Many folk are discovering a unique part of Scotland which is a superb vacation destination, the Hebrides. The Hebrides are a group of islands which are found off the west coast of Scotland and are split into two regions, the Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides. If you are planning a vacation to this outstanding area of the United Kingdom then you need to be aware of a few things that make the place unique. This article examines some of the problems which a tourist may have to overcome when visiting these islands.

The Inner Hebrides are those islands in the group which are found grouped together rather close to the Scottish mainland. The largest, and most populated, island is the Isle of Skye which is also the most popular place to visit. At one time it was necessary to travel across to Skye by ferry but the recent building of a bridge means that the island is freely accessible and, in many ways, now part of the mainland.

While many people visit the Inner Hebrides to enjoy the beautiful scenery many others visit the region to indulge in the favorite sports. Cycling is extremely popular but many hill walkers and mountaineers visit to climb in the Cuillins of Skye. One thing that you really need to understand is that, in the Hebrides, the weather can change from sunny to almost winter in just a few minutes. Please take safety precautions and dress and equip yourself correctly.

The Outer Hebrides are found a little further out to the west across the Minch (an infamous stretch of sea water) which can be crossed by air or by ferry. The outer isles consist of more than two hundred islands of which only a small number are actually inhabited. From the north to the south the main islands are as follows; the Isle of Lewis, the Isle of Harris, North and South Uist. The smaller inhabited islands include Barra and Eriskay to the south, Benbecula, Scalpay and several more, and most of which are worth visiting.

Many people take their vacations in the Outer Hebrides so that they can enjoy the unique scenery which ranges from bland moorland to dramatic rocky coastal areas, mountainous areas, superb shell sand beaches backed by the incredibly fertile land known as machair. The islands are superb for practicing a great number of sports including cycling, walking, hill walking/climbing, surfing, fishing, hunting, golf and many, many more.

Hebrides accommodation is always excellent but you may find that the hotels prove to be an expensive option. Although there are a great many guest houses and places offering bed and breakfast it is extremely common to discover that they are fully booked with no vacancies displayed outside. To avoid the possibility of being without, it is always the best idea to book your accommodation online well in advance of your vacation.

Gaelic is the main language of the Hebrides and you will immediately notice that places are named in this native language. You will also hear the language being spoken widely in shops and in the streets. Luckily the vast majority of signs have an English translation and nearly everyone can speak perfect English. Even if you hear a crowd chatting in Gaelic it is rather important that you understand that they have a perfect comprehension of the English language and many have more than two languages.

A Sunday Sabbath is observed in some parts of the Hebrides and most places are closed. You will need to ensure that all shopping is done on the Saturday, especially if you are staying in self catering accommodation (as you will need to ensure you have adequate supplies). Also please be respectful as with any strong and unique culture it is often possible to offend without realizing it.

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