I lived in Edinburgh for 5 years and used to really look forward to the month of August when the Edinburgh festival would commence. It was established in 1947 and is still going strong. This year it runs from the 31st July - 25th August.

There are shows about virtually everything from Comedy to Flamenco, Opera to Hip hop. The venues are scattered across the city and vary from a phone box to a magnificent hall. It really is anything goes here!

If you are going to attend the Fringe there are 5 top tips recommended on the fringe site (http://www.edfringe.com )

1. Book accommodation - it is probably best not to arrive to Edinburgh during the Fringe unless you have the promise of some floor space in your mate's house or you have book accommodation. The place is absolutely bursting at the seams and you don't want to have to spend the night wandering the streets. It can get cold in Edinburgh, even during the summer.

2. Get the Official Fringe programme - the programme comes out on the 5th June so no excuse! The Metro newspaper reviews shows everyday and it is worthwhile picking up a copy of the free paper if you are in the train station or travelling by bus.

3. Book your tickets in advance - Saying that, I am arriving on the 14th and have nothing booked yet! However, if you have a particular show in mind that you want to see then it is best to book it. There are also some great last minute shows and some street performances that are available for ½ price or free. Don't have everything timetabled as some of the best shows are the ones you are dragged into and don't pay a penny!

4. Get ready to party - the place is packed all the time so be prepared for queues into restaurants, pubs etc. On the flip side, the atmosphere is electric and original.

5. Experience Edinburgh as well - it is a beautiful city so go for a drink in Leith, visit the castle and take the open top tour and hear all about the ghostly goings on in this haunted city!

Some of my favourite shows from the past few years have been:

o Janey Godley - a fantastic comedienne from Glasgow. She is playing at The Pleasance Dome this year at 7pm from the 6th - 25th August. Tickets cost £10 (approx)

o Danny Bhoy - another Scottish comedian. He is playing at Edinburgh International Conference Centre from the 8th - 19th August at 7.15pm. Prices are £14.00.

This year I am going to try and see:

o Alba Flamenca - every year I say I will watch a Flamenco show and never get around to it. I am booking this year. This show is on from the 6th - 24th August at various times. Prices are £12.00 (approx)

Then I will be wandering around just taking it all in. After all that is what it is all about!