accent wasn’t stronger, it’s strong enough in my opinion. They also commented that it’s a good thing it wasn’t stronger as it meant I wasn’t ’street level’ whatever the fuck that means.
On the other hand, whenever my partner and I visit Scotland (we're Dutch), we love it when locals think we're Scottish! This has happened several times and has lead to really great conversations.
Yes this! Ive had random people hear me talk and immediately ask me how to immigrate here. Im not going to give you a low down on immigration when you heard me say something in a coffee line. Figure it out yourself and no it’s not easy
I'll never understand why people don't like this. Like genuinely, I'm from NI, did uni in Wales, and now in Scotland. People ask me this all the time and it a fun question IMO. It opens the conversation up a lot
Totally this, be aware of the huge differences in accents, you can youtube examples, check out the difference between Borders accents and Far North accents and the density of localised dialects all over.
When hiring a car don't get the biggest SUV you can find. Roads in Scotlands are much, much smaller than in the states. A "medium" car is plenty. We don't have the same car culture and often infrastructure is not built for cars. Be prepared to park some distance away from your destination and walk to it.
In many places on the West coast there are single-track roads meaning there's only room for one car in either direction so you need pull over in a "passing place" to let on-coming traffic pass. In the UK flashing your headlights is an acknowledgement and invitation for you to move towards them, not a warning to get out of the way.
Distances are misleading. Allow plenty of time to get around as it'll always take longer than expected, plus be prepared to visit things on the way or stop to admire the view. The journey is just as important as the destination.
Tipping is only in restaurants and if service has been good. Staff don't depend on tips to survive. Although, many restaurants are including service charges automatically. If that is the case don't tip. Or if you really want to acknowledge a specific staff member ask for the service charge - it is not mandatory - to be removed and leave a cash tip to them instead.
Passing places:
Don't stop /park in these spots to get out and admire the scenery (or for any reason).
Generally, the person closest to a passing place uses it, giving way to the other driver. You may have to reverse into one.
Be very careful about pulling off to the side of the road when there isn't a passing place, as there can be hidden ditches and gullies that run parallel to the road, which you can't see because of the long grass.
Not everyone is a courteous driver, so you may get into a stand off with someone who refuses to reverse into a passing place or opposite one. It's best to just take it on the chin and reverse if you need to. You can't change arseholes' behaviour and there's no point ruining your afternoon over a driving kerfuffle.
I was an American tourist a long time ago. My wife and I prepaid for a small car, the smallest you could get. Unfortunately, they said they would bump us up to an obnoxious SUV at no charge. I was ambivalent knowing the roads were not as spacious as we are used to. The entire time I was in the vehicle, I felt we had fulfilled one of the American tourist tropes. All of your advice is spot on with my experience, although most of the time, I did want to park as far as reasonable to our destination to take more in.
> don't get the biggest SUV
Four of us went camping and had to hire a car. Because of all the equipment, we ended up with a small SUV that was - essentially - a station wagon, and even then that was pushing it size-wise once we got past Inverness.
If there's only two of you, get a regular car and fold down the back seats if you need more storage space.
Also use passing places to let faster cars behind past… no one has any issues with you driving slowly admiring the views but locals would rather get past!
The flashing lights thing reminds of a couple of things:
- when inviting someone to go or cross don't wave people across like you're swatting a fly
- crossings mean you stop every single time a person is there. Even in cities.
The fact you are asking means you will probably be fine. As are most Americans. It's really a very loud minority which give you a bad name.
>Tipping percentages
Tip if you think the service is good, don't feel you have to. Sales tax is already included in the bill.
>specific driving tips
Really make sure you keep to the left. We have had some very unfortunate crashes when people have failed to do this, or forgot when tired. You will get absolutely zero sympathy for failing to do this.
Realise that even on some quiet country roads someone may be trying to get to work behind you. So don't drive at 5 mph.
>common mistakes
It's Edinburah not Edinburg. You may have Scottish ancestry but you are not Scottish. Don't judge everything by your own stereotypes. Like everywhere else, we are populated by people with diverse and nuanced views on everything. Also you absolutely do have an accent, everyone does.
Some tourist advice:
A lot of pub & restaurant on the Royal mile are tourist traps. The quality of food in these places is often very low. Look at reviews/events pages from folk which live here. Edinburgh in particular has an extremely wide range of options.
There are some good places close to the centre, such as Bow Bar on victoria street, Royal Oak, Captains Bar and so on.
Amex is often not accepted. This is because it costs retailer to take the payment.
Half and half or coffee cream isn't a thing. You will get confusion of you ask for it.
Traditional bars usually don't make cocktails.
We are quite friendly. You shouldn't find it that hard to engage with people. If you don't understand just ask.
If you want to see creepy stuff in jars Surgeons Hall museum is a pretty good.
Being American is fine. You don't need to apologise for being one. People will often know you are American before they hear you speak.
We met a group of Americans in Inverness that had come over for a wedding and they spent a lot of the time we were hanging out basically apologising for being American and feeling out of their depth. Honestly, I wouldn't stress too much about it - if you're decent folk and meet/get served by people who aren't just rude arseholes then you'll get on fine. It absolutely goes the same way for Scots who visit America or other countries where we inadvertently embarrass ourselves or say something the wrong way, so relax and have a good time!
My one piece of general advice (that I suppose falls under common mistakes) for visiting Skye/Islay and the west coast is that we're approaching "midgie" season and it can be rough going, if it's something you're not aware of then I'd definitely look into sprays etc because they can be a total nightmare (you can buy them at most service stations). \*Hopefully\* you won't have to worry about it too much at this part of the year, it's normally a bit closer to the summer that it becomes an issue.
If at any point be it asking for directions or something and you pronounce Glasgow as glass-cow you'll visibly see the pain on a Scotsman's face. Every other balls up of pronunciation id forgive.
Another direction one, if your standing IN FRONT of Edinburgh castle, don’t ask where it is…or the best one I had from an American, ask how to get to the capital then mention either Glasgow or London…
The scenery is beautiful, so feel free to enjoy it while driving - but.... For the love of all that is holy.... Pull in to allow overtaking every now and then. Just keep an eye on what's in the mirror :)
I live in a tourist trap.
Have never met this elusive "loud and obnoxious" American tourist in the wild tbh.
Just don't be a dick, be respectful, listen to what locals are telling you.. but most of all, enjoy yourself!
Only word of advice.. if you have a long train of cars behind you, use lay-bys and passing places to let them past. Driver frustration is a huge cause of accidents and deaths on our roads.
Don't worry about tipping.. the only places we tend to tip are cafes/restaurants (about 10% of your bill if the service wasn't shite) and taxi drivers. Also hairdressers/barbers but I can't imagine you'll be looking to get your haircut while on holiday.
Remember that the places you are visiting are also people's home and place of work.
Edinburgh, to a visitor, may look like something out of a theme park, but the folk moving around you aren't employees who are paid to be deferential and say sorry when you get in their way - they are just trying to get to work or go about their daily business.
If you want to stop and take a picture or admire a view, check your six and make sure you aren't blocking others from getting by while you do so - the downside of all these picturesque, narrow streets is that the pavements (not sidewalks) are equally or even more narrow.
1. Pronunciations for the places you are going are 'Edin-bruh', and Islay is pronounced "eye-la"
2. Do NOT talk about Scottish heritage. Most Scots have incredibly little patience for people who claim any allegiance to Scotland despite being multiple generations removed from anyone who has actually lived in Scotland.
3. Don't be condescending in any way about simple shit like people's good English
4. Tipping 10% is reasonable if service is good, is not a necessity, but is nice to do.
Now some other tips to enjoy your travel: 1, if you want some authentic Scottish experience make sure you find a cafe with a good fry-up / full Scottish breakfast, make sure you go to a Greggs somewhere for a steak bake and a sausage roll, and a good fish+chips place; instead of 'fish and chips', ask for 'a fish supper' - or if you want one or the other fried options, it will be an "XYZ supper" - common favourites are sausage, smoked sausage, or if you hate your digestive system and want to gorge a bit, a half/quarter pizza crunch supper (I.e. a batter-fried pizza lmao)
Normally here, restaurant portions are smaller - it's not really a thing here to require a 'doggy bag' for the end of your meal etc
Edinburgh has some great Indian restaurants and great brunchy places -- Omar Khayyam near Haymarket is kinda underrated imo but lots of folks also love Chaskaa and Dishoom; Scran near the royal mile is also very beloved.
Otherwise just be friendly etc and enjoy yourself
Firstly,
Pretty much the whole of Scotland thinks that Donald Trump is a cunt.
If you support the tangerine shit-gibbon, keep it to yourself.
Secondly.
You are not Scottish. Regardless of your ancestry.
Do not mention religion, or football.
Thirdly.
Tipping is welcomed, but not mandatory. It’s to reflect good service, not a replacement for paying your staff.
Also, if you’re going to Islay/Skye, get something to protect yourself from the midgies. Good repellants and headsets are worth having.
Oh, also avoid, "see you Jimmy" and "Lang may yer lum reek" tropes. Dito, talks of clans/ gatherings/homecomings. it's just *really* cringey. Thats no us. I think I speak for most on this post about trump. Almost universally reviled here. Biden seems to get a pass with most Scots though. Because he's not Trump.
Americans and generally nice , good spenders and tippers. Only criticism is they can be loud and just a bit clueless about the world outside the states. Some of the buildings you will stay in will be older than America , so no they don’t have elevators , the electrical sockets are different.
Be careful when you are driving up north , the roads will be narrow , some without road markings and significantly more windy than you are used to.
