Aberdeen International Airport upBEAT Magazine - Autumn 2015

ICELAND AND BEYOND! ABERDEEN ALL WRAPPED UP THE WORLD AT YOUR FEET DELIGHTFUL DUBLIN

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ADVERTISEMENTS

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CONTENTS

9 To Iceland and Beyond!

BUSINESS

COMPETITIONS

Tel: +44 (0) 844 481 6666 Email: feedback@aiairport.com Web: www.aberdeenairport.com Text: 80800 (start message with

“Airport”, texts are FREE)

26 Connecting You to the World

6 Airport News 46 Behind the Scenes with

Terminal Operations

33 WIN a night’s stay for two plus

dinner and a bottle of wine at the

Crowne Plaza Aberdeen Airport 34 WIN two return Aer Lingus flights

from Aberdeen to Dublin 54 The Beat Goes On - WIN a

£100 voucher to spend at

World Duty Free

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PEOPLE 10 Breaking the Ice - an interview

with Andrés Jónsson GM

for Icelandair 22 ABZ Adventurers 32 Ready to Take Off - an interview

with Nikos Papachristodoulou,

Bar Manager for Crowne Plaza

Aberdeen Airport 34 Local Flavours - review of the

Offshore Bar & Grill, Crowne Plaza

Aberdeen Airport 44 The World at your Feet - walking

in Aberdeen City and Shire 48 Woven into the Landscape -

Belinda Rose, Deeside weaver.

50 Words Worth Reading 52 Diary

TRAVEL 9 To Iceland and Beyond!

14 London’s Calling 18 Lufthansa’s New Business

Class service 26 Connecting you to the World 30 Head for the Sun 38 Delightful Dublin

SHOPPING 12 Aberdeen All Wrapped Up 20 Grab your Gifts

CULTURE 42 What’s On EDITORIAL

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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 (October 2015).

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WELCOME

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

Carol Benzie Managing Director

As we move towards the end of 2015, we begin to reflect on what has been a challenging time for the region but also a year that has seen a number of exciting developments in and around the local area, such as the start of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) and A96 Link Road projects, and a number of opportunities to showcase the best of what Aberdeen City and Shire has to offer. Back in April, the City successfully hosted the Routes Europe conference and this September saw the city once again offer a warm welcome to the tens of thousands of visitors attending the worldrenowned oil and gas event, Offshore Europe.

In the latest route news we are delighted to welcome our new airline partner Icelandair with their route to Reykjavik and beyond, and Wizz Air with their second route from Aberdeen International Airport to the Polish capital Warsaw.

Elsewhere in the magazine we have suggestions for sunny getaways and top travel tips from some of our passengers, as well as a focus on the city of Dublin. As we turn into autumn and winter, we’ve picked the best winter walks in Aberdeen City and Shire, and to give you some ideas for Christmas shopping we’ve put together a two day shopping itinerary for making the most of Aberdeen’s independent shops and cafés.

Lastly, with Christmas fast approaching, don’t forget about our December day trip to Lapland to visit Santa!

I hope you enjoy your read, and we look forward to welcoming you through the airport again in 2016.

LEARN TO FLY AT ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT From a one off trial lesson as a gift , right through to getting your licence, Cabro Aviation can help you all the way.

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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 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 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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Icelandair to launch Reykjavik service The airport is thrilled to announce a new year-round service to Reykjavik courtesy of Icelandair. Starting from March 2016, the four times weekly service will provide easy connections to Icelandair’s 16 gateways in North America and reduce current travel times by up to several hours. Icelandair destinations in North America include New York, Seattle, Toronto and recently announced Chicago starting in 2016.

our first direct flight to Iceland. The decision to commence the service from the North-east is fantastic news for both leisure and business travellers wanting to reach Reykjavik, and of course the extensive number of onward connections to the US and Canada now available. We look forward to working with Icelandair and its subsidiary Air Iceland and wish them every success with the route”.

Carol Benzie, MD at Aberdeen International Airport said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Icelandair to Aberdeen,

Read more about Icelandair on page 9. Flights are now on sale and can be booked at www.icelandair.co.uk

Lapland Adventure With Christmas fast approaching why not swap the North-east for the North Pole and book your trip to visit Santa in Lapland this December.

Hosted by tour operator Transun, the flight departs from Aberdeen early morning on 6 December. Excited families will set off on a once in a lifetime 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 himself. A dedicated charter flight will return all adventurers later that evening.

Transun’s James Crawshaw said, “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?” Bookings can be made at www.transun.co.uk

AIRPORT NEWS

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

Balkan Holidays increase capacity for Summer 2016 Balkan Holidays, the UK’s leading specialist operator to Non-Euro Bulgaria, continue to offer the rich and varied

water sports, aquaparks and fairground; to the UNESCO world heritage site of Old Nessebar with

resorts of Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast from Aberdeen, and brand new for Summer 2016 will now offer 10 and 11 night durations, as well as the standard 7 and 14 nights, providing more flexibility around holiday durations.

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.

If a 7 night holiday leaves you wanting more, but a 14 night break is a little too long, Balkan Holidays have the perfect solution for your summer holiday.

From the 8km long Sunny Beach with its buzzing seaside promenade complete with bars, restaurants,

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 Check the weight of your suitcase and prep

Local Projects flying high after airport donation Four lucky groups have been awarded cash donations as part of the second round of Aberdeen International Airport’s Community Fund. The donations, ranging from £500 to £1750, were awarded to the locally based groups which included an amateur football club, an established youth project, a community centre and a dementia charity.

The Fund places priority on supporting projects linked to education, the environment and economic regeneration in the Aberdeen City and Shire area, and donated over £25,000 in 2014. The Fund’s Board meets four times a year to discuss applications received and to award donations.

A total of 12 applications were received for the second round, held in June, and the four lucky groups were selected based on a strong application demonstrating a real benefit to the local community.

Amongst the selected groups were the Fersands and Fountain Community Project, a voluntary organisation based in Woodside which aims to provide advice, education and support to the most vulnerable and hard to reach families in the area. Money awarded by the Fund will go towards the running costs of a youth activity flat currently run by the charity. John Law, Community Fundraiser at Alzheimer Scotland who were also awarded funds towards an awareness

campaign, said, “We are really delighted to have been given this grant by the Airport Community Fund. It will allow us to extend and develop the work we do with schools, the universities and the college in Aberdeen including students and young adults, to better understand issues surrounding dementia. I look forward to working with the various partners and the airport to make our project a great success”.

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.

> 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 two other lucky groups securing funding were Kintore Football Club who were awarded a donation for a new football kit, and the city’s Sunnybank Community Centre, who will put the donation towards ‘English for speakers of other languages’ (ESOL) classes for local people.

Dan Peck, Development Manager at the airport and a member of the Fund’s Board, said, “It was another strong round for the Community Fund and it’s great to see so many innovative projects ongoing in the local area. We’re thrilled to be able to support these four organisations which cover a range of causes in the local community”.

If you know a local organisation who might like to apply for funding from the airport, contact communityfund@aiairport.com for further information.

