Ballater: Can Do Country Newcastle: Angel in the Architecture Destination Dubrovnik Slice of City Life: The Merchant Quarter
4 CONTENTS
TEL:
+44 (0) 844 481 6666
EMAIL:
feedback@aiairport.com
WEB:
aberdeenairport.com
TEXT:
80800 (start message with
“Airport”, texts are FREE)
Search 'Aberdeen Airport'
Follow us, @ABZ_Airport
Follow us, @aiairport
Search 'Aberdeen International Airport'
HELPFUL LINKS Type the following to access key parts of our website,
16 Visit Aberdeenshire
18 Destination Dubrovnik
BUSINESS 6 Airport News 9 Terminal Transformation 16 Visit Aberdeenshire
aberdeenairport.com/... Airport Contacts /contact Airport Guide /airportinformation Airport Jobs /jobs Airport Master Plan /masterplan Book Car Parking /parking Book Flights & Hotels /travel Check-in Information /checkin Competitions /competitions Currency /currency Customer Charter /charter Destinations & Airlines /destinations
PEOPLE 21 ABZ Adventurers 22 A Day in the Life... 34 Slice of City Life: The Merchant Quarter 36 Local Flavours – Café 52 review 44 Ballater: in the heart of ‘Can Do Country’ 48 Craft Daft 52 Words Worth Reading 54 Diary
30 Head for the Sun
CULTURE 42 What’s On COMPETITION 50 The Beat Goes on TRAVEL 12 Newcastle: Angel in the Architecture 18 Destination Dubrovnik 26 Connecting you to the World 30 Head for the Sun 38 Stavanger: shaped by the sea SHOPPING 24 Our experts’ recommendations for the best duty free buys
Feedback /feedback Flight Timetables /timetables Live Flight Information /flightinfo Airport Newsletter /newsletter
Editorial Jan Leatham
Published by Trend Productions Ltd
Security Information /security
info@janleatham.co.uk
192 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 6DA
Shopping /shopping
Sales & Marketing Clare Findlay
trendmagazine.co.uk
Special Assistance /assist
clare@trendmagazine.co.uk
Terminal & Car Park Maps /maps
Design Ryan Swinney
Print Stephens & George
ryan@trendmagazine.co.uk
Print Group
Scan to visit the website: aberdeenairport.com
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Prices are correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. The publisher cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions of contributors in the magazine may not represent the views of the publisher. upBEAT magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication. All information correct at time of going to print (Jan 2017). Cover Image: sasamihajlovic/stock.adobe.com
WELCOME
5
Welcome
to the latest issue of upBEAT, Aberdeen International Airport’s passenger magazine.
Ballater: Can Do Country Newcastle: Angel in the Architecture Destination Dubrovnik Slice of City Life: The Merchant Quarter
e have just reached the end of what has been an extremely challenging year for Aberdeen and the Northeast of Scotland, with the continued downturn in the oil and gas industry impacting on many businesses and individuals in the local area. The airport has not been exempt from this - our passenger numbers fell last year as a direct result. However, we are looking ahead to 2017, cautiously optimistic that we may see numbers begin to improve, particularly with the launch of several exciting new routes. Ryanair return to Aberdeen International Airport in February with flights to popular holiday hotspots Alicante and Malaga, and a third new route to Faro with Ryanair is due to begin in May.
Furthermore, Flybe recently announced that it will launch its first ever link between Aberdeen and London
For a comprehensive terminal transformation update, read page 9.
Heathrow in March; Loganair will be flying to the stunning Faroe Islands this summer; and airBaltic will operate three flights a week to Riga, the Latvian capital and one of our most requested destinations, from May. We worked very hard in 2016 to secure these fantastic new routes for the New Year, and I’m delighted that our passengers have lots to look forward to at their local airport in the months ahead.
This issue of upBEAT takes a trip to Stavanger and Dubrovnik, and looks at what Newcastle has to offer for a holiday closer to home. We chat to Visit Aberdeenshire about their plans for the region and are inspired by the progress made by the Royal Deeside village of Ballater. We also sample some of the delights of the Merchant Quarter here in Aberdeen and look at the meteoric rise in popularity of knitting and sewing.
Our terminal extension was officially declared watertight in December, and it’s now really starting to take shape ahead of the opening in June. I visited the site recently and was pleased to see the layout and space which will be incorporated in the new building.
We hope there’s something here for all of our readers, and would like to wish you all a very happy 2017.
6
AIRPORT NEWS
GETTING TO ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT BY TRAIN Aberdeen and Inverness services stop at the local station at Dyce which is just a short taxi or bus ride from the Airport. Bus number 80, operated by Stagecoach, runs from Dyce Station (Mon-Fri only). Visit stagecoachbus.com or call +44 (0) 1224 597590. The mainline station is in Aberdeen City Centre where there are frequent services to all parts of Scotland. For further information, please visit: travelinescotland.com BY BUS Regular bus services operate to the Airport from Aberdeen City Centre. The JET 727 bus runs from Union Square, right by the bus and train stations, making only four stops en route to the Airport. Services are less frequent at the weekends. Details at stagecoachbus.com or call +44 (0) 1224 597590. First Aberdeen also runs a weekday only service number 27 from Union Square. Details can be found at firstgroup. com or call +44 (0) 870 200 22 33. BY CAR The access road to the Airport is signposted from the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road. The Airport is seven miles from Aberdeen City Centre. The main car park is located at the front of the terminal building for short-stay parking. If you are using a satellite navigation system, the Airport postcode is AB21 7DU. BY BICYCLE Aberdeen International Airport is a relatively easy airport to get to by bike. There is a high quality off-road
We recently announced that, for the first time ever, Flybe will operate flights from Aberdeen to London Heathrow this year. The flights will run three times a day during the week, with one flight
agreement between Flybe and Virgin Atlantic, passengers will be able to book flights from Aberdeen with Flybe and connect seamlessly onto Virgin Atlantic flights at Heathrow with a single
on Saturdays and two on Sundays, starting on 26 March. Flybe will be using Heathrow’s Terminal 2, and flights have been conveniently timed for both business and leisure travel.
check-in and bag drop, making longhaul destinations such as Los Angeles, Boston and Hong Kong much easier to reach from Aberdeen.
cycle route from the A947 (Dyce) roundabout onwards. If travelling for a short break an option may be to leave your bicycle in the modern, covered cycle stand at the Airport.
Carol Benzie, Managing Director of Aberdeen International Airport, said, ‘Due to the onward connectivity it provides, Heathrow is the most popular route from Aberdeen Airport, and these new flights will offer our passengers an even greater choice when booking a trip to the capital or connecting onward via Heathrow.’
Vincent Hodder, Flybe’s Chief Revenue Officer, said, ‘Flybe is especially delighted that this extension of our valued codeshare partnership with Virgin will enable us to better serve Scottish travellers and global visitors, further realising our ambition of being a ‘One Stop to the World’ for the UK regions.’ Flights are on sale now and can be
Furthermore, thanks to a codeshare
booked at flybe.com
AIRPORT NEWS
BEFORE YOU FLY 2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR TRIP
For the best deals, book your car
parking online: aberdeenairport.com
parking 1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP
> Order your currency online for
easy collection when you get to the
airport: aberdeenairport.com/ currency
> Check all your travel documents
and ensure your passport is current,
that you have a visa (if required) and
that you have noted the flight times
Thomas Cook confirms summer 2017 flights to Majorca
on your tickets.
Thomas Cook recently announced that, following overwhelming demand, it will again operate flights to popular holiday hotspot Majorca this summer. The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca is a staple of the British holiday diet and for good reason – it enjoys a sun-kissed climate and offers activities for holidaymakers of all ages and interests. The flights will run in June and July and can be booked now at thomascook.com
THE DAY BEFORE YOU FLY
Check the weight of your suitcase
and prep your cabin bag. Decant
any liquids, gels, etc into a small
plastic bag. THE DAY YOU FLY
> Allow plenty of time to get to the
airport, to check-in and clear through
security.
Pupils’ delight at treehouse donation from Aberdeen Airport Pupils at Tough Primary School, near Alford, were thrilled to receive a visit from members of the airport team in November, who happily informed them that a shiny new treehouse will be installed in their playground following a £5,000 donation from the Aberdeen International Airport Community Fund. Tough School’s concrete playground is small with very few play facilities so the treehouse, which is due to be built in the Easter holidays, will be a welcome addition for the school’s 46 pupils. Headteacher Laura McAllister also explained that the treehouse will benefit ‘countless’ children, as ‘the
school’s playground is the only public play facility in the local area, meaning any number of children will visit the treehouse in the evenings and at weekends.’
> Remember to check the rules
on sharps!
> Dispose of liquids above 100ml
before you reach the security area.
> Remember that jackets & belts must
be removed.
> Laptops & mobiles to be presented
separately.
