Who’s Behind Discovering Edinburgh?

Hi, I’m Fiona — Aussie expat, travel blogger, highland dancer, and your guide to discovering the real Edinburgh.

I moved to Scotland at 21 with a one-way ticket, $500, and a suitcase full of dreams. No job. No plan. Just a deep love for bagpipes, highland dancing, and a desire to compete in the Scottish pipe band and dance championships.

Everyone said I wouldn’t last five minutes. I cried all the way from Melbourne to London — until a kind American woman at the airport told her son, “I don’t know who she is, but I think she needs us right now.” She was right. I needed a lot of things. What I didn’t know then was that Scotland would give me all of them — and more.

From Inverness to Edinburgh

I spent three years in Inverness, travelling the country with my band, dancing at Highland Games, and learning how to pronounce “Ceilidh” properly.

Then, I took a spontaneous day trip to Edinburgh. That one day changed everything. Within months, I had moved to the tiniest flat in the Grassmarket. I spent two magical years living in Edinburgh — from weekend strolls along the Water of Leith to spontaneous road trips across the UK.

And yes, I’ve crossed the Royal Mile in full highland dress in the middle of August. No, I’m not a tourist attraction. (Though the camera flashes said otherwise.)

Why I Started This Blog

Edinburgh is beautiful, but it’s also overwhelming. There’s a lot to see — and even more advice on what to see. I created Discovering Edinburgh to help you cut through the noise.

This blog is for curious, independent travellers who want real recommendations from someone who has lived here. I’ve played the pipes on Edinburgh streets, watched sunsets from the Castle Esplanade, and eaten more shortbread than I care to admit — all so I could help you experience the very best of this city without the stress.

What You’ll Find Here

I’ve been blogging since 2018. After years running a general travel blog, I decided to focus on what I truly love — Edinburgh. This site is your go-to for:

  • Practical, no-fluff guides to iconic and hidden spots
  • Sample itineraries and day trip ideas from a local perspective
  • Smart planning tips to avoid overwhelm
  • Honest advice — the kind you’d get from a well-travelled friend

I write for travellers like you — curious, culture-loving adventurer who wants to eat well, walk lots, and leave feeling like you really saw the city.

Need More Help?

If you want extra support planning your trip, I’ve got you covered:

Whether you’re here for 48 hours or two weeks, I’ll help you make the most of it.

A Few Fun Facts (Because Why Not)

  • Favourite quiet spot: the Castle Esplanade at dusk
  • Best “I’m really here” moment: playing the pipes at sunrise in the Highlands
  • Weirdest experience: tourists asking for selfies when I was just trying to get to rehearsal
  • Still on my list: the perfect pain au chocolat in Stockbridge (open to suggestions)

Thanks for Being Here

This blog started with a homesick Aussie and a kilt full of ambition. Now, it’s a place for people who want to feel Edinburgh — not just visit it.

I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s discover it together.

Want to get in touch? Head over to my Contact page — I’d love to hear from you.

Start Here

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