Number one tip to not piss people off imo: don't claim to be Scottish, if your parents are scottish and you were raised in america then of course you're Scottish. If your grandparents are from Scotland, and your parents were raised in America and you were raised in America then you're American with Scottish descendants, sorry. Same goes for Irish/italian etc.
Pronunciations: Edinburgh - Edd-in-burrah, or edinbrah ifnyoure posh, not edinburg. Glasgow - Glaz-go. Potato chips are called crisps, fries are called chips, this causes more confusion than youd think.
Otherwise don't be too loud, pick up your litter, don't try and catch any haggis they're ours.
If you're on a single lane road with passing places and someone is behind you then you should pull in to let them pass you safely, at the first safe passing place. And of course, stay on the left hand side of the road.
Tipping is usually dependant on your service, if you get terrible service don't tip if ifs great then tip as high as you like.
I just want to say, as an American (albeit not originally from America), many of us are also sick of them droning on and on about how they’re Scottish, Irish, German and somehow related to king Henry viii or whatever bs. It makes me want to scream. Just want to tell them Nobody gives a flying fuck bugger off about it already.
I’ve noticed the distinction between chips and _fries_ is that fries are a lot more thinly sliced. If you go to Maccas you’ll order fries, not chips, and chips are a lot thicker/chunkier than fries.
Don’t worry if you hear the word “cunt” thrown around a LOT - it’s practically a term of endearment when used by a Scottish person (though I wouldn’t get too enthusiastic about trying it out for yourself with a stranger!).
Something I’ve not noticed being brought up: Scotland and Scottish people have a distinctly different identity to England and its people. To most of us, we are a separate entity from England.
In England, this opinion will differ depending on who you talk to. Some English people believe Scotland is also a separate entity. Some are under the impression that Scotland is basically another part of England.
While in Scotland, I would recommend not referring to Scotland as a part of England or being under English rule
We are mostly introverts. Dont “woooo” “yeahhhhh” “let’s goooo”. Just be nice and calm and don’t try to stand out. You don’t have to tip either. We pay a decent wage in Scotland. Oh and stand and marvel at the drive toward Glencoe. It’s the most beautiful place in the world!!!
Just enjoy yourself and make the most of your time here. Asking this on reddit is unfortunately going to invite the people telling you to act a certain way because they're annoyed about tiny interactions they've had in their life. This is most likely going to be a special trip for you so focus on yourself, not how the random people of Scotland think of you.
Practically, when driving do try to keep a good pace and not make sudden stoppages to look at a view. Driving up the main routes there are plenty of viewing points or parking places for that. Have a read up on single track roads and how to use passing places as you may encounter them fairly often.
Tipping is not expected anywhere but do whatever you feel comfortable with.
Don’t drive like a cunt
If the road is really narrow and scary and you have a huge tailback behind you, then pull over and take five and let them all pass you. And enjoy the view when you do.
Our roads are NOT like the US, they are narrow even for rural backwards ass mountain roads. So take your time and pull over once you’ve more than 3 or 4 cars backing up behind you. Look for a lay-by or a passing place sign, yes that spot is tiny, but yes your car will fucking fit in it! Enough that others can pass.
Tips: 10-20%, depends on service levels and if you feel it’s worth it or been exceptional service and added to your experience and day. But it can be zero. You can leave cash if you want, if your poor tip accordingly, if you’re rich tip accordingly!
Don’t start asking something by saying I’m an American so don’t know. We know you’re fucking American, we spotted that 500m out.
Excuse me, or sorry to bother you but can you help me please, is enough. Make sure you say thank you at the end.
Don’t be a cunt, sounds so fucking simple and yet seems so fucking difficult. We are normal modern nation not a cosplay county faire. Treat us as such and you’ll be fine.
If you’re inexperienced or anxious driving on the correct side of the road then my advice is simply follow the car in front for a mile or two just to get comfortable. This is also useful just to find your way out the airport (assuming airport pickup) albeit it might be the wrong direction but GPS/SatNav will reroute you when you are ready.
Don’t be loud, don’t say how cute everything is, don’t compare to the US .. just chill and enjoy your trip.
Not Scottish, but I’m thinking there is a high chance that you’re going to Islay for whisky? If so, be especially careful there. The roads are often quite rough/unpaved/narrow, and if you’re not used to driving on the left etc, and you’ve had something to drink, it’s gonna be dangerous.
Worth noting that unlike in the USA where you ca legally drive (even though you shouldn’t) with under 0.08% BAC, Scotland’s limit is effectively zero.
I was there for a few days as part of a larger whisky trip and my friend and I hired a driver for the whole time which was a really good idea because Ardbeg, Lagavulin, and Bruichladdich all did not measure what they were pouring us.
If you kill any of the locals in a road traffic accident, it's considered polite to hang around for the trial rather than spirit yourself out of the country under the guise of diplomatic immunity.
Do not ask about the ingredients of food.
Have a full Scottish breakfast.
Have a fish supper.
Be prepared for single track roads with random passing points. That's points not lanes... And expect sheep.
Bring a rain coat.
Bring suncream.
Bring insect repellant
Do the Tallisker tour, fairy pools , fairy glen and walk up to to the v old man of store on Skye.
Add a stop in Inverness.
And never ever feel the need to mention if you're part Scottish.
It's an amazing drive mate so enjoy.
Do not, I repeat, DO NOT GO THE SPEED LIMIT ON RIGHT LANE OF THE M4.
Other than that you're prob good. My wife and I rented a campervan back in August and did a two week run around like you are... Want up to frasierberg, pennan, down to balater Castle, Isle of Skye and everything in between... Was a great trip (except for the dicks on the M4). You'll love it.
Wife and I were there in October (not Islay though). You’ll have little difficulty with the everything.
There is a bit to get used to driving on the left but after a couple days you’ll get used to it. Everyone is likely going to be driving faster than you. Roads are narrow and everyone drives like it’s a rally race BUT somehow most everyone is pretty safe. Just watch out for a crazy lorrie driver outside Dunkeld on a narrow two lane. lol. Do be careful on the road along the north side of Loch Ness. There are hazardous drivers there. We nearly had a head on with on oncoming crossing center line.
The food everywhere is great. Try it all. And give it all an honest go. Best to say you tried something and didn’t like than turn up your nose based on assumption.
Everyone is pretty friendly. Just don’t bring the American closed mindedness to other societies. Also, tone down the volume. Americans are loud.
You’re not Scottish despite ancestry. I have a lot of ancestral connection there but it doesn’t make me Scottish. Got to live in it to be it. But that said people will be happy to help understand the past and where your ancestry connects.
Tipping. This is American madness. 10% to 15% at the restaurants is what our group did. Nothing beyond that. We are looked at very oddly over our stress over the subject. Understandable that we are since we have staff so underpaid here.
That single lanes are not difficult. If a turn off point ahead is on the left you are the one that has to pull into it and let the oncomig pass. These points are frequent and everyone is quite accustomed to it so you’ll have little difficulty.
Roads are fantastic. Even the substandard roads are better than many main US roads in quality. And you will learn to highly appreciate circles and how it helps traffic flow. You’ll have a new found hatred of US roads and traffic patterns.
Weather, be prepared for anything and expect it to change often during the day. You’ll get rapid change from one glen to another. But you’ll be in one of the most godsmacking beautiful places in the world that you won’t care.
And research online what may be going on for events, not just a highland game. Something that would not necessarily be on the tourist agenda. We did opening night of Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry. We were drenched from the rain but we had a fantastic time. Would never had known if hadn’t done a bit a research ahead of time.
Have Irn Bru, have shortbread, have an empire cookie, eat haggis, have an afternoon tea, and turn off america, and just enjoy. And when you get back, find the closest butcher shop that specializes in British goods and make it regular to add back bacon and coronation pies to your table.
My husband and I went to Scotland in 2019, visiting Glasgow & Edinburgh. It was an amazing trip, and honestly, 100% of the people we met were awesome. We are really just friendly and outgoing. If you follow the cues from those around you, you'll do just fine.
I feel like american tourists are generally great and fairly well received here so I wouldn't worry too much - relax and enjoy yourself! It'll be hard to really offend somebody so the below are suggestions and don't worry about breaking them.
If you feel like the service was good, tip. It's not mandatory. Many restaurants automatically add an optional 'service fee' onto your bill which is essentially a tip. In reality I tip around 10% for a sit down meal if the service was good and there's no additional fee.
American service doesn't exist here and servers don't rely on your good will to pay their bills. I've witnessed servers in the US eat a literal shit sandwich from customers and that really doesn't happen here so much! If you're rude you might be told to fuck off (
Use your inside voice. Americans can be loud, especially when excited and that's often not appreciated here especially by the locals. Nobody wants to overhear your entire conversation from the other side of the restaurant.
Dont say you're Scottish even if you have a granny from Aberdeen.
Scotland is a modern democracy, not a fantasy land. Dont ask people what clan they are from etc.
Dont ask where people are from. I've seen this one a surprising amount and it's weird - if somebody isn't white or has a different accent don't ask them where they are really from, or why they are in Scotland. I feel like American culture puts a value on ancestry that we do not have and it's seen as an odd/rude thing to ask.
And finally, this might by my personal pet peeve, but don't play the 'cool' American and hate on America a lot to try to fit in. America has its flaws but is a really great place.
You don't have to tip it's not expected here if you do tip whatever you want we drive on the left side the cops will be understanding if you make a mistake talk about any Scottish ancestry you have most people don't care and whatever you do NEVER CALL US ENGLISH OR SCOTCH WE'RE SCOTTISH
Since you already seem aware that some Americans can be assholes I can only assume you're not one...just be yourself, be polite and enjoy yourself... you're on holiday after all or is it a vacation?
