Episode 195: A Great Big Magical World

Time isn't a real thing and we made it up. Thanks to this week's Patreon supporter, Allee! Phoenix Register: Hogwarts Legacy is the best-selling game in the UK and the US for 2023. It was also the most-searched game on Google. A giant elder wand has gone up at Epic Universe! Pictures here. It's acting as a beacon to mark the entrance of the Wizarding World land. Sad news: with episode 200, we're  bringing SpeakBeasty to a close. It's not goodbye, it's see you later! The last episode is actually dropping 3/31, not right before the eclipse. “My dog's really cute, and so is my husband, and I'm kinda funny…” Main Discussion: Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts experiences in Edinburgh! We talk about The Elephant House Cafe, Greyfriars Kirkyard, various inspirations for Hogwarts (including Donaldson Hall), Victoria Street, Museum Context, Loch Ness, the Kelpies, Scottish wildcats, and Edinburgh’s history with witches. Marjolaine mentions a special experience in the Elephant House's bathroom.  How many bottles of whisky did Chris bring home?? Sometimes the lizard brain kicks in. Find out the daring way Ann distracted the TSA from noticing all of Chris’ whisky.  No-Maj Movie Magic: location scouting! Find out what a location scout has to look for, and how it applied to the Fantastic Beasts series. We've linked it before, but the interview with Christian Manz can be read here. Podcast Question: Why do you think the Elder Wand was chosen as the Wizarding World beacon at Epic Universe? What would you have chosen?