mcleanscotland  are local Scots who pride ourselves on showing you the nooks & crannies other tours companies pass on by.   We can show you those hidden gems even Scots do not know! The lovely Chrissy Wickes from New York State writes of the Maclean gatherings with mcleanscotland

Dreaming of Scotland

Have you ever had a dream with your eyes wide open?

Have you ever shed a tear longing to go back?

Dreams do come true with Mcleanscotland. My husband and I reserved a place on the 2002 MacLean Gathering Tour two years in advance. It was a long two years and many e-mails to Paul McLean with questions and for advice. Paul always returned my e-mails even when I just sent one to say Hi. I enjoyed every word as only a Scotsman can write.

Paul was off finishing another tour when we arrived a day early to recharge from the flight over. Looking lost, Scotland open its arms and welcomed us. Every step of the way passers by guided us to our next destination, from coach to train to taxi. I had a kind gentleman take me from the coach stop outside the train station, to the ticket booth to make sure I had the right tickets and then showed me were to stand to wait for the train. Because my husband was healing from an injury more kind souls offered seats on the train so he didn't have to stand. Helping hands greeted us at the hotel where our tour began. I have never met a more welcoming and caring country as Scotland.  Paul greeted everyone, answered questions, and dealt with problems like my missing luggage simultaneously. Paul was on his cell phone daily checking on its status for me. Oh, my luggage probably saw more of Europe then I did and caught up with us in Inverness.

It's not everyday that you share a birthday with your "cousin" and tour guide. Paul and I were born on the same day. just a few "wee" years difference. It made the vacation very special and I look forward to sharing a dram or pint or two with Paul on our birthday at the next MacLean Gathering in 2007. The best coach driver in Scotland. Colin kept us entertained with his stories of the clans and the land. There wasn't a standing stone or castle he didn't know the history or folklore.  Liz caught up with the group midway through the tour. She was ready to lend a hand or just sit, talk and be your friend. Thanks friend for keeping in touch with all the e-mails, they mean so much to me.  Every step, every mile, every corner we turned on the "tarmac" Paul, Liz and Colin made our vacation extra special and extra memorable. They are family that I will keep in touch with forever. Miss you all. See you soon.


Chris Wickes

Greenville, New York
 

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