CLICK HERE TO GO TO Climate Crime Currency Disabled Tourists Drink Embassies Entertainment Health Care Language Maps & Brochures Accommodation Sports & Activities Telephone & Postal Service Tipping Travelling In Scotland Fact File Landmark Visitor's Guide Home Shopping & Souvenirs Scotland's best buys are probably woollens, smoked salmon and whisky although the last may be cheaper in your home country as taxes make spirits quite expensive in Scotland. Having said that, the choice of malts is greatest here, so it is probably worth purchasing some of the less exported brands. Some clothes items can be of a superior quality. VAT (Value Added Tax) is added to most purchases with the exception of food and books but this can be claimed back on goods taken out of the country by non-nationals. Not all shops participate in this 'Retail Export Scheme' so, before purchasing, look for a sign or enquire. Opening Hours Opening hours for shops and most relevant facilities are generally 9am-5pm, as is the case with offices and other places of employment. Banks have outside cash-points that can be used at all hours. Convenience stores open from 8am until late. Pubs typically are open from 11am to midnight. Businesses in the north-west and especially the Western Isles (including filing stations and stores) are usually closed on Sundays.