a journey experiencing all the world has to offer

Category: Islands

One night in Raasay – my stay at a whisky distillery

One night in Raasay – my stay at a whisky distillery

Welcome to the charming Isle of Raasay, an island off the coast of Scotland, where one of the most unique whisky experiences in the country awaits you – a stay at a whisky distillery hotel. The Isle of Raasay Distillery Hotel features 6 luxurious rooms…

The Isle of Iona: an Irresistible Siren Call

The Isle of Iona: an Irresistible Siren Call

Some places are magical and just call to you. When you manage to visit, these places are capable of bringing you some kind of solace. The Hebridean Isle of Iona is that place for many people, giving refuge to those who traveled far and wide…

A charming visit to the Isle of Ulva

A charming visit to the Isle of Ulva

Good morning, friends and readers! Today, I’m taking you on a journey to the Isle of Ulva, Scotland’s best-kept secret. Tucked away off the west coast of Scotland, Ulva is a true off-the-beaten-path adventure that few get to experience. But what makes Ulva so special?…

Take the Ferry to Jura in 3 Simple Steps!

Take the Ferry to Jura in 3 Simple Steps!

Hello again friends and readers! Today, allow me to introduce you to my neighbor, the Isle of Jura. This island off the Scottish coast may have a population of 220, but it’s home to over 6,000 deer โ€“ that’s right, deer outnumber people by a…

How to get to Islay from Belfast using 3 simple steps!

How to get to Islay from Belfast using 3 simple steps!

On a clear and sunny day on the south of Islay, you can see the coast of Northern Ireland. As the crow flies, it’s really only about 30+ miles between Islay (in Scotland) and Northern Ireland. Regular ferry connections between Islay and Ballycastle (Northern Ireland)…

Best seafood in Scotland: an enthusiast’s list

Best seafood in Scotland: an enthusiast’s list

I have been quietly singing Scotland’s food’s praises over the last few years, and that praise has extended to Scottish seafood – the absolute glory of fresh seafood. Why Scotland isn’t outwardly more famous for its freshly caught, landed, or dived seafood is beyond me.…

All for the love of food in Shetland

All for the love of food in Shetland

Places like Shetland move your soul.  On a recent trip to Shetland, I found myself immersed in all things that make the place great โ€“ the people, the food, and the awe inspiring feeling remote islands evoke in me.  If you were ever in need…

Scottish Islands Passport: a new app and holiday planner!

Scottish Islands Passport: a new app and holiday planner!

The Scottish Islands Passport combines two things that many travelers enjoy – (1) collecting stamps in a passport and (2) island hopping. Many people have a favorite stamp in their passport. With island hopping, this usually isn’t commemorated with regular passport stamping, since multiple locations…

How to get to Islay from Glasgow – via public transport

How to get to Islay from Glasgow – via public transport

Having lived on the Isle of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland, for the last few years, one of the questions people always ask is โ€“ how do you get there?  How to get to Islay from Glasgow is super simple, and you don’t…

Bruichladdich Walking Path

Bruichladdich Walking Path

The other day, I decided to head over to the Rhinns, on the western side of the island. My destination: the Bruichladdich walking path. One of the great things about Islay is its abundance of nicely maintained walking paths. The walk that I do most…