7
8
AIRPORT NEWS
12 lucky passengers win big prizes in departure lounge giveaway Aberdeen International Airport celebrated Christmas in style by giving away a series of incredible prizes to 12 lucky passengers in our ’12 Days of Christmas’ competition. The giveaway, which was previously an enormous success during the festive season in 2014, sees passengers attempt to find the winning ticket buried deep inside Santa’s sack. Successful passengers are then asked to open one of the doors in our advent calendar, and behind each door is a fantastic prize! Return flights to Paris and Dublin, an overnight stay in a lavish hotel, and vouchers for a Bulgarian holiday were just some of the prizes on offer this year. For the full list of prizes and winners, visit aberdeenairport. com/12daysofchristmas
More Dublin flights planned for Aberdeen Airport From summer 2017, we are increasing our frequency on our flights to Dublin, the vibrant Irish capital, with Aer Lingus Regional. There will be more choice for passengers when flying from Aberdeen to Dublin, with flights increasing from
7 per week to 11 per week. Seats are on sale now from £34.99 each way, including taxes and charges. Keep an eye on aerlingus.com for increased connections to North America via Dublin.
Loganair announces new route to Faroe Islands from Aberdeen
Scottish regional airline Loganair is to launch a link between Aberdeen and the Faroe Islands this summer. Widely regarded as Europe's best kept secret, the Faroe Islands are
Loganair’s Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles said, ‘This new air-link to the Faroe Isles is the first from Aberdeen for many years. With this in mind, we’re anticipating it to be very popular
tucked away in the North Atlantic and offer an idyllic escape, with lush green valleys, waterfalls that plunge directly into the ocean, and the sight of sprawling landscapes in any direction. The flights begin on 26 May and will operate on Fridays and Sundays.
amongst both leisure travellers and the region’s business community. We hope to see this service benefit Aberdeen’s economy as a whole, with incoming visitors from the Faroes keen to sample the city and all it has to offer.’ Flights are on sale now and can be booked at flybe.com
Airport cleans up at the Loo of the Year Awards Aberdeen International Airport won a Platinum Award, the highest possible accolade, at the 2016 Loo of the Year Awards, held in Solihull, West Midlands in December. The awards were first introduced in 1987 and recognise the highest standards in all “away from home” or public toilets in the UK. An unannounced Loo of the Year Awards inspector visited the airport earlier in the year and rated our toilet facilities very highly in all 101 possible fields, including cleanliness, accessibility, and maintenance.
AIRPORT NEWS
9
John Deffenbaugh Head of Terminal Redevelopment
Since March, the muddy piece of land to the south of the terminal has been transformed into the makings of a top class regional airport facility. By the time you read this, all external wall cladding and windows will be in place and the airport’s new terminal extension will be watertight. Internally, partition walls are already being constructed to turn the concrete and steel shell into new immigration and baggage reclaim facilities, together with airline lounges and accommodation for our partners at Border Force and the Police. It is already possible to visualise the new spaces and they are a world apart from the current facilities within the existing terminal.
We’ve invested a lot of energy to make the most of the resources available to us and I’m particularly looking forward to seeing the lighting being installed. Bold strips of light will guide passengers on their journey through the facility to ensure that the route is clear. This will also be supported by wayfinding supergraphics at key locations. By the time the next edition of upBeat is published, the extension will be nearing completion. We have a huge amount of work to complete by that point but it’s great to see years of planning now coming to fruition. Keep an eye on the airport’s social media channels and website for regular updates on project progress.
Community Fund Update Following a committee meeting in December, three local organisations have been awarded cash donations, ranging from £250 to £2,150, from Aberdeen International Airport’s Community Fund. The 1st Tarves Brownies were given a small donation to contribute to an upcoming activity weekend away at Dalguise.
The Grampian Child Bereavement Network, whose main aim is to provide appropriate bereavement support to children and young people throughout the North-east, received a donation to help fund their programme of Activity Days. These events allow youngsters to come together to have fun with others who all share a common experience of bereavement.
We also made a donation to the North East Rider Volunteers, a new charity which transports blood between hospitals throughout the country by motorcycle. If you know a local organisation that would be interested in applying for funding, contact community@ aiaiport.com for more information.
12 DOMESTIC
There is much to recommend in the great city of Newcastle to lovers of architecture and engineering: seven different bridges over the Tyne, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and Sage Gateshead, the Angel of the North, and of course Hadrian’s Wall, a mighty Roman defence stretching coast to coast, through the city to the Solway Firth. But far from its stark industrial and military heritage and the steel and brick monuments to that history, Newcastle is a bright, warm and welcoming centre, clean and modern, with some of the friendliest city dwellers in the country. GIRDERS TO GOLDSWORTHY The city is famed for its splendid bridgescape, seven different styles of span reaching over from Newcastle in the North to Gateshead in the South, linking the two urban areas as one. The most recent of these is the world’s only tilting bridge, the Gateshead Millenium Bridge. It is the only foot and cycle bridge over the Tyne and has been specially engineered to tilt, mimicking the opening of an eye, to let water traffic through. The bridge uses a counterbalance system like the
Falkirk Wheel and even clears up its own litter (which rolls into traps at either end when the bridge is tilted). There was a time when there was a dearth of contemporary art in the Newcastle Gateshead area, a state of affairs that pivoted on the construction of the jaw-dropping Angel of the North. Taking more than 20 years of work by the local council, the 20 metre high installation was erected on the site of a disused colliery in 1998, arresting the views
DOMESTIC
13
“If you prefer your feats of architecture more than 50 years old, head for Hadrian’s Wall, which originally ran from the east coast at South Shields to the Solway Firth in the west...”
of motorists on the A1 and passengers on the East Coast line alike. From that point forward, Newcastle became a focal point for public art and contemporary artists. At its heart is the massive Baltic Centre, reimagined from a disused flour mill showcasing more than 50 leading artists including Tracy Emin and Andy Goldsworthy since its opening in 2002. WALK LIKE A ROMAN If you prefer your feats of architecture more than 50 years old, head for Hadrian’s Wall, which originally ran from the east coast at South Shields to the Solway Firth in the west, and at 73 miles long is the largest Roman artefact anywhere. The Hadrian’s Wall Path stretches alongside the ruins of the wall with access to Roman forts, stunning scenery and a sense of 2000 years of history. This year there is a wall-wide exhibition called Hadrian’s Cavalry starting in April, celebrating the elite Roman regiments and the projected power of Ancient Rome. Ten venues along the World Heritage Site will feature special re-enactments and exhibitions until September. SHOPPING WHY AYE Shopping in Newcastle Gateshead is not for the faint-hearted. However, if you love to shop then this might just be a little bit of heaven. The massive intu Metrocentre is just minutes from the centre of Gateshead, and has more than 330 shops, endless parking and oodles of
food outlets and entertainment including an iMAX cinema, dwarfing its sister store intu Eldon Square in Newcastle city centre which boasts the original Fenwick department store and a flagship John Lewis to name a few. Biggest isn’t always best though, so if you lean towards small independent retailers, then head for Eldon Gardens or Victorian Grey Street and Grainger Town, built by Richard Grainger in the 1830s and home to the Theatre Royal and Grainger Market. Here there is a historic covered market which was originally divided into a flesh and a vegetable market and now offers a dazzling array of market stalls from food and drink to cobblers and fabric, open six days a week. Grainger Market is also the site of the original Marks & Spencer Penny Bazaar. If markets are your thing, then there is also the Quayside Market on Sundays and the Farmers’ & County Market, which is held in Grainger Street on the first Friday of every month. FRESH AIR Newcastle Gateshead is surrounded and punctuated by green space, waterways and coastline, meaning that you can go from bustling to carefree in the time it takes to hop on a bus or train. Over half of the Gateshead area is green, including the Derwent Walk Country Park (where dozens of red kites roam), Watergate Forest Park (home to wildflower meadows
14 DOMESTIC
and the national Willow Collection Sculptures), and Gibside (18th century landscaped gardens). Newcastle is also only minutes from eight miles of coastline, bookended by lighthouses and dotted with traditional seaside towns. Jesmond Dene is just a short walk from the city centre, a calm oasis of woodland which will delight youngsters with a waterfall and Pets’ Corner. There are lots of circular walks off the Hadrian’s Wall Path and miles of cycle path alongside the Tyne to
of music events and workshops at Sage Gateshead, you could spend your entire time on the banks of the Tyne, but there is so much more. The Victoria Tunnel is a 2.5 mile tunnel built beneath the city streets, first as a coal wagon road, then used as an air raid shelter during WWII. If you book ahead you can join a party of 12 on a tour along this atmospheric thoroughfare. The Life Science Centre has lots of hands-on exhibits such as educational arcade games, and
Tynemouth, ideal for exploring!
a 4D Motion Ride featuring Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs until the end of February. Football fans can choose from a stadium tour and lunch at St. James’ Park, or the opportunity to walk across the roof of the stadium 150 feet above ground for panoramic views of the Tyne. Seven Stories – The Centre for Children’s Books is as magical as it sounds, an interactive museum dedicated to children’s literature, with a programme of exhibitions and events.
