I have a giddiness in my heart I can’t quite put into words – there is magic and whimsy in the very air of this city, and it’s already revealed itself a few times in the past three days.

Our first night in Edinburgh, en route to dinner, we rounded the corner and I heard “Chloe!!!!” As Steph ran and enwrapped me in a giant hug. The kind of hug that is reserved for very dear friends you haven’t seen in a long time. Similar squeezes for Michael, Chris and Cathy made me feel like I’d found a piece of home.

We spoke in a flurry of excitement, making loose plans with Chris and Michael for the next day before going off in our various directions.

In the morning, we set our alarm early and off we went exploring the city, taking in as many of the viewpoints we could find before the crowds awoke. Following a decent stroll through the old town, Dan and I grabbed breakfast at Brewhalia – truffled scrabbled eggs – and walked through the train station back towards the shopping area.

When we came out the other side of the train station, a downpour had hit, and we huddled under the stations cover to figure out next steps. Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted Tapiwa and Rati. “Taps!” I hollared, giving Dan a good fright! We walked in their direction, and caught up ever so briefly as we dodged puddles.

Bidding adieu to them, it was time to get some shopping done! As we explored the fine fashions of Edinburgh’s equivalent to Holt Renfrew, I felt like an entirely different person from the hiking boot-clad, messy haired adventurer of the last week.

Our timing worked out as such that we were able to meet Cathy, Wayne, Chris and Michael for a happy hour drink at the Dome – an absolutely beautiful spot that Cathy and I agreed felt right out of NYC’s Plaza.

There is so much more to share, and the next few days will be a whirlwind. I still have some catching up to do to tell you all about our venture to the Lake District National Park and of course, our Scottish Highlands Road Trip! Until then, thanks for following along!