Aberdeen International Airport upBEAT Magazine - Spring 2015 issue

EXPLORE THE BEAUTIFUL BANFFSHIRE COAST WIN TWO VIRGIN FLIGHTS TO ANYWHERE IN THE USA! FESTIVAL FEVER ADRENALINE ADVENTURES

CONTENTS

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26 Connecting You to the World

50 Win Two Virgin Flights to Anywhere in the USA!

PEOPLE

CULTURE

32 Local Flavour - Restaurant Review 34 Words Worth Reading 44 Adrenaline Adventures 52 Diary 54 The Beat Goes On - Win £100

to spend in World Duty Free!

12 Marvellous Museums 14 Festival Fever 42 What’s On?

SHOPPING 22 Travel Essentials

TRAVEL 10 New Route - Gdańsk 11 New Route - Gran Canaria

BUSINESS

26 Connecting You to the World 30 Sunny Outlook 36 Explore the Beautiful

Banffshire Coast 39 Discover Jersey 50 Win Two Virgin Flights to

Anywhere in the USA!

6 Airport News 16 British Airways’

Transatlantic Partnership 46 Behind the Scenes with

Airport Fire & Rescue

EDITORIAL

PUBLISHED BY TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD

Judy Mackie - judy@mmm-media.co.uk

192 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 6DA

SALES & MARKETING

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Print Group

Lisa Thompson - lisa@trendmagazine.co.uk 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 (April

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2015). Cover: Monkey Business Images / Thinkstock

WELCOME

Welcome to the spring issue of upBEAT, Aberdeen International Airport’s passenger magazine.

A QUARTER OF THE WAY THROUGH THE YEAR ALREADY - IT’S SAFE TO SAY WE’VE HAD A GREAT START TO 2015!

colourful festivals, which run right through to the end of the year, and - to really get the adrenaline pumping - the exciting range of sea and river adventure activities available on our doorstep.

We’re very excited to be part of the hosting team for Routes Europe 2015 (12-14 April), welcoming more than 1200 delegates to Aberdeen City and Shire and sharing with them all the delights the North-East of Scotland has to offer.

Our destination features include some of the many long-haul locations accessible from our Airport, as well as summer holiday suggestions and a focus on the Channel Island of Jersey, which you can now fly to directly from Aberdeen.

Inside, you can catch up with the latest Airport news, including details of our new service to Poland, the launch of our brand new website, and our work on behalf of charity partner Friends of ANCHOR. There’s also a behind-the-scenes focus on the vital role played by our Airport Fire & Rescue Service colleagues.

Enjoy your read - we look forward to welcoming you back very soon.

Carol Benzie Managing Director

In the local spotlight this time are the beautiful Banffshire Coast’s wealth of activities and visitor attractions; Aberdeen’s diverse and

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AIRPORT NEWS

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). Details at www.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: www.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 www.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 www.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 shortstay 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 offroad 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.

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New website unveiled February saw the launch of the Airport’s new website, offering a bold new look and an enhanced digital experience for its visitors.

each month, with more than 1.2million people visiting the site in 2014 alone.

Along with essential information on travelling through the Airport and the facility to book everything from flights to parking, the site offers expert destination guides with travel tips and the latest weather reports, to allow passengers to make a more informed choice on their holiday destination. The new ‘My Flights’ functionality allows users to ‘pin’ one or more live flights to their browser, to provide live status updates on their screen.

research into the needs of our online stakeholders, we are delighted with the outcome. The new site is unique in terms of airport websites - we have implemented technology to understand our users based on their locations and flight selections, and serve them the content they are most likely to want to see using this information. This approach is designed to enable our users to enjoy a seamless online experience as part of their overall travel journey.”

The new website builds on the improvements made in 2014 which are already enjoyed by over 100,000 visitors

The new website can now be accessed at www.aberdeenairport.com

The inaugural meeting of the Airport’s Forum for all matters relating to special assistance on site, was held in March, attended by a range of local organisations representing the needs of passengers requiring additional assistance, and their carers.

Building on the services already in place for those requiring a little extra assistance, the Forum is designed to discuss the issues surrounding special assistance and what measures can be taken to improve the Airport’s offering.

Jason Stewart, the Airport’s E-Commerce Manager, says: “After 13 months of

AIRPORT NEWS

Wizz Air launches Gdansk service Wizz Air, the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe, has announced a new scheduled service between Aberdeen and the Polish city of Gdańsk, which will start operating on 19 June this year.

Visitors to the Baltic coast destination can expect an energetic city crammed with diverse sights and historical thoroughfares, offering a wealth of culture and some of the oldest red brick churches in Europe. Gdańsk is also recognised as a key destination for the Aberdeen energy market.

Wizz Air’s Daniel de Carvalho says: “Aberdeen is the 107th airport in the Wizz network. We are delighted to fly to our seventh UK airport and second Scottish airport, and look forward to carrying many passengers on our new Gdańsk route.”

Carol Benzie, Managing Director of Aberdeen International Airport, adds: “We are very pleased to welcome Wizz Air’s new service, offering Aberdeen’s only direct flight to Poland. This is a great opportunity for both leisure and business passengers looking to travel for meetings and short breaks. We wish Wizz Air every success with the route.”

2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR TRIP For the best deals, book your car parking

online: www.aberdeenairport.com/parking 1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP > Order your currency online for easy

collection when you get to the airport:

www.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 on your tickets.

THE DAY BEFORE YOU FLY

The Polish service from Aberdeen International Airport will operate twiceweekly, on Mondays and Fridays, with a 180-seat Airbus A320 aircraft. The airline is currently putting the finishing touches to their flight timings.

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,

Booking is now available at: www.wizzair.com See ‘Explore Gdańsk’ - page 10

to check-in and clear through security.

> 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.

The Aberdeen Airport Community Fund holds its first meeting in April, with the aim of awarding grants to City and Shire organisations for projects focused on the topics of education, employment and the environment. The group meets four times a year and each funding application is reviewed by a selected board comprising various stakeholders from across the Airport and the community.

If you are interested in learning more about the Community Fund, email community@aiairport.com

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AIRPORT NEWS

From the North-East to the North Pole A day trip to Santa’s Lapland has been announced by tour operator Transun, flying from Aberdeen International Airport in December 2015.

Safety reporting reaps rewards

Departing from Aberdeen in the early morning of 6 December, excited families will set off on a once-in-alifetime trip to see Santa Claus in his Arctic homeland. Upon arrival in Lapland, youngsters and adults alike will mush their own team of husky dogs, ride snowmobiles and take reindeer sleighs through the snow, before having a very special meeting with Santa. A dedicated charter flight will transport the adventurers home later that evening.

Transun’s James Crawshaw says: “This is a fun-filled day in Lapland, which both adults and children will enjoy - and how many people can say they have been to see the real Santa in Lapland and returned home in time for supper?!”

The Airport’s Health & Safety team were delighted to present a cheque to partner charity Friends of ANCHOR, thanks to input from staff across the Airport.

During 2014, more than 400 safety

Bookings can be made at www.transun.co.uk

suggestions were raised by those working on site, with £1 being donated

for every suggestion received. The initiative is part of the Airport’s wider safety management system, which encourages staff to take responsibility for everyone’s safety, using the iconic clown campaign, ‘Safety is no laughing matter’ to spread the message.

Airport scoops safety award For the second year running, the Airport has won a British Safety Council International Safety Award with merit, in recognition of its commitment to keeping its workers and workplace healthy and safe during 2014.

The International Safety Awards is an annual scheme designed to recognise and reward good health and safety management by organisations of all sizes and sectors around the world during the previous year. The Award 8

seeks to celebrate and promote the success of an organisation and its employees in maintaining a safe and healthy working environment for all.

Aldrich Blignaut, Head of Health and Safety at the Airport says: “We’re thrilled to achieve this award for the second year in a row, which clearly demonstrates a real team effort across the site to maintain high levels of health and safety.”

