Hello HouseCat (and all)

Can't fault any of the advice you've been given about where to visit when you are here. Being a native of the north-east (sort of) I'd also recommend the south coast of the Moray Firth, but I've also got a lot of love for Orkney - it's so beautiful and there's so much to see.

If you're looking for music, you could do worse than seek out a festival. The TMSA publishes a festival calendar every year. The link is to this year's and it'll give you an idea of what's on when you are here. Next year's should come out at the beginning of the year.

That TMSA website also has lists of sessions and other events - most of which depends upon the organisers submitting the information, so it won't have it all.

Another informative website is Footstompin. Check out the "guides" section, and there's also a (fairly lively) forum. Worth a try.

I really hope you make it - you'll love it. I do...