TO DO LIST There is such a variety of events and excursions in this vibrant city that it’s hard to choose just a few. From the ever-changing exhibitions at the Baltic to the huge programme
Fly to Newcastle with Eastern Airways six days a week. easternairways.com newcastlegateshead.com
Upcoming Events North East Lego Landmarks and Brick History – two Lego exhibitions including one that spans human history, from the Big Bang to the Moon Landing and beyond. Life Science Centre 14 January to 23 April 2017 Chinese New Year – see in the year of the Rooster in Newcastle’s Chinatown 28 & 29 January 2017 Quentin Blake: Inside Stories – a unique insight into some of the artist’s most popular creations, including many of Roald Dahl’s stories and The Boy in the Dress by David Walliams. Laing Art Gallery 11 March to 8 July 2017 BBC Radio 3: Free Thinking Festival a free weekend of debate, new ideas, music and performance. Sage Gateshead 17-19 March 2017 Maker Faire UK – is a two day family-friendly festival of invention and creativity, bringing together over 300 hackers, crafters, coders, DIYers and garden inventors to make stuff and share their passions. Life Science Centre 1 & 2 April 2017
16
LOCAL INTERESTS
…is the question being asked in tourism-related businesses around the country. And good question too, as the constantly changing landscape of partly government-funded organisations can be pretty tricky to get a handle on for the lay person. upBEAT chatted to Steve Harris about the challenges ahead:
Steve Harris
What is your main aim? Our job is to put Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire on the tourist map. Visit Scotland have the job of bringing visitors to Scotland, and our objective is to get as many of them to visit this previously forgotten corner of Scotland as possible.
Royal Deeside and the Banffshire Coast Tourism Partnership, creating one Destination Management Organisation for the whole region.
What do you mean by forgotten? There used to be a map of airports in Scotland, and Aberdeen wasn’t even on it, because it wasn’t thought of as a tourist destination. Because of the success of the oil industry and the wealth of business travel it brought with it, hotels and other accommodation providers had little need for other business. Theatre productions struggled to afford pricey digs in the city. But the tide has turned, and prices with it, so we are seeing a definite opportunity to grow as a tourist region. We haven’t promoted ourselves in a coherent way before, because there has been a feeling that we haven’t needed to, however for many travel companies, we are a completely new destination.
Development team, who work on getting new business for the region, from cruise companies to tour operators, getting people to take us seriously as a destination and include us in their itineraries. Then there’s Marketing, who provide a lot of content, creating materials for partner businesses to use and platforms on which to share them. Recently we worked with another company to produce high quality material about all the visitor hotspots in the region, with a view to making that available for any business to use. We are also running digital surveys, and using new measurement tools to properly quantify whether what we are doing is working, as well as promoting the city nationally and internationally. Then there’s Business Engagement, who are out there on the ground, listening to local tourism companies, gathering information and talking about essential ingredients like customer
Does VisitAberdeen still exist? No. We have replaced VisitAberdeen, Visit
Who works at VisitAberdeenshire? There are 15 of us, and four different departments. Firstly there is the Business
LOCAL INTERESTS
service. Lastly, we have Product Development, who work on our website, facilitate new customers and work with partners to strengthen the tourism product in the region. You mentioned cruises, can you tell us more? There is a new harbour set to open in 2020 and with it the opportunity to attract cruise companies. Putting us on that particular map will dramatically change the face of local tourism, connecting us with a world market. By that time, we will have a brand new £330m state-of-the-art exhibition centre, a new Music Hall and
Art Gallery and a completed by-pass. The face of Aberdeen is changing and so are its fortunes, and with the right focus, the best may still be yet to come. Any misconceptions you’d like to clear up? Much as we’d like to, we don’t have funds to make grants for individual projects. We are asked on a daily basis for funding for anything from hotels to literature, and we just don’t have the budget. Our job is to work as hard as we can to get as big a slice of the potential Scottish tourism pie as possible, then allow that to trickle down to individual accommodation providers,
17
hospitality businesses, the retail sector - if we do our part then everyone should benefit.
AB DN
VisitAberdeenshire
18
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
Once the target for any merchant wishing to trade on the Adriatic coast, then a firm favourite with jetsetters in the 70s and 80s, Dubrovnik was always a fascinating draw. In the early 90s, the city was devastated during an eight month siege as part of the Croatian War of Independence, but due to a combination of a resilient spirit and an international rebuilding project, the city’s star is on the rise once more.
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
OCKET CITY Much of Dubrovnik’s central sights are within easy reach by walking or taking the very frequent local buses. One you’ll want to get up early for is the walk around the Old City Walls, partly because it can get very hot in the summer in the middle of the day, and also because you’ll want to take your time and savour the 360˚ views across the terracotta vista of this very photo friendly city. There are fountains everywhere, which is great for refilling water bottles and cooling down, but it’s also worth taking a look at the fountains themselves. Fresh water still comes from the same spring 11km away as it has for
centuries, and at either end of the white marble Stradun (main street) are Big Onofrio’s and Small Onofrio’s fountains, the first a 16-sided copper dome just inside the Pile Gate, and the second adorned with playful dolphins under the Bell Tower, both designed by the aqueduct architect Onofrio dell Cava in the 1430s. The smooth marble-paved Stradun is worth a stroll at any time of day, leading you to architectural stunners such as the Sponza Palace and the Dominican Monastery, but also worth wandering off to the tiny alleyways and steep steps that lead past hidden shops, cafés and restaurants. The War Photo Museum is here, a moving tribute to
19
photojournalism and human conflict, endeavouring to show the pictures not used by news agencies and the reasons why. Entrance to the famous but elusive Buza Bars can also be found in the Old City. Finding them can be a bit challenging, but it’s worth it when you’re sitting with a cold drink looking out at the nearby island of Lokrum or marvelling at the crazy feats of the rock jumpers. Lokrum Island is a short taxi-ferry ride from the harbour, and provides a great opportunity to escape the city for a day, wander among the lush botanical gardens and find a rocky outcrop to swim from. The island is home to many peacocks and an abandoned 15th century monastery, as well as cool tree-
20
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
lined trails and no motorised transport, although don’t miss the last boat as it is forbidden to stay overnight.
vineyards, family-friendly beaches and a baroque festival in September. Most of the island of Mljet is made
ISLAND HOPPING Just off the Dalmatian coast lies a tapestry of beautiful islands, from the tiny Elafati islands to serene Mljet, there is an island to suit everyone. Korčula, to
up of a National Park containing preserved forests of Aleppo pine and Holm oak, as well as two salt lakes and a 12th century monastery. Try hiking or cycling along the shady forest trails,
“If you are looking for a guaranteed jawdropper of a sunset, then look no further than Dubrovnik.” the south of the mainland, has a lovely old town complete with medieval squares, churches and houses, and thick forests of dense pine. Legend has it that Marco Polo was born on the island, whilst the pine forests supplied the lumber for mid-century Venetian architecture. However, Korkyra (as the locals call it) is now home to sleepy
or hire a kayak and explore the lakes. Walk to the top of the 200m hills for spectacular views of the Adriatic, or mooch around the lovely little villages that dot the rest of the island. Havr is popular as a party town, and has the perfect setting for it. Town planners created a fantastic network
of hotels, restaurants, marinas, galleries and cafés which, combined with marble traffic-free streets and Gothic architecture, make this a memorable night out! The island is also famous for its vineyards, olive groves and the production of rosemary and lavender, so there’s plenty of opportunity for foodie souvenirs. SUNSET CITY If you are looking for a guaranteed jawdropper of a sunset, then look no further than Dubrovnik. Whether you choose to bid farewell to the day on a kayak trip to Lokrum Island, taking the cable car up Mount Srdj to see the distant horizon, or even ending the day in a pirate galleon, the view is guaranteed to be stunning! omega-holidays.com
HEADER
21
Andrew & Liz Carpenter We’re from Frome in Somerset, famous for being the home of Jensen Button! We’re travelling to Heathrow and then on to JFK, as my wife is taking me to New York for my 60th birthday.
For a dream summer holiday we would always choose a cruise, probably eastern Mediterranean with Italian destinations, Venice is our favourite. Our tip for travellers would be to plan ahead and remain calm.
We chat to passengers travelling from Aberdeen International Airport and find out what they always make sure to pack and where their favourite winter holiday destination is.
Sophia & Melanie Stromberg We’re from South Wales and we’ve just been to Birmingham for a week with relatives. Sophia would never leave home without her phone and one of my essentials is sunglasses,
even winter sun can be blinding. My dream summer holiday would be Bali and Sophia’s is Tokyo. We both think that comfort is the most important thing on any flight.
Dawn Wilkie
Mr Singh & Mrs Kaur
Charlotte Clark
I’m from Montrose and today I’m going to Heathrow and then on to Surrey to spend time with friends. I wouldn’t leave home without my phone, particularly as it has my boarding pass on it. If I could go anywhere for a summer holiday I would choose Finland, or really anywhere in Scandinavia as I am learning Swedish at the moment and it would be great to practice. My top tip would be not to forget your iPad just because it’s in a separate tray going through security!
