A Fortuitous Change of Plans - Our family group of six experienced the adventure of a lifetime with James of Alba Experiences! We had originally scheduled a private tour of the Ayrshire Coast, as well a two-day visit to the Isle of Arran. The first morning was spent in pilgrimage to the humble birthplace and beautifully curated museum of the great poet Robert Burns, as well as a visit to the exquisite Castle Culzean, with its stunning views of the Irish Sea and Brig o'Doon. Then, the perfect storm quickly materialized as we headed to the Arran ferry: Not only did we receive news that mechanical issues had incapacitated the ferry for the foreseeable future, but the heavens opened up, a historic torrent of rain poured down, roads were washed out, and the government declared a national emergency! James deftly finessed the situation. With his many personal contacts, he was able to cancel our Arran hotel rooms with no penalty charges and find us beautiful last-minute hotel accommodations in Glasgow. Then, with his deep knowledge of the terrain and roadways, he lined up an alternate itinerary for the next two days. These two days were truly magical: we visited Loch Lomond, the lovely village of Luss with its Viking tomb, Falkland Palace with its historic furnishings, and experienced bracing hikes into wooded areas with ancient castle remains and secret fairy trees. Instead of detracting, the rain had created brooding clouds and mists that only added to the drama of the lush green landscape. In my more than fifty years of travel around Europe, I can truly say that James is in the upper echelon of travel guides. Unlike usual canned tours, his passion for his native land, his encyclopedic knowledge of its history, his ability to gracefully change plans on a dime (as well as so generously sharing his grandmother's delicious shortbread and his tutorial on proper whiskey tasting!) makes him the perfect choice for a most memorable trip to Scotland! Thank You, James!