​The Magical Lilt of the Scottish Accent

There’s something truly enchanting about the Scottish accent — a sound as rich and varied as the landscapes of Scotland itself. Whether it’s the rolling ‘r’ of a Glaswegian greeting, the sing-song rhythm of the Highlands, or the lyrical flow of Edinburgh’s refined tones, each variation of the accent carries its own charm.  

The Scottish accent has a way of captivating listeners, making words feel warmer, stories more compelling, and humour even funnier. Maybe it’s the way it lilts, like the rise and fall of mist-covered hills, or the way certain words—wee, bairn, bonnie, neep—hold a charm no other dialect can quite match.  

The accent is woven deeply into Scotland’s history, culture, and sense of identity. And let’s not forget — nothing quite beats the joy of hearing a Scottish storyteller spinning a tale, or the sheer power of a well-delivered Scottish “Och aye!”  

Whether you’re a native speaker or just an admirer, there’s no denying that the Scottish accent is pure magic* — a sound that instantly transports you to a world of ancient castles, breathtaking lochs, and legendary folklore.

So go on — embrace it!

*while this is all completely true, it was 100% written by a Scottish person!!

We're thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership between BLISS and GuardMe, a leading provider of international student travel insurance. This collaboration marks a significant step in our ongoing commitment to supporting international students in their educational journeys and ensuring their experiences abroad are safe, enriching, and worry-free.

GuardMe has long been recognized as a trusted name in the realm of international student travel insurance. With a reputation for providing comprehensive, reliable coverage, they offer policies designed specifically to meet the unique needs of students studying far from home. Their services span a wide range of areas, including health insurance, emergency medical assistance, and mental health support, all tailored to provide peace of mind to students and their families.

Through this partnership, BLISS aims to enhance the overall experience of our international student community by facilitating seamless access to GuardMe's world-class insurance products. By integrating GuardMe's services into our offerings, we can ensure that students are well-protected against unforeseen circumstances, from minor health issues to more serious emergencies.

At BLISS, we understand that studying abroad is an adventure filled with excitement and new opportunities, but it can also present challenges and uncertainties. Having the right insurance coverage is a critical part of a successful international education experience. With GuardMe by our side, our students will have access to essential support networks and services that enable them to focus on what truly matters – their academic and personal growth.

This partnership also underscores BLISS's dedication to holistic student care. Beyond academics, we prioritize the well-being and security of our international students, ensuring they feel supported at every step of their journey. GuardMe shares this vision, making them an ideal partner as we continue to expand our services and provide more comprehensive resources to our students.

Our insured students will have access to a Digital Doctor for any questions while they are with us

We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our student community. Together with GuardMe, BLISS is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for international students worldwide.

We are thrilled to announce that we have been selected as finalists in the prestigious Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Awards for 2024! This year, we are proud to be shortlisted in two significant categories: Commitment to the Community and the Beyond Scotland Award, the latter of which we had the honour of winning in 2023.

​Being recognised once again for our dedication to making a positive impact both locally and beyond underscores our continued efforts and passion for serving our community and expanding our reach internationally. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us on this journey.

Springtime in Scotland is a sight to behold for several reasons:

1. Floral Blooms: After the cold winter months, spring brings a burst of color as flowers begin to bloom across the Scottish landscape. From vibrant wildflowers carpeting the countryside to delicate blossoms adorning trees in parks and gardens, Scotland becomes a riot of colors, creating stunning vistas wherever you go.
   
2. Lush Greenery: Spring rejuvenates the lush greenery of Scotland's countryside, turning rolling hills, verdant valleys, and expansive meadows into picturesque landscapes. The arrival of new leaves on trees and shrubs adds to the vibrancy, creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
   
3. Milder Weather: Spring brings milder temperatures to Scotland, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors. With longer daylight hours and pleasant weather, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting without the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
   
4. Baby Animals: Spring marks the arrival of newborn lambs, calves, and other baby animals in Scotland's rural areas. Witnessing these adorable creatures frolicking in the fields adds to the charm of the countryside and provides delightful opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
   
5. Renewed Energy: There's a palpable sense of renewal and optimism in the air during springtime in Scotland. After the quietude of winter, communities come alive with events, festivals, and outdoor activities, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that is infectious and invigorating.
   
6. Scenic Beauty: Scotland's natural beauty is showcased in all its glory during spring, with picturesque vistas, dramatic landscapes, and breathtaking vistas around every corner. From rugged coastlines and misty mountains to serene lochs and cascading waterfalls, Scotland's scenery captivates the senses and inspires awe.
   

