Humza Yousaf has resigned as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) after a tumultuous week marked by the scrapping of a coalition agreement with the Scottish Greens. He subsequently failed to secure enough support to survive a vote of no confidence against his leadership. This resignation opens the door for the opposition Labour Party to regain ground in Scotland in the upcoming national election.
The picturesque coastal town of Oban in Argyll and Bute, known as the ‘gateway to the Highlands,’ boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a blend of tourist appeal and authentic local life. It serves as a hub for exploring the Hebrides, including the ancient rainforest of Lismore and the tranquil Isle of Coll. While the town is popular with tourists seeking their Scottish heritage near ancient forts, it maintains its charm and functionality year-round. Visitors can savor delectable fish and chips, as Oban holds a spot among the top eight fish and chip shops in the UK. Aside from its culinary delights, Oban offers a range of attractions, including dining at the Olive Garden Italian eatery on the docks or the Taj Mahal curry house, admiring the panoramic views from the dockside Oban Inn, and exploring the historic Oban Distillery, known for its single-malt whiskey. The town serves as a departure point for ferries to the Hebrides, making it an ideal base for further adventures in the Scottish wilderness.
A Canadian expat couple captured an enigmatic image at Loch Ness that has ignited speculation about the legendary creature. While the couple remains cautious, their enthusiasm for their children’s excitement is evident. The sighting has created a buzz among U.K. tabloids and has reignited interest in the centuries-old mystery of the Loch Ness monster.
The inaugural Grassmarket Craft Beer Festival, organized by Edinburgh microbrewery Cold Town House, will take place on May 11th, 2023. The event will feature a wide selection of craft beers from renowned Scottish breweries, as well as local street food and live music entertainment. Attendees can sample beers from breweries such as Cold Town Beer, Barney’s Beer, Campervan Brewery, Moonwake Beer Co, 71 Brewing, Dookit Brewing Co, Holy Goat Brewing, Newbarns, Stewart Brewing, and Two Towns Down Brewing. Tickets for the festival cost £10 and can be booked online. The festival announcement coincides with Cold Town House’s unveiling of new can designs for its range of craft beers, featuring a larger size and a refreshed brand identity that tells the story of the brand’s origins in Edinburgh.
UEFA has voted in favor of allowing teams to select 26 players for the upcoming European Championships. This expansion, previously implemented during the 2021 Euros due to the COVID pandemic, will now become the norm for all future UEFA national competitions. The decision is expected to receive final approval from the UEFA executive committee, providing a boost to England and Scotland, who have been affected by injuries in recent weeks.
South Africa’s Springboks have announced their year-end Test schedule, which includes matches against Scotland, England, and Wales. The tour will kick off in Edinburgh on November 10th against Scotland, followed by a match against England at Twickenham on November 16th. The Springboks will conclude their tour with a match against Wales in Cardiff on November 23rd. Coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his excitement for the upcoming tour, stating that it will provide the team with opportunities to challenge themselves against some of the top teams in the world.