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NEW ROUTES

Must-visits...

Gdańsk’s most important historical and characterful attractions include: > MONUMENT TO FALLEN SHIPYARD WORKERS: Comprising three 36-tonne, 138fthigh crosses with anchors attached, this gigantic memorial commemorates all those who died during the 1970 labour strikes. > ST MARY’S BASILICA: Said to be the largest brick church in the world. Marvel at the panorama from the 255ft viewing platform! > THE CRANE: Constructed in the early 15th century and now part of the National Maritime Museum, this was once the largest port crane in Europe, used for moving goods and raising ship masts. > ST MARY’S STREET: One of Gdańsk’s most enchanting streets, featuring granite cobblestones and wonderful architecture. St Mary’s has inspired writers and artists down the decades, and has provided the backdrop for many movies.

Explore Gdańsk!

Fly direct from Aberdeen Airport to the Baltic city of Gdańsk and discover a captivating destination, steeped in history, yet lively with contemporary culture and fun.

Poland’s principal seaport, Gdańsk sits at the mouth of the Motlawa River and, together with the port of Gdynia and the spa town of Sopot, forms the Tricity (Trójmiasto) - an area rich in cultural and architectural relics.

With a 1000-year history, Gdańsk is perhaps most famously known in modern times as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which played a major role in bringing an end to Communist rule across Central Europe. > OLD TOWN Gdańsk’s Old Town has to be one of the most interesting in Europe, with its ancient buildings, fascinating museums and friendly people.

The area showcases the city’s architecture in all its glory, and is also home to some of Gdańsk’s best shops and restaurants. > THE CRANE

> THE NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN: Seen as the symbol of Gdańsk, the fountain has stood in front of the Artus Court since 1633. Throw in a coin to make sure you return! > THE UPHAGEN HOUSE: Home to the Museum of Patrician Interiors, the magnificentlydecorated Uphagen House celebrates Gdańsk’s former glory. > GDYNIA - BULWAR NADMORSKI (SEA BOULEVARD): Visit Gdynia’s most popular walking destination, leading from the city’s beach to the beach in Redłowo. > SOPOT - MONCIAK AND THE PIER: A town historically renowned for the health benefits of its high concentration of atmospheric iodine, Sopot also boasts the longest wooden pier in Europe, as well as the breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture of the stylish 1920s Grand Hotel.

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> SOPOT PIER

> EXCELLENT VALUE With its lively culture and great value for money, Gdańsk is a popular city-break venue for groups of friends. Head to No To Cyk, in the Old Town, a stylish ‘Communist kitsch’ bar where drinks cost only four Polish Zlotys (less than one pound)! Food in Gdańsk is equally low-cost and delicious in the many restaurants in and around this fascinating and vibrant city.

Fly to Gdańsk with Wizz Air www.wizzair.com > THE NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN

NEW ROUTES

INTRODUCING GRAN CANARIA

THOMSON’S NEW SUMMER 2016 DESTINATION It might only be the Canaries’ third-biggest island, but for somewhere the size of Greater London, Gran Canaria strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. With soft sands in the south, lush forests in the north and sky-high mountains in the centre, it’s a place that covers all bases.

You can book a Summer 2016 getaway with Thomson from 23 April 2015. Flights take off weekly from Aberdeen International Airport, with great departure times. The only question is, where will your Gran Canaria escape take you...?

sights such as the 15th-century Santa Ana Cathedral and the city’s modern art museum, Centro Altantico de Arte Moderno.

WHERE TO STAY

WHY GO? Looking for lively beaches? Playa del Ingles is the island’s most popular holiday spot, thanks to its expanse of golden sand and neon nightlife. Maspalomas, just next door, moves at a slower pace - think miles of Saharan-style sand dunes backed by a strip of smart hotels, open-air restaurants and a handful of bars.

WHAT TO DO There are all sorts of attractions, from water parks to wildlife parks. Take your pick from Thomson’s first-class excursions, available to buy from your Holiday Advisor at your hotel. A must-do is a visit to capital, Las Palmas - it’s packed with upbeat shopping districts, a lively harbour and a wide choice of bars and restaurants. In its historical centre, you’ll find standout

Couples will love the 4T+ Hotel Suite Princess, in Playa Taurito. Tucked into the foot of a mountain and just metres from the sandy beach, this stylish adults-only hotel comes with double junior suites with ocean views, as standard. By day, you can chill out by one of its two sea-view pools, or give the wellness centre a whirl. After dark, you can enjoy first-class food, live acts and a piano bar serving up cocktails. And when you want to get out and about, there’s a shuttle bus to pretty Puerto Mogan, less than five minutes away.

Families will have fun at the Orquidea Hotel in Bahia Feliz. Part of the Thomson Family Resorts collection, this hotel offers brilliant kids’ clubs and entertainment, special menus for little ones, and a splash park with slides, water jets and shallow pools. Other highlights include three pools, an international buffet restaurant, and a tapas-style bar. And all just footsteps from the beach and right opposite a shopping bazaar! Playa del

Ingles is just six kilometres down the road, and there’s a bus to Las Palmas every 20 minutes.

For a great deal on your next getaway, pop into your local Thomson Travel Shop or click www.thomson.co.uk

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HISTORY

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Explore the rich heritage and culture of North-East Scotland and see some wonderful artefacts from around the world, in the diverse array of museums scattered throughout Aberdeen City and Shire. With their exciting, interactive displays, gift shops and cafĂŠs, these tantalising time-capsules will keep you and the family entertained for hours!

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02

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HISTORY

ABERDEEN

ABERDEENSHIRE

ABERDEEN MARITIME MUSEUM, SHIPROW The award-winning harbourside attraction examines the city’s relationship with the sea and the emergence of the oil and gas industry in the late 20th century. Its unique collection covers shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, fishing and port history, brought dramatically to life through art and artefacts, computer technology, and hands-on exhibits. www.aagm.co.uk

ABERDEENSHIRE FARMING MUSEUM, ADEN COUNTRY PARK, MINTLAW Relive the story of Aberdeenshire’s famous farming past in the beautiful surroundings of Aden Country Park. Start at the unique, semi-circular Home Farm steading and explore the Aden Estate Story and the ‘Weel Vrocht Grun’ exhibitions. Visit Hareshowe, a working farm set in the 1950s, and see oatcakes baked at the Horseman’s House. www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums

GORDON HIGHLANDERS MUSEUM, VIEWFIELD ROAD A 5-star VisitScotland attraction telling the compelling 200-year story of the Gordon Highlanders, from the Napoleonic Wars to the modern day. Follow in the footsteps of serving soldiers to discover the history of “the finest regiment in the world” (Sir Winston Churchill, 1900). www.gordonhighlanders.com UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN MUSEUMS, HIGH STREET King’s Museum, at the heart of the University’s Old Aberdeen campus, is Scotland’s newest museum and may also be the oldest, as its origins lie in a museum collection established in King’s College in 1727.

Exhibitions change every few months to display these collections, some involving students and academic staff collaborating with the museum to bring recent research to a wider audience.

With status as a Recognised Collection of National Significance, the University’s Zoology Museum’s displays are worldwide in scope, ranging from protozoa to the great whales!

The spectacular Sir Duncan Rice Library houses the largest of the University’s modern collections and historic collections of rare books, manuscripts and archives, showcased in changing exhibitions. www.abdn.ac.uk/museums/exhibitions

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses 01 King’s Museum 02 Fraserburgh Heritage Centre 03 Grampian Transport Museum 04 Sir Duncan Rice Library 05 Gordon Highlanders Museum 06

GRAMPIAN TRANSPORT MUSEUM, ALFORD Enjoy a treasure house of transport history at the Grampian Transport Museum. Follow the history of travel and transport in the North-East, through dramatic displays, working exhibits and DVD presentations.