We’re from Dunfermline and we’re travelling to Heathrow, then on to Toronto for a family get together. The worst thing we’ve ever forgotten was a camera that we bought specifically for the holiday, on the back seat of the car. Iceland would be a dream holiday destination, and we would recommend that you arrive at the airport in plenty of time to avoid stress.
I’m from Aberdeen and I’m travelling via Amsterdam to Geneva to spend the holiday with my son and daughter-inlaw. I wouldn’t leave home without my medication, passport and money, and my favourite Italian leather handbag. I don’t really have a dream summer destination as I have travelled a lot in the past, but I really like connecting through Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam as I always get help there which is vital in such a large airport. My top tip would be to travel light.
22
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Karen Bain Age: 40 Job: Terminal Safety Officer at Aberdeen International Airport
hen I arrive at 4.30am, the first thing I do is read the Terminal Safety Officer report from
morning brief with them when they come in. Every day is different at the airport. I am the
the day before, then I head down to the gates for the 5am rush, when flights to Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Paris all depart at similar times. My job is to oversee the passenger flow, make sure that there are no security breaches and ensure that everyone gets on the correct plane!
main first aider on site, so I’m the first to be called when a first aid situation occurs. It can be anything from a passenger cutting their finger, to a life-threatening incident. I’ve only been in this role for two years and, thankfully, I’ve never had to deal with any particularly horrific situations, but some of my colleagues have witnessed strokes and heart attacks. This was obviously really difficult for them, but it’s our responsibility to ensure the safety of passengers and staff, so we need to be prepared for all incidents.
After rush hour, I walk around all areas of the airport to check for any cleaning or health and safety issues. It’s a really important part of my job to look out for unattended bags and suspicious packages. If I do happen to spot any of these, I will immediately call our security team, who take the items for further inspection. I have my breakfast at 6am, and this coincides with the arrival of the day shift Airport Duty Manager. I work very closely with the ADM, so it’s really helpful to have a
Between peak times, I make sure I am available in the main terminal to assist with passengers’ queries. Airports can be busy and complicated places, so I think it’s really important that a member of staff is there to point passengers in the right direction.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
The buzz of the airport always keeps me going. I’ve worked in the aviation industry for 19 years – I used to be a flight attendant on longhaul flights – and I still really love the atmosphere. I love the passengers! I’m always so interested in chatting to them and hearing all their stories. I get really caught up in their excitement of going away on holiday and it puts me in such a good mood.
23
No two days are the same at an airport, which means the job is always interesting and challenging. My colleagues at the airport are amazing. It feels like you are part of a (very) big family, and having that support and camaraderie at work makes such a huge difference.
It’s particularly exciting working at Aberdeen Airport at the moment, as we’ve recently started construction on phase one of our £20million terminal expansion project. I can’t wait until June to see the completion of the two-storey extension, with brand new arrivals and immigration facilities, and new business lounges on the upper level. It will be great to see it all come together.
24 RETAIL
Dreamy gifts to make that special someone swoon Looking for the perfect gifts this
of vibrant grapefruit, World Duty Free.. Free
one-button simplicity, touch display and
season? Whether it’s for Valentine’s
gifts will be available when you spend
waterproof design, Dixons Travel.
Day, Mother’s Day or another special
£30 or more on Molton Brown products.
occasion, there’s something for everyone when you shop at the airport.
Samsung Galaxy Tab E 9.6" With the Versace, Eros Eros for men is a fragrance
Samsung Galaxy Tab E 9.6" tablet you get
that interprets sublime masculinity with
stylish ergonomic design, paired with a
Versace, Dylan Blue Dylan Blue is the
an intense, vibrant and glowing freshness
sensitive camera and enhanced multi-
new fragrance for men that captivates
by combining mint leaves, lemon zest and
tasking capabilities. Weighing just 495g
the sensual scents of the Mediterranean.
green apple. A scent of intensity and power,
and only 8.5 mm thin, this device is
It’s a highly distinctive fragrance which is
World Duty Free.
extremely portable - ideal for students and
the expression of a man’s strength and charisma, World Duty Free.
commuters, Dixons Travel. Versace, Yellow Diamond Yellow Diamond is an enchanting fragrance which
Versace, Oud Oriental A new fragrance
Fitbit Charge 2 New Fitbit Charge2 is
gives the warming feeling of sun on your
for women by Versace which has been
available in 4 colours (Teal, Blue, Plum,
skin. A very feminine and glamorous scent,
designed for those who love oriental scents.
Black). It also comes with a new setting to
World Duty Free. Travelling between 1st Feb
Oud is one of the finest ingredients of
give you guided breathing sessions,
and 31st April? You will receive a free gift
perfumery craftsmanship. Intensely dark
Dixons Travel.
with your Versace purchase when you
oud notes enrich this fragrance, World
spend £50 or more.
Duty Free.
Molton Brown, Tobbacco Absolute EDT A warm, woody eau de toilette that
GoPro HERO5 Black The most powerful
combines complex notes of Paraguayan
and easy-to-use GoPro ever, thanks to its
tobacco, balsam and musk, lifted by a hint
4K video, voice control, video stabilisation,
Free Gifts are subject to availability.
RETAIL
Travelling through the airport
sensuality; a biting freshness
during May 2017? If you spend
that blows the mind, World
£50 or more on YSL products
Duty Free.
you will receive a free gift with your purchase.
YSL, Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils – The Shock
YSL, Black Opium Floral
Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils
Shock Between cool
The Shock offers the new YSL
sophistication and burning
signature lashes for women who
addiction, Black Opium Floral
dare to empower their look. It
Shock is a deliciously irresistible
is the perfect weapon to get
shock of sensuality. The
a quick dramatic volume on
addictive signature of Black
lashes from the very first stroke.
Opium wrapped in quivering
Thanks to its exquisite formula
freshness: the warm sensuality
and patented volumising brush,
of black coffee shaken with
it instantly loads every lash with
the fresh bold notes of citrus
the right amount of mascara,
and white flowers. High-octane
World Duty Free.
25
26
LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS
BUENOS AIRES WITH LUFTHANSA Birthplace of the tango, with narrow streets and boulevards, and a heady blend of South American frenzy and European chic, Buenos Aires is a city full of endless options. Colourful architecture and football-crazed locals in La Boca; swanky bars and ultra-hip restaurants in Palermo; world-class shopping in Recoleta; tango dancing on every corner in beautiful San Telmo; history at every turn on the vast sweep of Avenida de Mayo. Whether you want to feast on Latin culture at the peerless MALBA gallery, eat your bodyweight in stunning steaks at a local parilla or shop your way through some of South America’s finest boutiques, Argentina’s endlessly cool capital has got it covered. Book your flights via Frankfurt at lh.com DUBAI WITH KLM Fly KLM to Dubai and discover phenomenal hotels, beach resorts, souks and shops. No expense or effort has been spared in making Dubai the glitzy world capital of luxury. The architecture is awe-inspiring. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, will bowl you over - as will everything else you'll find to see, do and buy in Dubai. Relax on a sandy beach or go shopping during the day, and when the sun goes down, dance the night away in a stylish club. Whatever type of holiday you prefer, Dubai is perfect for an unforgettable escape. Book your flights via Amsterdam at klm.com NEW YORK WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS New York has a magical movie-like pull all of its own. Whether it’s just hearing the names of the five boroughs Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn, or visiting film-star landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, you’ll have to pinch yourself to see if it’s real. Visit Brookfield Place in downtown Manhattan for some sky-is-the-limit luxury shopping as well as a vast French-inspired marketplace and eight signature restaurants; or be one of the first to visit The Met Breuer, a brand new world-class contemporary art museum on Madison Avenue. Book your flights via London Heathrow at britishairways.com
LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS
27
There’s a world of choice to connect long-haul to any global destination with our global carriers at Aberdeen International Airport this season.