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AIRPORT NEWS

Celebrate Aberdeen Aberdeen International Airport was delighted to support the Celebrate Aberdeen event again this year, offering its support to two local groups; North East Sensory Services and the Aberdeen City Youth Council. The event saw over 100 third sector organisations parade through Union Street on Saturday 22nd August to celebrate and illustrate the fantastic work they are involved in across the region. More information can be found at www.celebrateaberdeen.org

Lift off for accessible flying scheme After a few cancellations due to weather, Flying Instructor James Brown had the great pleasure of instructing Aerobility’s first flight from Aberdeen at the end of July.

Aerobility is a registered charity offering disabled people, without exception, the opportunity to fly their own aircraft. The innovative programme uses specially adapted aircraft and trained instructors to remove the barriers to aviation for those less abled. This is the first time the scheme has been launched in Aberdeen and is in conjunction with Cabro Aviation Ltd., based at Aberdeen International Airport. The airport has also committed to waive the landing fee for any Aerobility flight taking place at the airfield.

The first flight was with Corinne Hutton who had her hands and feet amputated in 2013 after contracting septicaemia. Corinne is the inspiration behind the charity ‘Finding Your Feet’ which she set up following her illness to improve the lives of those who find themselves facing life-changing physical trauma.

To find out more about Aerobility, visit www.aerobility.com

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Wizz Air announces direct flights from Aberdeen to Warsaw Wizz Air, the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe, has announced its second route from Aberdeen International Airport to the Polish Capital of Warsaw.

It will be the first time Warsaw has been served as a destination from Aberdeen Airport and Wizz Air will operate a year round, twice weekly service starting on 13 May 2016.

The airline moved to Aberdeen International Airport earlier this year when it launched a twice weekly service to Gdańsk. Since the inaugural flight took off

on 19 June the route has proved extremely popular.

Carol Benzie, managing director at Aberdeen Airport, said, “Wizz Air is an ambitious and rapidly growing airline and the addition of Warsaw is fantastic news for the airport and the city. We are continually working to expand our route network and not only will Wizz Air’s new route strengthen our connectivity with Europe’s major cities, it has huge potential to generate significant in-bound tourism for Aberdeen”.

Seats on the new Warsaw route are already on sale and can be booked on www.wizzair.com

Local Artist exhibits ‘Heli-galore’ venture at airport

Local artist Kate Steenhauer is set to showcase her helicopter inspired artwork ‘Heli Galore’ within the airport’s departure lounge over the coming months.

Mark Abbey, a regional director for CHC Helicopters said, “The artwork created by Kate Steenhauer provides an insight into the scope of our operations and the rigorous attention to detail applied by CHC people as we support

Ms Steenhauer, who was given unprecedented access to the iconic North-east vehicles by helicopter company CHC, has produced a series of pencil drawn images depicting the intricacies of the industry and its aircraft, including the Sikorsky and Airbus, in mesmerising detail.

the North Sea oil and gas industry”.

The breathtaking images from Series One of the venture will be on display from Wednesday 7th October. More information on this collection can be found at www.artataberdeenairport.com

AIRLINE FOCUS

Although Icelandair are a brand new addition to Aberdeen International Airport, they are no strangers to Scotland.

This year they celebrate 70 years of flying to Scotland - the very first flight was made by four passengers and four crew from Reykjavik to Largs. Today Reykjavik’s airport Keflavik is an international hub, flying 3 million passengers every year, specialising in North American and Canadian destinations.

The short flight times from Aberdeen to Icelandair’s 16 North American and Canadian partner airports, via Reykjavik, should appeal, particularly to destinations such as Chicago, Minneapolis, Portland, Denver, Orlando, Anchorage, Halifax, Vancouver and Montreal. Tickets are already on sale and

Icelandair prides itself on a reputation for delivering reliable and ‘refreshing’ customer service, as well as being a reasonably priced and viable alternative to current flight times. The staff work closely with tourist boards and tour operators to offer the best experience possible.

One of the very attractive aspects of Icelandair’s arrival in Aberdeen is their no-cost stopover, where you can break your longer journey with a stopover in Iceland of up to seven days before flying onward to your final destination with no additional airfare.

(Continued overleaf...)

passengers can fly from 9 March 2016.

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AIRLINE FOCUS

upBEAT speaks to Andrés Jónsson, General Manager of Icelandair

WHAT MAKES ICELAND SUCH AN

priced, you can enjoy food, culture, events and take the

work specifically with tour operators and tourist boards

APPEALING DESTINATION? Iceland has a diverse and quite unique nature with lava, waterfalls, hot springs, glaciers and few trees.

Also the ease with which you can combine a city break to Reykjavik with outdoor activities, just outside the city or around the country. Reykjavik and the greater area of the capital city of Iceland contains two thirds of the population of the whole country (300,000), and is well placed to visit many of Iceland’s attractions within a relatively short space of time. You can go glacier walking, try and see the Aurora Borealis, visit where the first ever parliament was founded in Thingvellir, or go whale spotting within an hour or so of the capital.

time to relax in any of the 12 public pools, heated by geothermal water which just cost a few pounds to enjoy.

and focus sharply on customer service. When travelling to North America, one can decide to stop for up to seven days in Iceland without any additional airfare and actually saving a bit on the APD.

WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT FROM REYKJAVIK? It’s a lively city with a great variety of good quality restaurants. Food and accommodation are reasonably

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WITH NORTH AMERICA AND CANADA SO ACCESSIBLE FROM ICELAND, WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS? I love Colorado for the nature and especially skiing, I am also very impressed by the moose in the National Park in Jasper, as for cities - I think Boston and Vancouver are both exciting cities.

WHAT MAKES ICELANDAIR DIFFERENT? We are here to give our customers a personal and refreshing Icelandic travel experience. Our hub is in Iceland, Keflavik, mid-way between Europe and North America and is an easy airport to connect to with your North American flight. We believe Icelandair can become the North American carrier of choice for Scotland. We

TELL US ABOUT THE 7 DAY STOPOVER OPTION. You have the option to break your journey and stay over for up to seven days, you could perhaps include a family holiday at the beginning or end of a business trip. It gives you time and the opportunity to experience Iceland for a few days, after which you might consider a longer vacation sometime in the future, as there’s a lot to see and experience in Iceland.

WHAT MADE ICELANDAIR THE COMPANY IT IS TODAY? Iceland was quite isolated in the 1930s, few roads or cars and a lot of walking and horseback travel. People

YOU CAN GO GLACIER WALKING, TRY AND SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS...

were desperate to be better connected and so the first

revenue management until 2010, then I

commercial journey in a seaplane with four crew and four passengers took off from Reykjavik and landed in Largs Bay. By 1952 Icelandair were flying to the U.S, and during the energy crisis in the 70s, the two then national airlines merged to form the Icelandair of today.

