Scotland
Started off with fruit and then a proper Scottish breakfast, appreciating the hotel's construction as a former train station. It's actually done quite tastefully, as one might expect from the Waldorf. Wandered Edinburgh's New Town afterwards, soaking in once-familiar sights before a finely crafted if somewhat forgettable meal at Noto. The dessert was probably the best thing, an decadent take on flavors you might otherwise find in a Snickers bar.
Stockbridge Market was smaller than expected, but still rather charming with a busy paella stand and an insanely popular gyoza stand. Almost asked Sam why we didn't just come here for lunch. *grins*
Modest stroll over to Dean Village was next. As the day was partially cloudy but not actually raining, it was actually rather picturesque. Much less popular with tourists than the New Town we were just at, and definitely less crowded than Old Town that was the next stop. Royal Mile produced many additional whisky tastings as well, and while the shops some friends recommended didn't work out for me, two others did, leading to quite a haul of some decidedly less commonly available whiskys that proved very popular with friends and coworkers who appreciate good scotch.
Dinner was actually back in the hotel. Couldn't get a reservation at Grazing, but was able to get one at Dean Banks. Like Noto it was tasty but ultimately forgettable, although the level of presentation was clearly an order of magnitude (or two!) more elaborate. And the Forest of Kings, Dean Banks' take on the old fashioned, seemed very appropriate after a day of scotch tasting.