In this episode of In Conversation with Tourists, my guests trade the library for lochs, greenery and calm. They explain how climbing with a mixed group of friends turned a tough ascent into a lesson in teamwork, and why they want to learn from Scots to celebrate small wins.

This dynamic travel duo discuss about warm welcomes and the surprise of a 10 p.m. alcohol curfew and nightlife that slips away at midnight like Cinderella’s coach. They laugh about the eternal debate over what (if anything) lurks beneath a kilt and the local habit of sunbathing in beachwear the moment clouds part above the Meadows. One guest even arrived with an empty suitcase of flavours, determined to discover her new favourite foods on Scottish soil. With engaging stories about culture, Scottish weather, and breathtaking scenery, their journey underscores the power of friendship and discovery. Each learns valuable lessons about moving at one’s pace and the importance of companionship during travels.

If you’re curious how newcomers decode culture—and how a short break can reshape a student’s sense of home—press play.