2010 – 8 Days from $3,290
The haunting skirl of the bagpipes during a private evening in Inverness... treasured family tartans... wee drams of single malt whiskies on a private distillery tour... a private cruise of fabled Loch Lomond... the strong traditions of the Clans... fascinating history at Stirling, Edinburgh, Cawdor and Blair castles... incredible scenery in the Highlands and along brooding Loch Ness... a uniquely vibrant culture lovingly preserved in the capital of Edinburg - experience all this and more on Tauck's weeklong Scotland tour!
Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from us for travel originating in the United States.
Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours – To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these bookings. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this webpage and discuss it with our your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.
Luggage Responsibility – Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.
Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual train and airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Tauck Director Gratuities - The customary gratuities for the Tauck Director and local drivers are not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.
Airline Security Measures –
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Secure Flight program requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the Secure Flight program, please visit the TSA web site by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Holiday and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many state, religious and civic holidays locally observed. You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.
Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 5:30 PM at the Cameron House in Loch Lomond on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time.The tour ends at check-out time at the Balmoral on the last day of the tour. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.
Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
Photography on Tour – Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other media promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Travel Document Requirements –
If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months after the completion of your Tauck journey to enter the United Kingdom; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom to determine what travel documentation is required.
We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Travel with Children
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Cell Phones - We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your service extends to Scotland.
Currency and Exchange Rates - The official currency in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP) which is divided into 100 pence; however, Scotland’s three largest national clearing banks, the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Bank of Scotland and the Clydesdale Bank, still print paper Scottish Pound Sterling notes for domestic circulation within the United Kingdom, although in practice they are little seen outside Scotland and are, in fact, equivalent to the British Pound. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus and all the hotels used on this tour. ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards and travelers’ checks are also widely accepted.
To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the website, oanda.com, by clicking here.
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – You should familiarize yourself with Scotland’s specific required declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in our incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, we will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.
If you choose not to purchase Tauck Travel Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will incur cancellation penalties per person that are assessed on a per tour basis. Please inquire at time of booking.
2010 Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Glasgow for your Scotland tour
Tauck's Scotland tour begins: 5:30 PM, Cameron House. A transfer is included from Glasgow International Airport to Cameron House, your Scottish baronial manor house hotel set on 100 acres of green lawns and wooded glades along the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Meet your Scotland travel companions at a welcome cocktail reception aboard a private cruise on Loch Lomond, followed by dinner at the hotel this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Scotland
Day 2 - Castles and a wee taste 'o malt whisky
Travel to the grand Scottish Renaissance Stirling Castle, perched on a hill high above the town. A private tour of the Glenturret Distillery reveals how Scotland's famed single malt whisky is made; enjoy tasting a wee dram of the finished product. Continue through Rob Roy country in the Trossachs, through rugged forests past Aberfoyle, back to your manor house hotel for an evening spent as you please.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Scotland
Day 3 - Travel the Great Glen to the Highlands and Inverness
Tauck's Scotland tour takes you across moor and mountain on a scenic journey through the Highlands along the Great Glen, from Fort William to the shores of brooding Loch Ness. Stop at Fort Augustus to view the dramatic lochs along the Caledonian Canal, then continue to Inverness, capital of the Highlands.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness, Scotland
Day 4 - Culloden, Cawdor Castle and Scottish culture
Explore many centuries of Scottish history on visits to the ancient burial site at Clava Cairns, the famous fields where the 1746 Battle of Culloden was fought, and medieval Cawdor Castle with its connections to Shakespeare's Macbeth. Learn about the history of clan tartans and Scottish kilts during a festive Scottish evening, complete with bagpipers and Highland dancers.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness, Scotland
Day 5 - Along the Yellow Roads to Blair Castle
Drive along Tauck's Yellow Roads as your Scotland tour continues through the Grampian Highlands and Cairngorm Mountains to Blair Atholl, the site of majestic Blair Castle. History comes alive as you imagine the life of the noble class in 16th-century Scotland; some 30 rooms contain relics of that age. Head south to Edinburgh, arriving late afternoon; your luxury hotel is set in the heart of the city.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: The Balmoral, Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 6 - Explore Edinburgh... and perhaps a tattoo
Discover Scotland's lively capital city on a privately guided tour with a local expert, including visits to stately Edinburgh Castle, at the top of the Royal Mile, and Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official home when she visits Edinburgh (subject to closure when Her Majesty is in residence). A special Tauck highlight: If you choose a departure date for your Scotland tour between August 1 and 22, you'll have the unforgettable thrill of attending the world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo, performed by Scottish military units against the magical backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: The Balmoral, Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 7 - A shrine to Golf – but so much more to see
For passionate golfers, lovely St. Andrews is an almost-holy place - and it comes as no surprise that this historic town has much more than just golfing history to offer. You have a choice today of joining us for a trip to this beautiful city by the sea - or alternatively, you can remain in Edinburgh for further exploration of the city's treasure trove of historic sites, museums, galleries and gardens on your own. Share memories of your remarkable Scotland tour with your traveling companions at a farewell cocktail reception and banquet dinner this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: The Balmoral, Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 8 - Homeward bound
Tauck's one-week Scotland tour ends in Edinburgh. A transfer is included from The Balmoral to Edinburgh Airport - allow at least 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in.
