Public transport is much better than in the US. If you do rent a car, remember to drive on the left.

Tipping - generally less than in the US. Maybe 10% for a good meal. Don't tip at a bar.

It is ILLEGAL to use your mobile phone while you are driving. You will get stopped by the police for doing this.

It is also illegal to smoke (sometimes referrred to as 'having a fag') in pubs.

Those of our American friends who are worried about getting sunburned in Scotland need worry no more. Scientists at the University of Glasgow have developed a bracelet that you can wear that tells you when you are at risk.
Link to the BBC story

Watch our for speed cameras if you are driving. They are positioned by the side of the road and work automatically - so just because you haven't been pulled over by the police, don't think you didn't get caught for speeding. (This is Big Brother, according to Marisa).

Pubs - go to as many of them as possible! There's virtually never service at your table - go the bar to get your drink - and don't tip unless you are buying a huge (8+) round. Also, people generally buy drinks in rounds. If somebody buys you one, you should offer to buy them one back. Ken will put up lots more advice about pubs as we get nearer the event, because he loves them.

England - avoid it as much as possible.

2009 is the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns and Scotland is celebrating! Read more about it by clicking the image below.