Ireland and Scotland

What are my impressions? Two countries with a rich and ancient cultural tradition. Countries with a fighting spirit of desire for their own freedom and independence. Hard work and love of life as witnessed by one of our Dublin cabbies--holding a seemingly mundane occupation but who has seen more of the United States than I have, traveling the country in a motor home. He's been in 31 states and fixing on increasing his total to 33! The Irish and the Scots don't need superpower status to be proud and self-confident nations. They are direct and friendly, and with the exception of one unhappy tour guide, never afraid to ask how they can be helpful. The big cities like Dublin, Cork and Edinburgh are frenetic with activity. Getting directions can be a little general for an American's taste, but you get to where you want to go eventually and have an adventure in the process. Pedestrian crosswalks are awful, even terrifying but you can certainly test your courage. Food is local and every nationality and cuisine you can think of. The Irish and Scots love their stout, beer, whiskey and Scotch and they love a good story--usually exaggerated for effect--and a good laugh. But never make the mistake of thinking them unsophisticated. They are proud of their writers and poets, cynics and wits and are more culturally self-aware than any other nation I have visited.