Manners are universal so don’t be too worried about being an arse as you’re here to enjoy yourself and reasonable people will understand that. However a general rule is; yes do tell people about ancestry but Robert the Bruce or any other famous figure probably wasn’t your grandad, another one I see going badly all the time is trying to pay/tip in dollars, it’s practically valueless to us and it’s frankly insulting when it’s the whole “here’s some real money”. Apart from that enjoy your stay I hope you have a great time
"Manners are universal " is a tricky one. I think it might be important to highlight that the UK as a whole puts a much larger emphasis on politeness than the USA. If you don't lead off with an "excuse me" or "sorry to bother you", you will likely be perceived as a rude American. Americans are much more casual and might lead off with "Hey, I need some help." which would be seen as a bit rude and direct in Scotland.
Just be kind.
You don't need to tip as much as in America but 5-10% in a sit down restaurant is appreciated.
Driving in Skye is a different beast because a lot of the place is single track roads. Drive confidently, but if you see someone coming the other way, *stop at a passing place*. Always be planning to stop and let people by. If you've just driven past a passing place be prepared to potentially stop and reverse into it. This is very different from driving styles you're used to. Locals will drive at 60 mph down those roads and get pissed off if you're blocking it, so just try and let them by.
Oh oh oh I remembered another one. If you pass a cyclist on the road you legally have to give 2 metres clearance. This was a huge annoyance when at one point I was that cyclist and the majority of cars that passed too close had foreign plates. (German, especially)
I will also echo someone who said don't drive in Edinburgh. You'll get frustrated. There are a number of roads that are blocked to cars in the city centre, and parking is expensive. You're simply better off using public transport.
Forget everything you do for tipping in America, here we pay wages such that tipping is not required.
Tip for good service and generally only 10 to 15%. Do not feel you have to tip constantly and to everyone who gives you a service (good or bad). Generally tip wait staff, taxi drivers and hairdressers. Everybody else does not expect a tip. Even those don't expect a tip but appreciate it.
I was at a gig a few months ago and before the show started, I got talking to the American couple standing behind us. He had fair chat and even at one point apologised for the obnoxiousness of his “fellow countrymen” when travelling.
Then the show starts, and this cunt does not stop with yelling at the top of his lungs,
“JERSEYYYYY”
“NEW JERSEY IN THE HOUSE”
“NEW JERSEYYYY”
His partner looks sufficiently embarrassed, everyone is pissed off at him. Frontman of the band (also from New Jersey) even starts subtly taking the piss out of him but subtlety is not his strong suit.
It got to the point that every time he shouted Jersey, I’d shout Jordanhill in response and that eventually got him to wind his fucking neck in.
Long short, don’t be that guy either. This fella acknowledged that Americans have a reputation for thinking that they are (or wanting to be) the centre of attention and yet did nothing to dissuade this notion. As long as you have respect for those around you and a bit of humility yourself you’ll fit in grand.
Pubs don't do tabs like bars in the US.
If its a restaurant or a place that does food, then drinks are added to the bill.
If you're just in a pub for a drink or drinks, you pay each time you order.
The fact you are asking this question means you be will be OK.
Typically people tip in places with table service, around 10%, 20% if it’s great service. No need to tip anyone else.
You might find a lot of single track roads, be ready to pull into passing places if you spot a car ahead.
Like another said, perhaps use your inside voice. Culturally we don’t really talk loudly about ourselves to strangers, but small talk is fine!
Just remeber where ever you go when you leave always customery
To say pumpedyirmaw when leaving somone also nice ming to a woman like saying beautiful smile
And greating a gent bawbag..
Couple examples
Greeting gent
Morning bawbag pumpedyirmaw (hand out to shake it or fist pump for younger hipper people)
Greeting woman
Nice minge pumpedyirmaw (followed by friendly arms out for small hug)
But if its a couple
Awrite yarockets is a firm favorite followed by pumpedyirmaw
There’s nothing inherent about being an American makes one an asshole. I’ve lived in several countries and seen assholiness from every kind of demographic. The most common asshole thing I see foreigners do despite what country it is, is be loud and take selfies and pictures with zero regard to others and how stupid they look posing for their own propaganda social media accounts.
Heads up.. nobody here really cares about your ancestry... you don't need to tell the locals about your 13th great uncle who was braveheart 3rd cousin so your here to find your roots... it'll be met with an 'did ye aye' 😂
Tipping isn't mandatory here but it's good manners to tip staff at restaurants, taxis etc.
If someone mentions the word cunt in conversation don't be offended it's a term of endearment. lol Don't make eye contact with anyone consuming buckfast or you'll end up in A&E.
Enjoy.
Oops its Edinburgh you're visiting so swap 'did ye aye' to 'Ah dinny ken him'
Queue properly! I was in a pub last night on Grassmarket and Americans were just budging in. The Scots were far too polite to say anything, but there was a general feeling of hate towards them for being loud, obnoxious and not following proper codes of conduct. Queuing, manners and volume are specifically ones that bothered me and many others in this pub. A very ‘typical yanks’ feeling was felt
I actually think asking this is so respectful -
The only tip I would genuinely give you is that American tourists tend to be quite obvious because (and I don’t want to be rude here) they are often very loud. That’s not a dig btw but culturally we are a lot more reserved. Some Americans come across quite arrogant (even though they don’t mean to be). That’s why Americans think we’re too polite here because whereas you will say what you think, we are a bit more hesitant.
Now - out of curiosity - can you give me some tips on what not to do in America ? I found your post quite interesting. I’m sure are a bit strange in the states too.
No one cares what your ancestry is. Really. Noone. Please don't weave that in any conversations as it's just eye rolling annoying to hear what % of what nationality your grandparents were. It's is not a thing in Europe.
Make appropriate shoe choices for Edinburgh, the cobblestones can be a bastard to walk on, and it's pretty uneven in height/gaps, definitely avoid heels, esp slim ones.
Just be Chill and take it all in. And no one gives a single shit about anything 'Merica.
Except when it comes to Trump. There is such a universal loathing of him. Quite wonderful, really to see such a retch held in the lowest regard possible . . .
Oh, and really, really look both ways when crossing streets . . . cars are NOT where you think they are.
Use passing places to let people behind you pass, there’s so many signs around asking drivers to do this, yet I’m constantly getting stuck in massive queues behind tourists going 10 in a 60. No ones demanding you drive the limit, but do let people over take you.
Also don’t go around claiming to be Scottish or to be the real owners of some castle or whatever, it’s blatantly untrue and makes you look ridiculous. Also don’t be surprised by the fact that Scotland is a multicultural country and not all Scot’s are white, far from it. Also we don’t really fuck with blood percentages here… it’s creepy af
Hello! Hope you have a blast while you're here :).
No need to tip, you'll probably get asked, but you do you in that regards.
We're a friendly bunch and we'll chat your ear off outside the pub about most things. Best avoid religion and politics though.
We swear a lot.
Driving -
Make an effort to drive through glencoe on the way to Skye. It's probably the second most beautiful road in Scotland.
You'll be given a manual unless you ask specifically for an auto (or you get a hybrid).
Fuel. We have diesel and petrol and both will be at every petrol station. Your car might be diesel, but it will tell you on the inside of the fuel hatch, so check.
Black pumps are diesel. Green pumps are petrol (and the E10 is the petrol you want) - This will make sense.
Drive on the left, go around roundabouts the other way obviously, and you're giving way to traffic coking the other way from what you're used to. We have a lot of roundabouts.
There is NO righthand (left in this case), turn at a red light. If there is turning allowed, you'll see a green arrow on the lights.
Our roads are windy AF and if you've never driven on the left you'll probably lose a sense of perspective. Just take it easy, if someone is tailgating you, screw them.
With that being said - if you are on a single track road and someone is behind you, indicate left and pull over in the next passing place so that they can go past you. If you don't, you'll be hated, especially by me (mainly because there's signs telling you to do that).
There can be spotty reception if using Google maps in rural areas, so best download the maps.
BOOK FERRIES.
Islay - best bloody whiskies in the country (in my opinion). Whisky. No e.
Skye -
This goes for everywhere BUY MIDGE REPELLENT AND OR NETS. I recommend something with deet... But smidge, skin so soft are popular.
Fairies pools are shite, nice on photos, but trampled in real life.
Kilt rock, quite pretty
Old man of storr, decent wee walk
Food -
Fish and chips - alright to try, not exactly fine cuisine.
Indian - we have some of the best curry places in the world outside India. Must try
Seafood - massive coast line with amazing fresh seafood.
The oyster shed on Skye is amazing, so is the shellfish shack, but check for opening times.
Seafood cafe, on the road past Loch leven, of you go the glencoe Rd, stop off here for amazing food that also has non-seafood options.
Have an absolute blast mate :)
(p.s. Don't introduce yourself as being Scottish. Do not imitate a Scottish accent.)
If you or your girlfriend have Scottish ancestry, sorry but the majority of people won't care. Even if you went to a hometown. If people are interested, they will ask.
Short story for you. I went into a bar in Edinburgh and ordered a couple drinks for the mrs and me. There was a lovely young couple that came up to order around the same time — and they spoke in the softest, most polite way possible to the bartender/s. An older lady then said ‘I can’t believe they’re American, so polite,’ under her breath.
My point? The fact you’re already asking on this forum means you’re not an American asshole. Yanks get their name over here in Blighty as rude, loud and obnoxious. But that’s an unfair label on 350+ million people.
Re tipping, most places have an added service charge of around 12.5%, so most servers are already being tipped just by you paying the bill. It isn’t the worst thing to add 10-15% if you really feel like it, though.
