SCOTLAND AND IRELAND TRAVEL GUIDE 2026-2027

by Owen West

SCOTLAND AND IRELAND TRAVEL GUIDE 2026-2027

A Practical Guide to Exploring Scotland and Ireland
Discover the landscapes, history, culture, and local experiences that make Scotland and Ireland two of Europe's fascinating destinations.From Scotland's Highlands, lochs, and historic castles to Ireland's coastal routes, vibrant cities, and traditional villages, this guide provides practical information to help travelers plan and enjoy their trip.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore new regions, you'll find destination highlights, travel planning resources, and local insights to help you navigate both countries.

Inside This Guide, you will Up-to-date travel informationClear maps and full-color illustrationsRegional overviews of major destinations throughout Scotland and IrelandSuggested itineraries for different travel styles and trip lengthsHistoric landmarks, castles, museums, and cultural sitesScenic drives, walking routes, and outdoor attractionsLocal food and drink recommendationsTransportation guidance, budgeting tips, and accommodation planningSeasonal travel considerations and weather informationFamily-friendly attractions and activities featuring historic castles, educational museums, nature reserves, coastal adventures, family-oriented festivals, and memorable experiences designed for children, teens, and adults alikePractical advice for solo/independent travelersExplore Scotland
Learn about Scotland's historic cities, dramatic landscapes, island communities, and cultural traditions. Visit iconic destinations, discover lesser-known locations, and gain insight into the country's heritage and natural environment.

Experience Ireland
Travel through cities, coastal regions, historic towns, and rural landscapes. Explore cultural landmarks, local traditions, and some of Ireland's most notable scenic routes and attractions.

190 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2026

About the author

Simon and Schuster author Owen attended Harvard University on an ROTC scholarship and rowed for the nationally ranked varsity heavyweight crew team. He served for six years in the Marine Corps infantry, departing as a captain to attend Stanford Business School. Upon graduation, he joined Goldman, Sachs as an energy trader, and is presently a Partner and founder of the firm’s veterans’ network.

Owen has taken three leaves-of-absence in his 19 years with Goldman. In 2001, he attempted the North Face of Mount Everest, turning back above 28,000 feet. In 2003 and 2006-2007, he joined the Marines in Iraq.

Owen is an endurance athlete who has completed Ironman Triathlons, week-long adventure races, and 100-mile ultra-marathons. He has represented the United States six times in the Eco Challenge, a 350-mile expedition labeled “the world’s toughest race,” and has finished as high as 2nd, most recently navigating three Playboy Playmates to the finish line in Borneo.

His writings have appeared in The New York Times, Playboy, The Marine Corps Gazette, Proceedings, Slate, the Wall Street Journal, Men’s Journal, Popular Mechanics, and Topic. His first novel, SHARKMAN SIX, won the Boyd literary award for best military novel of 2001. In 2005, he won the Marine Corps Leadership Essay contest.

Owen is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. He serves as a director of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation.