Are these places in Scotland OVERRATED? Reacting to SCOTLAND HOT TAKES!

Thank you everyone who has sent their hot take or a visiting-Scotland-surprise: hopefully it has been fun for you to watch other people's unpopular opinions on visiting and living in Scotland!
Scotland does sometimes feel like it's being sold to people like a misty, green heaven on Earth, when it is often in fact more of a drizzly grey country covered in garbage and seagull gangs. So if you're planning to move to Scotland or even just come for a little trip, this might be a little eye opener for ya!
Feel free to share more hot takes in the comment section below my peeps!
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[@bahijarhafiri]

I must say you are an inspiration because I started up investing and trading as a scared investor who doesn’t want to lose money, glad to say I’m very profitable now and bought my first house through it

[@GhanYt]

Nobody can become financially successful overnight. They put in background work but we tend to see the finished part. Fear is a dangerous component, hindering us from taking bold steps we need in other to reach our goals. you have to contend with inflation, recession, decisions from the Feds and all. I was able to increase my portfolio by $289k in months. You have to seek for help in the right places.

[@GhanYt]

This is the problem! Most times people with little or no knowledge of the stock market try investing by themselves. It once happened to me, then I learned my lesson and contacted a US-based finance consultant by name ''Jenny Pamogas Canaya '' and everything changed. In in the first quarter of this year i made $370k and counting.

[@GhanYt]

Use your browser to search for the name to see her website.

[@akbj2779]

Hi, just want to say thank you, I've been watching you for the past couple of months as I'm visiting Edinburgh as part of my fist visit to the UK. (I'm over 60). My younger sister lives in another European country & we're meeting up in London. I'm extremely excited needless to say but also concerned about the physical aspects of the city & area. I have some physical issues that will make walking distances & hills difficult although my sister is very fit. We found a small guesthouse for 6 nights so we have time to hopefully "move slow". I have to let you know, when I told a friend in another state about this trip she told me she has a friend in Edinburgh & her friend recommended you as the best youtuber to watch for Edinburgh! (After I'd been watching you for quite awhile) I live in Anchorage, Ak & have volunteered at our visitor center for years & Alaska has visitors from all over the world too. I'm hoping I've learned enough to be a good visitor. I'm aware of the issues with airbnb rentals that affect the residents of any city. I bet our weather is somewhat similar to yours! (Gray days) I'll admit I've always had a fascination with the UK in general. I've lived in 7 US states & yet have felt like I should have been born in the UK. Maybe after this trip it'll be out of my system? You mention about how it's becoming darker in September. The same here! We have a LOT of daylight in summer & it gets darker fast here. We're primarily using public transportation except for a short trip to Wigtown for the last weekend of their book festival which I'm very excited about. I have the 4 books written by the owner of a large used bookstore there & just fell in love with the place. When I was younger before the onset of my physical pain issues I was an enthusiastic climber & hiker. Wish I had visited then. Hopefully this will be ok....Perhaps I'll become familiar with the local coffee places & great bookshops! Also we're hoping to be able to take a day trip to Loch Lomond, Thanks so much for your wonderful content.

[@scarba]

I have MS and walk slowly with a walking stick. If you are there for 6 days you will be ok, just take coffee breaks in between. It’s all cobblestoned streets so wear comfortable shoes with a good grip. I think the adrenaline and excitement will get you through because it’s really amazing. Have fun 😊

[@rosemarymee]

Take a taxi to the highest point - the castle- then stroll down slowly from there with plenty of breaks.

[@FableM]

Another very interesting video! Can we all agree that Kat has officially mastered styling this hue of orange?!! (Much aesthetic so wow)

[@craigvespe3109]

I can tell you what's not overrated - Kakibot's recommendations! We are staying at Edin Locke (where I'm writing this from) and just down the street from the Scotland Design Exchange, where we got some Kakibot pins🦄😁. Overrated - The Royal Mile reminds me of Disneyland without the rides - huge lines (queues), expensive and shuffled into a 'Gift shop' on exit.

[@jasongray4517]

Do any of the tourists who buy all that bloody tartan ever wear it or is left in the loft to gather dust? Loathe - simply loathe - the Royal Mile.