Overall, springtime in Scotland is a magical season characterised by beauty, vitality, and a sense of new beginnings. Whether you're exploring historic cities, hiking in the Highlands, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the countryside, Scotland's springtime charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city brimming with history, culture, and architectural wonders. A visit to Edinburgh offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions. Here's a suggested sightseeing itinerary for a 3 day visit; 
Day 1: Historic and Cultural Exploration

1. Edinburgh Castle: Start your journey with a visit to this iconic fortress which dominates the skyline of Edinburgh from its position atop Castle Rock. Explore the castle's rich history, the Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
   
2. Royal Mile: After the castle, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, the historic spine of the Old Town, which stretches from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
   
3. St Giles' Cathedral: A significant religious site with stunning architecture, this cathedral is also located on the Royal Mile.
   
4. Museum of Edinburgh: Delve deeper into the city's history at this free museum.
   
5. Evening Ghost Tours: Edinburgh is famous for its ghost stories. As the sun sets, join one of the many ghost tours that explore the city's haunted past.
   

Day 2: Arts, Parks, and Modern Attractions

1. Scottish National Gallery: Located near Princes Street Gardens, this gallery houses an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures.
   
2. Princes Street Gardens: A lovely park in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Don't forget to check out the Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
   
3. Holyrood Palace: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. When the Queen is not in residence, visitors can explore the historic apartments.
   
4. Arthur's Seat: Located in Holyrood Park, this is an ancient volcano and the main peak in the hills which form most of Edinburgh. A hike up gives a wonderful view of the city.
   

Day 3: Exploring Further

1. Royal Yacht Britannia: Located in Leith, this is the former royal yacht of the British monarch. It's a floating museum offering a unique glimpse into royal life.
   
2. Edinburgh Zoo: Home to the UK's only giant pandas and koalas, as well as hundreds of other incredible species.
   
3. Botanic Gardens: Explore the world of plants in this historic garden.
   

Tips:

• Consider getting the Edinburgh Pass if you plan on visiting many of the city's attractions. It can offer savings and includes entry to several sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes! Edinburgh's cobbled streets and hilly terrain can be challenging.
• If visiting in August, the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a must. It's the world's largest arts festival and showcases a diverse range of music, theatre dance, and comedy.

No matter your interests, Edinburgh has something to offer. Whether you're into history, the arts, nature, or all of the above, you're sure to have a memorable experience in this Scottish gem.

Learning English as a second language can bring many benefits, both personal and professional. Here are a few reasons why someone might choose to learn English:

1. Global Communication: English is widely spoken and used as a common language for international communication. Knowing English can allow you to communicate with people from all over the world and expand your personal and professional networks.
   
2. Career Opportunities: Many multinational companies require English proficiency for their employees, and having strong English skills can help you stand out in the job market and increase your career prospects.
   
3. Access to Information: English is the language in which most of the world's scientific and academic information is published. By learning English, you can access a wealth of knowledge and resources in your field.
   
4. Travel: Knowing English can make traveling easier, as it is widely spoken in many tourist destinations. You'll be able to communicate with locals, read signs, and navigate unfamiliar places with greater ease.
   
5. Personal Development: Learning a new language is a rewarding experience that can help boost your confidence, cognitive abilities, and cultural understanding.
   

These are just a few of the many reasons why someone might choose to learn English as a second language. Whether it's for personal or professional reasons, the benefits of learning English can be significant and long-lasting.

Scotland is a country located in the northern part of the United Kingdom. It is known for its stunning landscapes, which include rolling hills, misty mountains, and rugged coastlines. Scotland is also famous for its rich history, including its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence and its association with legendary figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.
The country is also famous for its cultural heritage, including its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Scotland is home to many unique and diverse cities, including the capital city of Edinburgh, known for its historical and cultural attractions, as well as its vibrant nightlife.
Scotland is also famous for its natural beauty, including Loch Ness, which is said to be home to the legendary monster Nessie, and the Scottish Highlands, which offer breathtaking views of rugged landscapes and wildlife. Overall, Scotland is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, and is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world.

​We can't wait to see you soon!

Hey! Hey you! Yes, you! I see you…
 
Do you see me? I can see you. How hard it is though and how much we are all feeling the same and how much we want some kind of normal back, but just with added hand sanitiser. It has been a tough 2 years. I remember when in March 2020 we were booking in students, excited and giddy (and that’s just us!) for summer 2020 and overnight it stopped.
 
‘It won’t last’ many of us thought in the early days of the Pandemic. It did last though and it is lasting and when we look back on this we will ask ‘what did you do in the Pandemic?’ because whatever it was, it wasn’t what you thought it would be.
 
We thought that summer 2020 would be like every other summer, filled with laughter, dreams and long evenings of summer funshine* (there’s a new word for you). we thought that summer sports would run into pizza nights in the outdoor classroom, and we thought that friendships would be made across the globe, as they are every summer, well at least for us.
 
But things changed. But you know what? If they changed once they will change again, they will change back to a time when we can be together, when all we have to worry about is whether we should do sports then the disco or disco then sports. And when that day comes, we will be here. You will be here and we will be together. Laughing in the funshine*
 
*Funshine. Abstract Noun. The happy feeling you get when you are enjoying yourself outdoors, in the fresh air, with friends.