In the 90s the current network of routes was starting to develop, and Aberdeen is the newest destination. We are very selective with any new destinations and carry out a lot of research before committing to them.

moved to Sweden and took on the role of Sales Manager. When the opportunity to join our UK team arose at the beginning of 2014 as General Manager, I was delighted to take on some of the challenges and develop the opportunities for Icelandair in the UK. Although Icelandair has grown quite fast in the last few years, and doubled in size in the last five years, it continues to be a ‘big family’ where teamwork and positive customer experience is at the forefront, and I continue to be inspired and motivated by the travel industry. www.icelandair.co.uk

AND FINALLY, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF… My background began in engineering, working for a manufacturing company as both production and quality manager, then in 2007 I joined Icelandair after I saw an advert for a job within revenue management.

This was a strength of mine and I found the airline business exhilarating, so I changed direction. I was in

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THINGS TO DO

The centre of Aberdeen is very accessible for shoppers, with many independent establishments as well as many household names.

With a mile-long shopping street, an exclusive ‘West End’ and lots of fashionable boutiques, you can shop ‘til you drop in Aberdeen.

Begin your visit as you mean to go on, with a treat…

DAY 1 | MORNING Blend shopping with relaxation in Aberdeen in the tranquillity of Pure Spa in Union Square. The luxurious spa has a number of packages to be enjoyed at length, but also plenty of quick treatments for those looking to spend most of the morning shopping. For a different experience away from the high street names, make your way to Rosemount. This quaint area is a ‘one-off’ shoppers’ paradise. There are specialist shops for cheese, meat and knitting, as well as gift shops, beauty salons, cafés and galleries. Don’t miss Peapod for bespoke and upcycled stylish furniture.

Enjoy the short walk back to the city centre with a detour through the splendid Victoria Park. For lunch, head up to Union Street where you will be spoiled for choice with a fine selection of restaurants.

Try out Amarone for stylish Italian cuisine or Café Andaluz for delectable afternoon tapas. If you are looking for something a bit lighter then head along to Belmont Street to choose from one of the many cafés.

DAY 1 | AFTERNOON The Belmont Street area is at the heart of Aberdeen’s shopping offer.

It’s here that you will find an array of charming shops including Juniper, the gift and homeware specialist. If you have time you could even watch a movie in the city’s 19th century cinema, The Belmont Filmhouse. Make sure to visit Nick Nairn’s cooking school and MacBeans coffee shop to bag some special “foodie” gifts. If at this point you could do with a diversion, how about a visit to Aberdeen’s very own and exclusive chocolate shop, Cocoa Ooze - it even offers chocolate making workshops!

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THINGS TO DO

DAY 1 | EVENING Aberdeen’s thriving nightlife scene boasts quality music venues, bars, pubs and clubs. Start your evening at the sophisticated Moonfish Cafe or Merchant Bistro, both located in the Merchant Quarter and serving up delicious local produce.

From here, head for some evening drinks at trendy Eclectic Fizz, the city’s only champagne bar, or one of the many cocktail bars we’re spoiled with. If you are looking for somewhere a bit more informal, why not opt for a craft beer - we are home of BrewDog after all.

DAY 2 | MORNING Relish a morning of relaxation with a spa treatment at The House, located in the city centre. This chic spa will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for another day of shopping.

As you make your way back to Union Street, be sure to check out the unique clothing shops, galleries and antique stores around Holburn Street. Country Ways is not be missed for outdoor stylish clothing and visit Oil & Glass for a gallery of glass artwork. If you have time, you can join in a glass-fusing workshop here.

DAY 2 | AFTERNOON For lunch, make the short walk towards the West End of Aberdeen where you will find a hidden gem, Foodstory Café. Choose from a range of organic, guilt-free and freshly made menu options, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Perfectly located in the city’s charming West End district, you’re ready to carry on shopping.

In this quirky area of the sparkling Granite City you will find exclusive, designer and specialist clothing boutiques, jewellers, quaint cafés and more. If you have time, don’t miss Almondine for delicious macarons!

DAY 2 | EVENING Sit down and relax as you enjoy a delicious meal in another one of the city’s excellent restaurants. Try Granite Park, which even has its own cocktail bar and courtyard, or visit Rusticos for traditional Mediterranean cuisine. You can finish off your weekend with an evening performance at His Majesty’s Theatre - only a short walk from the shopping area and restaurants. For more information visit www.visitaberdeen.com

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DOMESTIC OUTBOUND

CALLING It’s only a short flight away but how often do we think about treating ourselves to a few days away in one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the modern world?

London is extremely accessible from Aberdeen and absolutely packed with things to

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do and see for all ages and tastes. Flights are available to London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Luton and London City with British Airways, easyJet and Flybe departing up to 95 times per week from Aberdeen International Airport.

DOMESTIC OUTBOUND

TAKE A VIEW If you only have an hour and you literally want to see as much of London as possible - head for the London Eye where you can see up to 40 miles all around from your capsule on the giant wheel, or treat yourself to the view from the Shard which at 244m high is the tallest viewing platform in the EU. If you feel like being a little more hands on, you can climb over the outside skin of the O2!

SHOPPING HIT LIST London is a mecca for shopaholics because there are more flagship stores here than anywhere else in the UK. Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason, Harvey Nichols and Liberty - and that is just the tip of the iceberg of shopping. Many big stores have restaurants, cafés and bars, some have spas and salons and you can always ask for a personal shopper, the trick will be managing to leave any of these splendid emporia once you’re inside.

ECLECTIC MARKETS If you love to shop but you like the feeling of bargain hunting, coupled with the joy of stall holder banter then try some of the markets on offer around the city.

High on the list has to be Camden Market for funky and vintage fashion finds; Portobello Road for antiques; Borough Market for a foodie heaven; Greenwich for arts and crafts and the relatively new Slow Food and Living Market in Holborn.

OUT OF THE ORDINARY

© VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Prefer to go off the beaten track? London is just the place to find unusual experiences and innovative events.

Visit the Ice Bar where everything, including your vodka cocktail glass, is hewn from Swedish river ice; take the kids to the Rainforest Café where there is a waterfall in the background and elephants roam past your plate; go on a Street Art walking tour; choose from a menu of digital projections in Inamo - the restaurant without waiters or eat liquid nitrogen ice cream at Chin Chin Labs.

FAMILY FRIENDLY There’s no shortage of fun things to do with the family, why not start at the Museum of London Docklands where you can drop off your under 12s at Mudlarks, an imaginative play area that brings the history of London’s docks to life. London Zoo and London Dungeon are high on the list of crowd-pleasers, although the latter is not for the faint-hearted (adult)! No small person’s visit

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DOMESTIC OUTBOUND

OLD COMPTON STREET | ©VisitBritain / Simon Winnall

BOROUGH MARKET | ©VisitBritain / Joanna Henderson

THE SHARD | ©VisitBritain/ Jason Hawkes

TRAVELLING TO LONDON: TRAVEL TIMES USING THE TRAIN FROM LONDON AIRPORTS INTO ZONE 1 IN CENTRAL LONDON...