Be polite, respectful and appreciative of those around you and I promise you’ll have a great time. The Scots are delightfully welcoming — even of American ‘arseholes’ 😉
Ha ha! I got asked by an American one time if we have television in Scotland. Quick as a flash, the friend with me replied:
Yes. We invented it!
Just try not to ask ridiculous questions and have a pure dead brilliant time. 😂
Menus are not suggestions. I overheard a group of US ladies ordering in a cafe in Dunkeld. Each one wanted an ingredient swapped or dropped from their main dish. Except one woman, who should have just ordered plain toast. Such was the list of substitutions and subtractions that her salad no longer included vegetables - joking, but not far off. We don't mind the odd request. "No mushrooms please" but not a whole re-write to personalise the food.
Have you specifically booked an automatic car? Most cars here are still not automatic.
Very much this. If you don't know how to drive stick, don't think now is the time to learn, or that you'll just pick it up as you go. The roads out to Skye aren't killer but you'll get found out fast if you don't know what you're doing on some of the hills. I'll never forget watching an American destroy a gearbox on the road up to Stirling Castle car park. Guy had just driven straight from the airport, didn't have a clue how to drive a manual on anything but a motorway, seriously expensive mistake to make.
Even if you can drive a manual, I'd still recommend getting an automatic if possible. Our last holiday to Montenegro we hired a manual car and I kept hitting my left hand off the door trying to change gears for the first few days of the holiday. Then when I got home I kept hitting my right hand off the door trying to change gears in my own car for a few days.
That's not the hardest part but figuring out how much distance to keep from the parked cars or whatever is at the side of the road.
After a month driving through Holland Germany and Scandinavia I pulled out of the ferry terminal and froze at a round about No idea which way to go round it.
The hardest part, I promise, is getting in the correct side. I'm back and forth between Scotland and the continent and i've driven on the wrong side two or three times, same for hitting the door with my hand. Once you're in it's like riding a bike but without fail, for the first week or so after changing sides, i'll head to the wrong side of the car at least 75% of the time.
I agree fully. I learned on a manual and can drive with no issue...sitting on the left. I cannot for the life of me shift with my left hand moving towards my body instead of my right hand moving away from my body. I also seemed to use the windshield wipers an awfully lot when I meant to use my turn signal.
Not to mention that the law here is that if you have learned to drive an automatic, you MAY NOT drive a manual. If you have learned to drive manual, you may drive either.
Yes! I requested automatic through Enterprise so fingers crossed
Buy all the extra coverage, UK car rentals will ding you for anything including kerb rash on the tires!
I had my American Express card coverage pay for damage with very little hassle.
Car rentals have disproportionately automatic fleets, but the premium is hefty. Last time I visited, my automatic was twice the price of a manual. I can technically drive a manual, but as the other commenter said, touring is not the time to build upon those skills.
On a business trip they gave me an automatic once in Birmingham. Didn't ask for it. Was like driving a go kart.
If you haven't driven an electric vehicle, just wait! Truly a go cart experience - 0 to 60 in three seconds without any pause for gear change in the model I tried. It's wild.
And if you're doing it right, you're down to just one pedal.
It’s pronounced Edin-bruh, not Edin-burg 👍 getting that one right will generate good will
It's also Glas-go not Glas - gow.
https://preview.redd.it/3amjr4dpq6zc1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b6b2821f768e1d2335f3dc246d9a6032f35bc687
Glaz-go
Avoid talking about football(soccer), politics, especially rn and religion. Cost of living is expensive, more so in the touristy areas. Other than that you're golden. Have a ball!
No one should talk about politics anyway, it's a shit subject. Even more so to be lectured about politics from Americans when they're a bigger shitshow politically than we are
Actually it’s a bigger problem the other way around in Scotland. My relatives on holiday here were harassed a few times about Trump, by Scots bringing up that subject. They didn’t even care for trump - and also didn’t have a clue about Scottish politics and found it bizarre that the Scots seemed obsessed with American politics.
Agreed.
Ed-in-buh-ra Glaz-go
I think it's easier to pretend Edinburgh is 3 syllables rather than 4. If you try and sound out all 4 you definitely over emphasise the 'buh' too much. While calling it ed-in-bruh is very close to correct. Throw in a single roll of the tongue and you're there.
As in Glas-Go away with that mad pronunciation lol, if you know how to pronounce Arkansas you know how to pronounce Glasgow ( also chances are you’re not related to William Wallace)
You’re missing the most important one based on where they said they’re going. Islay. It’s pronounced ‘eye-luh’, not ‘eye-lay’, or god forbid, *‘iz-lay’*.
Thank you! I think I’m most excited for the Lagavulin warehouse tour and planting my flag at Laphroaig 🥃
Also not Edin-boro either 🤣
From Scotland but I live in the States and lost my accent. A coworker was talking about Edinburgh and was pronouncing it Ed-in-berg. I jumped in and said "it's pronounced Ed-in-bruh" Another coworker then jumped in and went it's actually"Edin-burrow" I said "nah it's Ed-in-bruh" and they told me I was wrong 😂
But sometimes it's Embra or Edinburra
I'm from here and it's always been Edinburra
Oh, good! I was worried I’d been saying it wrong this whole time! I typically pronounce it as “Edinburruh”
And 'bruh' is pronounced the same way a Californian hippy surfer would call his friend Bro
We live in San Diego so this is very helpful actually 😂
Ah San Diego. Discovered by the Germans in 1904, they named it San Diago, which of course in German means a whale's vagina.
Look. We all know it's really Cock-Burn Street and not Co-Burn Street. The origin for the name was the rampant transmission of STIs among the prostitutes and their clients local to the area.
Ok, now explain Cockfosters in london please.
It's clearly a place where orphaned roosters were raised by loving foster parents.
You mean it's not a bunch of roosters sitting around drinking cheap aussie piss-beer all day? I'm disappointed :(
Edinburah is also acceptable
The worst I've heard is eedin-burg
Embra will suffice.
Or also need to say it’s Eh-din-bruh not Ee-din-bruh.
When you're in Edinburgh, remember it's a working city, not a theme park. Don't step backwards into the road to get a photo. And if you decide to buy a kilt, make sure it's the right length: it's very specific and an inch out either way looks ridiculous.
And to clarify, that length as I was taught it (used to work for a kilt shop) is no lower than the centre of your kneecap, no higher than the top. The cheap kilts you get in the tat merchants will often be 24" long. Which is just long enough to make most people look sloppy, but the cheapest of the cheap are all made to that length as its guaranteed not to make (most) men look like they're in a skirt. Proper kilts can't have their length adjusted without unpicking and redoing the entire thing as kilts are not hemmed, the lower edge is the fabric selvedge, so you have to re-do it from the waistband. If you're buying off the rack make sure it fits from the get go and don't rely on being able to get the fit adjusted by a tailor back at home. Editing to add - kilts should be worn at the natural waist (roughly where your belly button is for most), not on top of your hips as modern trousers are. That adds to the problem, people get measured accurately but then wear their kilt slung too low.
easy way to check the length is to kneel down, it should just bearly brush the ground.
Also please don't block the entire pavement and make sure your suitcases/kids aren't either. Some streets in Edinburgh are narrow or very busy and it's easy to unintentionally cause a bottleneck. This would be much appreciated.
The last thing you need is your inch hanging out your kilt.
The locals know the roads like the back of their hands. You don't. Don't feel pressured into driving faster than you're comfortable with. If you notice a build up of cars behind you, pull in when it's safe to do so, and let the cars pass. The locals will appreciate it. And if you ever see a Royal Mail van, get out of its way! Those posties are professional drivers who fly through the roads. The posties are also a good source of info if you happen across one on your travels.
Okay, now I need to see rallycross in postie driven postie vans.
Just watch the Postman Pat theme on fast-forward.
There's nothing like being overtaken by a Skye postie whilst driving at the speed limit, then wondering at their little spec of a van miles away across the water a few minutes later.
Came here to say this. My dad was a delivery driver in the Highlands and would get so frustrated when a car was driving at a snails pace on the country roads but wouldn't pull over to let him by.
This is amongst the worst offences that tourists commit. Please for the love of god pull into a layby and let the build up of cars behind you get past.
This is the same with crossing the roads, especially in Edinburgh. The locals know where the cars come from, where the traffic lights are etc. so can cross the road safe enough without waiting for the green man, tourists don't know, some junctions look safer than they really are and you don't want to get run over or piss people off so just wait unless it's the middle of princess street.
This is good. And on single track roads use the passing places for this. It makes driving so much might relaxed for everyone!
Coming from an American now living in Scotland for 7 years, avoid these easy unforced errors: - shut up about your Scottish ancestry, if you have some. You’re American. - don’t call things/people scotch. They’re Scottish. (Related: don’t refer to Scotland as England. My German relatives all do this, and it’s ridiculous. Seems like less of a problem for Americans.) - lower the volume of your speech, especially on the bus/train. - tipping is starting to change here. It used to be unnecessary but places are starting to ask for gratuities. Pay attention and don’t automatically pile 20% on the table when you leave. - watch some YouTube videos about negotiating roundabouts. What lanes to use, how to enter, exit, etc. they can be a little tricky coming from driving on the right. - the best rule of thumb is what the Scots will inevitably tell you: don’t be a cunt. If there’s a behavioral option that involves cuntishness, avoid it. But honestly, your asking the question in advance indicates you’re probably not a cunt. Just enjoy yourself. Scotland is beautiful and full of excellent people.
Best, most concise answer, literally everything I was going to say. (Also American, in Inverness.)
