As we stepped off the train at Glasgow Central Station, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement wash over us. We was about to embark on our first-ever adventure in this vibrant Scottish city, and we couldn’t wait to see what it had in store for us. Little did I know that our whirlwind visit would be filled with fascinating history, mouth-watering food, and the irresistible charm of the locals. So, buckle up and join me on this journey through the heart of Glasgow!

My main reason for visiting Glasgow was to support my sister, as she presented her research at the prestigious Royal Economic Society conference. Held at the University of Glasgow, one of the oldest universities in the UK, the event was a testament to her hard work and dedication. Walking through the impressive university grounds, I was struck by the beauty of its architecture, which elegantly blended Gothic and Victorian styles.

But Glasgow had so much more to offer beyond academia. As a travel blogger, I couldn’t resist delving into the city’s rich history, especially in relation to its Black heritage. Despite its dark past as a hub of the transatlantic slave trade, Glasgow has made strides in recent years to acknowledge and confront this history. Organizations like the Glasgow Anti-Racist Alliance, as well as the annual Black History Month celebrations, highlight the achievements and contributions of Black people to Glasgow’s present-day society.

After a long day of soaking up the city’s history, I was eager to sample some local cuisine. Breakfast at the Sandford Hotel was a delightful introduction to Scottish fare. I couldn’t wait to dig into a hearty plate of haggis, black pudding, potato scones and Scottish bread. Each bite was an explosion of rich flavors and textures, and I found myself quickly falling in love with these traditional dishes.

The Sandford Hotel itself was a charming establishment. My spacious room featured comfortable beds with soft pillows, and the lovely bay windows offered a stunning view of the surrounding area. It was the perfect home base for my Glaswegian adventure.

One thing that immediately stood out to me during my stay in Glasgow was the unmistakable accent. The Glaswegian dialect, with its unique pronunciation and local slang, was as delightful as it was intriguing. I found that the locals’ friendly and approachable nature only added to the charm of their accents, and I quickly grew fond of hearing their lilting voices as I explored the city.

Of course, no trip to Glasgow would be complete without taking in some of the city’s incredible architecture. I marvelled at the imposing façade of the Glasgow City Chambers and the sleek modern design of the Riverside Museum. The Glasgow School of Art, designed by renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, was another highlight. Sadly, the main building suffered a fire in 2018, but the school still stands as a testament to Mackintosh’s unique vision.

A leisurely stroll through Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest public park, led me to the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens. This museum and glasshouse provided a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Glaswegians throughout history. The Victorian-era glasshouse was an architectural gem, showcasing the city’s commitment to preserving its past.

In between sightseeing and supporting my sister, I made sure to sample even more of Glasgow’s culinary offerings. For dinner, I found myself at Chimes of India, where I feasted on a delectable curry lamb dish. The blend of spices and flavours transported me to another world, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the city’s diverse culinary scene. Apologies, we ate it all before I even thought about taking blog pictures.

Throughout my visit, I noticed that Glasgow seemed to be home to an abundance of handsome men – including famous actors like Gerard Butler and James McAvoy. It must be something in the water, or perhaps the combination of that irresistible Glaswegian accent and the city’s friendly, multicultural atmosphere that made these men so charming.

As my trip came to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of attachment to this wonderful city. Glasgow had won me over with its rich history, delicious food, and warm-hearted locals. From the inspiring achievements of my sister and other Black Glaswegians to the eclectic architectural wonders that graced the city’s streets, I knew I would carry the memories of this adventure with me for a lifetime.

My journey through Glasgow was nothing short of magical, and I can’t wait to return someday to explore even more of what this amazing city has to offer. If you’ve never been to Glasgow, I highly encourage you to add it to your travel bucket list – you won’t be disappointed!

In the meantime, I’ll be back at home, practicing my Glaswegian slang and dreaming of haggis, black pudding, and Scottish bread. P:S The train ride was sooo looonggg. Next time, I’m taking a flight.

Have you been to Glasgow? Tried Haggis or blood puddings?
Let me know in the comments!
As always, thank you for reading!
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