My Edinburgh: Rhys Darby, Comedian

Ah... Edinburgh. You've lured me in again!

With your dark nooks and crannies and your cobblestone streets. You’re more than just a city to me, you’re an event. A life changer, a place of wonder and fun. So here I am back again to see how the cards fall...

Edinburgh first lured me in back in 2001: I came for the Fringe but stayed for the City. There's no city quite like it. Its dark gothic charm acts like a spider's web to the fresh foreign fly. Once trapped, the mighty spider of lust creeps in and makes you drink til the sun rises on Arthur's Seat. Whose seat? I hear you ask. Don't worry, you'll find out soon enough. If you're a performer of art in one way or another you'll eventually find your way there. It’s a magical place.

If it's your first time in Edinburgh then take my advice and get yourself some good walking shoes. Edinburgh is a walking town. There are lots of ups and lots of downs. Mind you that's not just the walking. You'll go through more emotions than you can poke a stick at by lunch time. That's another thing - spend some time finding the best places to eat. There are enough of them but sometimes they're in secret locations.

Edinburgh is all about secret locations. It’s all about finding places, finding people and finding yourself. Once you’ve done that then enjoy the Fringe. There’s so much to see and do you’ll need to collect guide books. There are guide books about guide books and many, many newspapers and flyers. Collect them all and spend your evening preparing schedules. During the Fringe you’ll need to become part of the atmosphere. Keep an open mind and an attentive spirit. Go see as much as your wallet can handle and then blag your way into the rest. There are acts from all over the world to see.

Rhys Darby: This Way to Spaceship, Pleasance Courtyard (0131 556 6550), 8pm, to 27 August (not 8, 14)

Rhys Darby's Must See

Here is some awesome stuff from my neck of the woods: Square Eye Pair - an award-winning comedy play about a Kiwi slacker bromance. Munfred Bernstein’s Cabinet of Wonder - musical misadventures with genius whimsy. Chris Brain: A better place - stand up from a troubled man who writes the best gags in New Zealand. The Boy With Tape On His Face - multi award winning silent comedy gold.