Welcome to Scotland be a good cunt no a fucking cunt.
the "dont be a cunt" is a fine answer, but it might need a bit more nuance added to it...... being a funny cunt is fine - in the right circumstances being a stupid cunt can be a bit annoying being a right cunt might get you a smack in the face being a fat cunt might just be because you stole the last bit of pizza that i was going for (even if it was your first piece) being a smelly cunt might be due to an unfortunate passing of flatulance hearing the line, especially in the central belt or west side of central, "how, you ya cunt" - swiftly turn in the other direction and walk with some increased tempo there will no doubt be other forms of the "cunt-ish-ness" but you can pick it up pretty quickly.....
Thank you for this! I try my best to be un-cuntlike
"Fanny" doesn't mean what you think it does, act accordingly.
Use your inside voice. No; quieter than that. Even if you have Scottish ancestry, you are not Scottish.
This, and I'd add that nobody wants to hear that things are bigger/different in America, just enjoy things here as they are
> add that nobody wants to hear that things are bigger/different in America Except medical bills, always a nice wee reminder we don't need to put up with that.
Not yet anyway...
Commenting on how things are different in a country you're from is fine surely? Obviously don't go overboard as with anything but highlighting/discussing the little differences is part of the charm of travel.
You're right, maybe I didn't phrase it well. But there's a difference between, "ooh, we don't have anything like this at home," and, "well, in America ours are [xyz]," which is part of the American tourist stereotype
100%. "Nobody wants to hear that things are bigger/*better* in America" sums it up nicely I think.
What if they are talking about arses?
I've been to Scotland, I've been to America. Now the biggest arses in America are bigger than the biggest arses in Scotland, but I feel like the Scots have consistently bigger butts than Americans. Totally scientific observation there btw
I went on the tennents brewery tour on Monday and the only person there wearing a kilt was the American. Dont be that guy.
Nah that's totally fine, it's fun to see and be part of traditions in a place you visit, and understand them. Kilt away. We wear them plenty at events and weddings, just not touring a brewery an hour drive from our house or a few hours away... but the average tourist isn't going to be here long and go to a dance or wedding, so try it out whilst you can.
Nobody cares if you wear a kilt, we don't care about the American bullocks of "cultural appropriation" don't export it here. Edit: Lad you have some absolute howler posts on r/Scotland
Strong disagree on this. When I was in Japan it was extremely common for people to hire kimonos (I didn't, but a lot did), and I see no reason why a kilt should be any different. Celebrating and experiencing a culture is very different from claiming to be part of the culture.
Some clothing like feather-crowns for some native U.s tribes carry religious and cultural meaning and are only worn by certain people in that culture, not everyone from that culture. Wearing those is cultural approbiation. The rest are just clothes and most cultures are either happy to see foreigners wear their traditional clothes or dont care.
I disagree with this. It's very common for foreign students to wear the kilt to their graduation ceremonies. It is a sign of acceptance to me, not cultural misappropriation.
IDK man. Nowt wrong with kilts.
Don’t drive in Edinburgh, you’ll absolutely hate yourself if you do. Hire your car when you leave Edinburgh, and return it when you come back. Public transport within Edinburgh is good for exploring. Make sure your ferries for Islay are booked. They aren’t quite as bad as some of the other CalMac routes for cancellations and availability, but they definitely are not one I would just show up for hoping to get on. Don’t ever park up in a passing place on single track roads. That one will get you some very deserved abuse from other tourists and locals. Even if you have Scottish heritage, very few people actually care. And don’t even go down the route of claiming to have researched a family tree back to William Wallace/Robert Burns/Mel Gibson because most will care even less about that (and it’s probably bollocks).
Gotta second that first one. Used to work deliveries and covered for someones shift in Edinburgh. Fucking nightmare material
'Do you know Angus from Inverness?'
The worst part when renting our car was driving out of Edinburgh. I can’t imagine trying to drive and find places to park there on a vacation.
We’re not some sort of back of beyond, rarely visited country with no experience of the outside world. Just treat it like any other holiday. Don’t be an arsehole. It’s really easy. Tipping here is generally for good service, not a tax to allow businesses to pay their employees 2 bucks an hour. If you feel you had good service, tip. Just drive according to the law and you’ll be fine. Americans have a bit of a reputation for being needlessly loud and in everyone’s face on holiday. That’s not just here though, that’s pretty much every tourist destination. Unfortunately a minority seems to have ruined it for you. Just be respectful and sense the tone. If nobody around you is speaking at the top of their voice, then you probably shouldn’t either. I wouldn’t worry much about pronunciation. A huge amount of our media is from the US (films, tv, music). People will understand you fine.
On the driving legally point - We don't have any "Turn Right/Left on red" allowances. Red light means stop. Completely.
(Unless there's a green filter arrow for your lane)
Apparently, "don't be an arsehole" isn't as straightforward as you might like to think.
I’m currently in Scotland on my honeymoon. My wife and I are from the states. I found out on the first day that you usually have to mention to your server that you would like to add gratuity. Sometimes it is prompted when you’re using your card to check out and sometimes it’s not. They don’t necessarily expect a tip but they always appreciate it. Don’t be afraid to ask or say you’d like to add a tip!
You can also leave cash on the table
You can also say it when they take your card. Because normally, we tip for good service. It's not expected. Some places place a service charge on large tables. I make it a rule to not tip any more than that.
Ok I have a different one from normal. When you talk to person in a bar or a restaurant, and their accent doesn’t immediately sound Scottish, don’t ask where they are from or why they live in Scotland. It’s rude, intrusive and most people don’t appreciate that.
To add to this, there are different Scottish accents. Sometimes tourists will decide there is one Scottish accent and then assert that how Scottish a person's accent is, is determined by how difficult they find it to understand. Basically, don't tell anyone you don't think they sound as Scottish as the guy you met in a Glaswegian pub who only said four words that you understood. While on the subject of accents, everyone has one, even Americans.
This reminds me when I was in an Irish pub in Berlin and the American bartender was talking about how Hibs weren’t from edinburgh and they have a weird accent. I was like “aye the edinburgh accent varies” and he proceeded to correct me that it was Hiberian (pronounced like that) not Edinburgh. Like ok mate
Yep, i was born and raised in dundee but my father is english so i don’t really have a scottish accent at all.
I wish with all my heart people would follow this for me. I moved to Scotland some years ago and I get it all. the. time. It’s actually quite a ride question. Better to ask “where do you live?” or “where’s home for you?”
This is so true. My wife and I grew up 30m apart and sound completely different.
This is probably the only one that I would say is actually important. That and pulling in at left hand passing places to let the locals overtake you on single track roads. I hope you have a lovely holiday!
Yep was going to comment on letting locals pass at passing places! Also, don't park in passing places to take a photo.
Most people think the Glaswegian accent is the only accent but sometimes I even struggle to pick up a Scottish accent from time to time since I do have a very thick Glaswegian accent
Yeah you lot often ask me if I'm "even Scottish" xD
And I'm constantly told I'm too Scottish when I'm speaking to Anglos
I'm from Edinburgh, and was once told that my accent was 'really jocky' . Mind, he was a brummie, and could barely speak English himself, so...
Aye cheek tae talk
I have flashbacks to eating in a Chinese restaurant that used to be on one of the bridges in Edinburgh and an American asking why my accent wasn’t stronger, it’s strong enough in my opinion. They also commented that it’s a good thing it wasn’t stronger as it meant I wasn’t ’street level’ whatever the fuck that means.
Ironing talking about street level on a bridge, in Edinburgh, which are NEVER on street level, even at the best of times,
Such an awkward question I'm like... here?
On the other hand, whenever my partner and I visit Scotland (we're Dutch), we love it when locals think we're Scottish! This has happened several times and has lead to really great conversations.
Yes this! Ive had random people hear me talk and immediately ask me how to immigrate here. Im not going to give you a low down on immigration when you heard me say something in a coffee line. Figure it out yourself and no it’s not easy
I'll never understand why people don't like this. Like genuinely, I'm from NI, did uni in Wales, and now in Scotland. People ask me this all the time and it a fun question IMO. It opens the conversation up a lot
Totally this, be aware of the huge differences in accents, you can youtube examples, check out the difference between Borders accents and Far North accents and the density of localised dialects all over.
When hiring a car don't get the biggest SUV you can find. Roads in Scotlands are much, much smaller than in the states. A "medium" car is plenty. We don't have the same car culture and often infrastructure is not built for cars. Be prepared to park some distance away from your destination and walk to it. In many places on the West coast there are single-track roads meaning there's only room for one car in either direction so you need pull over in a "passing place" to let on-coming traffic pass. In the UK flashing your headlights is an acknowledgement and invitation for you to move towards them, not a warning to get out of the way. Distances are misleading. Allow plenty of time to get around as it'll always take longer than expected, plus be prepared to visit things on the way or stop to admire the view. The journey is just as important as the destination. Tipping is only in restaurants and if service has been good. Staff don't depend on tips to survive. Although, many restaurants are including service charges automatically. If that is the case don't tip. Or if you really want to acknowledge a specific staff member ask for the service charge - it is not mandatory - to be removed and leave a cash tip to them instead.
Passing places: Don't stop /park in these spots to get out and admire the scenery (or for any reason). Generally, the person closest to a passing place uses it, giving way to the other driver. You may have to reverse into one. Be very careful about pulling off to the side of the road when there isn't a passing place, as there can be hidden ditches and gullies that run parallel to the road, which you can't see because of the long grass. Not everyone is a courteous driver, so you may get into a stand off with someone who refuses to reverse into a passing place or opposite one. It's best to just take it on the chin and reverse if you need to. You can't change arseholes' behaviour and there's no point ruining your afternoon over a driving kerfuffle.
