Japan and the start of our Scotland holiday...

Tokyo
Japan is a country I have always wanted to visit, and early this summer I was lucky enough to have the opportunity – it did not disappoint. It is a rich green and mountainous land with beautiful cities. I visited Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

Tokyo was busy and vibrant – amazingly clean. The tourist attractions are many, but I especially enjoyed visiting the Mitsukoshi department store and the Mitsui museum. The Mandarin Oriental hotel added a sophisticated element, while the fresh fish market offered character and interest.

I was amazed at how efficiently the Japanese manage to move tens of thousands of people into and out of the city every day. My most lasting impression however, was how friendly and kind people are, even to tourists – there is a very noticeable culture of respect, often lacking in the UK.

Maybe that’s why I have chosen to work in the area of complementary medicine - it is a discipline in which respect is central - respect for others, self respect, respect for health and respect for the human spirit.

After Tokyo I travelled on the bullet train (spectacular!) to Osaka, which I found to be a lively, social city with a strong business community and culture.

Then I finally went on to Kyoto to see the temples and immerse myself in the spiritual aspects of Japan. I saw several temples, and they were truly awe inspiring.

Isle of Mull, Scotland



During my visit to the Isle of Mull in late August, I stayed at a farm Crannich holiday caravans. I travelled from Stansted to Glasgow by plane, then by car to Oban taking in some dramatic scenery. From Oban, I took the ferry to Mull, arriving at Craignure port.

The holiday was arranged by my sister Annette, a keen mountaineer and wildlife enthusiast. We stayed in a large static caravan, which was warm, modern and well equipped. The caravan was in the most fabulous location, overlooking a valley frequented by sea eagles (with an eight-foot wingspan) and buzzards – fabulous!

Day 1
We visited Duart Castle, which is set high above a rocky shoreline – with 360-degree views of superb land and seascape. The castle itself had lots to interest the kids, including scary dungeons and historical clothing. For the adults, there was something for every taste – military history, domestic detail, architecture, and superb interiors.


The light was wonderful, and changed as the sky alternated. One minute the sky was filled with threatening rain clouds, then these opened up to reveal patches of clear blue, from which rays of sun shone like spot lights. Wild winds whipped up the sea one minute followed by eerie stillness.

The castle windows set into the enormous walls were a barrier from the outside elements. At the same time they provided a fabulous natural frame, which brought the view into the room and lit the interior to perfection. I enjoyed photographing them.

In the afternoon we visited Torosay Castle. The house was a treasure trove of details, political, historical and domestic, relating to Edwardian family life. But it was the gardens (and the playground for the kids) that really held our interest. Torosay didn’t have the visual drama of Duart, or the interaction with the natural elements – the landscape was manicured and largely manufactured – but impressive nevertheless!

In the evening we scoured local notice boards to find some genuine Scottish music and went to a ceilidh at the community hall in Craignure (near the railway and the excellent children’s playground). We were given a warm welcome and enjoyed some spectacular music and dancing from individuals of all ages – superb!