Frommers Edinburgh & Glasgow

Welcome to a world where the guidebook reigns supreme, albeit in a slightly dusty, dog-eared format. “Frommers Edinburgh & Glasgow” by Barry Shelby, published in an era when flip phones were still considered cutting-edge technology, stands as a comprehensive ode to two of Scotland’s most beloved cities. Published in 2005, this tome is just old enough to give you a gentle nudge to consider how far the world has come since then, while simultaneously reminding you that some things, like a good old-fashioned haggis or the stunning architecture of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, never go out of style.

In a delightful twist of fate, this guidebook invites you to traverse the cobbled streets of Edinburgh and the vibrant life of Glasgow, but let’s be honest—most of us will journey through these pages while sipping tea on our couches, occasionally furrowing our brows at the lack of Wi-Fi recommendations. Barry Shelby’s prose offers a distinct charm that can only be matched by a local pub’s warm embrace—or perhaps a slightly-too-warm embrace of a bewildered tourist trying to decipher the Scottish accent. Either way, you’re in for an experience that combines informative tidbits with a sprinkling of nostalgia.

What awaits you within these pages? Well, you’ll find a smorgasbord of delights, including but not limited to:

• The best places to catch the sunrise (or, more realistically, the unrelenting Scottish drizzle).
• Tips on how to avoid the dreaded midges—those tiny winged vampires whose sole purpose seems to be to ruin your Scottish getaway.
• A glossary of local phrases that will undoubtedly confuse even the most seasoned traveler.
• Recommendations for the best whisky distilleries, because when in Scotland, one must become mildly acquainted with the national drink.
• An extensive list of attractions that will either leave you in awe or scratching your head in bewilderment.

Barry Shelby’s charmingly detailed descriptions of both cities showcase the allure of Edinburgh’s hilly vistas and Glasgow’s eclectic artistry. Yet, as you flip through the pages, you may find yourself chuckling at the anachronisms that litter this guide. “Where are the Instagram spots?” you might ask, as you look for contemporary references that seem to have evaporated into thin air like a puff of whisky smoke. Fear not, for the essence of each city is captured in a way that even the most modern traveler can appreciate—if only to marvel at how quaint things once were.

Condition: This particular copy has been well-loved, with the kind of creases that tell a thousand tales of previous owners who may have used it to fend off chilly Scottish winds or even as an impromptu table for their afternoon tea. It’s a bit worn, perhaps like a beloved pair of slippers, but in this case, the charm is in the imperfections. Expect a few dog-eared pages, some snarky handwritten notes in the margins (likely from a previous reader who felt compelled to add their two cents), and a scent reminiscent of old books mingling with a hint of Edinburgh’s finest ale. This book has truly seen some adventures, or at least the corners of a few cozy cafes.

So, whether you’re an intrepid traveler preparing for an actual journey to Scotland or merely a dreamer, sipping Earl Grey while contemplating the mysteries of life, Barry Shelby’s “Frommers Edinburgh & Glasgow” is your trusty companion. Just remember, this is not just a guidebook; it’s a portal to a time when travel required a bit more planning and a lot more patience.

For all your second-hand book needs, look no further than Crappy Old Books. Where the charm of the past meets the quirkiness of the present, and every fissured spine holds a story waiting to be rediscovered.

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