Meals: Breakfast
Make your plans today for the ultimate weeklong Scotland tour with Tauck!
Inclusive Prices
Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, entertainment, special dinners, sightseeing, porterage, and the services of local guides, drivers and the Tauck Director are included. Transportation from Glasgow Airport to the Cameron House in Loch Lomond is included, regardless of the date and time of your arrival, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight information at least two weeks prior to the start of the tour. Transportation from The Balmoral in Edinburgh to Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport is also included whenever you choose to depart. Transportation to and from airports and train stations may be shared with other Tauck guests.
Hotel Accommodations – The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
Tauck Director – A Week in… Scotland is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff and local guides are included.
No Options Sold – Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Hotel Accommodations – The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
Tauck Director – A Week in… Scotland is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff and local guides are included.
No Options Sold – Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Not Included
Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from us for travel originating in the United States.
Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours – To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these bookings. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this webpage and discuss it with our your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.
Luggage Responsibility – Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.
Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
- Pack at least one change of clothing in your carry-on bag
- Split your items between your suitcase and a traveling companion's suitcase
- Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage
- Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in
- Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight
- File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area
- Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications
- Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary
Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual train and airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Tauck Director Gratuities - The customary gratuities for the Tauck Director and local drivers are not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.
Additional Information
Airline Security Measures –
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Secure Flight program requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the Secure Flight program, please visit the TSA web site by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Holiday and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many state, religious and civic holidays locally observed. You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.
Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 5:30 PM at the Cameron House in Loch Lomond on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time.The tour ends at check-out time at the Balmoral on the last day of the tour. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.
Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
Photography on Tour – Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other media promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Preparing To Go
Travel Document Requirements –
If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months after the completion of your Tauck journey to enter the United Kingdom; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom to determine what travel documentation is required.
We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Travel with Children
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country’s consulate or embassy.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.
We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Air Conditioning – The Balmoral and Cameron House and motor coaches are air-conditioned for your comfort. The Kingsmills Hotel does not provide air-conditioning. European air conditioning should be considered as a climate-control system; most have three settings for the fan, plus a "cool" setting. Very few of the European systems actually have a temperature setting. In general, the amount of cool air that is produced from a European air conditioning system may be less than what you may have in your own home.
ATM and Credit Cards - We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Clothing and Packing – The weather in Scotland is moderate but unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.
In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket and tie for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.
You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Scotland:
We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Air Conditioning – The Balmoral and Cameron House and motor coaches are air-conditioned for your comfort. The Kingsmills Hotel does not provide air-conditioning. European air conditioning should be considered as a climate-control system; most have three settings for the fan, plus a "cool" setting. Very few of the European systems actually have a temperature setting. In general, the amount of cool air that is produced from a European air conditioning system may be less than what you may have in your own home.
ATM and Credit Cards - We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Clothing and Packing – The weather in Scotland is moderate but unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.
In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket and tie for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.
You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Scotland:
- Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
- An optional jacket and tie for men
- Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
- Swimwear
- Gym wear
- A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
- Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
- Insect repellent
- Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and/or plenty of film
- Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
- Battery-operated travel alarm clock
- Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
- Zipper-lock bags
- Daypack for camera equipment
- Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
- Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling
Elevation - The maximum elevation on this tour is approximately 1,500 ft (457 m).
Health – A Week in… Scotland involves a considerable amount of walking. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The visits to the castles involve some stair climbing and walking up inclines. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.
We regret that we cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you require such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will help you.
While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.
There is a smoking ban in public places throughout Scotland. The Cameron House is a non-smoking property, with no ‘smoking’ rooms available. The Kingsmills Hotel has 5 guest rooms and The Balmoral, 8 guest rooms, designated as ‘smoking’ rooms, and these must be requested at time of booking and cannot be guaranteed.
Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Scotland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information about vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.
If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.
Luggage Restrictions -
Checked Luggage – General
While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We ask that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.
Recently, airlines have adopted policies enforcing strict number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.
Many carriers require that checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, we cannot be held liable for the accuracy of the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers. You may wish to consult the website, luggagelimits.com, by clicking here,
We cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage - General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
Destination Information
Cell Phones - We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your service extends to Scotland.
