The Island of Eigg is a small island south of the Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. It was the place I chose to go and spend six weeks doing geological mapping for my undergraduate thesis. I had written to the laird seeking permission and had been duly given that permission along with instructions on where I could camp.
The Island of Eigg at that time had about fifty inhabitants living on it, either permanently or just for summer work for the estate. Most of these people lived in the southern part of the island, however, and most of my work would take place in the northern portion where the geology wasmore varied and interesting.
My father had built a large box with wheels at the back and a pulling handle at the front. In it, I packed two tents, camping gear, tinned and packet food and everything else I thought might be needed. The box was shipped in advance so as to arrive before me. I followed the box a week or so later, taking the train first to Glasgow and then along the ‘Harry Potter’ route from Glasgow to Mallaig. Once in Mallaig, I took the Ferry to Eigg with my box and other possessions.
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