[@deborahsolimine5438]

Dear Kat and Simon, loved this one, as always😜 very interesting! I just wanted to share my idea about 2 point you talked about! 1 - Food: I am a Swiss Italian girl, with a family that loves food, I’ve grown up with both my nonna’s making fresh pasta everyday and aaaall those traditional Italian dishes that people love, I make them too! My family is Italian so we have this kind of “special” food culture but I totally disagree with people who thinks that in the UK food is crap because it isn’t true, it’s just different! I’ve been to Scotland 5 times, soon 6 and NEVER had something bad to eat! There’s plenty of restaurants to choose from making delicious food! Of course there’s not the choice we have in our Italian supermarkets and markets in general, but that doesn’t mean that everything is bad! I really don’t like this preconception. 2 - Outlander: I’ve read all the books and watched the series and it’s true, the story is based on the love story between Jamie and Claire, and in the series the actors portraying them are very good looking and lovely people, but I must say, for people who loves and is interested in history I find it very very interesting! The story takes place in a specific moment of Scottish and English history and I find very interesting to immerse yourself in that culture, costumes, and way of life of those times! I’m sure you will love it, even if it’s definitely steamy 😜 I don’t know, people seems to just think about those hot scenes forgetting all the actual historical fact that are way more important to remember! That’s my idea, LOVE the world that Diana Gabaldon created! :) Big hugs to you and Simon!!

[@Mimlou]

Outlander is what had me curious to now want to visit Scotland 😜😍😍❤

[@MadeNCda]

Happy Sunday guys ✌🏻 Entertaining to here everyone's hot takes on Edinburgh. I loath overly touristy things and prefer to source out some of the smaller craftmanship type experiences. Now wrt cost of living, im afraid we have same here in 🇨🇦 🍁

[@jessdelong464]

As per the healthcare… Example: here in the US, at my last 2 jobs (average/good office jobs) for decent healthcare insurance for my husband & I, there was about $600-$800 taken out per paycheck (twice a month) and I still had copays per drs trip that ranged about $50-$200. So, £650/yr is a bargain for most of us in the US. And the quality of what’s covered isn’t so great… I have to go to many specialists being a cancer survivor (cancer that wasn’t detected by the drs that are covered under my “good” insurance- example of quality) and the specialists don’t even take insurance. I digress, but the majority of US citizens I know (I live in Los Angeles, there’s a lot of us here lol) are looking at other countries like Scotland and thinking “£650 a yr? That’s amazing!” Anywho, love your KZbin, been watching for yrs and have a couple of your pins 😊 P.S. my husband and I are planning on retiring in Scotland bc we love it there. (& I’m 1/2 Scottish 🙃🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿)

[@williebauld1007]

Edinburgh's financial district is one of the biggest in Europe

[@Kakibot]

Are we talking about the same Edinburgh?

[@scotlandtheinsane3359]

It's the 4th biggest based on actual assets. And the (distant) second in the UK. Then there's global business services. Also gaming and life sciences etc. Given the size of Edinburgh, it's probably too big of an aspect of the economy. Edinburgh is far from dependent on tourism but a lot of basic jobs still rely on it obviously and Kakibot is perhaps more focused on that given her channel is very touristy.

[@williebauld1007]

@@Kakibot yes indeed we are, look it up, it was at one point 3rd after Paris

[@Kakibot]

@@williebauld1007 trust me I am looking it up as we speak but the charts are all over the place! I’m probably underestimating how much financial service jobs are available in Edinburgh, but if we truly are as important on the Europe wide leaderboard then we are very inconspicuous about it! Especially when you imagine financial districts of cities like London and Manchester! Haha

[@williebauld1007]

@@Kakibot genuinely we are, they’re many insurance companies that are headquartered in Edinburgh like Scottish Widows, Standard Life etc plus yoh still have the RBS and Bank of Scotland there. And out by the Gyle there are many financial firms there like AEG

[@JacqueEber-Orr]

I really enjoyed this video. I am planning to visit end of April and have started to watch all of your clips. The local take and shops is what I am looking for. Thank you so much!

[@shanchat]

Edinburgh is the financial centre of Scotland. The Royal Bank Of Scotland has a massive HQ out at Gogarburn.