Currency and Exchange Rates - The official currency in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP) which is divided into 100 pence; however, Scotland’s three largest national clearing banks, the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Bank of Scotland and the Clydesdale Bank, still print paper Scottish Pound Sterling notes for domestic circulation within the United Kingdom, although in practice they are little seen outside Scotland and are, in fact, equivalent to the British Pound. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus and all the hotels used on this tour. ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards and travelers’ checks are also widely accepted.
To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the website, oanda.com, by clicking here.
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – You should familiarize yourself with Scotland’s specific required declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries.
Scotland – HM Revenue & Customs
If you are a U.S resident traveling internationally who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.
If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
Currently, the United Kingdom levies a 17.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most consumer goods and services. (The tax may be higher on luxury items and lower on basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country in which the purchase is made (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union), you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
Currently, the United Kingdom levies a 17.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most consumer goods and services. (The tax may be higher on luxury items and lower on basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country in which the purchase is made (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union), you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
Electrical Current – The electrical current in the Scotland is 230 V, 50 Hz, AC. The plug type is “G” and uses three rectangular blades. If your electrical devices do not conform to this standard, you will need to bring the appropriate converters and adapters.
Internet Access is available as indicated below:
Cameron House – Complimentary dial-up internet access in rooms and throughout the hotel; wireless access is scheduled to become available soon
Kingsmills Hotel – High-speed access in rooms and public areas for a fee
The Balmoral – Broadband internet access in rooms and public areas for a fee
Time Zones – Scotland is located in the same time zone as Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From late March through October, Scotland switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 1 hour ahead. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
Weather – Scotland's climate is temperate and, as in the rest of the U. K., the weather tends to be unpredictable. In general, Scotland tends to be cool, damp and cloudy, and is colder on average than the rest of the U.K. The coldest areas are the highlands, and the northern latitude has short winter days and very long summer evenings. The east coast experiences more sunshine, but colder winters, compared to the west. The average high temperatures for May through September range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 45 to 55˚F (7 to 13˚C). Glasgow on the west coast has almost 50% more rain per year than either Inverness or Edinburgh.
Internet Access is available as indicated below:
Cameron House – Complimentary dial-up internet access in rooms and throughout the hotel; wireless access is scheduled to become available soon
Kingsmills Hotel – High-speed access in rooms and public areas for a fee
The Balmoral – Broadband internet access in rooms and public areas for a fee
Time Zones – Scotland is located in the same time zone as Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From late March through October, Scotland switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 1 hour ahead. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
Weather – Scotland's climate is temperate and, as in the rest of the U. K., the weather tends to be unpredictable. In general, Scotland tends to be cool, damp and cloudy, and is colder on average than the rest of the U.K. The coldest areas are the highlands, and the northern latitude has short winter days and very long summer evenings. The east coast experiences more sunshine, but colder winters, compared to the west. The average high temperatures for May through September range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 45 to 55˚F (7 to 13˚C). Glasgow on the west coast has almost 50% more rain per year than either Inverness or Edinburgh.
|
|
Average Temperature
|
|||
|
|
Glasgow, Scotland
|
Inverness, Scotland
|
||
|
Month
|
Hi/Lo ºF
|
Hi/Lo ºC
|
Hi/Lo ºF
|
Hi/Lo ºC
|
|
January
|
46 / 37
|
8 / 3
|
42 / 35
|