PHILADELPHIA WITH ICELANDAIR As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Philadelphia has a lot to offer the modern traveller. Take in the Reading Terminal Market, billed as America’s oldest farmers’ market, for everything local, artisanal and inventive. The city has played a significant role in American history, and both the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were signed in “Philly”. If you’re a history buff, or have a thing for important paperwork, you should grab your wig and take a trip to Philadelphia! Just make sure you have time to grab the city’s famous tomato pie. Icelandair offers a seasonal service to Philadelphia four times a week between May and October. Book your flights via Reykjavik at icelandair.co.uk TORONTO WITH AIR FRANCE Home to more than 100 nationalities and ethnic groups, this Canadian trade hub is also a bustling multicultural metropolis. Symbol of the intellectual and cultural life of English-speaking Canada, Toronto offers uncountable galleries and museums, designer boutiques and institutions of high education. Strolling the streets of the city is like taking a tour of the world. You can visit Hong Kong in Chinatown, order an Americano in Little Italy, have a Greek dinner in a neighbourhood that evokes the Athenian Plaka, and end your day in the best possible way, salsa dancing in a Latin club. Book your flights via Paris at airfrance.co.uk TOKYO WITH SAS Celebrate the end of winter in style by going to a cherry blossom festival in Tokyo. Ueno Sakura Matsuri is held in a park lined with 600 cherry trees and lit nightly by 1000 lanterns. Visit the peaceful Meiji Shrine within a forest, yet still in the heart of Tokyo, then watch the beautiful people for an afternoon in Yoyogi Park. Get your fill of shopping and nightlife in bustling Roppongi, or head to Harajuki for an explosion of quirky Japanese teen fashion, Chairman Mao memorabilia and vintage finds. Book your flight via Copenhagen at flysas.com
28 HEADER
INTERNATIONAL: > ALICANTE with Ryanair (from Feb 2017) > AMSTERDAM with KLM > BERGEN with Eastern Airways, & Widerøe > BOURGAS with Balkan Holidays > COPENHAGEN with SAS > CORFU with Thomson & First Choice > DALAMAN with Thomson & First Choice > DUBLIN with Aer Lingus > DUBROVNIK with Omega Holidays (July 2017) > ESBJERG with bmi regional > FARO with Ryanair (from May
KEF
2017), Thomson & First Choice > FRANKFURT with Lufthansa > FRIEDRICHSHAFEN with Omega Holidays (July 2017) > GDAŃSK with Wizz Air > GENEVA with easyJet > GRAN CANARIA with Thomson & First Choice > IBIZA with Thomson & First Choice > MÁLAGA with Ryanair (from Feb 2017) > NAPLES with Newmarket Holidays & Omega Holidays > OSLO with bmi regional & SAS > PALMA with Thomson, First Choice & Thomas Cook
> > > > > > > > >
PARIS with Air France REYKJAVIK with Icelandair RIGA with airBaltic (from May 2017) STAVANGER with Eastern Airways, SAS & Widerøe TENERIFE with Thomson & First Choice WARSAW with Wizz Air VAGAR with Loganair (from May 2017) VENICE with Omega Holidays (July 2017) VERONA with Newmarket Holidays
> > > > >
> > > > >
NORWICH with bmi regional & Eastern Airways SOUTHAMPTON with Eastern Airways STORNOWAY with Eastern Airways SUMBURGH with Loganair WICK with Eastern Airways
DOMESTIC: > > > > > >
BELFAST CITY with Flybe BIRMINGHAM with Flybe BRISTOL with bmi regional CARDIFF with Eastern Airways DURHAM TEES VALLEY with Eastern Airways HUMBERSIDE with Eastern Airways
> JERSEY with Jersey Holidays > KIRKWALL with Loganair
LEEDS BRADFORD with Eastern Airways LONDON CITY with Flybe LONDON GATWICK with easyJet LONDON HEATHROW with British Airways & Flybe (from March 2017) LONDON LUTON with easyJet
> MANCHESTER with Flybe > NEWCASTLE with Eastern Airways
AIRLINES & TOUR OPERATORS: AER LINGUS | aerlingus.com AIR BALTIC | airbaltic.com AIR FRANCE | airfrance.co.uk AIRWAYS HOLIDAYS | airwaysholidays.com BALKAN HOLIDAYS | balkanholidays.co.uk BMI REGIONAL | bmiregional.com BRITISH AIRWAYS | ba.com EASTERN AIRWAYS | easternairways.com
EASYJET | easyjet.com FIRST CHOICE | firstchoice.co.uk FLYBE | flybe.com ICELANDAIR | icelandair.co.uk JERSEY TRAVEL | jerseytravel.com KLM | klm.com LOGANAIR | logainair.co.uk LUFTHANSA | lufthansa.com NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS | newmarketholidays.co.uk
OMEGA HOLIDAYS | omega-holidays.com RYANAIR | ryanair.com SAS | flysas.com THOMAS COOK | thomascook.com THOMSON | thomson.co.uk WIDERØE | wideroe.no/en WIZZ AIR | wizzair.com TFS
LPA
29
HEADER
FAE
LSI
BGO
OSL
KOI SYY
SVG
WIC
ABZ
NCL BHD
CPH
EBJ
RIX
MME LBA
DUB
GDN
MAN
HUY NW I BHX
CWL
LTN
BRS SOU
LGW
LCY LHR
AMS
JER
WAW
FRA CDG FDH
GVA VRN
VCE
DBV
BOJ
NAP IBZ ALC
FAO AGP
PMI CFU
DLM
30
SUMMER DESTINATIONS
02.
01. 06. 07. Looking for some sunshine? Planning ahead for this summer? You’re sure to catch the sun at these idyllic holiday hotspots, flying directly from Aberdeen. 01. Jersey Discover the beautiful island of Jersey which lies a mere 14 miles from France and is a top holiday destination, offering golden beaches, a fascinating cultural heritage and some of the best local food in Europe. Enjoy doing as much or as little as you feel like, as you experience Jersey’s lifestyle through a full day relaxing on the beach or actively seeking some thrills with sea kayaking, coasteering or abseiling. Jersey’s currency is the pound and they speak English, making it an exotic staycation destination. Direct flights depart from Aberdeen Airport every
Saturday 29th April- 9th September. jerseytravel.co.uk
02. Slovenia If you like Austria or Switzerland, you'll love Slovenia, a soaring Alpine landscape of mountains, deep forests, lakes, caves and castles. Slovenia is the third most forested country in Europe, with huge areas of pristine natural habitat, and water quality among the highest in Europe. It's an up-and-coming 'foodie paradise' too, with award-winning hams, cheeses, olive oils, wines, and Ljubljana eateries featuring among the San Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurants. In the Julian Alps of northwestern Slovenia
lies Lake Bled, beautifully set among mountains and forests and where you’ll also find the oldest castle in Slovenia. The country is also home to one of the oldest stud farms in the world and the famous Lipizzaner white horses of Vienna's Spanish Riding School. omega-holidays.com
03. Palma Palma is the island capital of Majorca, full of stunning architecture and home to a lively arts scene. Explore the tiny old quarter set under the gaze of the huge Gothic cathedral, then climb up to Bellvar Castle for stunning views over the city. Head to Santa Catalina for oodles of nightlife or La Llonja for
03.
04. Ibiza The White Isle has never been closer. Famous for its stunning sunsets, neon nightlife and sugar-cube towns, Ibiza is a one-of-a-kind destination. And it’s waiting for you. You can party in the clubland of San Antonio, or unwind on a quiet beach in peaceful Portinatx. Spend a day exploring the cobbled streets of Ibiza Old Town – this place is packed with colourful hippy markets,
31
of alleyways, and lively Piazza Tasso, make it the perfect Italian seaside resort. Perhaps combine exploring its extraordinary landscape with visits to the ruins of ancient Pompeii or the enchanting Isle of Capri and the breathtaking ‘Amalfi Drive’. newmarketholidays.com
04. 05.
quirky boutiques and art galleries. If you fancy a day on the beach, Playa del Palma is a short bus ride away, and Olivar market is a great place to sample local produce. thomson.co.uk; firstchoice.co.uk
SUMMER DESTINATIONS
06. Bulgaria Balkan Holidays, the UK’s leading specialist operator to Non-Euro Bulgaria, continue to offer the rich and varied resorts of Sunny Beach, Elenite, Nessebar, Pomorie, Sozopol and Duni, direct from Aberdeen this summer, with deposits of just £49pp. From the 8km long Sunny Beach with its buzzing seaside promenade complete with bars, restaurants, water sports, aquaparks and fairground; to the UNESCO world heritage site of Old Nessebar with 3000 years of history, remains of over 40 churches and a picturesque harbour, Bulgaria’s golden Black Sea coast has something for everyone in the summer. Great value for money is what Bulgaria does best, with an evening meal costing around £10 per adult and a pint of beer under £1. balkanholidays.co.uk historical sites and beachfront restaurants. If you’re looking for luxury, treat yourself to a stay at Sensatori Resort Ibiza. This five-star hotel serves up six pools, gourmet dining and a cliff-top sunset lounge. Find out more with Thomson. thomson.co.uk; firstchoice.co.uk
05. Naples At the end of the long sweep of the Bay of Naples which curves from the bustling city beneath the brooding, triangular cone of Vesuvius, the ‘Sorrentine peninsula’ juts out into blue waters, the very picture of Mediterranean perfection. Sorrento's wonderful cliff-top setting, warren
07. Málaga Whether you’re a beach bunny, a golf addict or a shopaholic, Málaga and the surrounding Costa del Sol has just what the doctor ordered. There’s Marbella or Puerto Banus for yacht parties, and more than 70 golf courses across the Costa del Sol with temperatures at 15˚C even during winter months. Stylish boutiques and fascinating museums sit alongside local cafés and restaurants serving the catch of the day. There are also five Natural Parks, perfect for hiking, climbing, cycling and horseriding, or spend a day discovering tiny white villages nestled amongst the mountains. ryanair.com
34
LOCAL FLAVOURS
“Fine examples of stunning architecture such as Marischal College and St. Nicholas Kirk sit cheek by jowl with a working harbour and ferry terminal, and all in a matter of a few streets”.