HAMPTON COURT PALACE | ©VisitBritain/ Historic Royal Palaces

> LUTON (TRAIN FROM LUTON AIRPORT PARKWAY) DESTINATION: St. Pancras International AIRLINE: easyJet TIME: 21 MINS

to London would be complete without an afternoon in Hamley’s Toy Shop, with seven floors of wonder including a Narnia staircase. It needn’t be costly either; you can watch pelicans being fed every day in St. James’ Park; zoom down a zip wire in St Coram’s Fields playground; or meet the ring-tailed lemurs at Golders Hill Park Zoo - all free to enter, as long as you have your adult with you.

AFTER DARK London has its share of glitzy superclubs, and the ones to head for are Ministry of Sound, Fabric and Heaven if that’s your thing. However, if you prefer a little exclusivity, then the city is full of hidden secrets. There’s the Doodle Bar, off the beaten track in Battersea where your creativity is encouraged with chalk board walls and life drawing classes; B.Y.O.C., a speakeasy with a twist down an alleyway in Covent Garden, where you take along your tipple of choice and it is mixed into heavenly cocktails by a skilled bartender; and Calloo Callay in Shoreditch, where the entry into the (free to join) members’ club is through a Lion, Witch and Wardrobeesque entrance.

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CULTURE VULTURES The only problem with London’s museums and galleries is that there are so many great ones, making it tough to pick just a few. Many are free, such as the Tate Modern, the Museum of London and the British Museum (where the Elgin Marbles and the Rosetta Stone reside). Head to South Kensington for the greatest concentration of fabulous absorbing days lost in the collections of the V & A, the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum. ..AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST. There are many attractions situated in the vicinity of your destination airport. Just minutes from Heathrow are Windsor Castle and the Great Park, Eton College, Legoland and Hampton Court Palace. A short trip from Gatwick will get you to Epsom Racecourse, Chessington World of Adventures, the Archway Theatre and the Aviation Museum. London City is just six miles from the financial district and Canary Wharf, and Luton is a stone’s throw from Whipsnade Zoo, Wrest Park and the Dunstable Downs.

> LONDON CITY DESTINATION: Bank AIRLINE: Flybe TIME: 22 MINS

> HEATHROW DESTINATION: Paddington AIRLINE: British Airways TIME: 15 MINS

> GATWICK DESTINATION: London Victoria AIRLINE: easyJet TIME: 30 MINS

ADVERTISEMENTS

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LONGHAUL AIRLINE FOCUS

LUFTHANSA launches New ‘Business Class Signature Service’ from 1 August 2015 With the introduction of its ‘Business Class Signature Service’, Lufthansa is now taking another important step on its journey towards becoming a Skytrax 5-Star Airline. The service on the airline’s intercontinental flights has been completely redesigned in what is the most comprehensive transformation of a Lufthansa in-flight service in recent years.

The main focus of the Signature Service is the ‘personal flight attendant’. Personal flight attendants act as hosts and central contacts for ‘their’ 10-14 passengers from boarding right through to landing. The service aims to provide passengers with a true restaurant experience, with individually set tables and most meals and drinks no longer served from the trolley, but brought to passengers by hand directly from the galley.

On 1 August 2015, the Business Class Signature Service was launched worldwide on all A380 routes to and from Frankfurt. The service has been additionally offered on B747 flights between Frankfurt and Asia and the Middle East. Passengers on the Airbus 340/330 are also able to experience the new service concept on outbound and return flights from Frankfurt and Munich to Asia and the Middle East as of 25 October 2015.

By introducing the Business Class Signature Service, we are taking another step on our journey towards becoming a premium airline. If it proves successful, the Signature Service will be extended to cover all long-haul flights in 2016.

HOUSTON, TEXAS

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LONGHAUL FOCUS

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RETAIL

Make great savings compared to high street prices when you shop at the Airport with tax-free shopping in World Duty Free (WDF) and Dixons.

Check in-store for fantastic travel exclusives you won’t find on the high street!

BOSE SOUNDLINK MINI Small and light enough to pack into your bag - the SoundLink Mini delivers big sound and deep bass, wherever you choose to listen. The rechargeable Lithium-ion battery gives up to 12 hours of play time with convenient USB charging.

DALMORE CIGAR MALT RESERVE This speciality crafted whisky has been expertly made to be the perfect accompaniment to the finest of cigars.

Matured initially in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and 30 year Matusalem oloroso sherry butts, it is then finessed in Premier cru Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques.

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GUCCI BAMBOO GIFT SET A new fragrance for today’s multi-faceted woman, both soft and intense at once. Gift set available from WDF all for the same price as the fragrance, giving you great value for less.

FITBIT CHARGE HR Take control and keep on top of your fitness with the Fitbit Charge HR fitness band. You’ll be able to accurately track how many steps you’ve taken, how many stairs you’ve climbed, your heart rate, distance travelled, calories burned and overall active minutes per day.

MOLTON BROWN STOCKING FILLERS A decadent, exotic 12 piece travel-sized gift set featuring Molton Brown’s bestselling blends. The perfect gift for globetrotters who love to match a different blend with each trip, or even for those who have never tried Molton Brown before. A travel exclusive from WDF.

RETAIL

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER GIFT SET This classic men’s fragrance is available as a gift set from WDF all for the same price as the fragrance.

BAILEYS The original Irish Cream is a classic, but if you’re in the mood for something different there’s a whole host of delicious flavours for you to try. Two for £26 mix and match available at WDF, flavours include Original, Vanilla, Orange, Hazelnut and Coffee.

HERE ARE OUR TOP 5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD PURCHASE YOUR GIFTS AT THE AIRPORT: 1 | SHOP AND COLLECT SERVICE Purchase all your gifts on your departure and pick them up on your return with our FREE and easy Shop and Collect service available to all passengers travelling within the EU (including flights within the UK). We store your goods securely while you are away and upon your return to the airport they will be ready and waiting for you at our convenient collection point.

2 | ANYONE CAN BUY If you are flying to a non-EU destination, you can purchase in any of our stores and also take advantage of duty-free prices in WDF. When flying within the UK or EU you can also buy in any of our stores and still make great savings with tax-free shopping at Dixons and WDF. Look out for colour-coded price labels on shelves within WDF: blue for ‘anyone can buy’ and green to highlight duty-free products for those travelling to a non-EU destination.

3 | WDF TRAVEL EXCLUSIVES Make your gift unique by purchasing products from WDF that you won’t be able to find on the high street.

4 | GREAT SAVINGS AGAINST HIGH STREET PRICES Save at least 15% on your favourite brands when you shop in WDF, and check in store at Dixons for their great ‘Double the Difference’ guarantee to ensure you get the best value for your money.

5 | RESERVATION SERVICES Spotted the perfect gadget to give as a gift?

Avoid disappointment by calling ahead to check product availability and reserve items before you travel. Visit our website for Dixons Travel contact information. www.aberdeenairport.com/ shopping-and-eating/shops/dixons-travel/

INSTAX MINI 8 The instax mini 8 is cute and compact in design providing fun and excitement with instant photos!

The wallet sized instax prints are great for scrapbooks, custom made albums, collages or turning into bunting.

