Day 1: Derry-Edinburgh

Alexander’s third trip overseas where he potentially is ticking off all means of transport except for a boat. This week we’re on what can only be described as a UK tour: two days in Edinburgh, two in London, visiting friends who have never met Alexander in person!

Although we now consider ourselves moderately experienced at travelling with a toddler, we still live by the motto: fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Every trip requires military-level planning disguised as “sure we’ll throw a few bits in a bag.” This time we decided to travel light. Everyone got one bag pack, even Alexander. Which meant packing nappies, wipes, snacks, spare clothes, emergency clothes for the spare clothes, entertainment, and our own things into something that technically qualifies as hand luggage.

We dropped Alexander at daycare in the morning so we could get organised but first we treated ourselves to a coffee in Caffè Nero because Boots didn’t open until 9am and we needed somewhere to sit and feel like calm, capable adults. Once Boots opened, we stocked up on nappies and various essential supplies. After that, a quick tactical visit to B&M Bargains for what we called a “safety toy” - the new emergency distraction you hope you won’t need but absolutely will.

When we collected Alexander at lunchtime, he had just woke up from a nap and was half covered in paint after his messy play morning. Clearly living his best life and meant our outfit choices had to change again. After saying goodbye to Pippin, who knew something was up all morning and was overly cuddly all day, we headed to City of Derry Airport.

Now, Derry Airport is wonderfully efficient because it is roughly the size of a large shed. The downside of this is that if you arrive early, there is nowhere to hide. We had a full hour to entertain a toddler whose main goal seemed to be stealing sheep-themed souvenirs and footballs from the tiny shop. Our tag team effort ensured that nobody was lifted for shoplifting and it was almost time to board. When it came to boarding, somehow they did not check our backpack sizes. They were checking other people’s bags. Ours? Untouched. I can only assume Alexander’s cheeky charm pulled some strings here and saved us a few quid!

We were seated right at the back of the plane with no one in the rows immediately around us. Whether this was luck or strategic planning by the airline, we’ll never know. Either way, it felt like a win. Alexander initially insisted on having his own seat, which is ambitious for someone under one metre tall, but once we were airborne he settled in beautifully. Toys were deployed, yoghurt was consumed, milk was administered, Etch A Sketch artistry began. He became completely fascinated by the cabin crew. I’m not sure whether it was the Scottish accents or just the novelty of new faces but it kept him distracted. Thankfully, they were equally charmed.

Thirty minutes later we landed in Edinburgh. Honestly, it felt easier than driving to Belfast. Disembarking, we gathered what felt like one hundred belongings and began the long walk through the airport. Alexander insisted on walking independently, which is admirable in theory but incredibly slow in practice. I waited at the baggage belt for the pram while Anna completed a nappy change. Alexander’s focus was less on the task at hand and more on playing with the tap, until the Dyson hand dryer activated and instantly became his sworn enemy.

Stepping outside, we were greeted by classic Edinburgh weather: rain, wind, general dampness. Alexander, fully embracing holiday mode, refused to wear a coat, hat or scarf. Apparently Scottish weather is merely a suggestion.

We bought tram tickets and I even bought one for Alexander just in case. Turns out under 5s travel free but sure consider it a small contribution to the Scottish economy. On the tram we sat opposite another toddler, just a few weeks younger from Denmark. She sat peacefully and angelically the entire journey. Alexander, meanwhile, was keen to conduct a full social tour of the carriage. We managed to distract him by counting passengers, spotting buses and pointing out Murrayfield like seasoned rugby commentators.

Eventually we arrived in central Edinburgh where Kyle collected us from the tram stop. Back at his house, Alexander immediately acquainted himself with Freddie the dog while Kyle and I went to the shop for supplies. When we returned, Sophie was home from work and Alexander consumed two bowls of pasta. All that travelling must have starved him!

Bath time was attempted, but without his usual army of rubber ducks and familiar bathroom surroundings, he refused outright. Negotiations failed. Straight to bed. The adults, along with Freddie, stayed up a little longer, had dinner and played Pictionary like the wild socialites we are. In fairness, it was a school night for Kyle and Sophie.

And so ended day one of the UK tour. Alexander’s first visit to Scotland. His official verdict? Not much different to Ireland. Wet and cold. Onwards to exploring tomorrow — weather permitting.