Visit a sporting event. Details can be found on the back pages of the local newspaper; or ask a local to tell you when and where the next soccer, rugby or indoor sporting activity is taking place. This will allow you to see the Scots at their most passionate, gregarious and demonstrative. Be sure to wear neutral colours.

Travel by bus. It is a cheap, clean and efficient means of getting around the City. The bus service is well used by the locals, and you will discover the meaning of the Scots word “dour”.

Frequent the bars and restaurants. They are convivial places of entertainment and the locals are always delighted to provide you with advice and opinions, if you approach them in a suitably friendly manner.

Enjoy your stay.

Under the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, not far from Princes Street and adjacent to the High Street or Royal Mile, Rebustours offer the perfect friendly, humorous and informative introduction to this most ancient, mysterious and fascinating of European capitals. Both tours are conducted on a Saturday; the Hidden Edinburgh tour from 12p.m. until 2p.m. and the Secret Edinburgh tour from 3p.m. till 5. The tours leave the Royal Oak pub in Infirmary Street.

It is not necessary to have read a Rebus book, as all the tours feature Edinburgh and Scottish history. There are some Rebus readings, and we visit several Rebus scenes. In order to maintain an element of surprise, I do not explain in advance where these are. Please arrive early, as I start promptly. Both tours cost £10 per person, payable on the day. If this is convenient, then please confirm. Please also consult the Rebustours web site or phone 0131-553-7473 nearer the time just to ensure that the tour is still taking place.