I find fall in the highlands. She’s crowded in the woods of brown and gold birch. The evergreens huddle tightly to the outskirts as their cousins flourish in the changing of the seasons. We pass a lake so still the world reflects itself; a double mirror of ripe and radiant wilderness. My breath catches in my throat in this world rich with honey hues. The highlands are sweet in their vibrancy.

My day trip to Loch Ness with Haggis Adventures is one of my favorite experiences in Scotland. It’s a long bus ride but our tour guide, Jamie, tells great stories as we drive through the stunning landscape. He compliments the ambiance by playing traditional and modern Scottish music, causing the tourist within me to bubble in excitement as we listen to cheerful bagpipes and accordions. As we arrive in Loch Ness the sun disappears and the rain begins to falls gently. Even in the dreary mist the locals are still welcoming; my surroundings are still breathtaking. I pay £12 for a boat ride around Loch Ness, which is worth every penny. The captain is knowledgable and I leave the tour feeling inspired and intrigued by what could be living in the deep.

The Scots are extremely proud of their county and I’m starting to see why. The highlands, the culture, the people, the architecture, everything that encompasses Scotland is so unique and welcoming. They encourage exploration so much they have the Free to Roam Act, which allows anyone to camp anywhere in Scotland, within reason.

Back in Edinburgh, the wind continues to ravage the city. It makes everything at least ten degrees colder. The cobbled streets are wet with condensation as we continue to get blasted by the wind. I walk with Fergus, a local staying at the same hostel as me. He embraces the cold gusts and proclaims, “I love the wind, it’s like my country is giving me a hug.”

As Scotsmen, the land is a part of them, and as human beings, we should all be proud of who we are.

I leave Scotland with excitement for the next step, but sadness for leaving such a beautiful country.

Scotland has taken a piece of my heart that I know will be guarded safely.