he Merchant Quarter of Aberdeen stretches the length of the harbour, encompassing Union Square and the bus and railway stations, along to Bridge Street in the west and Castlegate in the east, and up to the Bon Accord centre on Schoolhill. It encompasses a vibrant slice of Aberdeen life: there are nine hotels and five shopping centres, including flagship Union Square as well as smaller independent shops. The area has a strong cultural focus, with the Tivoli and His Majesty’s theatres, as well as museums, music venues, art collections and performance spaces. Fine examples of stunning architecture such as Marischal College and St. Nicholas Kirk sit cheek by jowl with a working harbour and ferry terminal, and all in a matter of a few streets. Bringing life and vibrancy to the quarter are the variety of independent bars, cafés and restaurants that sit on every cobbled street. Here is a small selection to try:
Moonfish Café – is tucked away down the medieval-sounding Correction Wynd and nearby 12th century St. Nicholas Kirk, which certainly provides an atmospheric backdrop. There’s nothing medieval about this modern and welcoming restaurant though, with a clever seasonal menu, beautiful plates of food and an inspirational gin list. Moonfish has also been runner-up in the Observer Monthly Food Awards for four years in a row. moonfishcafe.co.uk Musa – is a restaurant, art gallery and music venue, cleverly imagined within a 19th century church on Exchange Street. The restaurant supports an artisanal approach to life, and offers world cuisine alongside Scottish
LOCAL FLAVOURS
35
staples with a twist. It uses local, seasonal produce partnered with other local food and drink suppliers, which is evidenced by their (Brewdog) Punk IPA battered lemon sole dish. They have bi-monthly changing art exhibitions for sale, an early steak supper club and open mic nights. musaaberdeen.com 210 Bistro – provides a rare view out over Aberdeen’s working harbour, which provides a spectacular backdrop, particularly at night. The ground floor café/bar serves breakfast from 8.30am, and the constantly changing cocktail list complements Saturday’s afternoon tea offer. The restaurant is on the first floor and serves lunch, early evening and dinner menus, sourced from local suppliers and served by friendly staff. 210bistro.com Bistro Verde – this long-established seafood restaurant on The Green has a great reputation and serves legendary Cullen Skink. Family run with great staff who are very community minded and like to come up with ideas to share their good fortune and lovely food. Fresh fish and seafood are delivered daily, and specialities include a Bloody Mary oyster shot and Hot Seafood Mixed Platter. bistroverde.co.uk Contour Café – is a bustling and lively café on The Green, serving intriguing sandwiches such as Pistol Pete’s Pastrami, the Mona Lisa, and Squawkin’ Ranch, as well as generouslyfilled bacon rolls and lovely coffee. Modern lumen bulbs are a sit-in feature and Contour is open from 7.30am daily for your early morning essentials. contourcatering.co.uk
“Bringing life and vibrancy to the quarter are the variety of independent bars, cafés and restaurants that sit on every cobbled street.”
36
LOCAL FLAVOURS
It was a cold, wet and miserable evening when we visited Café 52 and due to the wild weather the electricity across The Green was going on and off. My friend Mandy and I were seated in the super cosy cabin out in the courtyard and kept our fingers crossed that we could sample some of the delicious menu! We were delighted to see that the festive menu offered some different options and there was no sign of the usual ‘turkey and all the trimmings’ in sight. I started with a generous portion of pickled fennel, apple and pomegranate bruschetta which was very tasty. Mandy had the smoked mussel salad to start with which was delicious and boasted an array of different textures and flavours. For main course I tucked into the Persian lamb shank tagine which in no way disappointed. With almost every mouthful there was a burst of flavour and I particularly enjoyed the richness of the tagine. Mandy chose the Normandy pork. Despite it being very tasty, it needed the side dishes to add some variety to the plate. We chose the crispy kale
with sweet chilli and the fried parsnips with sea salt and honey to accompany our mains. The kale was incredible and we were on the verge of ordering more! With both of us being cheese fanatics we couldn’t resist the cheeseboard for dessert. It was a pleasant surprise to find not the usual crackers but thinly toasted pieces of bruschetta to enjoy with the cheese. The chutney and variety on the board was great. Our service throughout was attentive and we felt in no way rushed. The staff seemed very calm and we were blissfully unaware of the havoc the weather must have been causing for the team. With many local businesses in Aberdeen closing recently, it’s so important we support proudly passionate and locally-owned restaurants like Café 52. It is definitely worth a visit for all the foodies out there!
By Carly Davidson, Friends of Anchor
38 INTERNATIONAL
The Editor pays a visit to the oil capital of Norway - Stavanger
INTERNATIONAL
y flight to Stavanger with Widerøe was swift and efficient, and it came as a pleasant surprise to find out that you can leave the tarmac in Aberdeen and be in Stavanger, surrounded by fjords and wooden houses a mere 75 minutes later. The trip from the airport takes just 20 minutes, unless of course you stop at the stunning Swords in Rock monument at the side of the road, three massive bronze swords plunged into the rock Arthurian-style, however these commemorate the unification of Norway in 872 by Fairheaded Harald. Stavanger is on the coast and of a similar latitude to Aberdeen, so the weather is familiar, but the buildings was not, with most of the buildings low-lying, and many of the heritage architecture, as well as some cutting edge projects, made of wood. The first place I visited was the Norwegian Canning Museum, a truly fascinating place run by enthusiasts and full of working examples of the processes and history involved in what was the main industry, and employer of men and women of Stavanger from the late 19th century until the oil industry took over. The most memorable part was the room full of artwork for the sardine cans, depicting everything from a triumphant German battle to a ‘Bonnie Lassie’ in highland dress.
39
Old Stavanger is full of listed buildings which are still dwellings and there is lots of evidence of civic pride in the gardens and street decorations everywhere. A stroll down Stavanger’s answer to Notting Hill reveals a vibrant, brightly painted thoroughfare with a pavement culture and lots to look at. Customers buying a cake in one establishment can take it to the next and order a coffee, in a quite unique take on working together. Stavanger prides itself on being part of a foodie region, with fertile lowlands and the longest growing season in Norway. There are great restaurants to suit all pockets, from Michelin-starred Ren-aa, to quirky Bølgen & Moi in the Oil Museum and the more traditional Restaurant Skagen. Every year the city holds Gladmat, literally translated as ‘Happy Food’, the biggest food festival in Scandinavia. My Widerøe open sandwich seemed a long time ago, so I went on recommendation to eat at Fisketorget, where I had a very memorable meal for all the right reasons. I was persuaded to try the Luskefisk, a traditional dish often prepared for the festive season, and made from air-dried fish that has been soaked in caustic soda, then rinsed and boiled. Now I’ve read about this and
40 INTERNATIONAL
Must Do in Stavanger and surrounds TAKE A NATIONAL TOURIST ROUTE - Hire a car and drive the 183km Ryfylke route through magnificent scenery, or head south to the UNESCO Magma Geopark where the land is made of moonrock! WALK THE BLUE PROMENADE a 3km blue-lit walkway from an open air bathing pool to the new Concert Hall in Stavanger. FIND ALL THE PIECES OF ‘BROKEN COLUMN’ - Anthony Gormley’s 23 piece sculpture, bronze human sized pieces placed around the city on imaginary contour lines, all facing out to sea, each one identical and representing vertebrae. CRUISE & HIKE - take a combined cruise on Lysefjord and hike to two of Stavanger region’s most famous landmarks, Pulpit Rock or Kjerag Bolt. Stock up with deli goodies for lunch at Ostehuset.
was a bit dubious, but then I thought, ‘When in Norway…’ and went for it! The fish is served with crushed peas, smoked bacon, boiled potatoes and mustard sauce, and it was divine, along with the tiny portion of Fiskesuppe that I had as an entrée. The restaurant looks out onto one of 23 Anthony Gormley bronzes submerged in the harbour pavement, as well as lots of bars, cafés and restaurants stretched
of the festival, but many of the images stay much longer than that.
along either side of the water.
and the mountains beyond, while the imaginative and people-focused exhibits alternately charm and educate. I was particularly enchanted with the summer schools project, a 6ft high oil platform built out of spaghetti strands! On the way back to the airport, I popped into the Sola Strand hotel, a lovely place founded in the early 1900s, now complete with beach, spa, restaurants and an entire woodpanelled former smoking room from the defunct cruise ship Montroyal. Sadly then, it was time to nip back across the North Sea, landing back in Aberdeen by 8pm.