[@Kakibot]

Yeah you’re right - the banking presence in Edinburgh is actually really large, I guess the lack of a big “business quarter” always keeps me biased in terms of forgetting that this is a thing 😬

[@shanchat]

@@Kakibot Well if you head out to the Gyle and Gogarburn you may think differently. I do love the videos even if I don't always agree but I'm from Edinburgh and we love to moan about something haha

[@aidanwilson6035]

There is a big business quarter at Edinburgh Park , next to the Gyle Centre , many big national companies have their Scottish headquarters there & it is a major location for banks including RBS , Bank of Scotland , HSBC , Lloyds , Sainsbury's , Tesco , & J P Morgan Chase , the largest bank in the world by market capitalisation & UK customer base ! :-) @@Kakibot

[@Ruchareads]

Thanks for covering my opinion. 😊

[@Kakibot]

Thank you for sending in one (or was it a couple?) !!

[@elizabethmason6302]

I moved here (Fife) after nearly 10 years in Berlin and even though it’s also potato land, I still also find the produce quality and now with brexit the constant issue of variety from imported goods to be very hard to deal with.

[@shanchat]

Buses used to run up and down the Royal Mile but it is semi pedestrianised now. I miss getting the No1 from Carrick Knowe to the High Street and being able to get to everywhere i needed to be. I live in a different part of the city and the main thing it does need now is cleaning. Too much graffiti and rubbish everywhere. Also this city is several thousand years old and nobody cared about accessibility. Edinburgh Castle has a lot of museums included in the price of the ticket. I've been quite a bit over the years and it is better now than ever before. Loch ness is cool. Head to Fort Augustus on a nice day. Deep Fried Mars Bars are for tourists. Real fusion food is the Haggis pizza or Donner Kebab pizza.

[@kathylindsey3448]

We agreed with you that much of the shopping in Edinburgh is overrated. Loved the Scottish Design Exchange you recommended and bought all our gifts and many treats there. Gorgeous stuff, good prices and locally made; perfect! Also visited 2 gift stores inAbbeyhill (cloud 9 and sister store) and also bought locally produced gifts. The construction in that neighborhood was challenging for us tourists. Hope the retailers make it through ok!! Thanks!

[@lisamaher6710]

Thank you for sharing your input on Edinburgh. The local inside perception and advice are very much appreciated. And, although I have not been to the castle, I really do not care much about that. We are coming to visit in October and have found a wealth of information. When we go somewhere, we like to live like the locals. Yes, those things you want to see are on your list. Some of it can be a waste of time.

[@Mimlou]

Outlander is sooooo good!! Definitely NOT overrated 😅❤ For Americans, it’s a good incentive to educate us Scotland’s culture, language and history❤

[@helenstewart2085]

I hate crowds, walked the Royal Mile a few times, but loved 6 to 8 am walks, have lovely photos. Am coming back for my third trip in a few years, love Edinburgh, stayed on the Royal Mile in the middle of winter, New Town in the middle of summer, next visit will be either spring or autumn.

[@Kakibot]

Ah, Royal Mile was amazing during the lockdowns 😅 it's a beautiful area for sure, and I think it's important to explore all of its little hidden nooks and crannies, but for a first time visitor during peak time, can't imagine it being very enjoyable!

[@Wft-bu5zc]

@@Kakibot I visited Scotland for my first time last year and Royal Mile was my first stop and it was a very sour experience. I was extremely disappointed with that area (it was just way too crowded and unenjoyable), once I got out into the less crowded parts of Edinburgh and Scotland I enjoyed these WAY more. Then again I tend to like places that are off the beaten path and less touristy. Craigmillar Castle was SOOO much more enjoyable than Edinburgh Castle. Of course my favorite thing about Scotland was the natural scenery and parks.... that was my idea of heaven. I did love Arthur's Seat though (even though that's a popular spot).

[@daisygh8687]

I live in Scotland 10 years as well and was working as a community carer in Edinburgh for 3.5 years. My experience is a bit diffent from this vlog. If you go outside of city centre there is lots of depravated areas with poor people , low quality flats or houses, drag users , alcohol issues, garbage all over the places. There is a problem.with potholes , not maintained road, towns and road became more dirty and filthy year by year. This is sad that Scots not appreciating what they have. Scottish people are mostly nice and helpful but very hard to make friends - in central europe meaning. It is not only my opinion. Heard that from many ppl from different side of world lived here. Weather is hard to "digest", even in summer you feel cold wind on your back and neck. Its lovely country but i did not find that is much better than lots of other countries, except Edinburgh's architecture which is unique . And some restaurant and pubs are beautiful.and cosy.