There’s also an exciting events programme, where you can experience rides on a road circuit in a wide range of historic and modern vehicles.

“FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER

MUSEUM OF SCOTTISH LIGHTHOUSES, KINNAIRD HEAD, FRASERBURGH This fine 16th-century castle was altered in 1787 to incorporate the first lighthouse built by the Commissioners of the Northern Lighthouses. Enjoy a 45-minute guided tour to Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, and visit the museum to marvel at the giant lenses, lighting technology and social history artefacts covering the lives of the men and families who guarded Scotland’s coastline for over 200 years. www.lighthousemuseum.org.uk FRASERBURGH HERITAGE CENTRE, KINNAIRD HEAD Manned by volunteers, the Centre illustrates the historical, social and economic development of Scotland’s premier herring port, including the stories of famous townsfolk who made their mark around the world. Children can have fun learning about the past with an exciting range of hands-on activities. www.fraserburghheritage.com

I’VE HAD A REAL LOVE OF CARS. IN MY WORKING CAREER I’D ALWAYS LOVED MEETING NEW PEOPLE AND IT’S THESE TWO THINGS COMBINED WHICH GOT ME INTERESTED IN JOINING THE TEAM HERE. I THINK IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP DEVELOPING MY INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND WOULD ALSO LIKE TO PASS ON MY KNOWLEDGE AND PASSION TO VISITORS.”

ARBUTHNOT MUSEUM, PETERHEAD One of Aberdeenshire’s oldest museums, Arbuthnot provides a fascinating insight into Peterhead’s fishing, shipping and whaling past. Here, you’ll find Inuit artefacts and Arctic creatures; local history stories and objects, and one of Northern Scotland’s largest coin collections. www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums/ visit/locations/arbuthnot

Graham King, Grampian Transport Museum Volunteer. www.gtm.org.uk

Opened in 2004, the museum is housed in part of a Victorian school building and features displays, historical artefacts and photograph collections reflecting the Conservation Area status of the village of Tarves, as well as an authentically-restored Victorian classroom. www.tarvesheritage.org.uk

TOLBOOTH MUSEUM, STONEHAVEN Originally a store for Dunnottar Castle, then the town jail and court (1600-1767), the Tolbooth is now a museum, whose exhibits cover ‘crime and punishment’, Stonehaven’s fishing and farming heritage, and local history. www.stonehaventolbooth.co.uk BANCHORY MUSEUM, BANCHORY Uniquely showcasing the archaeological wealth of the North-East, Banchory Museum also highlights Deeside’s royal connections and 19th-century tartans, as well as celebrating the life and work of the late local musician and composer, James Scott Skinner - the ‘Strathspey King’. www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums/ visit/ locations/banchory

TARVES HERITAGE MUSEUM, ELLON

THE GRASSIC GIBBON CENTRE, ARBUTHNOTT The life and writings of James Leslie Mitchell (Lewis Grassic Gibbon) are celebrated here, in the Mearns, where he spent his boyhood and where his best-loved novel, Sunset Song, is set. Today, after adaptations for TV, radio, theatre and music, it remains one of the most popular of all Scottish stories. www.grassicgibbon.com There are lots more North-East museums to explore - details at: www.visitscotland.com | www.visitaberdeen.com

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FESTIVALS

> RESONATING UNIVERSES IN CONCERT, SOUND FESTIVAL (22 OCTOBER - 9 NOVEMBER)

COMING UP THIS SPRING/ SUMMER...

MAY FESTIVAL 2015 (29 - 31 MAY) an all-encompassing arts and science festival offering more than 100 events with a variety of themes, including sports, film, literature, food & drink, science, music and Gaelic. May Festival attracts all ages with thought-provoking events for adults, as well as fun-filled family sessions. Venue: University of Aberdeen campus, Old Aberdeen. www.abdn.ac.uk/mayfestival

Nine major North-East festivals, which joined forces in 2014 to showcase their unique offerings on the world stage, have a fantastic programme of exciting events lined up for local people and visitors alike.

The Aberdeen Festivals collective includes a diverse

Scotland’s only festival of new music, and AIYF is

spread of colourful celebrations which run throughout the year: Arts Across Learning Festival, Aberdeen Jazz Festival, May Festival, Aberdeen International Youth Festival (AIYF), the Fifty Plus Family Festival, TechFest, North East Open Studios (NEOS), DanceLive and Sound Festival. The group is funded

by Aberdeen City Council and VisitAberdeen, with significant sponsorship investment from Statoil UK.

a world-class festival spanning more than 40 years.

Our geography, heritage, architecture, and cultural narrative also make us very different from other festival locations.”

“We have a really strong and distinctive festival offering in the North-East,” explains Angela Michael, Aberdeen Festivals Manager. “DanceLive, for example, is one of the UK’s foremost contemporary dance festivals; Sound is

This year being Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink, Aberdeen Festivals has received a £25,000 funding boost by VisitScotland to help promote Aberdeen as “a place where festivals, food and drink make for special weekends.” The new campaign links the festivals which include everything from music and the visual arts to science and dance - with the city’s rich array of food and drink and high-quality accommodation.

ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL (24 JULY - 1 AUGUST) - the city’s longestrunning festival, bringing talented young people from around the world to showcase a range of performing arts alongside local and national performers. This year, AIYF will produce more than 80 performances in nine days of top-class entertainment across 50 North-East venues. www.aiyf.org And there’s much more to follow later in the year!

Find out more about the full range of North-East festivals at: www.aberdeenfestivals.com www.visitaberdeen.com www.visitscotland.com

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www.musaaberdeen.com 33 Exchange Street, Aberdeen AB11 6PH Tel: 01224 571771 hello@musaaberdeen.com

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LONGHAUL AIRLINE FOCUS - BRITISH AIRWAYS

British Airways’

Transatlantic Partnership Since 2010, British Airways has partnered with American Airlines, Finnair and Iberia to deliver a seamless transatlantic experience with benefits for our customers, including: MORE FLIGHTS AND MORE ROUTES: > 130+ airports in Europe > 240+ airports in North America > Three airport hubs in Europe: London, Madrid, Helsinki > Eight airport hubs in North America: Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York (JFK), Philadelphia, Phoenix > Up to 70 direct flights a day between the UK and North America CONVENIENT FLIGHT SCHEDULE AND CONNECTIONS: > Up to 17 flights per day between London and New York > Up to four flights per day between London and Los Angeles, with brand new aircraft operated by American Airlines and British Airways

MORE PREMIUM SEATS AVAILABLE: > More than 1000 lie-flat beds each day between London and New York COMBINABLE SERVICES ON ALL AIRLINES: > Mix and match flights between airlines to suit your schedule > Baggage policy alignment > Earn and redeem miles across all airlines > Lounge, check-in and baggage privileges for loyalty scheme members NEW FLEET: > Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787, Airbus A380 and Airbus A330, plus the Airbus A350 coming later in 2015.

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ADVERTISEMENTS

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Aberdeen Snowsports Centre is a fantastic resource for outdoor enthusiasts in the city and shire. The artificial slope, located in Garthdee, offers far more than you would expect, too, with a dedicated no-skill tubing slope; astro and grass football pitches; facilities for birthday parties, and ski and snowboard tuition for any ability! uring school holidays, you’ll see hordes of kids jumping from one activity to another with their multi activity ‘Monster Camps’ and half-day ski and snowboard camps. The Centre offers lessons for all ages and abilities, and has packages to suit everyone - even if you work offshore and have non-standard work patterns. ‘Taster’ lessons are available for those who just want to dabble in skiing or snowboarding, and there are block lessons for regular weekly sessions, or ‘Fast Tracks’ for those in a hurry to learn.

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The Centre has also recently started offering snowboard lessons to children as young as three! The launch day saw more than 60 children strapping into a snowboard for the very first time.