Next on the agenda were the walls and doors of the city itself, the blank canvasses on which the NuArt festival artists express themselves. The annual event invites street artists to submit designs and local residents and businesses to donate corresponding spaces, resulting in an explosion of thought-provoking and highly visual exhibits all over the city, from tiny figures escaping from an air vent, to a huge stags head made from scrap metal and twin oilmen painted on the sides of two industrial silos, if you look closely one of them is disappearing… The owners of the walls are free to paint over the murals after the month
Talking of staying, mine was nearly over, so I headed to the Oil Museum, where I watched a film about the generation of ‘Oil Children’, people born after 1969 who have known nothing else. The modern glass and girders structure affords great views of the platforms being fixed in the ship building yard,
Fly to Stavanger with Widerøe seven days a week. wideroe.no
OLLY MURS to follow in the footsteps of Elton John in the North-east Essex heartthrob, Olly Murs will be wowing fans of the North-east of Scotland this July when he returns to Aberdeen for a special gig that has only ever been seen once before in the city. The spectacular concert will be staged at a specially constructed 16,000 capacity outdoor arena on the grounds of the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) on Friday 21st July. This will be the second time that the venue has constructed the outdoor arena, following on from Elton John’s tour date in June 2015.
fans as well as a full range of concert facilities at the show including internal and external bars, catering and restrooms. The temporary structure will more than triple the GE Oil & Gas Arena seated/standing capacity for the Olly Murs gig. Celebrating another incredible year, Olly Murs said “I am thrilled to play outdoors at the Exhibition and Conference Centre in Aberdeen. Scottish audiences are always so brilliant to play for, they are so much fun!” 2017 is shaping up to be quite the year at the GE Oil & Gas Arena with so many big names already confirmed to perform including funny man Russell Howard, Iron Maiden and Aberdeen’s very own Emeli Sandé.
The team at AECC will be creating the
Tickets for Olly Murs are still available from Ticketmaster and prices start from £43.45. For a full list of all the
outdoors arena from scratch, on the south side of the complex, which will boast a seated and standing arena for
shows taking place at AECC and to purchase tickets, please visit ticketmaster.co.uk/AECC
9&10
11
14
Deep Freeze Festival* Edmonton Alberta Canada Royal Shakespeare Company: The Tempest (Live Screening) Woodend Barn Aberdeenshire Scottish Chamber Orchestra: Beethoven – The ‘Emperor’ HMT Aberdeen Scottish Ballet: Hansel & Gretel HMT Aberdeen Your Wedding Exhibition 21&22 AECC Aberdeen The King & I 25-28 HMT Aberdeen Burns Ceilidh Woodend 28 Barn, Aberdeenshire 18-21
Subsea Expo AECC Aberdeen Cirque Berserk 1-4 HMT Aberdeen George Monbiot and Ewan 5 McLennan, The Blue Lamp, Aberdeen Spectra: Aberdeen’s Festival 9-12 of Light various venues Banchory Beer Festival: 10&11 Woodend Barn, Aberdeenshire 1-3
Sandi Thom, Stonehaven Town Hall, Stewarts Hall Huntly Rugby Six Nations* 12 Paris, France Brendan Cole: All Night Long 21 HMT Aberdeen Granite Noir: Aberdeen’s 24-26 new crime writing festival Various venues The X Factor Live Tour 2017 28 AECC Aberdeen
10&11
Richard Gadd: Monkey See, Monkey Do Lemon Tree Aberdeen Alzheimers Research UK 13-15 Conference AECC Aberdeen Northern Lights Expo 15 Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen Aberdeen Jazz Festival 15-19 Various venues
9
BBC Radio 3 Free Thinking Festival* Sage Gateshead, Newcastle Rugby Six Nations* 18 Paris, France Blood Brothers 20-25 HMT Aberdeen Miles Jupp 22 Lemon Tree Aberdeen 28 MAR The Crucible - 1 APR HMT Aberdeen 17-19
3 5
Puppet Animation Festival: Moonbeam on a Cat’s Ear Lemon Tree Aberdeen Culture Café with Ian Rankin
Belmont Filmhouse Aberdeen 15&16 Slow Marathon Huntly, Aberdeenshire The Shires 19 Beach Ballroom Aberdeen Sister Echt Aberdeen Student 19-22 Charities Campaign HMT Aberdeen A Play, A Pie & A Pint: 25-29 His Final Bow Lemon Tree Aberdeen The Ultimate Business Show 26 AECC Aberdeen 27 APR - Look Again Festival 1 MAY Various venues
44 COMMUNITY
There have been better years on Royal Deeside than 2015. And the residents of the pretty Victorian village of Ballater would be forgiven for feeling that they had been singled out in some way, although they were by no means the only community affected.
COMMUNITY
In May 2015, the original wooden railway station where Queen Victoria waited for the train, and which then housed a shop, a restaurant and a museum, was consumed by fire. Then in December the same year, Storm Frank’s floodwaters devastated a shopping street, the caravan site, the golf course and almost 400 homes.
“...we are moving forward in a new way.”
Ballater was in the midst of winter, when local footfall is vital for businesses to keep afloat, and almost half the village was rehoused, mostly outwith the village, although local hotels such as the Deeside Inn stepped up to make sure everyone had somewhere to go. At the time of writing, around 30 people are still waiting to return to their homes. Richard Watts, chairman of Ballater Business Association (BBA) said, ‘Our immediate priority as a community was to get
45
people back into their businesses and homes. A tremendous community spirit rose out of the disaster, where people really pulled together, and you can still feel it.’ The local caravan park is owned by the community and was the focus of many photos and videos visible at the time of the flood, as large pieces of the static caravans washed down the river like tin cans, while the rest lay jumbled up as if by the hand of a giant child. The village was helped in the huge clear-up operation by many local groups, including gamekeepers and the army, and the site was reopened for touring caravans and tents, complete with a new play park in time for summer 2016. The golf course reacted quickly, and with the help of many volunteers, fully re-opened for play at the end of March 2016.
46 COMMUNITY
Places like Ballater work hard for a living, as the visitor season is short, and people must make the most of it if they are to make a success of living and working in such a beautiful part of the world. Today’s Royal family certainly seem to agree, as the Prince of Wales visited during the early days after the flooding, and his mother The Queen attended the official reopening of the Ballater golf course in August. The Prince’s Trust is also investing in the re-emerging town, by opening the Rothesay Rooms, an upscale restaurant, and incorporating a Highgrove shop which will sell Duchy of Cornwall goods. Richard is proud of the progress made, and of the assistance given by Aberdeenshire Council. He says, ‘We have so much to offer, and because of the combined and prolonged team effort, we are moving forward in a new way’. The BBA has been working with local councillors to fundraise for a local marketing initiative called ‘Can Do Country’, which includes video footage of the Royal Deeside area for use on social media including a travel channel on YouTube.
Another innovation is the use of ‘augmented reality’ - an experience not unlike Pokémon GO, where the visitor points a smart phone at a local landmark or place of interest and interpretative videos appear on the screen. Although the recent focus has been on the centre of Ballater, so much of what the village has to offer lies in the area surrounding it. There is spectacular walking and climbing, from a quick hike up Craigendarroch behind the village, to Loch Muick and Lochnagar, and the rest of the Cairngorm National Park. Hire a bike and take to Tarland bike trails, or try for a salmon on the River Dee. Royal Lochanagar Distillery and Balmoral Castle are just up the road. Almost all the shops have re-opened and the Royal Station is on course for re-opening with a brand new interactive museum in 2017. You can stay in a tent, a hostel or a luxury hotel; eat in awardwinning restaurants, or sample a homemade scone. Stop for an hour or a week, you are guaranteed to fall in love with ‘Can Do Country’. visitballater.com
48
LOCAL INTERESTS
here was a time when sewing a hem and knitting a sock were amongst the most basic of lessons taught at school by Domestic Science or Home Economics teachers. Often derided at the time, those lessons learned were among the most useful in later life, especially if your mum wasn’t the sewing kind. Gradually these skills became old fashioned and largely forgotten in an age of disposability. Then the Great British Sewing Bee happened, knitwear made it back onto the catwalk and home crafts were back on the scene.