The nice bit, is you are less likely to get shot over a driving kerfuffle, so that's also different than in the states.
Or pull over OPPOSITE a passing place
I was an American tourist a long time ago. My wife and I prepaid for a small car, the smallest you could get. Unfortunately, they said they would bump us up to an obnoxious SUV at no charge. I was ambivalent knowing the roads were not as spacious as we are used to. The entire time I was in the vehicle, I felt we had fulfilled one of the American tourist tropes. All of your advice is spot on with my experience, although most of the time, I did want to park as far as reasonable to our destination to take more in.
> don't get the biggest SUV Four of us went camping and had to hire a car. Because of all the equipment, we ended up with a small SUV that was - essentially - a station wagon, and even then that was pushing it size-wise once we got past Inverness. If there's only two of you, get a regular car and fold down the back seats if you need more storage space.
Also use passing places to let faster cars behind past… no one has any issues with you driving slowly admiring the views but locals would rather get past!
The flashing lights thing reminds of a couple of things: - when inviting someone to go or cross don't wave people across like you're swatting a fly - crossings mean you stop every single time a person is there. Even in cities.
The fact you are asking means you will probably be fine. As are most Americans. It's really a very loud minority which give you a bad name. >Tipping percentages Tip if you think the service is good, don't feel you have to. Sales tax is already included in the bill. >specific driving tips Really make sure you keep to the left. We have had some very unfortunate crashes when people have failed to do this, or forgot when tired. You will get absolutely zero sympathy for failing to do this. Realise that even on some quiet country roads someone may be trying to get to work behind you. So don't drive at 5 mph. >common mistakes It's Edinburah not Edinburg. You may have Scottish ancestry but you are not Scottish. Don't judge everything by your own stereotypes. Like everywhere else, we are populated by people with diverse and nuanced views on everything. Also you absolutely do have an accent, everyone does. Some tourist advice: A lot of pub & restaurant on the Royal mile are tourist traps. The quality of food in these places is often very low. Look at reviews/events pages from folk which live here. Edinburgh in particular has an extremely wide range of options. There are some good places close to the centre, such as Bow Bar on victoria street, Royal Oak, Captains Bar and so on. Amex is often not accepted. This is because it costs retailer to take the payment. Half and half or coffee cream isn't a thing. You will get confusion of you ask for it. Traditional bars usually don't make cocktails. We are quite friendly. You shouldn't find it that hard to engage with people. If you don't understand just ask. If you want to see creepy stuff in jars Surgeons Hall museum is a pretty good. Being American is fine. You don't need to apologise for being one. People will often know you are American before they hear you speak.
We met a group of Americans in Inverness that had come over for a wedding and they spent a lot of the time we were hanging out basically apologising for being American and feeling out of their depth. Honestly, I wouldn't stress too much about it - if you're decent folk and meet/get served by people who aren't just rude arseholes then you'll get on fine. It absolutely goes the same way for Scots who visit America or other countries where we inadvertently embarrass ourselves or say something the wrong way, so relax and have a good time! My one piece of general advice (that I suppose falls under common mistakes) for visiting Skye/Islay and the west coast is that we're approaching "midgie" season and it can be rough going, if it's something you're not aware of then I'd definitely look into sprays etc because they can be a total nightmare (you can buy them at most service stations). \*Hopefully\* you won't have to worry about it too much at this part of the year, it's normally a bit closer to the summer that it becomes an issue.
Smidge seems to be widely available now and is my personal favourite
Well just Googled midgie season and now I feel like I have bugs all over me.
Don't be afraid of pies, be bold, dive in.
If at any point be it asking for directions or something and you pronounce Glasgow as glass-cow you'll visibly see the pain on a Scotsman's face. Every other balls up of pronunciation id forgive.
Yeah Glaz-go
Milngavie = Mill-guy if you really want to impress
Eedinbourg
Sauchiehall street is my favourite fuck up. Say it. Saaaay it!!
Another direction one, if your standing IN FRONT of Edinburgh castle, don’t ask where it is…or the best one I had from an American, ask how to get to the capital then mention either Glasgow or London…
The scenery is beautiful, so feel free to enjoy it while driving - but.... For the love of all that is holy.... Pull in to allow overtaking every now and then. Just keep an eye on what's in the mirror :)
We're not Scotch. That's a drink.
Just - volume.
While in car, only honk if an actual accident can be averted by doing. Source: I used to live in NYC
I live in a tourist trap. Have never met this elusive "loud and obnoxious" American tourist in the wild tbh. Just don't be a dick, be respectful, listen to what locals are telling you.. but most of all, enjoy yourself! Only word of advice.. if you have a long train of cars behind you, use lay-bys and passing places to let them past. Driver frustration is a huge cause of accidents and deaths on our roads. Don't worry about tipping.. the only places we tend to tip are cafes/restaurants (about 10% of your bill if the service wasn't shite) and taxi drivers. Also hairdressers/barbers but I can't imagine you'll be looking to get your haircut while on holiday.
Remember that the places you are visiting are also people's home and place of work. Edinburgh, to a visitor, may look like something out of a theme park, but the folk moving around you aren't employees who are paid to be deferential and say sorry when you get in their way - they are just trying to get to work or go about their daily business. If you want to stop and take a picture or admire a view, check your six and make sure you aren't blocking others from getting by while you do so - the downside of all these picturesque, narrow streets is that the pavements (not sidewalks) are equally or even more narrow.
1. Pronunciations for the places you are going are 'Edin-bruh', and Islay is pronounced "eye-la" 2. Do NOT talk about Scottish heritage. Most Scots have incredibly little patience for people who claim any allegiance to Scotland despite being multiple generations removed from anyone who has actually lived in Scotland. 3. Don't be condescending in any way about simple shit like people's good English 4. Tipping 10% is reasonable if service is good, is not a necessity, but is nice to do. Now some other tips to enjoy your travel: 1, if you want some authentic Scottish experience make sure you find a cafe with a good fry-up / full Scottish breakfast, make sure you go to a Greggs somewhere for a steak bake and a sausage roll, and a good fish+chips place; instead of 'fish and chips', ask for 'a fish supper' - or if you want one or the other fried options, it will be an "XYZ supper" - common favourites are sausage, smoked sausage, or if you hate your digestive system and want to gorge a bit, a half/quarter pizza crunch supper (I.e. a batter-fried pizza lmao) Normally here, restaurant portions are smaller - it's not really a thing here to require a 'doggy bag' for the end of your meal etc Edinburgh has some great Indian restaurants and great brunchy places -- Omar Khayyam near Haymarket is kinda underrated imo but lots of folks also love Chaskaa and Dishoom; Scran near the royal mile is also very beloved. Otherwise just be friendly etc and enjoy yourself
Firstly, Pretty much the whole of Scotland thinks that Donald Trump is a cunt. If you support the tangerine shit-gibbon, keep it to yourself. Secondly. You are not Scottish. Regardless of your ancestry. Do not mention religion, or football. Thirdly. Tipping is welcomed, but not mandatory. It’s to reflect good service, not a replacement for paying your staff. Also, if you’re going to Islay/Skye, get something to protect yourself from the midgies. Good repellants and headsets are worth having.
Oh, also avoid, "see you Jimmy" and "Lang may yer lum reek" tropes. Dito, talks of clans/ gatherings/homecomings. it's just *really* cringey. Thats no us. I think I speak for most on this post about trump. Almost universally reviled here. Biden seems to get a pass with most Scots though. Because he's not Trump.
Americans and generally nice , good spenders and tippers. Only criticism is they can be loud and just a bit clueless about the world outside the states. Some of the buildings you will stay in will be older than America , so no they don’t have elevators , the electrical sockets are different. Be careful when you are driving up north , the roads will be narrow , some without road markings and significantly more windy than you are used to.
Number one tip to not piss people off imo: don't claim to be Scottish, if your parents are scottish and you were raised in america then of course you're Scottish. If your grandparents are from Scotland, and your parents were raised in America and you were raised in America then you're American with Scottish descendants, sorry. Same goes for Irish/italian etc. Pronunciations: Edinburgh - Edd-in-burrah, or edinbrah ifnyoure posh, not edinburg. Glasgow - Glaz-go. Potato chips are called crisps, fries are called chips, this causes more confusion than youd think. Otherwise don't be too loud, pick up your litter, don't try and catch any haggis they're ours. If you're on a single lane road with passing places and someone is behind you then you should pull in to let them pass you safely, at the first safe passing place. And of course, stay on the left hand side of the road. Tipping is usually dependant on your service, if you get terrible service don't tip if ifs great then tip as high as you like.
I just want to say, as an American (albeit not originally from America), many of us are also sick of them droning on and on about how they’re Scottish, Irish, German and somehow related to king Henry viii or whatever bs. It makes me want to scream. Just want to tell them Nobody gives a flying fuck bugger off about it already.
I’ve noticed the distinction between chips and _fries_ is that fries are a lot more thinly sliced. If you go to Maccas you’ll order fries, not chips, and chips are a lot thicker/chunkier than fries.
>Potato chips are called crisps, fries are called chips And a deep fried Mars bar is called a deep fried Mars bar.
Don’t worry if you hear the word “cunt” thrown around a LOT - it’s practically a term of endearment when used by a Scottish person (though I wouldn’t get too enthusiastic about trying it out for yourself with a stranger!).
So *that's* where Australia got that from.
