Essential Edinburgh Information
Currency – The unit of currency in Scotland is the UK Pound as in the rest of Britain but first time visitors may not recognize the notes of currency. Each Scottish bank has its own design. In essence this is the only difference from other UK currency and Scottish notes are generally accepted in the rest of Britain. Euros are accepted in a number of gift stores in Edinburgh and there are Currency Exchange services in most banks.
Cost of living – The day-to-day cost of living in Edinburgh is significantly cheaper than cities like London, Paris and New York. As a guide you can expect to pay the following: £0.70 for a bottle of water, £2 for a cup of coffee, £4.50 for a sandwich, £3 for a pint of beer and anything from £6 to £20 for a main course meal, depending on the restaurant. Ticket costs vary across the festivals from £3 to £25 with hundreds of free events also on offer. The most common ticket price is around £10.
Weather – Edinburgh enjoys a moderate year-round climate, with none of the violent extremes of weather, which could interrupt a meeting schedule or social calendar. From April to September, temperatures are mild and compare favourably with other European cities; annual rainfall is the same as Frankfurt, New York and Rome.
A perfect Edinburgh day dawns with a clear blue sky, warm and pleasant in summer – though in winter often accompanied by a sharp frost. It's always worth packing a sweater against the chance of changeable Edinburgh weather conditions.
Emergency Services:
Police, Medical, Fire & Coastguard - Dial 999
Fettes Avenue,
Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Western General Hospital
7 days a week from 9.00am - 9.00pm).
St Johns Hospital at Howden
Royal Hospital for Sick Children
