Coming soon on this page is a montage of Edinburgh's
Mosque. It's taken a long time to finish: work was
sometimes at a complete standstill, but they've managed to get
it done. I used to look at it from the fifth floor of Appleton
Tower, and it seemed so unhappy when it was just bare. Now the
place is really thriving. I don't know how anyone can see
such a beautiful building, together with the community it focuses,
and still have any room for Islamophobia. Sure, every religion
has its holy warriors, but much more important is the positive
effect religion has on the lives of individual religious people.
While you're here, go to the Nile Valley. This Sudanese cafe goes
absolutely frantic at lunchtime when the the students are around,
but it's much more chilled later in the day. Eat downstairs if
you get the chance. The lentil soup is superb. So is the falafel
in pitta (get extra spicy feta). Both of these are available to take
away at a very reasonable price, and they fill you right up. Staying
for a larger meal, the foul is not to be missed, but come back lots
and work your way through the whole menu. Top tip: have exactly
one Sudanese coffee.