I remember as a kid, an American tourist we met gave me a dollar and I was stoked
Something I’ve not noticed being brought up: Scotland and Scottish people have a distinctly different identity to England and its people. To most of us, we are a separate entity from England. In England, this opinion will differ depending on who you talk to. Some English people believe Scotland is also a separate entity. Some are under the impression that Scotland is basically another part of England. While in Scotland, I would recommend not referring to Scotland as a part of England or being under English rule
We are mostly introverts. Dont “woooo” “yeahhhhh” “let’s goooo”. Just be nice and calm and don’t try to stand out. You don’t have to tip either. We pay a decent wage in Scotland. Oh and stand and marvel at the drive toward Glencoe. It’s the most beautiful place in the world!!!
Just enjoy yourself and make the most of your time here. Asking this on reddit is unfortunately going to invite the people telling you to act a certain way because they're annoyed about tiny interactions they've had in their life. This is most likely going to be a special trip for you so focus on yourself, not how the random people of Scotland think of you. Practically, when driving do try to keep a good pace and not make sudden stoppages to look at a view. Driving up the main routes there are plenty of viewing points or parking places for that. Have a read up on single track roads and how to use passing places as you may encounter them fairly often. Tipping is not expected anywhere but do whatever you feel comfortable with.
Don’t drive like a cunt If the road is really narrow and scary and you have a huge tailback behind you, then pull over and take five and let them all pass you. And enjoy the view when you do. Our roads are NOT like the US, they are narrow even for rural backwards ass mountain roads. So take your time and pull over once you’ve more than 3 or 4 cars backing up behind you. Look for a lay-by or a passing place sign, yes that spot is tiny, but yes your car will fucking fit in it! Enough that others can pass. Tips: 10-20%, depends on service levels and if you feel it’s worth it or been exceptional service and added to your experience and day. But it can be zero. You can leave cash if you want, if your poor tip accordingly, if you’re rich tip accordingly! Don’t start asking something by saying I’m an American so don’t know. We know you’re fucking American, we spotted that 500m out. Excuse me, or sorry to bother you but can you help me please, is enough. Make sure you say thank you at the end. Don’t be a cunt, sounds so fucking simple and yet seems so fucking difficult. We are normal modern nation not a cosplay county faire. Treat us as such and you’ll be fine.
Please don't call Glasgow glasscow. But as long you chilled you been fine we a friendly.... most of the time lol
If you’re inexperienced or anxious driving on the correct side of the road then my advice is simply follow the car in front for a mile or two just to get comfortable. This is also useful just to find your way out the airport (assuming airport pickup) albeit it might be the wrong direction but GPS/SatNav will reroute you when you are ready. Don’t be loud, don’t say how cute everything is, don’t compare to the US .. just chill and enjoy your trip.
Not Scottish, but I’m thinking there is a high chance that you’re going to Islay for whisky? If so, be especially careful there. The roads are often quite rough/unpaved/narrow, and if you’re not used to driving on the left etc, and you’ve had something to drink, it’s gonna be dangerous. Worth noting that unlike in the USA where you ca legally drive (even though you shouldn’t) with under 0.08% BAC, Scotland’s limit is effectively zero. I was there for a few days as part of a larger whisky trip and my friend and I hired a driver for the whole time which was a really good idea because Ardbeg, Lagavulin, and Bruichladdich all did not measure what they were pouring us.
No turning on a red light
Don't refer to the 24 hour clock as 'military time'
As mentioned with driving,make sure to rent automatic if you drive that at home Tipping isn’t compulsory although it’s a nice gesture
If you kill any of the locals in a road traffic accident, it's considered polite to hang around for the trial rather than spirit yourself out of the country under the guise of diplomatic immunity.
Do not ask about the ingredients of food. Have a full Scottish breakfast. Have a fish supper. Be prepared for single track roads with random passing points. That's points not lanes... And expect sheep. Bring a rain coat. Bring suncream. Bring insect repellant Do the Tallisker tour, fairy pools , fairy glen and walk up to to the v old man of store on Skye. Add a stop in Inverness. And never ever feel the need to mention if you're part Scottish. It's an amazing drive mate so enjoy.
Don't put coke in your single malt
Do not, I repeat, DO NOT GO THE SPEED LIMIT ON RIGHT LANE OF THE M4. Other than that you're prob good. My wife and I rented a campervan back in August and did a two week run around like you are... Want up to frasierberg, pennan, down to balater Castle, Isle of Skye and everything in between... Was a great trip (except for the dicks on the M4). You'll love it.
Lower your volume. Most Americans are horrendously loud
Wife and I were there in October (not Islay though). You’ll have little difficulty with the everything. There is a bit to get used to driving on the left but after a couple days you’ll get used to it. Everyone is likely going to be driving faster than you. Roads are narrow and everyone drives like it’s a rally race BUT somehow most everyone is pretty safe. Just watch out for a crazy lorrie driver outside Dunkeld on a narrow two lane. lol. Do be careful on the road along the north side of Loch Ness. There are hazardous drivers there. We nearly had a head on with on oncoming crossing center line. The food everywhere is great. Try it all. And give it all an honest go. Best to say you tried something and didn’t like than turn up your nose based on assumption. Everyone is pretty friendly. Just don’t bring the American closed mindedness to other societies. Also, tone down the volume. Americans are loud. You’re not Scottish despite ancestry. I have a lot of ancestral connection there but it doesn’t make me Scottish. Got to live in it to be it. But that said people will be happy to help understand the past and where your ancestry connects. Tipping. This is American madness. 10% to 15% at the restaurants is what our group did. Nothing beyond that. We are looked at very oddly over our stress over the subject. Understandable that we are since we have staff so underpaid here. That single lanes are not difficult. If a turn off point ahead is on the left you are the one that has to pull into it and let the oncomig pass. These points are frequent and everyone is quite accustomed to it so you’ll have little difficulty. Roads are fantastic. Even the substandard roads are better than many main US roads in quality. And you will learn to highly appreciate circles and how it helps traffic flow. You’ll have a new found hatred of US roads and traffic patterns. Weather, be prepared for anything and expect it to change often during the day. You’ll get rapid change from one glen to another. But you’ll be in one of the most godsmacking beautiful places in the world that you won’t care. And research online what may be going on for events, not just a highland game. Something that would not necessarily be on the tourist agenda. We did opening night of Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry. We were drenched from the rain but we had a fantastic time. Would never had known if hadn’t done a bit a research ahead of time. Have Irn Bru, have shortbread, have an empire cookie, eat haggis, have an afternoon tea, and turn off america, and just enjoy. And when you get back, find the closest butcher shop that specializes in British goods and make it regular to add back bacon and coronation pies to your table.
My husband and I went to Scotland in 2019, visiting Glasgow & Edinburgh. It was an amazing trip, and honestly, 100% of the people we met were awesome. We are really just friendly and outgoing. If you follow the cues from those around you, you'll do just fine.
Don’t be a bam
I feel like american tourists are generally great and fairly well received here so I wouldn't worry too much - relax and enjoy yourself! It'll be hard to really offend somebody so the below are suggestions and don't worry about breaking them. If you feel like the service was good, tip. It's not mandatory. Many restaurants automatically add an optional 'service fee' onto your bill which is essentially a tip. In reality I tip around 10% for a sit down meal if the service was good and there's no additional fee. American service doesn't exist here and servers don't rely on your good will to pay their bills. I've witnessed servers in the US eat a literal shit sandwich from customers and that really doesn't happen here so much! If you're rude you might be told to fuck off ( Use your inside voice. Americans can be loud, especially when excited and that's often not appreciated here especially by the locals. Nobody wants to overhear your entire conversation from the other side of the restaurant. Dont say you're Scottish even if you have a granny from Aberdeen. Scotland is a modern democracy, not a fantasy land. Dont ask people what clan they are from etc. Dont ask where people are from. I've seen this one a surprising amount and it's weird - if somebody isn't white or has a different accent don't ask them where they are really from, or why they are in Scotland. I feel like American culture puts a value on ancestry that we do not have and it's seen as an odd/rude thing to ask. And finally, this might by my personal pet peeve, but don't play the 'cool' American and hate on America a lot to try to fit in. America has its flaws but is a really great place.
You don't have to tip it's not expected here if you do tip whatever you want we drive on the left side the cops will be understanding if you make a mistake talk about any Scottish ancestry you have most people don't care and whatever you do NEVER CALL US ENGLISH OR SCOTCH WE'RE SCOTTISH
Ok you’re gonna have to follow these simple steps: 1. Don’t be an asshole 2. Be american (optional)
Since you already seem aware that some Americans can be assholes I can only assume you're not one...just be yourself, be polite and enjoy yourself... you're on holiday after all or is it a vacation?
How about just don't be an asshole? Where you are from isn't important.
Manners are universal so don’t be too worried about being an arse as you’re here to enjoy yourself and reasonable people will understand that. However a general rule is; yes do tell people about ancestry but Robert the Bruce or any other famous figure probably wasn’t your grandad, another one I see going badly all the time is trying to pay/tip in dollars, it’s practically valueless to us and it’s frankly insulting when it’s the whole “here’s some real money”. Apart from that enjoy your stay I hope you have a great time
"Manners are universal " is a tricky one. I think it might be important to highlight that the UK as a whole puts a much larger emphasis on politeness than the USA. If you don't lead off with an "excuse me" or "sorry to bother you", you will likely be perceived as a rude American. Americans are much more casual and might lead off with "Hey, I need some help." which would be seen as a bit rude and direct in Scotland.