6 / 2
|
|
February
|
46 / 37
|
8 / 3
|
43 / 34
|
6 / 1
|
|
March
|
49 / 38
|
9 / 3
|
47 / 37
|
8 / 3
|
|
April
|
53 / 40
|
12 / 4
|
50 / 39
|
10 / 4
|
|
May
|
57 / 44
|
14 / 7
|
56 / 44
|
13 / 7
|
|
June
|
62 / 49
|
17 / 9
|
60 / 49
|
16 / 9
|
|
July
|
65 / 52
|
18 / 11
|
64 / 43
|
18 / 6
|
|
August
|
65 / 52
|
18 / 11
|
63 / 52
|
17 / 11
|
|
September
|
61 / 49
|
16 / 9
|
58 / 48
|
14 / 9
|
|
October
|
56 / 46
|
13 / 8
|
53 / 44
|
12 / 7
|
|
November
|
50 / 40
|
10 / 4
|
46 / 39
|
8 / 4
|
|
December
|
47 / 38
|
8 / 3
|
43 / 36
|
6 / 2
|
|
|
|
|||
|
|
Edinburgh, Scotland
|
|
||
|
Month
|
Hi/Lo ºF
|
Hi/Lo ºC
|
|
|
|
January
|
46 / 37
|
8 / 3
|
|
|
|
February
|
46 / 37
|
8 / 3
|
|
|
|
March
|
49 / 38
|
9 / 3
|
|
|
|
April
|
53 / 40
|
12 / 4
|
|
|
|
May
|
58 / 44
|
14 / 7
|
|
|
|
June
|
63 / 49
|
17 / 9
|
|
|
|
July
|
66 / 53
|
19 / 12
|
|
|
|
August
|
66 / 52
|
19 / 12
|
|
|
|
September
|
62 / 49
|
17 / 9
|
|
|
|
October
|
57 / 46
|
14 / 8
|
|
|
|
November
|
50 / 40
|
10 / 4
|
|
|
|
December
|
47 / 38
|
8 / 3
|
|
|
|
|
Average Rainfall
|
|||
|
|
Glasgow, Scotland
|
Inverness, Scotland
|
||
|
Month
|
Inches
|
Millimeters
|
Inches
|
Millimeters
|
|
January
|
4.4
|
112
|
2.0
|
51
|
|
February
|
3.1
|
79
|
1.6
|
41
|
|
March
|
2.8
|
71
|
1.5
|
38
|
|
April
|
2.4
|
61
|
1.5
|
38
|
|
May
|
2.6
|
66
|
1.8
|
46
|
|
June
|
2.9
|
74
|
1.9
|
48
|
|
July
|
3.7
|
94
|
2.6
|
66
|
|
August
|
4.3
|
109
|
2.8
|
71
|
|
September
|
4.1
|
104
|
2.3
|
58
|
|
October
|
4.6
|
117
|
2.6
|
66
|
|
November
|
4.2
|
107
|
2.4
|
61
|
|
December
|
4.6
|
117
|
2.1
|
53
|
|
|
|
|||
|
|
Edinburgh, Scotland
|
|
||
|
Month
|
Inches
|
Millimeters
|
|
|
|
January
|
2.2
|
56
|
|
|
|
February
|
1.6
|
41
|
|
|
|
March
|
1.9
|
48
|
|
|
|
April
|
1.5
|
38
|
|
|
|
May
|
2.0
|
51
|
|
|
|
June
|
2.0
|
51
|
|
|
|
July
|
3.7
|
94
|
|
|
|
August
|
2.7
|
69
|
|
|
|
September
|
2.5
|
64
|
|
|
|
October
|
2.4
|
61
|
|
|
|
November
|
2.5
|
64
|
|
|
|
December
|
2.4
|
61
|
|
|
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in our incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, we will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.
If you choose not to purchase Tauck Travel Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will incur cancellation penalties per person that are assessed on a per tour basis. Please inquire at time of booking.
60 days or more before departure
$600 per person (the amount of the deposit)
59-8 days before departure
$900 per person
7-1 days before departure
$1,500 per person
Did you know that you can link-up Tauck itineraries to create longer journeys? Many of these trips are in the same region, and depending upon availability you might connect with them before or after your trip. Alternatively, you might find one of these options better suited for your interests and preferences or for when you are available to travel.
You might also be interested in ...Castles & Kings: London to Paris
Family FYI: Did you know that on a clear day you can see up to 25 miles in every direction from the top of the London Eye? History books come alive on our family London and Paris tour - visit the Eiffel Tower, Tower of London, Windsor Castle, Versailles and Cabinet War Rooms; ride the London Eye and a speedboat on the Thames; and see the hit revival of Oliver! in London's West End.England, Scotland & Wales
On a journey featuring the best of Scotland, Wales & England travel from Edinburgh to the English Lake District; explore medieval Wales, Bath, Stonehenge and Stratford-upon-Avon; and end with two nights in the heart of London including a private dinner at the Tower of London!A Week In... London and Paris
Experience powerful history and rich cultural connections on Tauck's week-long Paris and London tour, highlighted by afternoon tea and a West End theater performance in London, and a visit to the Louvre and a dinner cruise on the Seine in Paris. Select Small Group departure dates available with no more than 26 Tauck guests!A Week In... Ireland
Tauck's Ireland travel week combines multiple nights at some of the Emerald Isle's finest hotels; indulge in Irish culture and lore from lunch on a working farm in the rural west to an Irish House Party in one of Dublin's historic Georgian buildings.The Best of Ireland
Experience some of the world's best-loved hotels on this Ireland tour with stays at Dromoland Castle, Mount Juliet Conrad and Ashford Castle, as well as travels to Dublin, County Donegal, Waterford, Killarney and the Ring of Kerry. Select Small Group departure dates available with no more than 26 Tauck guests!
First Name:
Last Name:
Email Address:
Sign up for our free eNewsletter.
Last Name:
Email Address:
Sign up for our free eNewsletter.
Sorry, but we encountered a problem
Please give us a call at 1-800-GO-TAUCK for assistance.
Share your favorite travel photos taken while traveling on a Tauck vacation, and enter them in our photo contest for a chance to win travel vouchers for Tauck.
