From Edinburgh to India & Burmah

"From Edinburgh to India & Burmah" by W. G. Burn Murdoch is a travel memoir written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's journey from Edinburgh to India and Burma, reflecting on his observations of both the landscapes and the people he encounters. Through vivid descriptions and sketches, he shares his experiences aboard a P. & O. liner, contrasting them with those of an earlier voyage on a whaler to Antarctica. At the start of the memoir, the author introduces his journey, beginning with a fond farewell to Edinburgh as he prepares to embark on an adventure to the East. He expresses a sense of nostalgia and excitement, describing the bustle in Edinburgh and London, as well as the sights and sounds encountered during his travels. The opening chapters highlight his journey from Edinburgh to London, leading to the ship’s embarkation, and the varied experiences on deck as he sets sail across the Mediterranean and into glimpses of Egypt. The author paints a portrait of life aboard the ship, touching on themes of camaraderie, cultural differences, and the anticipation of arriving in exotic lands, all while enjoying the scenery and social dynamics among fellow passengers. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Gordon Burn Murdoch was a Scottish painter, travel writer and explorer. Murdoch travelled widely including India and both the Arctic and the Antarctic. He is said to be the first person to have played the bagpipes in the Antarctic. He published several travel books as well as being an accomplished artist. A cape in the South Orkneys is named in his honour.