Day 1 & Day 2-Travel to London and then Scotland

Despite winter storm Thor, we all made it safely into London. We arrived at about 3pm to all meet up and go through security. We then had some time to hang out while waiting for our to be called to board. The plane was actually over capacity and the flight attendant had to ask for volunteers to take a different flight. She was even offering a cool $1,000 to switch. Although tempting, everyone stayed in the group and we all got to board. 

Our plane left promptly at 6:05pm with everyone on board. It was a 7 hour plane ride and while most of us tried to get some sleep through the night, it was difficult.

However, we did get to see a beautiful sunrise and view of London as we landed.

We all made it on our connecting flight to Edinburgh with no problems. We arrived in Edinburgh and after a short break met our driver, Peter, had our things loaded, and (despite our jet lag) set off for North Berwick, Scotland.

It took about two hours to get to North Berwick from Edinburgh. Once there, we were able to get off the coach, stretch our legs and breathe in some fresh air. North Berwick is located on the coast and it's the home of the Scottish Seabird Centre. 




At the Scottish Seabird Centre we enjoyed a nice lunch (here's what I got-Haddock and Chips). 

We then toured the Scottish Seabird Centre, which is primarily an educational center devoted to the care and conservation of the Firth of Forth islands and its wildlife. To read more about the center and its history, click on this link http://www.seabird.org/index.php . We received a fantastic tour from the staff at the Seabird Centre. We learned about the islands as well as the many types of birds that inhabit them.

Students learn about the different islands, espcially Bass Rock. 

These little white dots you see on the cliffs are actually birds! They are gannets on Bass Rock. Bass Rock is home to the largest northern gannet colony in the world. This photo is a picture of Bass Rock (up close) and was taken through the telescope at the vistor center.

Students learn about the history of North Berwick with one of the staff.

We then hiked several miles along the John Muir trail and (most of us) ended at the ruins of Tantallon Castle.
Panoramic view of part of the John Muir Trail. 

I'll be adding the students' perspectives as well. More pictures and adventures to come!

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