As well as helping toddlers take their first steps into the world of snow sports, the Centre is home to some great emerging talent. This is due to dedicated coaching, provided by experienced, highly-qualified coaches. Many of its members have been selected to train in the UK Park and Pipe Academy, the UK’s elite training academy for youngsters whose goal is to make the British team.

So whether you’re looking to have your skis or snowboard serviced, rent some equipment out, or as an outdoor enthusiast - get your next adrenaline hit, be sure to visit the Centre and introduce yourself to snow sports. You won’t regret it!

Aberdeen Snowsports Centre Garthdee Road, Aberdeen AB10 7BA Tel: +44 0 1224 810215 info@aberdeensnowsports.com www.aberdeensnowsports.com

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RETAIL

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS Don’t forget to pick up your travel essentials before you fly. Shop at the Airport and you might just be surprised by the huge savings to be had!

THEY’RE REAL MASCARA The UK’s No.1 best-selling mascara in a jet black long-wearing formula. The specially designed brush lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts and separates lashes. This great value set includes one mascara, one eye-liner and eye make-up remover.

(Available in World Duty Free)

BOSE QC25 Don these Bose QuietComfort 25 Noisecancelling Headphones and sink into a private world of musical bliss. You’ll be able to operate your Apple smartphone and other compatible phones using the in-line controls. (Available at Dixons Travel)

RAY-BAN SUNGLASSES Ray-Ban offers a great range of sunglasses which come in an array of styles and colours. Choose the perfect pair to match your summer style. (Available in World Duty Free)

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RETAIL

LIKE PRE-FLIGHT SHOPPING, BUT HATE STRUGGLING WITH THE EXTRA BAGS? SONY CYBER-SHOT WX220 Cyber-shot WX220 Compact Digital Camera has an 18.2 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers detailed, realistic and compelling photographs. It’s backlit to reduce image noise, improve contrast and give each shot a smoother appearance. (Available at Dixons Travel)

NO7 PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE ADVANCED SERUM 30ML Supercharge your skincare regime with this clinically proven serum. Independently tested and proven to work. Helping to achieve younger-looking, more radiant skin in just two weeks, it’s targeted to tackle fine lines that typically start to appear between the ages of 35 and 45 years old. (Available at Boots)

NO7 PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE DAY CREAM SPF 15 Smooth deep lines and wrinkles and help delay new ones with this protecting & renewing daytime formula. Created to address your skin’s needs now and help it have a more youthful future.

Its unique triple protective power is made up of SPF15, 5-star UVA technology and our patent pending antioxidant complex. (Available at Boots)

WITH SHOP & COLLECT YOU DON’T HAVE TO: JUST BUY BEFORE YOU FLY, THEN PICK UP YOUR PURCHASES ON YOUR RETURN. Shop & Collect is a FREE service, available when you are flying within the European Union (including flights within the UK). We will store your goods securely while you are away and insure them. Upon your return to the Airport, they will be ready and waiting for you at a convenient collection point, after you have claimed your luggage and cleared Customs.

To use the service, simply tell the assistant in-store that you would like to Shop & Collect, give them your details and they will take care of the rest for you. And don’t feel you have to stop after the first shop - this convenient service means you can shop in all stores and still not have to carry anything.

Shop & Collect is perfect if you plan to buy fragile or heavy items, but it also lets you take advantage of time-limited special offers. In addition, it’s a great way to get around the current restrictions on carrying liquids on your return flight.

So why not go for that extra fragrance, large cuddly toy or a bottle of whisky?

YSL - TOUCHE ÉCLAT Refresh your make-up on the go with Touche Éclat. The travel-friendly pen-brush is perfect for highlighting to create a natural radiant glow. Single pens and duo sets available. (Available in World Duty Free)

Your Aberdeen Airport Shopping Collection point is located at the end of Check-in, next to check-in desk 20.

MICHAEL KORS - WHITE Opens with a delicate floral scent, with a hint of jasmine and peony leading to base notes of musk and vanilla. This is a great fresh fragrance for summer. (Available in World Duty Free)

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

CALIFORNIA, USA

WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS Golden beaches, laid-back cities, fine wines and stunning scenery - California boasts everything! Los Angeles is home to the glitz and glamour; San Francisco is full of charm, and San Diego, in the south of the state, is incredibly diverse.

Head away from the cities to discover much, much more - from chic coastal areas along the Pacific Coast Highway, to the vast deserts, as you head out to Palm Springs; from the awesomeness of Yosemite National Park, to the lush vineyards of the Napa Valley. Holidays to any part of California offer an ideal location from which to explore.

FLY BRITISH AIRWAYS TO CALIFORNIA VIA LONDON HEATHROW WWW.BA.COM

With five global carriers at Aberdeen International Airport this season, there’s a world of choice to connect long-haul to any global destination.

DUBAI, UAE WITH KLM Book KLM flights 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. FLY KLM TO DUBAI VIA AMSTERDAM WWW.KLM.COM

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

HOUSTON, USA WITH SAS Houston has never had it so good. There’s plenty to gush about, thanks to oil, and you don’t have to drill too far under the surface - or go into orbit - to find it! No trip to Houston would be complete without a visit to Johnson Space Center, where you can experience gravity on Mars, learn about NASA missions, and, on Fridays, have lunch with an astronaut! If you like driving and the weather is nice, head south to Galveston Island, whose quaint downtown is reminiscent of the Wild West. FLY SAS TO HOUSTON VIA STAVANGER WWW.FLYSAS.CO.UK

MAURITIUS, REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS WITH AIR FRANCE With idyllic white sandy bays, turquoise waters and gently waving palms trees, Mauritius is the perfect tropical hideaway. Famous for its wide range of sports, the island’s offering includes: snorkelling with dolphins, scuba diving with tropical fish, wakeboarding, kite surfing, golf...Among its most picturesque regions are Le Morne, or the Ile Aux Cerfs, which both offer stunning beaches.

Grand Baie, in the north, is the cosmopolitan heart of Mauritius, with upscale hotels, a magnificent bay and bustling colourful markets. FLY AIR FRANCE TO MAURITIUS VIA PARIS WWW.AIRFRANCE.CO.UK

HONG KONG WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC Described as the ‘coolest city on earth’, Hong Kong offers a vibrant mix of heritage, cultural and contemporary attractions for all the family, including: the glittering Avenue of Stars; the Peak - the island’s highest point, offering stunning views of the cityscape; Ocean Park Hong Kong; Hong Kong Disneyland; the Ladies’ Market; Temple Street Night Market; the cultural Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade; Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple - home to Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, and the historic Clock Tower. FLY VIRGIN ATLANTIC TO HONG KONG VIA LONDON HEATHROW WWW.VIRGIN-ATLANTIC.COM

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Routes are correct at time of publication, but are subject to change. Please check with your airline for any alteration or updates, or visit the website: www.aberdeenairport.com before travelling.

