Edinburgh is gorgeous. Although, a bit cold, even for this Coonass who likes it like that. Backpacking is an amazing experience where you get to learn a lot about yourself and other people. However, it does get a bit…well…lonely.

So, I went up to the bartender and told him about my problem: I’m here to visit Ireland and Scotland, but…I don’t drink beer. After a few shocked looks, and having to indeed verify that I was a Texan, he eased me into a decent cider.

I then struck up conversation with a Scotsman right next to me and we chatted for a while till I got drawn into this “Hen Party” (i.e. Bachelorette Party), where one of the girls was so Irish (i.e. drunk) that I think I introduced myself to her 3 times.

Europe is a great place. All it takes is saying you’re Texan, and then singing the first 4 notes to “Dallas” and you’ve got insta-friends. Tell them your uncle has an alligator farm, and they’ll never let you out of their sight.

I’m up bright and early now to head out to do a day trip to Loch Ness. Makes me wish I brought my squid shirt.

P.S. I went to bed early, and woke up to the sound of a girl coming into my bed room. (It’s a 6 person, dorm-style room with private curtains for each bed.) At first, I thought some lucky guy had made a friend and wondered if this would be more like college than I was hoping for. Then more women came in and I realized that I was the only guy in here. It’s an awkward experience hearing a woman undress knowing that she probably has no idea you’re there. Seriously.