Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Gay & Lesbian Travellers
Although many Scots are fairly tolerant of homosexuality, couples overtly displaying af-
fection away from acknowledged 'gay' venues or districts may encounter hostility.
Edinburgh and Glasgow have small but flourishing gay scenes. The website and
monthly magazine
Scotsgay
(
www.scotsgay.co.uk
) keeps gays, lesbians and bisexuals in-
formed about gay-scene issues.
Health
»If you're an EU citizen, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) - available from
health centres or, in the UK, post offices - covers you for most medical care. An EHIC
will not cover you for non-urgent cases, or emergency repatriation.
»Citizens from non-EU countries should find out if there is a reciprocal arrangement for
free medical care between their country and the UK.
»If you do need health insurance, make sure you get a policy that covers you for the worst
possible scenarios, including emergency flights home.
»No jabs (vaccinations) are required to travel to Scotland
»The most painful problems facing visitors to the Highlands and islands are midges (
Click here
)
.
Insurance
This not only covers you for medical expenses, theft or loss, but also for cancellation of,
or delays in, any of your travel arrangements.
Lots of bank accounts give their holders automatic travel insurance - check if this is the
case for you.
Always read the small print carefully. Some policies specifically exclude 'dangerous
activities', such as scuba diving, motorcycling, skiing, mountaineering and even trekking.
There's a variety of policies and your travel agent can give recommendations. Make
sure the policy includes health care and medication in the countries you may visit on your
way to/from Scotland.
You may prefer a policy that pays doctors or hospitals directly rather than forcing you
to pay on the spot and claim the money back later. If you have to claim later, make sure
you keep all related documentation. Some policies ask you to call back (reverse charges)