INTERNATIONAL: > AMSTERDAM with KLM > BERGEN with Wideroe & SAS > BOURGAS with Balkan Holidays > COPENHAGEN with SAS > CORFU with Thomson & First Choice > DALAMAN with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > DUBLIN with Aer Lingus > ENFIDHA with Thomas Cook > ESBJERG with BMI Regional

> FARO with Thomson & First Choice > FRANKFURT with Lufthansa > GDANSK with Wizz Air (from June 2015) > GENEVA with easyJet > GRAN CANARIA with Thomson & First Choice (from summer 2016) > IBIZA with Thomson & First Choice > MALAGA with Barrhead Travel > NAPLES with Newmarket Holidays > OSLO with BMI Regional & SAS

> PALMA with Barrhead Travel, Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > PARIS with Air France > REUS with Thomas Cook > STAVANGER with Eastern Airways, SAS & Wideroe > TENERIFE with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > VERONA with Newmarket Holidays

> KIRKWALL with Loganair > LEEDS BRADFORD with Eastern Airways > LONDON CITY with Flybe > LONDON GATWICK with easyJet > LONDON HEATHROW with British Airways & Virgin Atlantic > LONDON LUTON with easyJet > MANCHESTER with Flybe

> NEWCASTLE with Eastern Airways > NORWICH with BMI Regional & Eastern Airways > SCATSTA with Eastern Airways > SOUTHAMPTON with Eastern Airways & Flybe > 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 > EAST MIDLANDS with Eastern Airways > HUMBERSIDE with Eastern Airways > JERSEY with Flybe

AIRLINES & TOUR OPERATORS: Aer Lingus aerlingus.com Air France airfrance.co.uk Airways Holidays airwaysholidays.com Balkan Holidays balkanholidays.co.uk Barrhead Travel barrheadtravel.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 Jersey Travel jerseytravel.com KLM klm.com Loganair logainair.co.uk Lufthansa lufthansa.com Newmarket Holidays newmarketholidays.co.uk

SAS flysas.com Thomas Cook thomascook.com Thomson thomson.co.uk Virgin Atlantic virgin-atlantic.com Wideroe wideroe.no/en Wizz Air wizzair.com

Serving more destinations from Aberdeen than any other airline www.easternairways.com

SUMMER SUN

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FLY DIRECT FROM ABERDEEN TO ANY ONE OF THESE FANTASTIC HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS AND BRING SOME SUNSHINE INTO YOUR SUMMER!

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SUMMER SUN

01.

Best-value Bulgaria

Sunny breaks to Bulgaria from Aberdeen with Balkan Holidays offer you great value for money and beautiful beach resorts. In the annual Post Office survey of 2014, it was revealed for the third year running that holidays in Bulgaria provide British holidaymakers with the best value for money holiday in Europe. Key findings showed that meals, drinks and other holiday essentials are cheaper in Bulgaria than in all other European holiday destinations.

Nights out in Marmaris offer everything from karaoke bars and 60s disco to high-end modern nightclubs. Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island, is famous for its unique seashell beach and beautiful sand, said to be imported by Cleopatra from the Red Sea. Olu Deniz Bay, with its famous Blue Lagoon beach and verdant national park backdrop, is one of the most popular and photographed areas in Turkey.

To book, visit your local travel agent or www.thomascook.com

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Bulgaria’s Black sea coast stretches an impressive 230 miles and boasts some of Europe’s finest sandy beaches. With a wide variety of resorts from the busy and popular Sunny Beach to the UNESCO protected heritage site of Nessebar, the traditional and picturesque Sozopol and the delightful family resorts of Elenite and Duni, plus many more, Bulgaria has a resort to suit every taste.

So, whether your ideal holiday is to let your hair down in one of our sun-drenched seaside resorts, relax and enjoy one of our quieter resorts where time appears to stand still, or explore one of the breathtaking mountain resorts with their lush green slopes, Bulgaria has something for everyone. Book today for just £49pp deposit. www.balkanholidays.co.uk

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Discover the Costa del Sol

Spain’s famous sunshine coast, the Costa del Sol, really does have something to suit everyone - from upmarket Marbella, favourite haunt of the jet-set, to relaxed Nerja, with its unspoilt beaches and spectacular coastal landscape.

Wherever you choose to base yourself, it’s well worth hiring a car and exploring the many charming mountain villages. The dynamic cities of Malaga, Seville and Granada are also on your doorstep. Each has its own individual character, making all three perfect for day trips.

This stunning coastline has it all - and Barrhead Travel can take you there!

To book, visit your local Barrhead Travel store, call 01224 578270, or visit www.barrheadtravel.co.uk

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Turkish Delights

Fly from Aberdeen International Airport to Dalaman - the famous spot on the Turkish south coast - and enjoy white sand beaches, blue-green waters and fantastic nightlife.

Holidays to Turkey also mean ancient sites to explore - as well as colourful markets and excellent cuisine. Located in both Asia and Europe, the country brings you the best of both continents.

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Italian Gems!

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Family Fun in Majorca!

Climb aboard award-winning escorted tours specialist Newmarket Holidays’ special departure from Aberdeen to Naples this summer and you’ll be in for a Southern Italian treat to remember.

The classic charms of the famous Amalfi Coast can be savoured on a tour based in elegant Maiori on the blue Bay of Salerno a favoured spot since Roman times. The haunting ruins of a Roman city, one of the Med’s most idyllic isles, and one of its most famous resorts, can all be explored on the Capri, Pompeii and Amalfi Coast holiday, based in glorious Sorrento. Or take the less well-travelled road into the country’s often-overlooked southern ‘high heel’ of Puglia, on an Undiscovered Italy tour.

A resort-based week in Sorrento completes the quartet of holidays available via the special departure.www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

It’s no wonder Majorca - the big sister of Spain’s Balearic Islands - gets the thumbs-up when it comes to family holidays with First Choice.

Families flock to the safe shores of Ca’n Picafort, thanks to its 13-kilometre ribbon of sands. Other top distractions for kids on the island include waterparks, horse-riding ranches and a safari park.

They’ll love the clickety-clackety Soller Railway train, too, which runs from Palma to the pretty Soller, via a dramatic gorge. Plus, you can get back to nature away from the coast, where you’ll find sweet-smelling pine forests and traditional villages.

Find your perfect summer escape at www.firstchoice.co.uk, or your local Thomson Travel Shop.

Book now - and you’ll soon be basking in some of Europe’s sunniest destinations. See all our holiday destinations at www.aberdeenairport.com/choice 31

REVIEW LOCAL FLAVOUR

The Atholl, one of Aberdeen’s best-known licensed hotels for 50 years, has always been renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional fare, and Managing Partner Gordon Sinclair honours that tradition while moving with the times.

Review by Jim Brooks Volunteer with Aberdeen’s major social care charity, VSA

Access has been improved throughout the hotel - built as a private residence in 1892 - and in the newly refurbished restaurant, lounge and bar, cleaner lines combine with subdued colours for a modern yet warmly traditional feel.

Starters were salt and pepper squid for me, freshlyprepared in feather-light batter with a piquant chilli dressing, while my guest, Mike, opted for the prawn platter.

These palate-pleasers were the perfect overture to the stunning main courses. I chose pan-fried cod, light and flaky, its delicate flavour complemented by delicious baby roast potatoes and tomatoes. Mike loved the handsome, richly-flavoured roast rib of beef and its quite magnificent Yorkshire pudding, mashed potato, carrots and parsnips. Wine? Of course; the excellent, summery Alfredini Garganega Pinot Grigio.

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As a stylish finale, I couldn’t resist the velvety cherry panacotta with whipped cream and shortbread, and Mike chose kiwi sorbet. Smooth-textured and subtly flavoured, it’ll be a ‘must’ on my next visit.

And I most certainly will be back to sample Chef Scott Craig’s thoughtful, wide-ranging cuisine, engagingly presented by friendly, attentive staff.

Prices are extremely reasonable and even on a midweek night the restaurant is almost full, so be sure to book in advance.

Discover for yourself that at the Atholl, tradition equals inspiration.

54 Kings Gate, Aberdeen AB15 4YN Tel:+44 (0) 1224 323505 www.atholl-aberdeen.co.uk

LOCAL FLAVOUR

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WORD WORTH READING

Three North-East Airport-users recommend some riveting in-flight reading from WHSmith’s latest list of top 20 bestsellers.

I bought Stuart MacBride’s first book while I was travelling in Australia, and as his words brought to life the streets of the Aberdeen I knew so well, he transported me back, helping to quash my homesickness. The Missing & the Dead is the ninth in his DS Logan series about a work-worn policeman who gives everything to the job, often to the detriment of his personal life, as he tries to unravel the latest murder-mystery in the Granite City. I can’t wait to be lured-in by this next instalment.

However, let me assure you, the streets of Aberdeen aren’t as dangerous as MacBride makes out!

