Quirks, Colloquialisms, and Other Funny Things, part two

Funny and strange things abound in this town. Regarding my last venture into colloquial happenings, Allison informed me that it is actually quite common for pubs to have their patrons sing a couple of songs at closing time. I guess this makes sense. But, interesting nonetheless.

A military note: there is a cannon at Edinburgh Castle that is fired each day, precisely at 1:00 pm (13.00 military time, of course). Why this is done, I am not quite sure. But it does come as a bit of a surprise the first time it occurs.

A more general note: the word "cheers" is used here for almost everything. I have found that, in my transactions in stores, the word is usually uttered at least twice, if not more times. More often than not, however, it comes toward the end of an exchange, as a thank you. But the word is not quite the same as a "thank you." It's more of an acknowledgment of an exchange. I wonder if cheers is used in toasts. I must investigate.