Dear Maria,

Im so excited that youre coming to Edinburgh next weekend! Ive got lots of activities planned for us. Youre coming at the best time of year as August is festival month here. The Fringe Festival will be on so well have to check that out one night but Im thinking on Friday well start our day at Edinburgh Castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny.

Afterwards, well walk down the Royal Mile to explore the many quirky shops, pubs, restaurants and narrow streets that are steeped in history. Well have to stop off at the Palace of Holyroodhouse to see if the Queen is home and then walk up the dormant volcano, Arthurs Seat which gives amazing views of the city. There is also a hill fort here which is over 2000 years old!

On Saturday, after a traditional Scottish breakfast of sausages, bacon, eggs, tattie scones, beans and black pudding we should hit the shops on George Street, stop for a coffee at one of my favourite cafes and then make our way to Princes Street. This street runs alongside the gardens which are stunning and, as well as being great for shopping, has great views of the tangled buildings of the Old Town. Im sure well also hear a few pipers playing the bagpipes!

Next, well head to Waterside Leith which is Edinburgh's main port. The area has recently been revived. This is where you'll find some of the city's best bars and restaurants and you can try some of the best seafood in the country. There are plenty of quaint fishing villages and other sandy spots to discover. Edinburgh enjoys spectacular coastal scenery thanks to its location on the Firth of Forth so Im sure youd love to go to Belhaven beach. Its a great beach for walking, having picnics and sunbathing and is the ideal place to enjoy the views across the Forth Estuary.

After dark itll be time for a walking ghost tour around the city. Theyll tell us all about the history of Edinburgh, about Burke and Hare the famous West Port Murderers, the bodysnatchers, witch trials and folklore and faeries.

On Sunday were going for a relaxing lunch. Somewhere we can put our feet up after such an eventful weekend and enjoy a sip of whisky!

I cant wait to see you!

Nadine