Scotland Travel Specialist

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Barbara Cottam, Travel Agent in Fayetteville, AR

Barbara Cottam

Fayetteville, AR Travel Agent
Super Agent

Barbara Cottam

Fayetteville, AR · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
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5.0
(46)
98% Recommended
Barb planned our trip through the United Kingdom. We started in London and spent a month traveling through Wales, Scotland and Ireland. She created the... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Scotland, Edinburgh, Isle of Skye, Shetland Islands, Orkney Island

Interests:

Adventure, Castles & Cathedrals, Coach Tours, Bucket List, Luxury

Suppliers:

Abercrombie & Kent, Leading Hotels of The World, Small Luxury Hotels, Travel Answers, Funjet Vacations

About Me

Imagine standing on a rugged Scottish cliff, waves crashing below, a soft mist rolling over emerald hills, and the haunting call of seabirds echoing in the salt air. Scotland is a place where ancient history and raw natural beauty combine, and I am here to help you experience it deeply, seamlessly, and joyfully. As a travel advisor specializing in Scotland, I design personalized itineraries that combine iconic highlights with hidden gems, matching your travel style, interests, and dreams. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant culture of Edinburgh, the haunting beauty of the Highlands, or the remote magic of Scotland’s islands or a Harry Potter Train Ride, I ensure your journey feels personal, effortless, and unforgettable.  Best Times to Travel to Scotland:  Each season in Scotland offers a unique experience.  Spring (April–June) brings blooming wildflowers and long days perfect for outdoor exploring.  Summer (July–August) offers festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe and Highland Games, with near-midnight sunsets in the far north. Autumn (September–October) features crisp air, vivid foliage, and fewer crowds. Winter (November–March) is ideal for cozy escapes, whisky tastings, and festive markets, with occasional snow in the Highlands for a magical touch. I guide clients on the best times to travel based on what they wish to experience, ensuring your trip aligns with your vision.The Magic of the Shetland and Orkney Islands: Far to the north, the Shetland Islands offer windswept beauty, Viking heritage, puffin cliffs, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in winter. Walk the ancient ruins at Jarlshof, attend the fiery Up Helly Aa Viking festival, and explore wild beaches where the sea feels endless. The Orkney Islands are a dream for history lovers, with UNESCO World Heritage sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe. Here, Norse history blends with Scottish culture, and coastal walks reveal sea stacks, cliffs, and serene villages where traditions remain alive. Scotland’s Hidden and Unique Spots: While many know Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, Scotland is filled with lesser-known gems: Cairngorms National Park – For wildlife, forest walks, and charming villages like Aviemore. Outer Hebrides – Discover Harris’ white sand beaches and Lewis’ ancient standing stones. Mull and Iona – Colorful Tobermory harbor, Iona Abbey’s tranquility, and puffin spotting on Staffa. West Highland Line – One of the world’s most scenic train journeys across the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Hidden Castles and Villages – Explore Eilean Donan Castle, Crail’s fishing village charm, and countless local treasures off the main tourist path.  Why Book Your Scotland Trip with Me?  Tailored Itineraries: From whisky and castle tours to hiking, family heritage trips, or photography-focused adventures, I design trips aligned with your interests and comfort.  Local Connections: I partner with local guides, boutique hotels, and unique stays, providing insider experiences you cannot find in packaged tours.  Stress-Free Planning: Navigating ferry schedules to Orkney and Shetland, timing your drives along single-track roads, and coordinating accommodations are all handled, so you can focus on enjoying Scotland. Insider Knowledge: From the best local bakeries to hidden coastal walks and the quietest times to visit popular sites, I ensure you experience the best of Scotland without the overwhelm of planning alone.   Scotland is a place to slow down, soak in breathtaking views, and reconnect with nature and history. Whether you want to trace your ancestry, explore ancient stone circles, hike to hidden lochs, or sip whisky by a warm pub fire, your Scotland adventure should be as seamless as it is meaningful. Booking your trip with me means having a guide who knows Scotland deeply, respects your time and budget, and cares about making your experience exceptional. I will help you travel Scotland in a way that matches your vision—whether it’s your first trip or a return to a beloved land. If you’re ready to explore Scotland’s wild coastlines, cozy villages, rich culture, and warm hospitality, let’s start planning your journey together. 

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
46 reviews
98% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 46 reviews

Adventure of a lifetime
Reviewed By R&R - - Boulder, CO | Traveled to United Kingdom ~ Europe
Barb planned our trip through the United Kingdom. We started in London and spent a month traveling through Wales, Scotland and Ireland. She created the most amazing itinerary with stays in castles and routed us to so many wonderful spots. Her attention to detail and adding all the extras made our trip truly wonderful. I never had to worry about anything. She was checking on us through our whole trip and whenever we checked in to our location, many of them commented, "Oh yes" we just talked to your travel agent. It was very comforting knowing all was under control and all special requests were filled.
Barbara Cottam responded
"Thank you! "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
12 of 17 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Ireland Dream Trip!
Reviewed By KJ - Windsor, Colorado | Traveled to Ireland ~ Europe
Barb created a wonderful adventure to Ireland. We were nervous about driving so she set us up with rail tours throughout Ireland. It was such a pleasant experience to enjoy the countryside without the stress of driving. We had knowledgeable local tour guides at each city and still had plenty of free time to enjoy the local pubs and music. Barb made sure every detail was taken care of and it was a comfort to know that even being many time zones apart she was always available. It was a great vacation and I will be using her services in the future for all of our travel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
14 of 23 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Just experienced a memorable vacation to Cancun.
Reviewed By Mac - Centennial, Colorado | Traveled to Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Barbara Cottam is the BEST in her profession!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
5 of 9 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Excellent family vacation to Catalonia
Reviewed By Jmoon - Medford, New Jersey | Traveled to Spain ~ Europe
Barb was always willing and ready to respond to our questions and concerns, both during the planning of our trip and while we were on it! She helped us navigate a european vacation with our three small children amid changing COVID restrictions, helping us with trip insurance and ultimately changing our whole flight/car package from Scotland to Spain only three weeks before the trip. We were quite happy with the homes she recommended and booked for us and our flight arrangements.
Barbara Cottam responded
"Thank you!! I am so happy it worked out and your family was able to enjoy a vacation together with such difficult restrictions. "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
9 of 17 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Easy Travel
Reviewed By Jolly Girl - Salado | Traveled to Hawaii ~ USA
Total professional, every trip great without a hitch, detail oriented. She attaches a wallet with all your documentation for ease of travel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
6 of 11 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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