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Destinations 2023

Scotland landmarks, castles, landscape
Scotland Map and Flag

About Scotland:                                  

Scotland, the United Kingdom's northernmost country, is a land of mountain wildernesses such as the Cairngorms and Northwest Highlands, interspersed with glacial glens (valleys) and lochs (lakes). Its major cities are Edinburgh, the capital, and Glasgow, famed for its vibrant cultural scene.

Government

The limited devolved government for Scotland has a range of responsibilities, which include: health, education, justice, rural affairs, housing, and the environment. Some powers are reserved to the UK government and include: immigration, the constitution, foreign policy, and defense.

Great Scots, etc.

Famous Scots in the areas of discovery or inventions include, but are not limited to:  James Watt's steam engine (improving on that of Thomas Newcomen), the bicycle, macadamization (not to be confused with tarmac or tarmacadam), the telephone patented by Alexander Graham Bell, John Logie Baird's invention of television, and Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin.

Scotland is also famous for golf, the game first played at the Old Course at St Andrews in the 1400s.

What to Expect:

Arrive in Edinburgh for the orientation meeting. This is a chance to meet the other delegates from all over the world along with spending the first few nights in a youth hostel in the city. 

Scotland’s rich and diverse culture can give delegates a real insight to rural and agricultural life in the country as they will be staying with rural families throughout their stay.

Hosts will be Scottish Young Farmers members and their families, normally in a rural and agricultural setting so a keen interest in either has been seen as a benefit in past years and we encourage all delegates to have an interest in Scottish Rural life to enjoy the trip. Delegates should expect to move hosting areas once a week; however, they might move twice or three times within the area meaning they may only stay with hosting families for 2 or 3 nights each. 

2015 IFYE Katie says, “If you enjoy beautiful scenery, entertainment, and learning about an incredible culture, Scotland may be just what you are looking for!  Scotland is full of adventure from day one.  Boredom is highly unlikely.  During my stay in Scotland, I moved to a different host house almost every other day.  This meant I met a lot of people, saw a lot of sights in the country, and learned many different ways of life.  Some of the places I visited were: Orkney Islands, Dundee, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Glasgow.  

“Scottish hosts are very accommodating and welcoming.  Even though most people speak English, the accent and the slang can take some time getting used to.  I got to visit many different attractions including: Sterling Castle, Glasgow City, Tomb of the Eagles, and the Orkney Islands.  I was able to watch competitive sheep shearing, learn about farm life, and be a part of tug-of-war (a serious sport in the country).  Be sure to ask to try traditional fish and chips, haggis, and IrnBru all very common and favored by the Scottish!  When visiting Scotland, be sure you have clothes you don’t mind getting wet the weather often is rainy and a bit chilly. Safe and Happy Travels!”
 

Time in Scotland normally includes the Royal Highland Show and a chance to make friendships and enjoy Scottish Hospitality. 

Resource:  http://visitscotland.com/about/practical-information/

 

 

What We Expect:

Due to the busy time of year and number of delegates being managed, Host family details will be available when the delegates arrive in Scotland and not before. Full details will be given where possible but delegates should not be worried if details are late in arriving.

An IFYE at Work and Play

Scotland Landmarks