I’ve covered tick box tourism in a previous blog, and I do understand that the day trip to Skye works for some people, but I’ve been thinking a lot about a question someone asked me a while back.
Why do you always write IN Skye, not ON Skye, what’s the difference? Well first of all, here’s the technical explanation.
We use “on the island” when we refer to it as a piece of land surrounded by water.
We use “in the island” when we refer to it as a territory or place with its own settings, circumstances, environment, etc.
When you stay with us you are part of Skye life. And it’s good for you. Visit Scotland took a survey about emotional wellbeing and travel. The findings are extensive (www.visitscotland.org/binaries/content/assets/dot-org/pdf/research-papers/about-our-visitors/insights-emotional-benefits.pdf)
I’ve taken a few things from it which can be connected to being in Skye.
After the pandemic many people (and I absolutely count myself in this category) are more anxious, more concerned for the future, and feeling directionless. The current crises in the world have only compounded this. So those of us lucky enough to travel are looking for certain things to support us. I have chosen 3 from the list that I think staying with us and being in Skye can connect with.
Looking for a challenge: whether you’re an experienced climber taking on the Cuillin, a family booked in with Skye Adventure for an afternoon canyoning or a wee middle aged woman with short legs and dubious fitness making her way up Brothers’ Point (guess which one is my challenge?) there’s absolutely something to take you that little bit further.
Opportunities for awe: from sunrises to sunsets, island views to tiny flowers, dolphins, sea eagles, otters or those tiny furry caterpillars so intent on their scurrying journey, there’s always something to make you pause. And pausing is good for the soul.
Boosts confidence: Visit Scotland’s report suggests the act f indulging in travel can be an empowering act of self care. This is rather a fancy way of saying that travel helps you live in the moment and that is good for you. Trying new foods, speaking to people who live in Skye, having a pop at the Gaelic pronunciation or trying out your Duolingo skills, going to music sessions, just being in a new place. It’ll help you be more you.
These last few years have really taken it out of us all. Let us help you fill your little cup right up.
Yeah, I totally get the idea of being ‘in’ and not ‘on’. I got that feeling when I visiting each of the communities of Orkney, Colonsay and Isles of Scilly.
When visiting Island communities you become part of that community for that brief moment you’re there. It’s very compelling. There’s an instant sense of belonging (or perhaps the intense need to belong).
I’ll end my comment with my all-time favourite Duolingo Gaelic phrase “Tha bonaid agus draithas orm”