JENNI FRASER, Leisure and Tourism Executive, VisitAberdeen

If you’re looking for a Big Book in every sense of the term, I can really recommend The Goldfinch, by Donna Tartt. She’s one of America’s finest novelists and has published only a handful of books, each one more dazzling than the ones before.

The Goldfinch has it all - it’s a literary epic, a page-turning mystery story, and so much more. The last 10 or 20 pages are a sustained meditation on art and what it does, and why it matters. Magnificent!

ALAN SPENCE, Author and Professor in Creative Writing, University of Aberdeen

Patricia Scanlan’s A Time for Friends jumped out at me as the perfect book to take on my flight, as I embarked on a girls’ trip to New York for a special birthday! It’s an interesting book about three very different people, their friendships, and how their upbringings impact their relationships in adulthood. I am only one-third of the way through, but have already been sucked in to the intrigue and can’t wait to see how it will end up at the betrayal outlined in the prologue. Definitely one to curl up with at the weekend!

MARY HOLLAND, Membership Network Manager, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce

Check in - and check out the latest releases at WHSmith, in the main terminal building at Aberdeen International Airport.

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ROAD TRIP

WITH WEATHER THAT’S SAID TO BE DRIER AND WARMER THAN IN OTHER PARTS OF SCOTLAND; SPECTACULAR SCENERY; AN EXCITING ARRAY OF OUTDOOR AND INDOOR ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS, AND A PACKED PROGRAMME OF FESTIVALS AND FOOD AND DRINK EVENTS LINED UP FOR THE SPRING AND SUMMER, THE BANFFSHIRE COAST HAS PLENTY TO BOAST ABOUT!

“Our coastline has a very wide variety of offerings, and in terms of its natural beauty, it has been rated by National Geographic magazine as one of the top coastlines in the world,” says Zillah Jamieson, of the Banffshire Coast Tourism Partnership. “Yet it’s an area that’s probably unexplored by many people visiting the North-East - and there’s such a lot they are missing!”

Airport, with the farthest point (Cullen) only just over an hour’s drive away via the A96. Zillah says the great news for visiting drivers is that the area has an unrushed, relaxed atmosphere, free of traffic jams.

The Banffshire Coast stretches from Pennan, in the east, to Cullen, in the west, and inland to Turriff, and is easilyaccessible from Aberdeen International

The area offers the full range of accommodation options for holidaymakers, including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, caravanning, camping and ‘glamping’ (luxury camping!). Wherever you choose to make your base, you’ll find it easy to explore every part of this unique coastal area, with something for everyone to see, do, experience and enjoy!

> FISH DELIGHTS

> GREY SEALS

> BANFF > DUFF HOUSE

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ROAD TRIP

> DOLPHINS ON THE COAST

> MACDUFF MARINE AQUARIUM

> ICE CREAM AT PORTSOY

> BOYNDIE BEACH

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ALONG THE COAST There are lots of scenic cycling routes along the coastline, joining up with neighbouring routes in the west and south (Moray-Speyside) and further east towards Fraserburgh. Walking is another favourite fresh-air activity, with 30 different walks

ice-cream, cakes and scones, and freshly-made fish n’chips are all part of the package!

listed on the Banffshire Coast website. There are also opportunities for golfing (with four diverse courses and a driving range); sea and river fishing; shooting; diving; surfing; kayaking, and sailing.

as well as colonies of grey seals. Meet the local marine life face-to-face at the interactive Macduff Marine Aquarium, which has a web-cam link to Troup Head - Scotland’s only mainland gannet colony; or take to the sea on an exciting, wildlifespotting boat trip.

HERITAGE HARBOUR TRAIL Explore Banffshire Coast’s nine historic harbours, each with its own unique character and stories.

Visit Crovie, Europe’s best-preserved fishing village; Pennan, where the 1980s classic, Local Hero, was filmed (the red phone box is still there!), and some of the fascinating fishing heritage museums dotted along the coast.

SEASIDE FAMILY FUN Enjoy a traditional family seaside holiday, with fantastic beaches, rock pools and some of the cleanest sea-bathing in Europe. Locally-made

WILDLIFE-SPOTTING Known as ‘Scotland’s Dolphin Coast’, the area is home to around 130 resident bottlenose dolphins,

MUSEUMS Must-see heritage attractions include the 5-star Duff House, the traditional Salmon Bothy at Portsoy, Buckie & District Fishing Heritage Museum, Delgatie Castle, and Banff Museum.

SHOPPING TRAIL Follow the Shopping Trail to find a range of highquality retail outlets, including a variety of arts and crafts studios and galleries. Look out for pieces crafted from the famous green Portsoy Marble,

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ROAD TRIP

> CULLEN

“OUR COASTLINE HAS A VERY WIDE VARIETY OF OFFERINGS, AND IN TERMS OF ITS NATURAL BEAUTY, IT HAS BEEN RATED

BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE AS ONE OF THE TOP COASTLINES IN THE WORLD”

Images: Banffshire Coast Tourism Partnership

which graces grand mansions and castles the world over, including the Palace of Versailles.

FESTIVALS May is the month for the colourful arts and culture COAST Festival (22nd - 24th) and the HAAL Festival of folk music (29th - 31st). The globally-renowned Scottish Traditional Boat Festival casts off on 4th 5th July, followed by the Cornhill Highland Games (6th June), and the historic Turriff Agricultural Show (2nd - 3rd August).

celebrate Scotland’s Year of Food & Drink. Among the culinary delights the Banffshire Coast is famous for are: Hamlyns Porridge Oats; Gourmets Choice smoked salmon; Downies of Whitehills’ seafood; Portsoy ice cream; Glenglassaugh Distillery’s whisky (one of the ‘Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire’), and Cullen Skink - a traditional seafood soup with its own annual competition which attracts chefs from far and wide. Follow the Food & Drink Trail and treat your taste buds to some truly superb local delicacies!

FOOD AND DRINK This year’s festivals are joining with local retailers, hotels, cafés, bars, restaurants and producers to

There’s lots more to see and do along the Banffshire Coast - for more ideas and to download the range of trails mentioned, visit: www.banffshirecoast.com

THE MODERN ART OF TRADITIONAL A privately owned, four star Visit Scotland Hotel.

Our recent restaurant and lounge refurbishment along with the installation of a passenger lift to the first floor, function rooms and bedrooms is now complete.

54 King’s Gate, Aberdeen AB15 4YN | 01224 323505

www.atholl-aberdeen.co.uk

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> GARDENSTOWN

OUTBOUND

ONLY 14 MILES FROM FRANCE, YET ALSO LAYING CLAIM TO THE TITLE OF ‘SOUTHERNMOST POINT IN THE BRITISH ISLES’, JERSEY IS A UNIQUE ISLAND FULL OF BRITISH AND CONTINENTAL INFLUENCES. t’s a great year to visit, as the Channel Islands celebrate the 70th anniversary of their liberation after the Second World War, and the Island Games take place during late June and early July.

Simply arriving in Jersey is a treat, whether you travel by air and experience stunning views of ragged cliffs, golden beaches and lush countryside - or whether you cruise into the south coast harbour by ferry, spotting hidden coves and dolphins on the way. On arrival, you’ll find an island of only 45 square miles, but with more than enough sights, walks, attractions, beaches and restaurants to easily fill a week’s holiday.

Jersey’s heritage plays an important role in island life and there’s a wealth of historic sites and museums. A highlight is a visit to the Jersey War Tunnels, originally an underground hospital, built by the occupying German forces during the Second World War, and now a fascinating insight into five years of occupation in which Jersey was completely cut off from Britain and the rest of Europe.

A Jersey break isn’t complete without a visit to the world-famous Durrell Wildlife Park, home of the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. Founded by Gerald Durrell in 1963, the Trust protects endangered species across the world, offering a home to many of the animals at its Jersey countryside park.

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Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or long weekend, a family holiday or a relaxing break, Jersey offers an experience that is unique, accessible and, above all, truly memorable...