[@albaPhenom]

I think some context to remember about the NHS is that it wasn’t always like this, after a decades of mishandling, inefficient management, underfunding and just general gutting out of the entire system … it’s at the point that it’s completely broken now and if you haven’t had any serious health issues, you probably don’t know how broken it really is. The NHS used to be something to be proud of and cherished, it sadly isn’t any more and if I could afford private care, I’d go there in a heartbeat unfortunately.

[@Kakibot]

Agreed! I know the boiled down version can sound like I or other people are not thankful for the concept and impressed by its history, I understand the sentiment is very complicated. (Also one thing I like to point out is that even though in the Czech healthcare system the process might be more expedited and the technology accessible is often on a higher level, I do generally prefer the bedside manner of NHS staff and that does make a big difference for me!)

[@Suspended4thYT]

Depends on what you mean by "privatised health care". If you mean the American version, then you are in for a rude awakening.

[@kellydoherty2192]

Visiting Scotland from the USA I thought all food weather from the store or restaurants was very clean and tasty

[@jamesg6491]

I'm flying in to EDI from LAX, in 2 weeks. It'll be my first time to Scotland. I have 9 days to spend with tours (Darkside Edinburgh WT; Edinburgh Castle STLT Highlands/LN/Glencoe/Pitlochry; HOHO) plus Arthur's Seat & Walk of Leith hikes. Any recommendations/suggestions and/or hidden gems, for a first time visitor? Thanks alot Kakibot & All!

[@Scorpion6174]

So, as a fellow Californian, I'm assuming you're a Californian, flying out of LAX,...I'm a San Diegan,...I've been to Scotland 4 times in the past 23 years. Not a big fan of the tours,...I find that exploring on your own can be so much more fun, as well as adventurous. Edinburgh is astonishingly beautiful,...but, then again, all of Scotland is. Not sure if you already have accommodations, but if not, I highly recommend The Code hostel, which is on the Royal Mile, right next to St. Giles Cathedral. They have pod rooms, as well as individual rooms, and their rates are incredibly reasonable. As far as castles, I agree with Kat and Simon, take pics of Edinburgh Castle from the outside. But, go to Stirling, which is about a 1/2 hour train ride from Edinburgh, and tour that castle. In my opinion it's a better castle. While there, you might enjoy a meal at the Portcullis Pub, which is right next to Stirling Castle. If you have the energy after seeing the castle, while in Stirling, go and climb the 238 steps to the top of the William Wallace Monument. It will tire you out, and the hike to the top is a tight one,...but, the view is well worth the climb. And, there are a few rooms to stop in and see exhibits, on your way to the top. If that's too much for one day, maybe stay the night in Stirling, and split the activities over 2 days. If you enjoy clubbing, and or people watching, I'd recommend Fubar in Stirling. Don't forget while in Edinburgh to visit Calton Hill,...the views are beautiful. And remember, most museums are free, you can drop a modest donation if you'd like, but it's not required. That's probably all my advice. Enjoy your first trip to Scotland,...if you're anything like me, it won't be your last! 👍😁👍

[@aidanwilson6035]

Edinburgh alone has hundreds of attractions , it is a great base to explore the rest of Scotland , the only reason not to visit the castle ( top 3 UK paid visitor site ) is if you don't like crowds ! , ignore the haters 😂, with amazing panoramic views located on a 350 million year old volcano , it has around 3,000 years of history & was the most attacked castle in Europe , the oldest surviving building is still 900 years old ! , other highlights include the 1o'clock gun , mons meg , the worlds most famous medieval cannon , many museums , the Great Hall , Scottish War memorial & Stone of Destiny along with the Crown Jewels used by King Charles a few months ago !. The best free visits are the Royal Museum of Scotland , National & Portrait Galleries , St Giles & St Mary's Cathedrals , Botanical Gardens , Arthur's Seat ( Scotland's oldest pub (1360) in Duddingston as frequented by the Queen a few years ago is on the South East side of the hill along with a beautiful ancient church (1124) which is next to Dr Neil's wonderful hidden garden beside a lake , Victoria St is worth a look , Calton Hill & Dean Village is definitely worth a visit , despite what they say ! , only a 10 minute walk from Princes St , as mentioned , it is worth a short walk upriver to the small Dean Gallery & Museum of Modern Art across the road. If you like Royalty , Holyrood Palace (1528) is at the bottom of the Royal Mile , beside it , the Scottish Parliament has free tours booked online ( much nicer inside than out ! ) & the Britannia Yacht in Leith ( the nearby Shore area is attractive ) is an easy tram ride away. For hidden gems , there are a lot of them if you explore the closes ( alleyways) along the Royal Mile which also has the free Edinburgh Museum , Peoples story , Writers Museum & Tron Market with it's Scottish designs & crafts , close by the Money Museum on the Mound is also a fun experience , enjoy your visit !

