They say to be Scottish is a gift — and it’s certainly felt that way over the last few days. Balmoral was a slice of paradise in the Highlands for Queen Elizabeth II, as it had been for Queen Victoria. It was her happy place. Locals felt they hadn’t just lost their monarch but a neighbour and friend. That she passed away there feels like a final act of love for many Scots.
From the majestic sweep of the Highlands to the Gothic elegance of Edinburgh, Scotland shone in the autumnal sunshine. Could you imagine if it had been pelting it down? The Scottish tourist board would have cried a river.