Visit the World of Whiskies website to view and pre-order from an extensive range of whisky. Your selections will then be delivered to Aberdeen International Airport for you to purchase when you depart. www.worldofwhiskies.com

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We chat to passengers travelling from Aberdeen International Airport and find out where they would recommend for a winter break and what they wished they had never forgotten!

FROM: ABERDEEN TRAVELLING TO: VENICE VIA AMSTERDAM We always fly from Aberdeen, it’s well connected and there is just a short drive home at the end of the holiday.

I always make sure I’ve got my make-up and hair straighteners, David would be lost without his glasses and mobile phone. He once forgot his money and passport and I had to drive them to the airport, but I’m pretty organised so haven’t forgotten anything vital. Our recommendation for winter sun would be Madeira, and we have also had a lovely winter break in Cape Town.

FROM: ABERDEEN TRAVELLING TO: LAS VEGAS We try to use Aberdeen International Airport whenever possible, it’s far less hassle. My travel essentials are my iPod with all my music and a decent plug converter, and Emma never goes anywhere without lip balm and hand cream. We had to buy new flight pillows for this flight because Emma left the last ones lying on the bed! The best place we’ve been in the winter was when we went to New York in January, it’s an amazing place. Our top tips for travelling are to keep hydrated and book a seat.

Martyn Schoorl FROM: GRONINGEN, THE NETHERLANDS TRAVELLING TO: AMSTERDAM I’m going home from my job in the oil industry, I always use Aberdeen International Airport to travel for work. I would never travel without my iBook, iPad and headphones, and the most vital thing I’ve ever forgotten was my toothbrush. My winter picks would be Austria, it’s such a great place for snowboarding, with plenty of snow and fresh air. My tip for a trouble-free trip is to make sure you start early!

FROM: ABERDEEN TRAVELLING TO: ALICANTE I always fly from Aberdeen, it’s so convenient. I would never travel without my skin care essentials, but I once forgot to take my dental retainers and had to spend an absolute fortune getting them replaced by a dentist while I was away! I have been to Cancun in the winter, but my favourite for a winter holiday would be Thailand, it is such a great place and lovely and warm. My top tip for a relaxing holiday is make sure you get to the airport in plenty of time.

FROM: ABERDEEN TRAVELLING TO: AMSTERDAM I’m travelling on business and for that I always use Aberdeen International Airport. I would never leave home without my passport and credit cards, although hair straighteners are fairly high up the list too. We used to love skiing holidays in the winter, although we don’t get much chance at the moment with two small children. For a trouble-free journey I would say do as much online as you can, it saves time at the airport.

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

ABU DHABI WITH KLM Fancy a luxury holiday in the desert? Fly KLM to Abu Dhabi and go sunbathing, peruse the markets or shop in the Marina Mall. See the reconstructed oasis houses and discover the history of the United Arab Emirates at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village. Visit the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and leave impressed after seeing the largest carpet in the world and the biggest chandelier.

Time to relax? Stroll along the boulevard of Corniche Road or visit a nearby beach. Need to speed? The Ferrari World theme park is home to the fastest roller coaster in the world.

In Abu Dhabi, there is something for everyone. It is not only perfect for a city break, but also makes a great starting point for a longer holiday in the United Arab Emirates. Expect to be surprised! FLY WITH KLM VIA AMSTERDAM TO ABU DHABI. WWW.KLM.COM

There’s a world of choice to connect long-haul to any global destination with our global carriers at Aberdeen International Airport this season.

DENVER, USA WITH ICELANDAIR A flight to Denver with Icelandair will take you to a destination which has it all, with its mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. At an altitude of 1,609 metres above sea level, it is the gateway to the captivating Rocky Mountains. Denver was founded in 1858 after gold was discovered in the area. The gold has since dried up but Denver remains a veritable goldmine for travellers. The sun shines 300 days a year and the climate is mild and moderate. Denver is renowned for its beer and wine production so it is worthwhile to pay a visit to one of its many breweries and vineyards. Less than a 20-minute drive takes you to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing. However, the most famous attractions are some of the world’s finest ski resorts such as Aspen and Vail. FLY WITH ICELANDAIR VIA REYKJAVIK TO DENVER. WWW.ICELANDAIR.CO.UK

DUBAI WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS Try Dubai: the ‘jewel of the Middle East’. There’s lots to experience, from old courtyard homes in the Bastakiya quarter to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper and the stunning man-made Palm Jumeirah. Shop for designer brands or haggle for jewellery in the local souk markets. If you prefer the outdoors, why not try a desert safari and dune drive? FLY DAILY WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS VIA LONDON HEATHROW TO DUBAI. WWW.BA.COM 26

LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

HAVANA WITH AIR FRANCE Book Air France flights to Havana and go back in time in Cuba’s capital. Every facet of it is enchanting: the classic American cars in pastel shades, the 19th-century buildings in the El Vedado neighbourhood, the Miramar district and its magnificent colonial mansions… The heart of the city is Plaza de la Catedral. This bustling square is home to one of the most beautiful churches in Cuba. Take a seat on a bench and enjoy the ever-present street musicians and dancers. Fancy some sun, sea and sand? Plan a day at the beach in Varadero, the country’s most famous resort town. Do not leave without enjoying one evening at an outdoor café. The aroma of rum and cigars and the sounds of salsa will certainly make an everlasting memory of your visit to Cuba. FLY WITH AIR FRANCE VIA PARIS TO HAVANA. WWW.AIRFRANCE.CO.UK

SINGAPORE WITH LUFTHANSA

TOYKO WITH SAS

This thriving, multicultural city-state is marking its important milestone with festivals, exhibitions, parades and much more throughout the year and beyond. Why not visit one of the many cultural areas, such as Chinatown, Little India or Kampong Glam and soak up some atmosphere? Or simply sip a Singapore Sling in the Long Bar at Raffles followed by a stroll round the beautiful Botanic Gardens. FLY WITH LUFTHANSA VIA FRANKFURT TO SINGAPORE. WWW.LH.COM

Tokyo will have you saucer-eyed with wonder from the moment you arrive. It’s home to the world’s tallest freestanding tower and contains the most Michelin starred restaurants of any city in the world; but you can just as easily stroll down a cobbled alleyway and see crafts and traditions straight from a treasured artisan past. If pop culture is your thing, then manga and animé are in abundance from Hello Kitty to Studio Ghibli; you can just as easily spend time in a Shinto shrine or attending a sumo festival. Ever changing and timelessly ancient, Tokyo has to be seen to be believed. FLY WITH SAS VIA COPENHAGEN TO TOKYO. WWW.FLYSAS.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 Eastern Airways, SAS & Widerøe > BOURGAS with Balkan Holidays > COPENHAGEN with SAS > CORFU with Thomson & First Choice > DALAMAN with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > DUBLIN with Aer Lingus > ESBJERG with bmi regional > FARO with Thomson & First Choice > FRANKFURT with Lufthansa

> GDANSK with Wizz Air > 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

> REYKJAVIK with Icelandair (from March 2016) > REUS with Thomas Cook > STAVANGER with Eastern Airways, SAS & Widerøe > TENERIFE with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > WARSAW with Wizz Air (from May 2016) > 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 > 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

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 SAS flysas.com Thomas Cook thomascook.com Thomson thomson.co.uk Widerøe wideroe.no/en Wizz Air wizzair.com

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

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

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WINTER SUN

01. 02.

