u/Primary-Dig314

Hi! Hi! I’m hiking from Tyndrum to Fort William in early Sept. Doing luggage transfer. How’s my gear list?

My biggest question is shoes I have a somewhat narrow foot with a slight arch. and I’m pretty sensitive to how shoes feel. I’ve tried several trail runners, including the Brooks Cascadia, and they just aren’t comfortable. Brooks feel the best, but I’ve only worn them on long walks in the city, my feet felt sore at bottom back and just before the toes (I broke a bone in one of my toes 10 years ago)

Should I just wear my Merrill boots? I tend to like boots over shoes.

My current clothing/gear:
North Face DryVent rain jacket
Poncho
Waterproof pants
1 short-sleeve merino
1 regular T-shirt
2 long-sleeve base layers
1 base-layer pant
1–2 hiking leggings
5–6 pairs merino socks
2 quick-dry sweaters
Bug/midge net
Beanie
Waterproof baseball hat
Waterproof gloves
Gregory Jade 28 daypack

I’ll be in Edinburgh 4 nights / 3 full in early Sept before hiking part of the WHW starting in Tyndrum. We will not have a car.

I would have liked to go to Isle of Mull or Iona, but I don’t think I’ll have the time as I would have to shorten my time in Edinburgh and squeeze it in before the WHW. So, I would like to do a day trip closer to Edinburgh, somewhere cute and charming, especially on the coast. Doesn’t need to have much, I like cute cafes, historic homes, pottery/art. Bonus if it’s on the coast. Any suggestions? I have North Berwick as one option

Any recommendations for a beginner intensive course in person in US or even Europe? 4-14 days long. I’m in Maryland, but willing to travel.

Also, any good books for a beginner?

Thanks in advance!

Those who quit the industry, what path did you take next? Especially those who did real estate for a while and were at least somewhat successful.

I’m currently a realtor and make decent money, but it’s burning me out and I hate work weekends - well I basically work 7 days a week. I only have real estate and restaurant experience.

I never finished a degree, so I’m thinking about going back to college, possibly for a business degree. I likely would not be finished until I’m 40-41 and then at that point may need to consider a masters.

I’m doing this as I want my opportunities if I want to shift careers.