I originally planned on staying in Edinburgh for a few days, but once I’m in the city I find myself not ready to leave. So after spending two nights at the Royal Mile Backpackers I’m forced to switch hostels. It’s Halloween weekend and the Royal Mile is completely full. I head over the North Bridge to find my new hostel, The Baxter.

The Baxter is a cute posh hostel located right behind the new Apple store, in downtown Edinburgh. I climb up the narrow circular stairs painted with friendly backpackers waving in greeting. I ring the doorbell and a staff member greets me with a warm smile and offers me something to drink. I take a glass of water and sit in the kitchen while I check in. The walls are painted a rich cobalt blue and decorated with silver antler horns. Mirrors in golden frames aline the walls with information about breakfast and wifi. A small lounge area overlooks the street below, which would become my favorite place to relax and socialize over the next three days. Everything feels clean and modern. The hostel is only 4 months old and it shows. The price includes free coffee and tea and hot eggs in the morning. The only downside is the bathroom – there are only two toilets so there’s usually a cue during meal times. For the traveler who is looking for a boutique hostel experience with amazing staff and a friendly atmosphere, this is the place for you.

Halloween actually originates in Scotland, yet the US has launched the holiday into a momentous American tradition with several days of festivities. In Scotland, the holiday is celebrated as Samhain. The Beltane Fire Society, a local non profit, throws a fire parade starting at the top of High Street. Rather than cute animals or fairy tale costumes, the participants are very ghoulish and are rather frightening. The parade is shorter than I anticipated, but still a very worthwhile experience.

After a fun night of partying with new friends from the hostel I wake up feeling less than wonderful. Someone recommends a smoothie and we are out the door walking over the North Bridge to Victoria Street – probably my favorite street of the city. Almost to the bottom of the street on the right is a yellow cafe called Hula. They sell smoothies, fresh juices, and a variety of vegan food. I decide on a large Ginger Jack juice that includes carrots, ginger, apple, and orange. I get the hangover cure boost and 30 minutes later I feel like a new woman.

With the perfect hangover cure I’m ready to start wandering, for not all who wander are lost.
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The Baxter Hostel (my favorite nook in the corner).

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Shameless yummy selfie