Student Bloggers

Who knew that Edinburgh, a considerably small city, would be home to over 200 different coffee shops? I remember upon my arrival to the city, it was almost comical how you could not walk for more than 5 minutes at a time without running into an adorable cafe. How could I possibly try them all? I was overwhelmed by the endless options and immediately set off on a quest to find what would be my favorite cafe in the city! After weeks and weeks of trial and error, my ability to navigate the coffee shop culture in Edinburgh is finally fine-tuned. Here is what I have learned when it comes to picking out the right cafe for you! 

The best way for me to feel immersed in Edinburgh, while still being productive with my responsibilities as a student is by taking advantage of the countless cafes…I do not think I have done any work outside of a coffee shop since I have been here! Now, it has not all been smooth sailing finding environments that are conducive to getting work done - it has definitely taken some experimenting, and there are some important cafe criteria for being productive. The first, and most basic factor to consider is if the cafe you are considering allows computers. Being a computer science major, all of my work is done online - no computer, no work is getting done. I have had one experience where I decided to walk 35 minutes to a cafe that looked adorable, only to show up to a sign on the door that said “no computers on the weekends” - that put a damper on my Sunday morning. I recommend checking the website and reviews of a coffee shop to make sure that they do not have any strict computer policies.

While considering technology, it is crucial that if you are planning on getting work done online, you will have wifi access. I have found that many coffee shops will have free wifi for customers…but some are better than others. Certain places will have internet that automatically connects your computer, while other shops might have signs with the password and network. Surprisingly, I have found that some shops are a bit more stingy with their wifi. For example, I went to one cafe that only gave out their wifi password if you bought food in addition to coffee. Another, you could only get the wifi for up to two hours, and if you wanted more time on the network, you had to buy something else. Most of the time, the cafe's reviews on Google will be very clear about how available the wifi access is or how strong the connection is, so make sure to do your research beforehand!

Time limits at cafes, while not strictly enforced, can be another factor to consider when it comes to studying in cafes. If you have a long to-do list, or maybe you forgot you have an entire essay due the next day, you will want to find a cafe that is okay with you camping out. It is important to find a place where you can utilize a table for as long as you need, without being pressured to buy more than what you want. For instance, I went to a cafe once that actually had a sign with “rules” that requested once you finish your drink, food, etc. that you leave the cafe or buy something else. Another cafe I tried once seemed to be very popular but only had a limited amount of seats. While there were no specific “rules” I felt an unspoken pressure to not take up a table for too long if I was both done with my drink and did not plan on buying anything else. A good rule of thumb/indicator to go by is if you see people walk into the store, look around for a seat, and then leave due to full capacity, and you have long finished what you ordered, it may be time to leave. My favorite spots for long study days are cafes that are maybe a bit less popular and have plenty of seats to go around or are simply just big enough to accommodate you using the space for long periods, without taking away a table from a new customer who will want to buy something. 

Something to remember is that a great way to judge a space is to observe the vibe around you. My favorite cafes for studying are the ones where I am not the only one doing work. I typically find that when I am in focus mode, it is helpful when the people around me are too. In the coffee shops I frequent for productivity, I normally see the same familiar faces with their computers out as well. At one of my favorite spots, even the barista typically has their computer out between customers, also trying to get some work done. It is very nice to be in a space where your energy is being matched. If you are the only person with headphones in and your computer out, while everyone around you is chatting and enjoying their drinks and pastries, it is not always easy to focus.  

Similarly, finding a relaxing space for the days that you are on top of your work, and your to-do list is empty, can be just as important. For me, the vibe of the cafe is essential. I want a cafe with a relaxing and warm energy. When I am in work mode, I tend to gravitate towards cafes that maybe have more bright lighting, and chairs as opposed to couches, and do not have loud music. On days that are for relaxation, the coffee shops I am drawn to have more dim and warm lighting, comfy seating, and a more ambient and lively background. I have even found that it is important to consider the temperature of the cafes. One of the coffee shops I go to most frequently, is always quite warm, and I typically feel like I could fall asleep - not the best environment to get work done! Another cafe I tried once was so cold that I had to leave after 10 minutes…they kept their door propped open - In January!

Another aspect of cafes I have learned to always check is their seating options. I have hiked to coffee shops planning on sitting down with a good book and a good cappuccino, only to find that there are no seats for customers, or the three tables that they have are occupied. Sometimes if you are looking to take on a popular cafe, you always run the risk of not finding a seat. My advice on how to combat this is to try to avoid showing up at peak times, be all right with sitting at a high table or bench option that some shops have, and always have a backup plan. One of my favorite coffee shops in the city, apparently is also the favorite of many others. I have gotten to know the surrounding coffee shops, and if I ever can not find a seat, I simply walk three minutes down the block and utilize its neighboring shops. Remember what I said about the abundance of cafes… if you ever do not get a seat at your original destination, rest assured there will be an alternative to both your left and right! 

The last thing to remember in your cafe hunt is that it is quite special to find a cafe where you can build a relationship with those around you. The cafes I go back to the most, are the ones where the barista always greets you with a smile, strangers ask you about your day, and pets are welcome inside - that one is a big bonus! I have not spent a day in Edinburgh without stopping in a coffee shop, and I am even on a first-name basis with the baristas at a few of my favorite spots. Discovering which shops have the best baked goods, friendliest faces, and perfect charm has been a true highlight of my time in the city and always gives me something to look forward to. It has also helped me to explore the city and always try to find a new corner I have not discovered. If you find yourself studying abroad in Edinburgh, I wish you good luck with your coffee shop hunt, and do not forget these tips I wish I had before landing in Scotland!