[@helenstewart2085]

Did a tour to Oban, should have caught the first bus or train of the day, then came back on the last one, was allowed only enough time to buy lunch, go to the toilet, said we were going to Glencoe, didn't stop!! Was disappointed in the trip, was rushed, rushed etc.

[@Zamode68]

Completely agree about the same photos being on Edinburgh Instagram accounts. We did the Castle and I enjoyed it, but I wouldn’t do it again, same with doing the stretch of the Royal Mile. Agree with the commentor who said the shops are overrated and overpriced. As usual, the books are better than the series, regarding Outlander. I did a few spots, there might be a few more that I want to see but I wouldn’t do a tour. I think for people that do it, though, it opens up a whole new experience in traveling to someplace like Scotland. For me, it got me a bit more interested in Scottish history so there’s that. Honestly, I have found the series a bit disappointing, on a decline since the end of season two.

[@TheEmpressgoth]

Thanks for sharing 😊

[@Nightwing01010]

Could be worse. You could live in Toronto like I unfortunately do.

[@raymondporter2094]

Well, since I arrived in Edinburgh today (Friday afternoon on 3rd August) and will be here for a week...we will see! I have been to Edinburgh a number of times but not for several years. On the castle front, I prefer Stirling but I'll not hold that against Edinburgh as Stirling has a "Champions League Castle". It doesn't make Manchester City a bad football team just because City lost to Real Madrid! I KNOW it will rain on me in Edinburgh but I will still be wearing shorts.

[@justsam9468]

Went to Edinburgh for the first time for 2 days last week's. Firstly the pall mall street is just a long version of Camden market . Too many gift shops selling all the same thing .

[@tenorclef4090]

I'm going to have to put a word in in favour of visiting Edinburgh Castle. Yes, the best views of the Castle are from outside, but if you're a history buff (like I am) there's a lot there to keep you occupied and fascinated for half a day. If you're on an absolutely shoestring budget, or have no real interest in history, then maybe focus on the many free or cheaper attractions - but on the other hand, if you've spent $1500 to come to Edinburgh for possibly the only time in your life, do you really want to balk at spending another £20 to get into the Castle?

[@Zamode68]

I agree with this. I’m not a huge history buff but the age of everything in the Castle and in the city overall is fascinating to me. Bustling about the Castle can keep you busy for awhile.

[@grahamsangster1042]

Always believed you can only find out about a place if you go there

[@sevenn.46]

So funny thing. I am watching this...while visiting Scotland... ACCIDENTALLY booking for Glasgow...and going to Edinburgh castle today just to see the difference in the 2 cities. I basically agree with all the hot takes. I literally walked out the train station wide eyed....was like WHOA this is a LOT...and a LOT of people...lol. and a LOT of stairs and stones....like everywhere. I'm...way more a Glasgow fan personally from the experience....but Edinburgh is definitely a beautiful beast. Btw deep fried mars bars....are AMAZING....LOL

[@roxyros]

When I first moved to Edinburgh it took 6-7 months to find a long-term place where to live as a couple and without roommates. In those months we just kept on moving from a short term contract to another. We must have lived in something like 10 different houses/flats 🫣🤯

[@Kakibot]

That sounds like a horrible ordeal!! 😱 happy to hear you've landed in a more long term place now, fingers crossed it's gonna become your home for years to come!

[@raymonkravagna3226]

I grew up in Seattle but have lived in New Orleans for 8 years now and we have the same issue with tourism. People think the city thinks of tourist first and locals second. But without the tourist a lot of people, including myself may lose their jobs without it.

