Traveling Gluten Free & Over 60 | Jet Lag Survival in Edinburgh

Traveling gluten free can be challenging—but it’s also a wonderful way to experience new places with intention and curiosity. Join me on my 8-day journey through Scotland, where I celebrated my birthday, explored two of the country’s most beautiful regions, enjoyed gluten-free dining, and captured it all through my lens.

This trip took me from the historic streets of Edinburgh to the stunning scenery of Inverness and the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, I’ll share gluten-free food finds, travel tips, and favorite spots—especially for travelers over 60 who love adventure but also appreciate a comfortable pace.

Whether you’re planning your own Scotland getaway or simply enjoy virtual travel, I hope my experiences inspire you to explore confidently, no matter your age or dietary needs.

Day 1-2: Arriving in Edinburgh – Jet Lag, Gluten-Free Fish & Chips, and 19,000 Steps

After an overnight flight from Orlando, Florida, we touched down in Edinburgh around 9 a.m. local time—tired but excited to start our adventure.

Travel Tip: Bring Your Own Food

If you’re traveling gluten free, it’s essential to pack your own food for the flight and airports. Gluten-free options were extremely limited both in the terminals and on the plane. I was so glad I had packed a few safe snacks and a light meal to get me through the long journey.

Getting Into the City

We chose to take the tram from the airport instead of a taxi or rideshare. It was an easy, affordable, and scenic way to reach the city center. Once we arrived, we faced our first Scottish workout—hauling our 45-pound suitcases up multiple flights of stairs!

Packing Tip: Go Smaller

Here’s my best advice: pack lighter than you think you need to. My brand-new suitcase looked perfect at home—but it turned out to be too heavy and bulky for Scotland’s many stairs and limited elevators. To top it off, the suitcase broke on Day 1! A smaller, sturdier bag would have made a huge difference for navigating hotels and public transportation.

Where We Stayed: The Old Waverley Hotel

We checked into the Old Waverley Hotel on Princes Street, a charming and historic property right in the heart of Edinburgh. Our room featured double twin beds, no air conditioning, and limited elevator access, but the location couldn’t have been better.

From our window, we had a fantastic view and were just a short walk from the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and Waverley Station. The Edinburgh Castle, EICC, and the city’s financial district were also just minutes away. For convenience and accessibility, this hotel was ideal—especially for sightseeing without needing a car.

Lunch: Marks & Spencer (M&S)

Once we dropped off our bags, we stopped at Marks & Spencer for lunch. Gluten-free options were limited, but their Tomato Basil Soup with Gluten-Free Bread hit the spot. After a long flight and stair-filled trek, it was exactly what we needed.

Sights We Explored

Our first day was filled with discovery:

• National Museum of Scotland – A fascinating collection of history, culture, and art.
• Greyfriars Kirk – Home to the beloved Greyfriars Bobby statue and the Tom Riddle grave, a fun stop for any Harry Potter fan.
• Calton Hill – We ended the day here, watching the sun set over the city—a breathtaking view and the perfect reward for a long day of travel.

Dinner: Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips

Dinner was a highlight! We ate at Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips, which offers a dedicated gluten-free menu. The fish and chips were golden, crispy, and absolutely delicious—and they even had a great selection of gluten-free drinks.

Dessert: Joelato at St. James Quarter

No first day is complete without dessert. We stopped by Joelato for creamy, flavorful gelato before heading back to the hotel.

Local Life and Festival Energy

One of the first things I noticed about Edinburgh was how kind and considerate the locals were. On the tram, men gave up their seats for older ladies, and people on the street went out of their way to help travelers find their way. There’s a warmth and friendliness here that made me feel instantly welcome.

We happened to visit during one of the busiest—and most exciting—times of the year: the Royal Military Tattoo and Edinburgh’s world-famous arts festival. The city was buzzing with energy from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. 

Everywhere we went, the streets were alive with music, laughter, and color. Street performers entertained throughout the day, from musicians and dancers to comedians and magicians. The entire city felt like one big stage, and it was an unforgettable introduction to Scotland’s vibrant spirit.

By the time we returned to our room, my fitness tracker read 19,032 steps—a full day of travel, food, and exploration. Despite the heavy suitcase, jet lag, and crowds, Edinburgh made a lasting first impression with its charm, history, and hospitality.

Follow the Journey

Thanks for following along on my Traveling Gluten Free & Over 60 in Scotland adventure! Each day brings new discoveries, from castles and cozy cafés to the best gluten-free meals and unforgettable sights.

🎥 Watch the full travel vlog on YouTube: Travel Vlog: Gluten Free & Over 60, 8 Days in Endinburgh  & Inverness

📸 Captured with my GoPro Hero 12 — join me as I share the sights, sounds, and stories from this incredible trip.

If you’re planning a visit to Scotland (or anywhere abroad) and want real-life travel tips for gluten-free living, over-60 travel, and photography inspiration, subscribe to my channel and follow along for the full 8-day series!