When in Scotland

Last week I had the pleasure of presenting a couple talks at the University of Edinburgh. I was invited over by Michael Clouser of the Edinburgh-Stanford Link program. My talks were on starting an Internet company in the 21st century and on utilizing blogs and wikis for business. I had a great time and met a lot of great people. While there, I was invited to a formal dinner for entrepreneurs at the Edinburgh castle. I was given the option of wearing a traditional tuxedo, or going with a kilt. Of course I had to choose the kilt. As an American, I had never had the opportunity to wear a kilt. It was a lot of fun, and quite warm. There are a surprising number of parts to a kilt outfit, and it took about 20 minutes (with help) to put the entire thing on. Interestingly, when you walk through Edinburgh wearing a kilt, people will ask if they can take your picture. Unfortunately, they were always disappointed to learn that I was an American. But that didn’t stop them from taking the picture. Also while in Edinburgh, I had the opportunity to try a traditional Scottish delicacy. I am referring to a deep-fried Mars Bar candy bar. It was a wholly unique experience. The chocolate was warm and gooey, and then there was the breading and the oil. I’m not exactly sure why I bothered going with a Diet Coke for this particular meal.