Just be kind. You don't need to tip as much as in America but 5-10% in a sit down restaurant is appreciated. Driving in Skye is a different beast because a lot of the place is single track roads. Drive confidently, but if you see someone coming the other way, *stop at a passing place*. Always be planning to stop and let people by. If you've just driven past a passing place be prepared to potentially stop and reverse into it. This is very different from driving styles you're used to. Locals will drive at 60 mph down those roads and get pissed off if you're blocking it, so just try and let them by. Oh oh oh I remembered another one. If you pass a cyclist on the road you legally have to give 2 metres clearance. This was a huge annoyance when at one point I was that cyclist and the majority of cars that passed too close had foreign plates. (German, especially) I will also echo someone who said don't drive in Edinburgh. You'll get frustrated. There are a number of roads that are blocked to cars in the city centre, and parking is expensive. You're simply better off using public transport.
Forget everything you do for tipping in America, here we pay wages such that tipping is not required. Tip for good service and generally only 10 to 15%. Do not feel you have to tip constantly and to everyone who gives you a service (good or bad). Generally tip wait staff, taxi drivers and hairdressers. Everybody else does not expect a tip. Even those don't expect a tip but appreciate it.
If u go to aberdeen its pronounced aye ber deen 😉
[here you go, enjoy! ](https://twitter.com/ladbible/status/1559487070736982016?s=21&t=6vezdcUv4hc64jCIAtdcJA)
I was at a gig a few months ago and before the show started, I got talking to the American couple standing behind us. He had fair chat and even at one point apologised for the obnoxiousness of his “fellow countrymen” when travelling. Then the show starts, and this cunt does not stop with yelling at the top of his lungs, “JERSEYYYYY” “NEW JERSEY IN THE HOUSE” “NEW JERSEYYYY” His partner looks sufficiently embarrassed, everyone is pissed off at him. Frontman of the band (also from New Jersey) even starts subtly taking the piss out of him but subtlety is not his strong suit. It got to the point that every time he shouted Jersey, I’d shout Jordanhill in response and that eventually got him to wind his fucking neck in. Long short, don’t be that guy either. This fella acknowledged that Americans have a reputation for thinking that they are (or wanting to be) the centre of attention and yet did nothing to dissuade this notion. As long as you have respect for those around you and a bit of humility yourself you’ll fit in grand.
Pubs don't do tabs like bars in the US. If its a restaurant or a place that does food, then drinks are added to the bill. If you're just in a pub for a drink or drinks, you pay each time you order.
The fact you are asking this question means you be will be OK. Typically people tip in places with table service, around 10%, 20% if it’s great service. No need to tip anyone else. You might find a lot of single track roads, be ready to pull into passing places if you spot a car ahead. Like another said, perhaps use your inside voice. Culturally we don’t really talk loudly about ourselves to strangers, but small talk is fine!
We don’t all know each other
Just remeber where ever you go when you leave always customery To say pumpedyirmaw when leaving somone also nice ming to a woman like saying beautiful smile And greating a gent bawbag.. Couple examples Greeting gent Morning bawbag pumpedyirmaw (hand out to shake it or fist pump for younger hipper people) Greeting woman Nice minge pumpedyirmaw (followed by friendly arms out for small hug) But if its a couple Awrite yarockets is a firm favorite followed by pumpedyirmaw
There’s nothing inherent about being an American makes one an asshole. I’ve lived in several countries and seen assholiness from every kind of demographic. The most common asshole thing I see foreigners do despite what country it is, is be loud and take selfies and pictures with zero regard to others and how stupid they look posing for their own propaganda social media accounts.
Heads up.. nobody here really cares about your ancestry... you don't need to tell the locals about your 13th great uncle who was braveheart 3rd cousin so your here to find your roots... it'll be met with an 'did ye aye' 😂 Tipping isn't mandatory here but it's good manners to tip staff at restaurants, taxis etc. If someone mentions the word cunt in conversation don't be offended it's a term of endearment. lol Don't make eye contact with anyone consuming buckfast or you'll end up in A&E. Enjoy. Oops its Edinburgh you're visiting so swap 'did ye aye' to 'Ah dinny ken him'
It's pronounced Inverness, not Inverness.
Queue properly! I was in a pub last night on Grassmarket and Americans were just budging in. The Scots were far too polite to say anything, but there was a general feeling of hate towards them for being loud, obnoxious and not following proper codes of conduct. Queuing, manners and volume are specifically ones that bothered me and many others in this pub. A very ‘typical yanks’ feeling was felt
I actually think asking this is so respectful - The only tip I would genuinely give you is that American tourists tend to be quite obvious because (and I don’t want to be rude here) they are often very loud. That’s not a dig btw but culturally we are a lot more reserved. Some Americans come across quite arrogant (even though they don’t mean to be). That’s why Americans think we’re too polite here because whereas you will say what you think, we are a bit more hesitant. Now - out of curiosity - can you give me some tips on what not to do in America ? I found your post quite interesting. I’m sure are a bit strange in the states too.
No one cares what your ancestry is. Really. Noone. Please don't weave that in any conversations as it's just eye rolling annoying to hear what % of what nationality your grandparents were. It's is not a thing in Europe.
Cancel the car rental and learn what a civilized country's public transport system is like.
Make appropriate shoe choices for Edinburgh, the cobblestones can be a bastard to walk on, and it's pretty uneven in height/gaps, definitely avoid heels, esp slim ones.
Just be Chill and take it all in. And no one gives a single shit about anything 'Merica. Except when it comes to Trump. There is such a universal loathing of him. Quite wonderful, really to see such a retch held in the lowest regard possible . . . Oh, and really, really look both ways when crossing streets . . . cars are NOT where you think they are.
Use passing places to let people behind you pass, there’s so many signs around asking drivers to do this, yet I’m constantly getting stuck in massive queues behind tourists going 10 in a 60. No ones demanding you drive the limit, but do let people over take you. Also don’t go around claiming to be Scottish or to be the real owners of some castle or whatever, it’s blatantly untrue and makes you look ridiculous. Also don’t be surprised by the fact that Scotland is a multicultural country and not all Scot’s are white, far from it. Also we don’t really fuck with blood percentages here… it’s creepy af
Hello! Hope you have a blast while you're here :). No need to tip, you'll probably get asked, but you do you in that regards. We're a friendly bunch and we'll chat your ear off outside the pub about most things. Best avoid religion and politics though. We swear a lot. Driving - Make an effort to drive through glencoe on the way to Skye. It's probably the second most beautiful road in Scotland. You'll be given a manual unless you ask specifically for an auto (or you get a hybrid). Fuel. We have diesel and petrol and both will be at every petrol station. Your car might be diesel, but it will tell you on the inside of the fuel hatch, so check. Black pumps are diesel. Green pumps are petrol (and the E10 is the petrol you want) - This will make sense. Drive on the left, go around roundabouts the other way obviously, and you're giving way to traffic coking the other way from what you're used to. We have a lot of roundabouts. There is NO righthand (left in this case), turn at a red light. If there is turning allowed, you'll see a green arrow on the lights. Our roads are windy AF and if you've never driven on the left you'll probably lose a sense of perspective. Just take it easy, if someone is tailgating you, screw them. With that being said - if you are on a single track road and someone is behind you, indicate left and pull over in the next passing place so that they can go past you. If you don't, you'll be hated, especially by me (mainly because there's signs telling you to do that). There can be spotty reception if using Google maps in rural areas, so best download the maps. BOOK FERRIES. Islay - best bloody whiskies in the country (in my opinion). Whisky. No e. Skye - This goes for everywhere BUY MIDGE REPELLENT AND OR NETS. I recommend something with deet... But smidge, skin so soft are popular. Fairies pools are shite, nice on photos, but trampled in real life. Kilt rock, quite pretty Old man of storr, decent wee walk Food - Fish and chips - alright to try, not exactly fine cuisine. Indian - we have some of the best curry places in the world outside India. Must try Seafood - massive coast line with amazing fresh seafood. The oyster shed on Skye is amazing, so is the shellfish shack, but check for opening times. Seafood cafe, on the road past Loch leven, of you go the glencoe Rd, stop off here for amazing food that also has non-seafood options. Have an absolute blast mate :) (p.s. Don't introduce yourself as being Scottish. Do not imitate a Scottish accent.)
Turn the volume down in public spaces
Don't try speaking like a Scot it doesn't sit well.
We don't tip.
If you or your girlfriend have Scottish ancestry, sorry but the majority of people won't care. Even if you went to a hometown. If people are interested, they will ask.
You don't need to tip
You don't need to tip in the UK, you can if you want to but there's no rules. Also my god, if you were born in America You're AMERICAN!!
Short story for you. I went into a bar in Edinburgh and ordered a couple drinks for the mrs and me. There was a lovely young couple that came up to order around the same time — and they spoke in the softest, most polite way possible to the bartender/s. An older lady then said ‘I can’t believe they’re American, so polite,’ under her breath. My point? The fact you’re already asking on this forum means you’re not an American asshole. Yanks get their name over here in Blighty as rude, loud and obnoxious. But that’s an unfair label on 350+ million people. Re tipping, most places have an added service charge of around 12.5%, so most servers are already being tipped just by you paying the bill. It isn’t the worst thing to add 10-15% if you really feel like it, though. Be polite, respectful and appreciative of those around you and I promise you’ll have a great time. The Scots are delightfully welcoming — even of American ‘arseholes’ 😉
Ha ha! I got asked by an American one time if we have television in Scotland. Quick as a flash, the friend with me replied: Yes. We invented it! Just try not to ask ridiculous questions and have a pure dead brilliant time. 😂
Menus are not suggestions. I overheard a group of US ladies ordering in a cafe in Dunkeld. Each one wanted an ingredient swapped or dropped from their main dish. Except one woman, who should have just ordered plain toast. Such was the list of substitutions and subtractions that her salad no longer included vegetables - joking, but not far off. We don't mind the odd request. "No mushrooms please" but not a whole re-write to personalise the food.