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WINTER SUN

Looking for some winter sunshine? Planning ahead for next summer? You’re sure to catch the sun at these idyllic holiday hotspots, flying directly from Aberdeen.

01.

UNDISCOVERED ITALY

Take in the often overlooked delights of Italy’s sun-kissed southern ‘high heel’ on this unique and delightful escorted tour. After a night in Caserta, head east to the blue Adriatic to discover the caves at Matera, and stunning hill towns Ostuni, Alberobello and Lecce, before heading up the coast via historic Bari to spend two nights on the very tip of the spectacular Gargano peninsula, in Vieste.

This holiday with Newmarket Holidays includes return economy class flights, coach travel throughout, seven nights full board accommodation in 4-star hotels, guided visits to Matera, Ostuni, Alberobello, Lecce and the Gargano peninsula with tour manager services included. www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

02.

SUN, FUN AND LOADS TO DO IN MALAGA

Resorts like Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Fuengirola have been catering for tourists for a very long time! There’s a massive choice of daytime activities, including watersports, shopping and sightseeing, and when the sun goes down the nightlife kicks in with myriad bars, clubs and restaurants all jostling for attention.

Of course, the Costa del Sol’s not all about loud music and frantic

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activity. For a quieter holiday, head to Nerja, with its quaint winding streets and ancient caves. You can also walk along its spectacular clifftop promenade. Or head for Mijas, a gorgeous, traditional mountain village complete with stunning views, whitewashed buildings and quaint little shops.

Barrhead Travel provides an ever-popular British Airways charter flight service direct from Aberdeen to Malaga. www.barrheadtravel.co.uk

03.

THE STUNNING ALGARVE

Whether it’s playing golf on world class courses - or soaking up the sun surrounded by dramatic rock formations and golden sand beaches, you can be sure that the Algarve has it covered. Thomson’s Gold hotel in Acoteias is a Trip Advisor favourite - this 4T+ adultsonly hotel is perfect for those wanting to get away from it all. With

a terrace-framed pool, spa and a golf course next door, you can unwind in style. Close by, the popular town of Albufeira has two personalities; the old town offers cobbled squares and al fresco restaurants,while the new town is home to a lively cluster of openair bars - making it a perfect stay for families and groups alike.

Pop into your local Thomson travel shop for expert advice or look online to find your perfect holiday today. www.thomson.co.uk

04.

ART, HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE FROM REUS

Reus puts you within easy reach of some of Spain’s most celebrated destinations, including Barcelona and Salou. Reus itself is worth visiting with several cultural attractions, including the Gaudi Centre and the stunning 19th century Institut Pere Mata, an exquisite modernist building that once housed a psychiatric institute. Those who love art, history and architecture will find nearby Tarragona to be one of the biggest surprises of the Costa Dorada. Just an hour from Reus is the magical city of Barcelona. The perfect beach break, Barcelona has so much for travellers to enjoy. The unique architectural style of Gaudi peppers the city, from the twisted spires of the Sagrada Familia to the colourful mosaics at the hillside Park Guell. www.thomascook.com

05.

BUSTLING BULGARIA

Sunny Beach is ideal for young couples and families wishing to experience the wonderful beach and low cost nightlife. Nessebar and Sozopol provide history and charm and will appeal more to couples and culture vultures. Elenite and Duni are purpose-built resorts ideal for families and Pomorie is great for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate while enjoying a beautiful seaside resort. For those wishing to enjoy the delights of the Golden Sands, Albena, St Konstantin and Obzor resorts, flights are available from Aberdeen.

Balkan Holidays continue to offer a rich and varied choice of resorts from Aberdeen in Summer 16, now with 10 and 11 night durations available in high season. www.balkanholidays.co.uk

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LOCAL FLAVOUR

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? I worked in hotels in my native country, Greece until moving to Britain to work at Trump Turnberry in 2011.

I was the Bar Supervisor, looking after two bars and a tea lounge. Throughout my career I have constantly developed my craft, twice representing Greece in national cocktail competitions and going on to win.

WHAT CAN THE NEW CROWNE PLAZA OFFER? We are extremely well placed close to the airport, so we will inevitably have many business customers and we want to encourage them to be relaxed and productive. To that end the connectivity within the hotel is not only state of the art, but also easy to use and very accessible. The hotel is well insulated and sound-proofed, so you can see the aircraft but not hear them! We would also like to become a local dining out destination, with our Offshore Bar and Grill serving fresh, local produce in a simple but accomplished format. The menu is affordable and the wine list ranges from £21 to £75 for a bottle of wine, with plenty to choose from by the glass. We are developing local whisky tasting and hoping that these along with our cocktail masterclasses and afternoon teas will appeal to hen and stag parties. We want to walk before we run, and so we are ready to listen to our customers and find out what they like first.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM JOB, AND WHO IS YOUR INDUSTRY HERO? I wanted to be a pilot! So I am delighted to be working here, so close to the airport. My hero is Marian Beke, the owner of Nightjar (one of the top 50 cocktail bars in the world), he is a legend in the world of cocktails, so innovative and passionate.

SIGNATURE COCKTAIL? Either a mango and ginger daiquiri, or a reconstructed piña colada with pineapple foam and coconut shavings.

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COMPETITION

A one night stay for two with dinner and a bottle of wine at the Crowne Plaza Aberdeen Airport!

The Crowne Plaza Aberdeen Airport opened its doors on 1st September 2015, and boasts a Bar & Grill restaurant, Starbucks coffee, 165 luxury bedrooms, a gym, 10 state of the art meeting rooms, 125 car parking spaces and free Wi-Fi. For your chance to win this great prize enter online at

www.aberdeenairport.com/competition

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REVIEW

Offshore Bar & Grill

The recently opened Offshore Bar & Grill restaurant at Aberdeen Airport Crowne Plaza Hotel next to Aberdeen International Airport greets diners with a warm and friendly welcome.

HEATHER MORRISON Operations Director, Forget Me Not Club - Dementia Support (Banchory).

Mark McKenzie the restaurant manager was delightful and made us feel relaxed and welcome and was ready to answer our questions and give advice. The Offshore Bar & Grill’s menu is extensive and interesting and we took our time to choose from the delights that were on offer.

beans was served with the most delicious jus, and was cooked to perfection. Desserts were tarte tatin for Val served with vanilla ice cream and I enjoyed a very large portion of raspberry cranachan.

The Starbucks coffee was excellent, the size of the large mugs made us laugh!Â

My guest Val chose the sweet potato soup which she found tasty while I enjoyed homemade Balmoral bread served with olives.

