Picture 1: Dunfermline

I love this place. It's Dunfermline Abbey, located in Dunfermline - the ancient capital of Scotland and - my hometown. My parents moved to Dunfermline in 1990, as part of a relocation for work when my father worked with RBS (or then, The Royal Bank of Scotland Group) who are now 83% owned by the public. Changes times, huh?

Dunfermline itself has gone through many changes in recent years. The most relevant would be the 'Eastern Expansion' which is a bustling development of housing estates, leisure activities and industry which 12 years ago, was nothing more than fields. Personally, I loved the new facilities which opened for Dunfermline (and were enjoyed by most other 'Fifers') when I was younger - it's probably what offered me some kind of respite from the study/school/work schedule I was so accustomed to - however nowadays, it seems to be a metropolis of high-priced housing and cinemas. I mean, I joined the gym there in 2010 in an effort to 'get fit'. It cost me £58 per month, and it's no surprise that after 3 months of dedication - I stopped going. It's just a shame the Direct Debit from my bank account didn't stop, and for the final 9 months of my contract I still paid that £58 (and gained a stone).

I'm going to Dunfermline today to meet up with some friends for a drink (or twelve) and then hit the clubs. I'm using the term 'clubs' lightly as along Edinburgh (with it's bustling nightlife scene) is only 20 miles away, Dunfermline nightlife lacks the certain cosmopolitan feel you'd get in the, now, capital city.

If you're ever in Dunfermline here's some places which are an absolute must. The Abbey, pictured above, is stunning and a great place to pray alone or par-take in a seasonal service. From the Abbey, it's just a short hop along the cobbled street to Abbot House which breaks the mould with is pink - yes, pink - exterior. There's a great cafe there so fill-up for lunch before heading down to Andrew Carnegie's birthplace. It's hard to believe such a successful man was raised in just two rooms, but it's a great reminder of how people can be successful - whatever their background. After the tour of Andrew Carnegie's birthplace - which I'm sure is free - head to 'The Glen' or Pitencrieff Park. It's a park that Andrew Carnegie gifted to the people of Dunfermline on his return to Scotland. He also, rather generously gave us a medical center, 'Carnegie' hall (a little smaller than it's the NYC sister however), a swimming pool and some other places for the people of the town to enjoy - as you do.

You can visit the website www.visitdunfermline.com to plan your day there. And I'd recommend Keavil House Hotel if you're staying over.

Another picture comes tomorrow, I promise!

Conrad