We emerge from our transit induced tiredness –
we puzzle about the mental capacities of the detail designer of our accommodations
in the Fraser Suites – it is an exemplary example of how to negate the effects
of location on the overall amenity of a lodging place.
The Fraser Suites could hardly have a better
location – 20 metres from the Royal Mile – 50 metres to St Giles Cathedral - 10 minutes to
the Edinburgh Castle – 5 minutes to the Scottish National Museum – prime – prime
– prime location! – pleasant – pleasant staff from the European community – a room
design that gives absolute priority to aesthetics while rendering practically
no consideration to the practical needs of travellers – a shower area that
anyone over the age of 50, should they gain access to the shower space, would deserve complement for their fitness – a
shower and bath water control system so complex that it justifies its detailed
explanation in the hotel compendium - a
single chair in the double room – nothing that resembles an area for case
storage – a bed head so large and glorious that it makes the operation of the
suites light switches a challenge and curtains that renders a significant part
of the floor area unusable.
Wander down – head for the Castle – we are
early – we join two short queues that form prior to opening – the young scot
gatekeeper makes presence felt! – in a loud voice and big smile -“those with pre-ordered tickets to the left –
those wanting to buy tickets to the right – any questions 5 pounds”
We do what everyone who visits the castle does.
Off to the Scottish National Museum – a delight
– impressive – again staff that make you feel that they like their job and
that you are welcome in their workplace.
Wander back towards the Royal Mile – spring is
emerging in the “auld reekie”
We try haggis and scotch eggs for lunch – superb!
– Makars Gourmet Mash Bar at the Mound – agree with their billboard – great food
and fairly attractive staff! – impressed with genuine Xavier Pouchard chairs - impressed with the quote on their walls - “work
as if you live in the early days of a better nation” - Denis Leigh - cannot help thinking I would like to see it modified
and adopted as the charter issued by electors to their Australian elected
representatives – “Behave as if you are living in the early days of a better
nation!”
Rest and relax – emerge to join a small group
on a ghost tour of environs of the Royal Mile – the Merkat Tour– great wannabe
young actor Sam! – great fun!
Return to the Pizza place this time “airm-in-airm
wae mah burd”!