After filling your days with the island’s outdoors and attractions, the evenings must be spent sampling some of the best food in the world… really! The Channel Islands are home to some of the finest freshly-caught and prepared seafood, and Jersey offers a fabulous selection of places to eat, including beach cafés, friendly country pubs, modern brasseries and four Michelinstarred establishments.

When it comes to choosing accommodation, Jersey offers a bed for everyone, from five-star luxury to great-value family hotels close to the town centre. For a special treat, try the award-winning spa and contemporary rooms of the Grand Jersey, which overlooks the island’s south coast.

If you’re more adventurous, the fantastic Les Ormes Holiday Resort is close to the west coast and features an unrivalled collection of self-catering lodges, cottages and apartments.

Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or long weekend, a family holiday or a relaxing break, Jersey offers an experience that is unique, accessible and, above all, truly memorable.

Non-stop direct flights from Aberdeen Airport to Jersey depart every Saturday between 9 May and 12 September 2015. Return flights and holiday packages can be booked at www.jerseytravel.com

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APRIL

WHAT’S ON

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FAMILY FUN Awful Ancestors Braemar Castle, Braemar, Royal Deeside MUSIC Solid Silver 60s Show Music Hall, Aberdeen ABERDEEN CIVIC SOCIETY AGM 9 Albyn Place, Aberdeen

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OFFSHORE TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE (OTC) Houston, USA* WORLD WHISKY DAY Various events throughout the North-East www.worldwhiskyday.com SALTIRE SOCIETY TALK ‘Scots in the Subarctic: musical exchanges with the James Bay Cree’ Rubislaw Church Centre, Aberdeen

BUSINESS VisitScotland expo Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre TILLY ELLIOT Aberdeen Student Show 22-25 His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen FESTIVAL Koningsdag (King’s Day) Amsterdam, The Netherlands* ABERDEEN BACH CHOIR St John Passion, St Machar’s Cathedral, Aberdeen BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL Old Town, Edinburgh 22-23

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MAY

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ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast Aberdeen Marriot Hotel FESTIVAL California Roots Music & Art 22-24 Festival, Monterey, California, USA* BUSINESS Decom Offshore 2015 Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre MAY FESTIVAL 2015 University of 29-31 Aberdeen King’s College Campus, Old Aberdeen

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*International

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WHAT’S ON

JUNE /JULY

GRAMPIAN BEER FESTIVAL Richard Donald Stand, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast Village Urban Resort Aberdeen FESTIVAL Chicago Blues Festival 12-14 Chicago, USA*

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PITMEDDEN MUSIC & BEER FESTIVAL Pitmedden Garden, Pitmedden, Ellon, Aberdeenshire BUSINESS The Oil and Gas Industry 17-18 Conference, Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre THE MIDSUMMER BEER 18-20 HAPPENING IN STONEHAVEN Baird Park, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire ART & DESIGN 130th Anniversary 19-27 Degree Show, Gray’s School of Art, Aberdeen ABERDEEN HIGHLAND GAMES Hazlehead Park, Aberdeen ABERDEEN COUNTRY FAIR Belmont Street, Aberdeen 12-13

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30 APRIL - 4 MAY SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL Held annually during the first long weekend in May, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival invites visitors to celebrate Scotland’s national drink through an inventive and wide-ranging programme of whiskyinspired events - some educational, all of them fun. www.spiritofspeyside.com 6 JUNE TASTE OF GRAMPIAN Thainstone Centre, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire Discover and sample the wide range of high-quality

ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast Thistle Hotel Aberdeen Airport MUSIC Festival d’Eté de Québec Québec City, Canada*

food and drink products from the North-East of Scotland, including smoked salmon, shortbread, ice-cream, prime roast beef, creamy fudge and maybe a dram or two of the best Scottish whiskies from local distilleries. www.tasteofgrampian.co.uk 4-5 JULY SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL Portsoy, Aberdeenshire An annual extravaganza combining maritime and rural heritage, crafts, music, art, sailing - and the best of the region’s food and drink, all in the superb natural setting of Portsoy Harbour. www.stbfportsoy.com

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OUTDOOR FUN

North-East Scotland is blessed with miles of beautiful coastline, from sandy beaches, coves and caves, to craggy cliffs screaming with seabird activity. Inland, rushing rivers are bordered by breathtaking scenery, from native woodland to granite gorges. If you thrive on adrenaline-filled adventure, you’ll love these fantastic, fun ways of exploring the natural environment.

COASTEERING Get up close and personal with the stunning local seascape with this exciting and unique activity, which involves scrambling over rocks, exploring gullies and caves, and jumping into the sea!

Coasteering can be tailored to different abilities and tastes for adventure, and is a favourite with families, schools and organisations seeking fun, team-building activities, as well as stag and hen parties out to make a splash!

CANOEING & KAYAKING Scotland boasts some of the best canoeing and kayaking locations in the world, and the North-East is no exception! There’s an abundance of coastline (Stonehaven’s caves and inlets are a particular favourite for sea-kayaking), as well as a variety of lochs and rivers suitable for every grade, with opportunities 44

ranging from calm, sheltered water, to exhilarating white water rapids.

WHITE WATER RAFTING Hang on for the ultimate white-knuckle ride! White water rafting on the Rivers Dee, Don and Spey is another fantastic team activity - and it doesn’t need any training or experience. The rushing rapids are interspersed with plenty of calm waters, which offer excellent opportunities to catch your breath, enjoy the scenic views, and spot the riverbank flora and fauna.

GORGE-WALKING Like coasteering, gorge-walking is an ideal group activity, with an emphasis on teamwork. Participants journey up or down a river’s course, swimming, wading, sliding down natural flumes and rapids, and jumping into deep pools - as well as swimming

behind waterfalls and scrambling along the banks and gorge sides. There are several small but challenging gorges close to Aberdeen, with deeper and wider gorges to explore at Royal Deeside and Speyside.

A number of local organisations offer safe and professional instruction in all these activities, and they’ll also provide all the equipment you’ll require.

One such is Adventure Aberdeen - a not-for-profit Aberdeen City Council service supporting vital outdoor learning experiences for education, social care and community establishments across the city. Adventure Aberdeen also welcomes private and corporate groups.

Fairley Road, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8PZ Tel: +44 (0) 1224 270990 adventureaberdeen@aberdeencity.gov.uk www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/adventureaberdeen

OUTDOOR FUN

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01. Coasteering 02. Gorge-Walking 03. Kayaking Images - Adventure Aberdeen 45

BEHIND THE SCENES

behind the scenes with...

THE AIRPORT FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE Martin Stubbs, Head of the Fire & Rescue Service at Aberdeen International Airport, welcomes upBEAT to the Fire Station, for an unforgettable familiarisation session!

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BEHIND THE SCENES

“...WE LOOK FOR ENTHUSIASTIC PEOPLE WHO ARE ADAPTABLE TO A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT AND HAVE THE DETERMINATION AND ABILITY TO COPE IN VERY DIFFICULT AND OFTEN UNEXPECTED SITUATIONS THAT ARE DEMANDING BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY”

WHAT’S YOUR CAREER BACKGROUND? I started out in 1993 as a recruit firefighter at Edinburgh Airport and moved to Aberdeen, first as a Sub-officer and then on to Station Manager, and I took up my current role two-and-a-half years ago.

Twenty-two years on, I’m still passionate about the job, which is challenging, but very enjoyable. It’s an interesting environment to work in and no two days are the same.

WHAT ARE YOUR TEAM’S RESPONSIBILITIES? Aberdeen International Airport Fire & Rescue Service operates within many fields. Our primary role is to save life and render assistance at the scene of an aircraft accident or incident occurring on or near the immediate vicinity of the airfield throughout the published operating periods of the aerodrome.

