Settling into a new environment will take time, especially if you are moving internationally as I did this past year. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make the transition to settling less stressful.
Most importantly, make sure you know what your address is for your accommodation and your postal code, and make yourself familiar with the route to your accommodation so you are certain you are on the right path to your destination when you arrive. I suggest saving the map on your phone and using google earth to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Secondly, arrange transportation from the airport prior to your arrival. For your first arrival in Dundee, I would suggest using an online taxi booking. I did this my first year and honestly, it was a lifesaver. If you decide to take a taxi from the airport, you don’t have to worry about getting all your bags on and off the bus/ train, additional bag fees, and then finding your way from the transport terminal to your accommodations. Additionally, you can book, plan and alter your pick-up time before your trip. I used Minicabbit to book my first taxi from Glasgow to Dundee. Traveling alone and internationally, both for the first time was extremely stressful. By having my transportation established ahead of time, I was able to relax a little bit after 30 hours of travel. By booking online the driver is likely to have already familiarized themself with the route prior to pick up and the payment had already been processed. If you decide to go this route, when using the Minicabit site, it is easy to find coupons online to lower your fare.
Another option you may want to consider using if you are flying into Edinburgh airport is the Explore Dundee X90 bus, which has busses to and from the airport to Dundee every 2 hours. You can find the bus timetable on the Explore Dundee website, and fortunately, it is firm; so you don’t have to worry if the bus is on time like a normal bus schedule. Additionally, tickets can be purchased online, and there are student rates. Purchasing a ticket for the X90 bus also affirms you have a seat for your journey. If you book your tickets up to two weeks in advance, you will save a couple of pounds. Keep in mind for future travels that return tickets are discounted. There is a fee for an additional large bag, (1 large suitcase and a carry-on are included to be stored in the undercarriage and you can bring a backpack on the bus). You will get dropped off on union street, right across from the Sleeperz Inn, in Dundee city center, and it is easy to book a taxi from there to your accommodations.
I have attached the website/ app I use which allows you to book the Dundee taxi in advance as well.
Taking the train is also an option, but there are a few things to keep in mind when considering train travel. If you are traveling at a peak time, the train will be full and unless you book priority, there is no guarantee you will get a seat. The train does not leave directly from the airport, so you will have to either bus or take a cab to the train station. Additionally, you will need to book a cab from the train station to your accommodation.
Traveling alone in a brand-new place can be stressful, especially when it comes to transportation. With the right planning and procedures put in place, you can ensure your arrival is as smooth as you can possibly make it!
Cabs from Edinburgh/ Glasgow to Dundee:
Current Minicabbit code: WELCOME10
X90 bus website:
xploredundee@mcgillsbuses.co.uk
X90 Edinburgh airport bus schedule/ fare/ timetable
https://www.xploredundee.com/Fly
X90 ticket purchase portal:
https://booking.xploremore.co.uk/booking/
X90 Pick up and Drop off Map:
https://images.xploredundee.com/downloads/X90%20from%20June%202021.pdf
Cab from Dundee X90 transport terminal to your accommodation: