How to Find Cheap Hotels in Scotland

Scotland, part of the United Kingdom, sits on the far northeast end of the island that is also home to England and Wales. This is the romantic land of Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie--residents have a long collective memory and still discuss centuries-old politics with vigor. Packed within its narrow borders are battlefields, castles and museums aplenty, testifying to its bloody history.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Current passport
• Computer with Internet access for making reservations

Travel to Scotland

1. Make reservations early as cheap long-range flights are often available.

2. Fly from the United States for as little as $500. Choose Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen as your arrival point--these are the largest cities with the most tourist services.

3. Arrive via train on either the West Coast Main Line (for Glasgow) or the East Coast Main Line (for Edinburgh). Both trains run the length of Britain with connections in London.

4. Consider using one of Scotland's excellent rail or bus services for in-country travel. Citylink and Megabus are the cheapest ways to get from place to place.

Find a Place to Stay in Scotland

5. Explore hostels as a base for families, groups and adventurous singles. Shared dorm rooms begin around $25. Private rooms may be booked for prices beginning at $50 per person per night.

6. Investigate bed and breakfasts for cheap accommodations. In many cities, room rates begin at $40; in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, prices are as low as $30 per night.

7. Commute to less expensive regions for cheap accommodations. Even inexpensive lodgings in Perth, Pitlochry and Inverness are often more costly and limited than those in Aberdeen and Edinburgh.

8. Book luxury accommodations at historic hotels and golf resorts at significant savings through packages during the off season. Off-season travel lets you live it up at rates as much as 50 percent below those of peak seasons.

Discover Scotland

9. Combine golf and history for a look at two of Scotland's greatest claims to fame. Try the Witches Tour near the legendary St. Andrews Golf Course.

10. Trek off the beaten path for a true look at life in Scotland. Pitlochry offers undisturbed scenic lochs only miles from whisky distilleries, pubs and hip nightlife.

11. Bring Scottish history alive by visiting a castle. With admission prices of only $5 to $10, castles such as Castle Stuart in Inverness are great bargains and interesting for all ages.

12. Look for Nessie at Scotland's best known landmark, Loch Ness.

13. To book accommodations in Scotland, call Visit Scotland at 084-522-55121 or visit the link below.

Tips & Warnings

• Know your whisky. Spirits brewed in Scotland are spelled without the 'e'.
• If you plan to play a round at St. Andrews, check its Web site (see below) for the many days when it is closed to public play and for less busy days when events are not planned.
• Don't worry about getting a visa if you're from the U.S. and staying less than six months.
• Drivers who aren't used to U.K. laws, driving on the left, or the area's narrow, winding roads may want to reconsider doing their own driving.
• Petty crime rates are high, especially pickpocketing and other forms of theft. Be on your guard.
• Do not leave belongings in open sight, either in cars or guest rooms. Guard handbags and luggage carefully.