The Entrepreneur Iona Barker learned of the decision to phase sewing out of the school curriculum in 2010 and, horrified at the thought of future generations bereft of buttons, decided to do something about it. After graduating in Fashion, Iona went to London and worked in the frantic world of theatre, film and TV wardrobe, until the day she created Say It Ain’t Sew, a not for profit enterprise which provides tutors and materials for weekly basic hand sewing classes in five cities across Scotland. Each week people of all ages meet up to make anything from a seahorse to a passport
cover in sociable surroundings. Iona adds, ‘I wanted to reintroduce the fun aspect of sewing, and show people that it’s sociable too. The Aberdeen class started in September this year, and there were 70 people queuing for the first class, although numbers tend to be around 20 usually.’ Iona recently appeared in the first episode of ‘Kirsty Allsopp’s Crafty Christmas’ making a pet coat with Kirsty. The Survivor Mairi Bradford really didn’t mean to buy a craft shop, but somehow, during a trip home during the dissertation phase of her
LOCAL INTERESTS
final year doing Textiles at Duncan of Jordanstone, she did. The Wee Boorachie at Milton of Crathes had always been one of her mum’s favourite shops, and Mairi knew she didn’t want to head down the traditional fashion route to London, so it seemed like the right decision at the time. She thought differently, however, when she was baling out the submerged shop during last year’s devastating floods. Mairi closed the shop, and began to plan her return. Using her partner’s workshop to construct free standing shelving out of copper piping and breeze blocks, she completely redesigned and revamped the old mill house and was able to put her own stamp on it at the same time. The Wee Boorachie re-opened on 24 June 2016 after being closed for six months, and is now a modern, airy space with a cosy log burner and twinkling lights everywhere. Mairi showcases more than 15 Scottish crafters and knits accessories herself on a machine in the shop, more than living up to the motto painted on her wall ‘Go out there and do amazing things’. The Visionary Rosy Wood of Deeside Knitwits had just taken early retirement from her job in 2009 and
called ‘Would you Adam and Eve it?’ as part of the Easter Anguston sculpture park, which she and her friends created. They knitted fruit and a huge colourful snake, which were all displayed during NEOS, then the snake went on to be recycled for a knitted display on the Skye road bridge, morphing into a tractor cover the following year. Each year Rosy comes up with a new project, which is now an integral part of the Braemar Creative Arts Festival, creates patterns and sources materials. She uses the Deeside Knitwits Facebook page to reach a now international ‘knitwork’ with contributors from as far afield as USA, Singapore and Norway, some of whom she has never met, but who knit up the patterns she posts on Facebook and send them to her. This year Rosy put buckets of wool and needles in various locations around Braemar, including the doctors’ surgery and the Invercauld Hotel, where members of coach parties with time on their hands knitted up a storm. Projects such as Wool Cycle (lifesize sheep), Giant Pandas, Elmer the patchwork stag and fish for the ‘Sea to the Mountains’ installation have all adorned the village, and at the end of each project the knitted pieces are
the craze for ‘guerilla knitting’ was on the rise. She came up with a project
displayed and then sold off to raise funds for local charities.
49
Aberdeen - Say It Ain’t Sew – Brewdog at the Gallowgate, every Wednesday 68pm (Facebook) Milton of Crathes - One to one machine knitting – The Wee Boorachie, by appointment theweeboorachie. com Braemar (and worldwide) Deeside Knitwits – Knitter Natter @The Bothy, Tuesdays 2-4pm (Facebook) Banchory - Happy Knitters @ Community Learning rooms, Hill of Banchory Primary, knitters and crocheters of all abilities welcome Laurencekirk - Knitty Kitty Bang Bang – Creative textile and sewing classes in 5 week blocks starting January 2017 @The Venue. knittykittybangbang.co.uk Huntly - Craft and Chatter@The Linden Tree – Thursdays 1 – 3.30pm. networksofwellbeing.org Inverurie - NESCOL, Inverurie Learning Centre – Knitting & Crocheting for Beginners 12 week course starting April 2017. nescol.ac.uk
50
BEAT GOES ON
David Scott, Los Cardones, Argentina
Mrs Murdoch, Mandalay, Myanmar
Peter Paltan, Dubai, UAE Nicola Clark, Copenhagen, Denmark
WIN A ÂŁ100 VOUCHER to spend at World Duty Free, at Aberdeen International Airport.
Alastair Greig, New Zealand Elizabeth Scott, Altiplano, Argentina
BEAT GOES ON
George Sessler, New South Wales, Australia
51
Alisanne Ennis, Barcelona Elizabeth Smyth, Lao Cai, Vietnam
Jonathan Graham, Myanmar Norma Hunter, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Tony Cernan, Rome, Italy
See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT - go on, be creative! Send your photo to ABZupbeat@aiairport. com. Please submit high resolution images, at least 1MB in size at 300dpi print resolution. See the winning picture in the Spring 2017 upBEAT - it could be yours! (Deadline: 20th March 2017).
52
WORDS WORTH READING
A Cold Death In Amsterdam by Anja de Jager Councillors have a lot of report reading to do, so on a recent break in Amsterdam, the book I took to help me escape was A Cold Death In Amsterdam. This is a book about fraud and murder – neither of which fortunately tend to figure in police reports for my Ward and is thus the perfect holiday read for me. Lotte Meerman is a detective with the Amsterdam police and an emotional mess due to a previous investigation; she can’t sleep, and has taken to driving round at night to try and calm herself. Without giving the story away -
Lotte stumbles on a 10-year-old unresolved case originally investigated by her father. The narrative is well written and atmospheric; you can almost feel the cold seeping from the frozen canals. Fraught with lies, deceit, misunderstanding and misdirection, this is a page turner, as Lotte tries vainly to keep all the balls in the air, and one step ahead of everyone. This is a stay up all night until you finish sort of book! Geva Blackett, Councillor, Aberdeenshire Council
Three North-east airport users recommend some riveting in-flight reading from WHSmith’s latest list of top 20 bestsellers. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins Some holidaymakers look out for an easy read, but I love nothing more than a gritty psychological thriller which instantly grabs my attention and keeps me enthralled for the duration of the trip, and ‘The Girl on the Train’ is definitely one of those books. The book tells the story of Rachel, an alcoholic recently separated from her husband Tom, who left her for another woman. Every day, on the train to work, Rachel passes her ex-husband’s home. One day, she sees something shocking, and the next morning she wakes up covered in blood and bruises with no recollection of
the night before. Also Tom’s neighbour, Megan has mysteriously disappeared, and Rachel can’t be certain that she, herself, wasn’t involved. It’s no surprise that this book has sold 15 million copies and was recently turned into a major motion picture. It’s one of the best books I have read in years, and I guarantee it will keep you firmly on the edge of your seat! Stephen Innes, PA & Communications Coordinator, Aberdeen International Airport
More Moaning: The Enlightened One Returns by Karl Pilkington If, like me, you want that killer punch line that delivers laughs to the point where other travellers will stop and stare at you in a strange way, then put this on your to-read list. Karl doesn’t set out to be funny, he just shares an open and honest view on how we as humans interact with our planet. Don’t worry if the “moaning of life” is a new discovery for you, the previous releases don’t follow any rhyme or reason which is great for back tracking the
series – no story to follow just short tales that will honestly make you giggle. If you have ever found yourself thinking “why did I say that”? Don’t worry, Karl’s probably said it too, so you’re in good company! Gary Greenhalgh, Station Manager, Swissport
ADVERTORIAL
Douneside House is a stunning country house hotel set above the pretty village of Tarland within Royal Deeside. After undergoing a £5m renovation programme in 2016, the venue is available for small meetings right up to exclusive use, including 14 rooms in the main house, architectdesigned apartments and cosy cottages on the estate.
every aspect of your conference will be tailored to your requirements, one of the advantages of our size and approach.
The historic building offers a variety of conferencing options, with plenty of breakout rooms, while the main conservatory can host 40 day delegates. The award-winning, Gleneagles trained Head Chef will work with
We are proud of the fact that Douneside retains a historic, luxury authentic country house ‘home from home’ feel, whilst also benefiting from the recent investment in a dedicated fibre broadband connection – offering what is rarely found…. superfast broadband connection in the heart of Royal Deeside! Relaxation is the reward for hard work, and here we have an on-site health club
event organisers to create bespoke menus, including the popular six course tasting menu with paired wines. Our watchwords are discretion, no distractions and first class service, and
with pool and the latest gym equipment. Delegates can even take part in an evening yoga or pilates class to unwind or high impact indoor bootcamp class, which is included in the package price.
53
Trout fishing is available on the estate’s lochan, and there are great range of paths and trails on the doorstep, great for unwinding after a productive day. The decision to use Douneside as a conference venue is great for your company’s corporate social responsibility agenda. Douneside is owned by The MacRobert Trust, who distribute 100% of all profits to UK charities. Add all this to the fact that we are only a 40 minute drive from Aberdeen Airport, and offer very competitive rates, and you have an irresistible venue in a charming setting. Email manager@dounesidehouse.co.uk to plan your next conference.
dounesidehouse.co.uk
02.
01 | Singers from the Music 4 U stage school visited the terminal to perform for passengers during the festive season. 02 | The City of Aberdeen Swimming Team (COAST) flew from Aberdeen to Malaga for a one-week training camp
03. 01.
03 | Airport staff participated in two extremely helpful and thought-provoking training sessions with Alzheimer Scotland, as part of our ongoing commitment to make it much easier for people with hidden disabilities to travel through our airport. 04 | Staff from across the airport celebrated National Christmas Jumper Day, raising lots of money for a number of charities in the process. 05 | As part of Police Scotland’s Safer Travel Day, NHS Grampian visited the terminal to offer free testing for blood borne viruses to staff and passengers. 06 | The airport team attended the Northern Star Business Awards, where Aberdeen Airport was nominated for Excellence in Customer Service and Excellence in Health and Safety. 07 | The Tartan Army descended upon Aberdeen Airport in their dozens, ahead of the tense World Cup Qualifier match between England and Scotland at Wembley Stadium, London. 08 | Olympic and Commonwealth runner Hannah England received a very special welcome from a rather unusual looking fella when she touched down in Aberdeen.
04. 05.
06. 07. 08.