Val wanted seafood and the chef recommended the hake, Val was happy to take his advice and enjoyed the hake served on a bed of peas and potatoes. My roast lamb, potatoes with onion and green

Our servers were attentive but not overly, so we did not feel rushed, giving us time to enjoy the comfort of the restaurant. The restaurant was busy for a Sunday evening. We had a very pleasant dining experience and we both will recommend the Offshore Bar & Grill to family and friends.

International Ave, Dyce, Aberdeen AB21 0BE | 01224 608350 | www.cpaberdeen.com

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CITY BREAKS

upBEAT editor Jan Leatham flies to Dublin with Aer Lingus Regional, and with help from Tourism Ireland discovers just how much you can fit in on a 24 hour whistle stop tour to the capital city of Ireland.

From the moment you touch down in Dublin Airport, your welcome is on the mat. Dubliners aren’t just happy to be there, they’re happy that you’ve come to visit, and delighted to share their friendly, buzzing city with you.

I travelled on a whistle stop tour to Dublin with Aer Lingus Regional, a mere 90 minutes from Aberdeen International Airport. Within minutes of arriving I was on a bus which took me to the city centre in less than half an hour. One of the best deals for travelling around once you’re there is the Dublin Freedom Ticket, which for 33 euros gets you to and from the airport, plus unlimited travel on the Hop-on Hop-off tour bus and city buses for 72 hours.

Being a great fan of the open-topped introduction to a city, I hopped on and then quickly off again at St. Stephen’s Green, a lovely little central park with beautiful trees and gardens, some interesting statuary and a duck pond with a waterfall. Directly across the road I nipped into The Little Dublin Museum where the city is celebrated through the decades with a fascinating collection of historic objects - all collected by public appeal in 2011. The collection is housed in a lovely Georgian building and rather than being a particularly small museum, celebrates a lot of the small things in Irish life as well as dedicating a room to Alfie Byrne, Dublin’s favourite Lord Mayor.

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Around the corner is Grafton Street, packed with a fantastic array of shops, but I chose to pop into the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre which houses over 40 shops, boutiques and restaurants under one gorgeous Georgian roof. You can pick up an antique find, bag the latest fashions and keep out of the autumn chill in here.

Onto the bus again and soon I’m in the vast Guinness Storehouse, home of the famous black stuff. The experience is a total immersion in all things Guinness, from the smell of the malt, via seven floors of fascinating interactive experiences, to the breathtaking 360˚Gravity Bar, where I was treated to a complimentary pint - Sláinte! Booking online saves queuing and 10% of the ticket price.

Definitely time to head for Dawson Street and the fine mix of eclectic bars and restaurants there. I popped into the Café-EnSeine which is a true visual delight, hidden behind plain red doors but full of Parisian Art Nouveau decoration and perfect for an early evening aperitif. Next I stopped by Number 37 which has a lovely menu and lots of quirky seating areas, as well as a whole wall of old-fashioned sweets! A few steps away is the Peruke and Periwig Bar where the super-friendly barmaid makes liquid nitrogen cocktails amongst displays of barristers’ wigs, while customers watch old movies on a black and white TV.

CITY BREAKS

© 2014 Rob Durston/Fáilte Ireland I wouldn’t be doing the city justice if I didn’t give some live music a whirl, and suffice to say there was plenty to choose from, even on a week night. There were banjos in O’Donoghues, a rock band in the Porterhouse Temple Bar and countless others, in fact I was printed out a sheet of live music venues at the Tourist Information in the airport - there’s helpful for you!

of Horrors! Kids of all ages will love the Wax Factor, where you can record your own pop video.

The next day dawned brightly over the fair city and I joined the smallish queue for the Book of Kells which is within the Trinity College grounds. It’s delightful to stroll amongst the students and staff in tranquil academia just seconds away from a busy intersection and main shopping street. The doorman at this attraction is full of banter, as are so many of the people you meet. Inside, the glorious colours and intricate designs of the precious 1,000 year-old Book of Kells keep me spellbound for a while, before heading upstairs to the Long Room, a towering library of 200,000 ancient books under a barrel-vaulted ceiling. This room also houses the fifteenth century harp which appears on today’s Irish coins.

and in Creative Dublin including the Irish Design Centre for traditionally crafted items. Temple Bar has three dedicated Saturday markets: the Food Market selling artisan produce, the Designer Mart where you can meet the makers, and the Book Market.

Time to leave and I had the strangest feeling that Dublin didn’t want me to go, the welcome really is that friendly.

SHOP AT... Grafton Street, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre,

Determined to squeeze every last drop of enjoyment out of my trip to Dublin, I knocked at the door of National Wax Museum Plus, again located very centrally beside the imposing Bank of Ireland building.

Housed in a Georgian townhouse, this attraction is definitely one for the family. I entered through the Writers’ Room, past the Time Vaults of Irish History and became positively unnerved in the Chamber

EAT AT... Blazing Salads for a super-healthy lunch on the go, Fade St. Social for tapas and wine pairing, Butlers Chocolate Café for an upscale chocolatier and coffee shop.

LISTEN AT... O’Donoghues and The Cobblestone for traditional nightly sessions, or The Bank on College Green for sophisticated piano music.

STAY AT... Brooks Hotel for a personalised luxurious experience in the heart of the city.

Tourism Ireland, www.ireland.com

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A PAIR OF RETURN AER LINGUS REGIONAL FLIGHTS FROM ABERDEEN TO DUBLIN! We are giving one lucky upBEAT reader the chance to win a pair of return flights from Aberdeen to Dublin with Aer Lingus Regional. Aer Lingus Regional offer daily flights from Aberdeen to Dublin with fares starting from just £29.99

each-way including taxes and charges. Experience the perfect city break in Dublin with Aer Lingus Regional, book now at www.aerlingus.com

Enter online at www.aberdeenairport.com/competition *Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.

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WHAT’S ON

3-28

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ROAD TO WATERLOO Exhibition, Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen SHIRE AT SEA LEVEL Star of BBC TV series Trawlermen Jimmy Buchan takes a look at the history and future of the fishing industry. Scottish Maritime Academy, Peterhead DANCELIVE Various venues in Aberdeen City & Shire THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION 12-27 His Majesty’s , Theatre Aberdeen BRAEMAR CREATIVE ARTS 21-25 FESTIVAL. Braemar, Aberdeenshire SOUNDFESTIVAL Various venues in Aberdeen City & Shire (Until 9th Nov) GRANITE EXPO 2015 AND HOLIDAY 2015/16 Hilton Treetops, Aberdeen FOSSILS & FUNNY BONES multisensory UNTIL exhibition, Aberdeen Science Centre

9 - 20

22 29 31

1

COLIN CLOUD – FORENSIC MIND READER The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen SPE ICOTA 21ST EUROPEAN WELL 11-12 INTERVENTION CONFERENCE AECC, Aberdeen

14 18

POSTGRADUATE OPEN DAY Aberdeen University WHITE CHRISTMAS His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

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THE ILLUMINATOR RUN Half-marathon. Glen Tanar, Aberdeenshire 4TH CULLEN SKINK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Cullen Bay Hotel, Aberdeenshire FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKET* Frankfurt, Germany (Until 22nd Dec) THE PROCLAIMERS AECC, Aberdeen GEORGE JAMESONE Portrait painter exhibition. Maritime Museum, Aberdeen