[@andrewdavidson665]

I don't think the castle is overrated - there are not many others in the UK with such a fantastic setting - BUT it's not something you really will go to more than once? But that'd be the same for most if not all castles I'd have thought. A cool once and done event. Speaking as not an Edinburgh resident but visited it plenty.

[@jim_dubhglas]

Was just in Scotland for over 3 weeks, traveling the west and some isles. I have to say, Portree on Skye is very over-rated. So many other western towns are better, in my opinion. Ullapool, Tobermoray, etc. are far better.

[@lilly6766]

I am danish and our houses is generally very well insulatet. 🙂

[@laurah7254]

Airbnb and landlords are a hughe problem in Mexico City aswell😢

[@WildWyatts]

One thing I’ve noticed is that the salaries are super low. My husband is in the tech world and the average,starting, in the USA is around 70,000-90,000usd a year, but we looked at jobs in Scotland and the average was like 30,000-40,000pounds (which is only about 38,000-50,000 usd), which wouldn’t be the worst if half of your money didn’t go to taxes. Also, the comment about health care really hit me. My cousin lives in England and they really have been pretty bad about preventative care. The USA can be like that in some parts too for sure, but she is diabetic and has been since she was a kid, and it just seems like they aren’t as on top of it as they are here.

[@robynvannoy3941]

I’m coming to Edinburgh for 6 days at the beginning of December. I will be relying on public transportation as I’m not sure how confident I am driving on the opposite side of the road and car. Do you have some suggestions on places to go and see that are outside of the city? Thank you so much!

[@manons6984]

You could take the train to St Andrews and visit the cathedral and castle. :)

[@robynvannoy3941]

@@manons6984 thank you so much! We will put that in the list. Does the train go right into St. Andrews?

[@alisonrodger3360]

Linlithgow - 20 ish minutes by train from Edinburgh. Linlithgow Palace, birth place of Mary Queen of Scots. Lovely little town. If the weather is clear, you head along the High St, away from the station & up Preston Rd. walk past the houses & into farmland. About a 10 minute walk from there & you reach Cockleroy. There's a small car park, 5 minute walk through woodland & 5 minute climb & suddenly you're on the top of the world. You can see across to Stirling Castle, Fife, back across to Edinburgh & the Bridges & all the way down to Berwick Law. Wear a hat & bring binoculars😁 There is an excellent Indian restaurant on the way back to the station by Tescos. Try the aubergine pakora!

[@robynvannoy3941]

@@alisonrodger3360 oh my goodness! Thank you so much!

[@Celtic_Amy]

I got through 4 season of outlander. When came for December 2021 these film locations were the few things to re-open after COVID. The show is mostly CGI and film studios thus the real life locations are completely different. I don't care for the show, but so many friends love the show and wish they could go to Scotland. I also think Isle of Skye is overrated. Yes its beautiful, but its so crowded an overpriced. Plenty of other islands to visit.

[@susanmance9436]

I read the first Outlander book and have the unpopular opinion of hating the book! I want to visit Scotland despite this!

[@ferdinandvs.benedictvs]

My experience with full breakfast is nost as good as in ingland or Ireland, neither was the service, but maybe it was the place (@ Morrisons) rather than the country.

[@edanefelia9431]

Serious question, is it possible to find a home in Glasgow without mould? :(

[@helenstewart2085]

Like any house hunting, use your nose, mouldy houses are everywhere, or buy a moisture meter. Have lived in dry but very cold houses. Once too much cooking, bathing, people, cause the moisture level to rise, plus household maintenance done as soon as needed helps.

[@kaylagough4349]

My favourite bit of this episode "I come from potato Europe so it was easier for me " :D

[@Kakibot]

Hobbit countries of Europe: ✨🤝✨

[@hadasshakti]

Outlander is amazing. Try reading the books before watching the show.

[@Cianain54]

Thanks

[@יעלרובה]

What about workin in a public library?

