Edinburgh enjoys a moderate year-round climate. The average day time temperature in June is around 16 ºC / 61ºF but higher temperatures around 21/22 ºC / 70ºF are not uncommon at this time of year. Rain is, of course, possible at any time of the year, but the average annual rainfall is the same as Frankfurt, New York and Rome. It is always useful to pack an umbrella and raincoat. In midsummer, daylight hours are long with sunrise at around 03.30 and sunset around 21.00. On clear evenings it will still be quite light as late as 23:00.

There is a ban on smoking in all enclosed public places throughout Scotland (since April 2006).

The telephone number for emergency services in the UK is 999 or the standard European number 112.

Scottish banks issue their own bank notes that differ from English notes, but they are of the same value (5, 10, 20, 50 pounds sterling) and are accepted elsewhere in the UK. You might have problems with them at the duty-free counter in airports outside the UK! English notes are accepted in Scotland, but, euros, sadly, are not much use.

Bank opening hours vary. The following times are given as an indication:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 09.00 – 17.00 Wednesday 10.00 – 17.00 Saturday 09.00 – 12.00 Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions.

British electrical standards are 50Hz 240 volts. Some North American and European electrical devices may require converters. All will require plug adapters

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom and plays a full part in its parliamentary democracy. The Scottish Parliament is based in Edinburgh, with authority over education, law, and some social services within Scotland. The United Kingdom is a member of the European Union.

There is no bed tax.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is normally included in the advertised price and is charged on most purchases in shops, hotels, and restaurants at a rate of 17.5%. There are no other taxes on purchases.

Reclaim the 17.5% tax: People travelling to Scotland on business may be entitled to reclaim the 17.5% tax charged on event expenses as well as accommodation, meals, transport and much more. Tax Back International can assist you, register for more information at www.taxbackinternational.com or telephone +44 207 659 9181 .