AIA FRS is fully-equipped and trained to deliver a compliant and professional Fire & Rescue Service at all times in accordance with all regulatory standards. The Service is integral to many areas of the business, providing a high standard of customer focus. This includes the provision of first aid support and fire prevention advice, along with supporting the business to deliver a safe working environment. We are regularly audited by the Civil Aviation Authority and governed by European Aviation Regulatory Standards, operating around the clock, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

There are 51 of us in the team and our Red, Blue, White and Green Watches work 12-hour shifts. The guys here are very professional and dedicated to what they do. We’re a close-knit team and see ourselves as an essential part of the overall Airport safety and operational structure.

WHAT ARE YOUR PARTICULAR CHALLENGES AS AN AIRPORT FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE? Aircraft contain a relatively large amount of people within a confined space, and there are large quantities of fuel in the vicinity. This means we need to be on the scene, and have the ability to knock down any fire situation, as quickly as possible, so that we can carry out rescue operations. As a result, we have a different operating model from that of the local authority: performance-wise, our vehicles are fundamentally different, due to the very tight timescales within which we need to be in position and fighting a fire, and we also carry a lot more media (foam and water) on our appliances.

WHAT SPECIAL QUALITIES DOES IT TAKE TO BE A FIREFIGHTER? When we’re recruiting, we look for enthusiastic people who are adaptable to a changing environment and have the determination and ability to cope in very difficult and often unexpected situations that are demanding both physically and mentally. We have recruited staff from many walks of life, some having previously worked for local authority fire services.

Some of us are also on the Scottish Fire & Rescue Retained Service rota when we’re not on Airport duty.

WHAT TRAINING DO YOU UNDERGO? All our personnel are trained to CAP699 requirements - a nationallyrecognised Civil Aviation Authority standard. Predominantly, we train continuously for an event we hope will never happen. The Airport has a very good safety record and many of the incidents we attend are precautionary; however, we can never underestimate that any minor event could escalate into a significant one at any time.

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BEHIND THE SCENES

“THE GUYS HERE ARE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND DEDICATED TO WHAT THEY DO. WE’RE A CLOSE-KNIT TEAM AND SEE OURSELVES AS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE OVERALL AIRPORT SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE”

As well as daily airfield training exercises, we have regular classroom-based training to keep us abreast of aviation industry changes and developments in firefighting procedures.

We also hold mutual training events with the local Scottish Fire & Rescue team, who, along with Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service, would support us in the event of a major incident. Every two years, we hold major practical emergency exercises involving all the agencies including volunteers from organisations such as the British Red Cross and Police Scotland Youth Volunteers, who role-play as casualties to add a further element of realism to the event.

An essential part of being a Firefighter is keeping fit, as we need to comply with the regulatory minimum fitness requirements.

We have a very well-equipped - and wellused - gym at the Fire Station, and each watch has at least one physical training instructor (PTI) to support individuals in their personal fitness programmes. We also encourage staff from other Airport departments to use our gym: our PTIs are always available for Airport staff to provide support for anyone looking to 48

generally get fitter, or recuperate following an injury or operation.

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT The Airport has made a significant investment in the Fire & Rescue Service fleet and our main fire-fighting vehicles are two state-of-the -art Rosenbauer Panthers - a model famous for appearing in the Transformer movie! Each £700,000 vehicle weighs 37 tonnes, but, with 700bhp, can go from zero to 50mph in just 30 seconds. We also have two Carmichael Cobra appliances. The Panthers are equipped with a main monitor and bumper turret, controlled by joystick from the cab, and can pump around 5000 litres of water/foam per minute. Each can carry up to 11,000 litres of media (far more than we are legally required to carry) and we have an airfield-wide hydrant system and rapid replenishment tanks where the vehicles can refill. The cabs can carry three Firefighters in full fire-fighting kit, and the vehicles also carry the very latest firefighting and hydraulic rescue equipment. Our fleet also includes a number of command and control and hose-laying vehicles.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHANGES IN THE SERVICE OVER THE YEARS? There has been a Fire & Rescue Service on site ever since Aberdeen became a civilian airport, and it has grown and developed along with the Airport. Our training and other compliance requirements have changed over the years, but the most significant developments have been in vehicle and equipment technology. When I first started, everything was very heavy and manual; we’ve now moved towards joystick technology and if you can use a PlayStation, you have an advantage!

Equipment has also become a lot lighter, more efficient, and requiring less maintenance.

DO YOU HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY? Very much so: we do a great deal of community engagement, actively encouraging local schools, nurseries, youth groups, etc, to visit the Station.

Last year we welcomed more than 400 visitors and received a community award from the Airport. We also attend a variety of open days and other events throughout the year. We very much enjoy our community activities.

BEHIND THE SCENES

STAFF FROM OTHER AIRPORT TEAMS ARE ENCOURAGED TO VISIT THE FIRE STATION FOR FAMILIARISATION SESSIONS. HERE, NEW MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR ANISHA PATEL MEETS THE MEMBERS OF BLUE WATCH AND GETS TO GRIPS WITH SOME SPECIALIST FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

I visit the Fire Station on a sunny, spring day, a little nervous about what lies ahead. I needn’t have worried - Martin and his team make me very welcome and I’m whisked off to get kitted-up for some equipment familiarisation.

On the way, I have a quick look around the Station, which is wellequipped with a comfortable leisure room, kitchen, offices, a training room, and an amazing gym.

The team are friendly and there’s a lot of light-hearted banter as they put me through my paces. The uniform is very heavy and hot, particularly when I’m climbing up a ladder, and holding the

firehose and hydraulic cutting equipment, which are a real strain on the arms. I realise how much strength it must take to do the job, particularly wearing breathing apparatus on top of everything else.

I have nothing but admiration for the team’s sole female member, Jan Maryan, who, being petite, says she needs to take her fitness regime particularly seriously.

The highlight of my visit is a ride in the Rosenbauer Panther, when I see first-hand the sheer power of the water-deluge from its main monitor and bumper turret. It’s an incredible experience that I’ll never forget!

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DIARY

EASTER BUNNY The bunny made a visit to Aberdeen International Airport, and hopped behind the scenes!

LET’S CELEBRATE The Airport’s Let’s Celebrate Awards, held in January at the Thistle Aberdeen Airport Hotel, were a sparkling success!

01. Kevin Elrick, Iain MacDonald, Carol Benzie, Gary Annand & Brian Robertson 02. Stuart Beattie, Carol Benzie & Jemma Forrest 03. Hope Eley, Stuart Beattie, Jemma Forrest, Martin Stubbs, Craig Dow, Iain MacDonald, Craig Ross, Gary Annand, Mandy Shanks, Brian Robertson & Kevin Elrick 04. Martin Stubbs, Dan Peck & Craig Dow

01.

02.

03. 04.

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DIARY

VIRGIN MACMILLAN The Virgin Little Red team enlist the help of ‘Superman’ to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Don Wells, Martin Kennedy, Holly Bernie, Sandra Dinnie, Tracey Hutchinson, Yasmin Rosie, Tom Golswerthy, Laura Smith, Emma Salt, Helen Yates.

FRONT CENTRE: Rebecca Hill (left) and Christine Burt.

BRITISH AIRWAYS COMIC RELIEF British Airways hosted Comic Relief at Aberdeen International Airport, with X Factor Finalist Nicholas McDonald.

BACK ROW: Taufiq Qazi, Gordon Martin, Taiwo Salami, Debbie Clark, Ann-Marie McPake, Carl Elwood FRONT ROW: Phyllis Stuart, Nicholas McDonald, Shirley Watson

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THE BEAT GOES ON

Win a £100 VOUCHER to spend at World Duty Free, at Aberdeen International Airport!

ALEX MITCHELL, HALONG BAY, VIETNAM

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See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT go on, be creative! Send your photo to upbeat@aiairport.com Please submit high resolution images, at least 1MB in size at 300dpi print resolution.

See the winning picture in the Summer 2015 upBEAT - it could be yours! (Deadline: 12th June 2015) 54

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