[@CaptainQuo]

I'm from Aberdeen, the Deep Fried Mars Bar was invented in nearby Stonehaven so maybe it's a local pride thing? Better than Glasgow's 'Pizza Crunch' abomination, a deep fried pizza in batter. It's revolting AND unnecessary. DF Mars Bars are actually quite tasty in moderation, same with any fried food. I actually do recommend a Bounty or Cadbury's Boost deep fried and served with vanilla ice cream as a very rare treat. Most of this resistance to fried chocolate is based on sensationalism and the way the media downplays Scottish cuisine as a whole when there is plenty of other things that aren't deep fried - Stovies, Cullen Skink, Salmon,/seafood, Chicken Balmoral/Braemar (sometimes incorrectly labelled 'Highland' chicken). etc.

[@Cianain54]

3:05 am just seen your video about Edinburgh living. Well done, you give a very balanced and honest opinion. As you have lived in Edinburgh for so long, I consider you a Scot by choice and therefore a valid opinion. Personally, I am from Scotland as were my ancestors well before 1603, but you still have the right to voice your opinion as a resident. Very entertaining seeing our city thru other's eyes. Keep up the great work!!!

[@stephfitti]

That comment is precisely why me and my husband are not having a good time in Edinburgh right now: this condescending comments just because you and your family live in the same small town (which is basically what Scotland is) for your entire lives and treat people from outside like they are inferior - tipically european eugenic behavior for you to feel better about being small minded and ignorant. Good for you. Please never come to my country either. Cheers!

[@melissawolf9759]

Has many similarities to Seattle

[@davidsleith7222]

been ages since av boat a kitkat.

[@amykeast7789]

My closed captioning keeps saying “hot steaks” instead of hot takes. 😊

[@Kakibot]

Maybe the next video will be just a review of hot steaks and the captions can do a good job for once! Haha

[@jvgreendarmok]

I once mentioned "hot takes" to a therapist and she thought I said "hot cakes", so I had to explain what a hot take was - and, I hope, help her when talking to other people who have been psychologically impacted by hot takes.

[@Sebelfisch]

Your apartment is haunted 👻 Nessi moved on it’s own at around 16:45 😳😳😳🤪

[@Kakibot]

If you ask me, EVERY house in Edinburgh is haunted! That's half the fun! .D

[@Sabhail_ar_Alba]

My opinion; grossly over rated. Very little sunshine, third world roads, expensive, gloomy in the winter ,grumpy locals ( that is, if you can find one). Lots and lots of rootless immigrants there.

[@davidsleith7222]

social care in scotland == helping oot an alky whooz 40p short for a tin ae cider. wonder if em cannons at edinburgh castle reach easterhoose.

[@hunterblackforesthy5980]

The whole food thing is stupid like do you know how much scottish cheese beef and salmon go for export wise its just the stereotype of UK food bad also on the deep fried people really don't understand the reason for that something people keep forgetting most scottish food is working class poor food so its ment ti fill you with what you need for the day its not ment to be pretty or fancy just tasty and filling and on the bagpipes why am I not shock the Edinburgh lad hates bagpipes

[@belkacemnedjadi3543]

Hello beautiful girl and wenderful People and nice contry

[@Mexicanace]

Would LOVE a video reviewing the different farmer's markets around Edinburgh. We love the Stockbridge one on Sundays, but have been disappointed with others we've tried :(

[@Kakibot]

It’s been on my list for a while! I do quite like the castle terrace market myself, perhaps because it feels the least crowded? And also I found a Hong Kong bakery selling their goods once .D Stockbridge has an excellent selection of sellers but I just find it hard to enjoy it fully with the intense crowds 🥲

[@ianmacewan9416]

Edinburgh was built long before tourism exploded. Scotland is not all about Edinburgh, August can be the warmest month of the year so visiting remote area's is well worth it.

[@FullaEels]

Porty beach is pretty nice, but gullane is better! Agree with the wind, currently standing at a bus stop in porty being battered by it lol

[@Scorpion6174]

Hi Guys, Loved the video, as always! Always awesome to see Simon make an appearance! I'm so biased, because I love Scotland and Edinburgh so much,...but, my first trip was in January of 2001, and it was VERY cold. There was snow on the ground, walkways were icy and slushy, and the winds chilled my bones,...and I was pretty young back then, 26 and 1/2. Still, with all the cold, wet, snowy, dampness,...I remember thinking it was SO beautiful. I've never been back again in winter, twice in Spring and once in Fall,...but, I can imagine that cold could get to you after awhile. Also, the cost of living and things being expensive,...I live in San Diego, California,...and it's one of, if not the most expensive place to live in America. The wages don't remotely equal the cost of living, as you mentioned is a similar problem in Edinburgh. It is also a very touristy place,...and that get a bit old after awhile. But, I imagine there are people that think San Diego is paradise,...which, maybe it used to be, a few decades back,...but, not so much anymore. People always say, "the grass is always greener on the other side,...or in someone else's lawn/garden". With all its faults,... it's still greener for me, in your city. 😊😊😊

