"Edinburgh isn’t so much a city, more a way of life.... I doubt I’ll ever tire of exploring Edinburgh, on foot or in print." — Ian Rankin
2025 is just around the corner, and I'm excited for my first trip in the new year - back to the UK! I'll be with a very special small group of donors from Brooklyn's Theatre for a New Audience heading to Scotland. The incredibly rich program we crafted is centered around attending the opening night of TFANA's production of The Merchant of Venice being presented at the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh. The group is staying at the iconic Balmoral, whose clocktower is seen above. I can't wait for you to follow along with us on social media next month.
In 2025 there's something new and very important you'll need to do before traveling to (or even transiting through on a connecting flight) the United Kingdom, and that is applying for their new electronic travel authorization, the UK ETA. Effective January 8, 2025 all travelers to the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) must have the UK ETA. The purpose is to make entry into the UK more secure and efficient for travelers, and it's valid for two years. Since it's digitally linked to your passport, it's important to remember that if you renew your passport, you'll also need to apply for a new UK ETA with your new passport before your next trip to the UK.
Since I head to Edinburgh mid-January, I just applied for the UK ETA myself, and it was fast and easy. This is the official link for the UK ETA application details. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta#apply-for-an-eta
You can apply online, or download their app from their website, which is what I did. You need to have your passport in hand then simply follow the instructions and pay the fee (equivalent to $13.26 USD). My application confirmation email said, “You usually get a decision within 3 working days (Monday to Friday). You may get a quicker decision. Occasionally, your decision may take longer.” I got my approval in minutes. Still, this isn't something you want to leave until the last minute.
Now that's done, I'm heading tonight to the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting and gala, where Nine Muses Travel has an exhibitor table in the trade show room during cocktail hour. For my fellow Chamber members, please stop by and say hello! I look forward to seeing you tonight and celebrating the business community here in Brooklyn - especially us small business owners. Nine Muses Travel is a business, not a hobby, and I couldn't do any of this without you!
Start planning inspired travel and read more about me and what I can do for you!
Nine Muses Travel designs journeys to inspire artists, arts lovers and the culturally curious.
Danielle Dybiec
Founder & President
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