Ive busked in front of the Castle in Edinburgh (only for a few minutes) as I happened to chat with a fiddle player there and he let me play and I made some money for him. Ive also busked a few times on the ferries from Vancouver to Victoria or the Gulf islands. Generally if you find an out of the way spot so youre not intruding on peoples space like in the hallway people will stop and listen. Ive had a little crowd build up with kids dancing and people listening. Its really nice to play for people who appreciate it. I made about $15 (canadian) thats about $10 us. and people are more likely to come and chat with you. Ive had people ask me whether Im from Cape Breton and Japanese tourists take pictures. I think Vancouverites are a bit cheap when it comes to buskers. Ive had friends who busked elsewhere say they make more money than here. There is a touristy spot called Granville Island with Galleries and public market where you pay $10 for a one year busking license and come in the morning and they have a lottery for the best busking spots (its very democratic). There are smaller spots you can just sign up for on a sheet (1/2 hour slots). I play fiddle there with a guitarist sometimes and usually we make about $20-$30 in an hour. Usually the large outdoor spots you can make $200 in an hour during the prime times (1 or 2pm wkend afternoons). THere are no auditions although oddly enough if you are a balloon artist you have to demonstrate your skill (I think thats great). There are a lot of regulars who seem to do it just for the money. I mean does every city in the world have a Peruvian band with panflutes etc. Some people have drum machines and canned music in the background (which I dont think should be allowed) there is a whole debate about amplified music although if youre in a large crowded area outside you wont be heard. Anyway I enjoy doing it, you learn who your real friends are too. Ive had friends stop by and listen for 10-15 min. and not drop a nickel. CHeers Petr.