[@jasongray4517]

£400,000 for a two-bed period apartment and IT DOESN'T HAVE DOUBLE GLAZING!! And i can't be alone in loathing the Royal Mile and the tourist tat it flogs to North Americans who claim to have Scottish ancestry. You only need so many shops selling tartan and ridiculously expensive whiskey. It's a little Disney for my tastes.

[@Kakibot]

I’d be less annoyed by the never ending display of souvenir stores if they at least weren’t all owned by the same people, well known for being pretty horrid to their employees 🫥 but I totally know what you mean!

[@jasongray4517]

@Kakibot And I would add one or two multi-millionaire, celebrity chefs with restaurants in the city who treat their employees extremely badly.

[@Kakibot]

@@jasongray4517 uhhh yeeeeeah… just recently cut one of those places from our Stockbridge guide script cause we’d rather not support the dude >_>

[@jasongray4517]

@Kakibot Bloody good for you. These exploitative, greedy characters will not mend their ways until we hit them where it hurts: in the pocket. Terrific vlog by the way.

[@belindakennedy5828]

Totally agree,it's embarrassing seeing folks of Pakistani origins flogging Scottish tartan and goods made in China to tourists on the mile.

[@gailforce]

I don't think that's what bam means. It's usually like any loud person who is a show off. Like the noise bam. Bampot and bamstick are related lol

[@monica.nicolae]

I love watching your content ❤ I want to move to Scotland next year and your content really helps me get a grasp of what I should expect. And also to mention, I love your honesty ❤ you dont sugarcoat things, while also being nice and reasonable. Thanks for being here, Kakibot ❤

[@jessirubeni]

I booked a completely random flight to Edingburgh, mind you I know NOTHING of the country. Firstly, I am loving the videos! As someone that doesnt know much about Scotland, this give me a true insight on what to do and avoid. Having lived in a tourist trap city for some time I can appreciate this video. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to exploring your city and country! Again, love the videos!

[@belindakennedy5828]

What insulation 🤷am in a 1956 council owned 6 in a block stair property,been here almost 30 years,its freezing in winter and had damp since the energy hickes took hold 3 years ago,but i do love my country but hate the government ...our so called elected leaders.

[@Tatia146]

Silverknowes beach is lovely and you can walk to Gramond. There are no accessible hotels in the city centre. If you are in a wheelchair forget it! Edinburgh is a lovely city but just forget about the city centre. You didn’t mention hospitals in your job speech, lots of research is done in Edinburgh. University is a big employer, as well as the financial world. The landlords got their money from a go-fund-me page for their legal case! Again there are cheaper properties if you forget the centre.

[@pomodoro_66]

absolutely agree with Edinburgh in August and overwhelm

[@belindakennedy5828]

Therse lots to see just outside edinburgh,temple village where there's templer graves,roslin chaple( now a tad expensive to enter) but its free to walk past it to the castle and glen ,which is beautiful,lots of history in in the local areas like midlothians,even the pentland hills have history.

[@pamellis2828]

I'm soo surprised about the deep fried thing Lol. Am I not paying attention to the videos I've watched 🤔 I have not noticed the deep fried obsession

[@Kakibot]

It feels a bit like an unfair stereotype - after all Japan will also fry anything it lays its gaze upon but it never gets the same negative comments about it!

[@penguinbeach2969]

Hello! Can you tell me where to buy one of your pins, which shop and what street it’s on please! Coming to Edinburgh this week and want to treat myself with one x Many thanks x

[@Kakibot]

Hellooo! The best spot is the Scottish Design Exchange on George Street (towards the west end)! .) have a great trip!

[@davidpierce3217]

"I come from potato Europe" 🤣

[@Kakibot]

Thank you for the super thanks! It shall go right into my dedicated potato account .DD