Today marks my third day of vacation here in Scotland, and it’s been a fascinating journey so far. I came here to settle my kid into their new life as a university student, but along the way, I’ve had the chance to explore some of the incredible history and culture this country has to offer.
One of the highlights of the day was our visit to the Surgeons’ Hall Museums. This place is a treasure trove of medical history, and walking through its halls was both eerie and enlightening. We delved into the dark story of William Burke, infamous for murdering people to sell their bodies for medical dissection. It’s chilling to think about the lengths people went to in those times, driven by greed and the demand for cadavers.
As we moved through the exhibits, we were confronted with all kinds of body parts on display, each telling a story of the medical advancements made over the centuries. One exhibit that particularly caught my attention was about the invention of anesthesia. It’s hard to imagine a world where surgeries were performed without it—what a breakthrough it must have been for both doctors and patients alike.
The museum also shined a light on the early pioneers of hygiene in medicine. I learned about the doctors who discovered the importance of hand washing and its role in preventing the spread of bacteria. It was a humbling reminder of how far we’ve come in understanding and combating disease, and it deepened my respect for the medical professionals who dedicate their lives to saving others.
After our museum visit, we stopped for lunch and enjoyed a comforting bowl of noodle soup. The warmth of the broth and the flavors were just what we needed to recharge for the rest of the day.
Next on our itinerary was something a bit more magical—the Harry Potter tour. Wandering through the streets of Edinburgh, we discovered the spots that inspired J.K. Rowling’s world-famous series. From the narrow alleys that served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley to the café where she penned the early chapters of Harry’s story, it was a delight to step into the world that has captured the imagination of so many.
To top off our day, we indulged in the Edinburgh Chocolatarium tour. This was a sweet end to our adventures, as we learned about the history of chocolate, from bean to bar, and got to taste some incredible samples. It was a sensory journey through the world of chocolate, and I have to say, there’s something truly special about enjoying such a treat in a city as enchanting as Edinburgh.
As I reflect on the day, I’m reminded of how rich and varied Scotland’s experiences can be—from the sobering history of medicine to the enchanting world of Harry Potter, and finally, the sweet indulgence of chocolate. This vacation has turned out to be more than just a time to relax—it’s been an opportunity to learn, to explore, and to savor the unique offerings of this beautiful country.
Every Brilliant Little thing 