Shops & Shopping hours

Shops are usually open Monday-Saturday from 09.00-17.30. In popular visitors areas many shops stay open until later in the evening during the summer, and in towns there is later-night shopping until 19.00/20.00 on Thursday evening throughout the year. Many stores open on Sundays, particularly in the larger towns and cities. In smaller communities opening time may vary.

Money & Banking

Banks usually open Monday to Friday between 09.00-1600. Scottish banks issue their own bank notes for all denomination,which differ from English notes, but they are of the same value and are accepted elsewhere in the UK In Scotland banks usually give the best exchange rate for foreign currency. Many banks offer this service. It is also possible to change money in airports, larger rail stations, travel agents and some of the larger hotels; there is a handling fee and commission. Most towns and cities have cash machines were you can obtain British currency using your cash or credit card.

Credit Cards

Main stores, hotels and restaurants in Scotland will accept the majority of credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some pounds sterling, many smaller accommodations establishments such as B & B are unlikely to accept credit cards and this also applies to other small business.

Voltage

Voltage is 240V - 50 Hz. Most establishments in Scotland have square pin sockets for 3, 5 and 13A fuses. You can buy a travel adapter at your departure airport.

Weather

Scotland's position on the edge of the European continents with sea in three sides means that the weather is varied. Records show that May and June are usually drier than July & August. Even so many of the east and west coast towns have less annual rainfall than Rome. More importantly, if it rains, it will probably not last for long. Besides, with Scotland longer summer daylight hours you have plenty of time to fit in your excursions. The average temperature in the summer is 15 - 22 C/60 - 74 Fahrenheit.

What to Wear

As the weather changes, be flexible. Between May and September it is often warm, but take a sweater and a light waterproof. If you are coming between October and April pack heavier sweaters.

Medical Insurance

Holiday makers who become ill whilst in Scotland are eligible for free emergency treatment at National Health Service Accident and Emergency Hospital departments. If however, you are admitted to hospital as an inpatient, or referred to an outpatient clinic, you will be asked to pay. There are categories of visitors and treatments that are exempt from charge, but these are very specific. However, in every case, if you require continuing hospital care you will be advised at the earliest stage whether you are to be charged for the care needed. As with all travel it is advisable to take out insurance cover before traveling. This applies to both European Community and other travelers. Your travel agent can give advice. You do not need an International Certificate of Vaccination for entry to the UK, but one may be needed for re-entry to your own country.

Facilities for People with Disabilities

Scotland welcomes visitors with disabilities and operates an inspection scheme to assess accommodation with disabled provision using the UK-wide National Accessible Standards. These form 3 categories of accessibility, assuring you that an establishment can provide unassisted wheelchair access, assisted wheelchair access of access for those with mobility difficulties. Establishments are recognized in this way by the appropriate access symbol in brochures. An "Accessible Scotland" fact sheet listing details of all of such establishments in Scotland is available from the Scottish Tourist Board's Information Service.