25 28 28 UNTIL

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WHAT’S ON

28 28 29 29 3 5 9-10

9 17 27

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON PARADE Aberdeen City Centre AMSTERDAM LIGHT FESTIVAL* The Netherlands (Until 17th Jan) THE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Union Terrace, Aberdeen (Until 3rd Jan) PANTOMIME Peter Pan, His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen (Until 3rd Jan)

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS IN LA SAINTE CHAPPELLE* Paris, France (Until 29th Dec) ABERDEEN MINISTRY OF CRAFTS Crown Terrace, Aberdeen ANDRE RIEU AECC, Aberdeen ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS Ardoe House, Aberdeen RSNO: CHRISTMAS CONCERT THE SNOWMAN Music Hall, Aberdeen SIX DEGREES OF SOUND Littlejohn Street, Aberdeen

1 2 12-16

17 22 23

BAD MANNERS CONCERT The Tunnels, Aberdeen ‘SAIR HEAD’ ROUND GOLF OPEN Cullen, Aberdeenshire SOUND OF MUSIC His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen CLASSIC ROCK SHOW 2016 Music Hall, Aberdeen SHETLAND LACE KNITTING Maritime Museum, Aberdeen BURNS SUPPER AND CEILIDH Woodend Barn, Aberdeenshire

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WALKING TRIPS

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WALKING TRIPS

If you like nothing better than to pull on a pair of walking boots, make a flask of tea and set off into the great outdoors, then Aberdeen City and Shire has a wealth of strolls, hikes, day walks and week-long excursions right here on our doorstep.

Autumn brings with it some of the best walking weather; crisp autumn days, snow-capped hills and the magnificent spectacle of turning leaves.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Path goes from North Water Bridge just south of St. Cyrus to Cullen on the northern coast of the region. There are 38 maps splitting the walk into manageable day sections which include information about features of interest and the coastal bus route.

The Formartine to Buchan Way is another waymarked walk going from Dyce to Fraserburgh. Stretching for 40 miles, with an additional spur to Peterhead, the route follows the path of the old railway line and affords unrivalled views and a pace of life that is easy to miss by road. The Aberdeenshire Council website provides maps for day-sized walks so you can tailor your outing.

Day trips are popular with locals and visitors and a firm favourite is the Burn o’ Vat - a circular walk through the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve in Aberdeenshire which includes a geological wonder. The Vat is a deep hollow in the rock gouged by centuries of water which can be visited through a fissure in the rock by way of stepping

stones. The walk then heads gradually uphill through pinewoods for 4 miles.

Most recently completed is the Deeside Way which again traces the path of the old railway line from Duthie Park to Ballater for 41 miles and includes the 13 mile Tarland Way spur. Pick a favourite section for an afternoon stroll or tackle the whole trail, there is something for everyone. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you pass along Deeside, you might catch a glimpse of an otter, a leaping salmon or a disappearing deer!

Lastly there is the Gordon Way which is not yet complete, but still offers two days of walking from Suie to Esson with the magnificent backdrop of Bennachie.

Of course, there are many more walks available and certainly something to suit even the most fair weather rambler. Just remember to take a biscuit to have with your cup of tea and you’ll have a day to remember!

Maps for most of these walks can be found at www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk and www.walkhighlands.co.uk

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Kevin Douglas, Terminal Operations Manager at Aberdeen International Airport gives us an insight into the role of his team.

WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES? My role is to co-ordinate all passenger facing airport operations within the terminal. My team looks after the allocation of check-in desks, provision of special assistance needs, first aid, cleaning of the terminal, self-service check in kiosks, distribution of flight information, the passage of VIPs including politicians, royalty and celebrities, through the Terminal and passenger flow within the airport and ensuring we have the appropriate resources to manage the operation. We work very closely with the handling agents who operate at the airport and also with the support of all other airport departments.

WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES? When flights are delayed or we experience operational disruption events, for example bad weather or air traffic delays, then we need to react quickly to ensure we have staff when and where we need them. Often one of the most challenging areas of my role is 46

balancing the needs of all the parties involved within the terminal operation so that we work together to make sure we are providing customers with the best experience we can. Many passengers perceive the airport to be one big company, rather than separate companies working together, therefore it’s important that we do work seamlessly.

WHO IS IN YOUR TEAM? There are 19 of us in total, five Airport Duty Managers, six Terminal Safety Officers, three Customer Feedback Coordinators, one Terminal Operations Co-ordinator and four Airport Ambassadors. The team are dedicated to providing the best experience for our passengers while ensuring we remain compliant with safety and security requirements. Between us we concentrate on passenger safety, customer service, conducting customer surveys that provide valuable feedback, provide the information used at check-in kiosks and desks, as well as departures and arrivals screens. The Airport Duty Manager plays a pivotal role in the daily airport operation.

BEHIND THE SCENES

We are one big team at the airport, whoever we work for, and that’s what is important in getting the job done.

HOW DID YOU GET TO THIS POINT? I have spent most of my career in aviation in one way or another.

I started working in a ground based customer facing role with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), and as the industry changed and more airlines used third party handling companies rather than keeping it in house, I then moved to express courier company DHL. I took the chance to join Aberdeen International Airport in 2006 as an Airport Duty Manager, from which I became the Terminal Operations Manager in 2011. Having a broad airport and airline experience from past jobs has proven to be invaluable for this role.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHANGES IN THE AIRPORT OVER THE YEARS? Security has changed greatly and especially after Lockerbie in 1988.

This has affected the way in which we work - not just the process for passengers. Airport and airline IT systems have developed

dramatically over the years. From passengers being checked-in using “manual check-in” processes with paper and pen, we are now at a point where passengers have the choice now to check-in online, use kiosks or traditionally at the desks. The terminal building has also evolved over the years to meet the needs of ever changing operational and customer demands and is quite different now in a number of ways compared to how the building opened in 1977.

WHAT KIND OF PERSON DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO WORK IN AN AIRPORT? When we recruit, we look for those who can think on their feet and be innovative. We can plan in advance, but it’s difficult to prepare for every eventuality, as our passengers are individuals, and every passenger has individual needs and requirements. Situations and consequences change daily, for instance if a flight is delayed, so we need our staff to be able to consider different solutions whilst being alert and flexible. No two days in an airport are the same!

It’s a vibrant and dynamic environment where you learn to expect the unexpected!

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LOCAL INTEREST

Belinda Rose has been weaving most of her life, but although what she does is rooted in tradition, there is nothing remotely old-fashioned about her approach and her workspace, The Colourbothy Studio in Deeside. The studio is spilling over with yarns of every hue and texture, and examples of her work provide ready inspiration, as well as the view of the garden.

Belinda describes herself as an artist, craftsperson and weaver and began her colourful journey with a Certificate in Handweaving from Bradford College.

She says, “I love the opportunity to handle beautiful fabrics, and the synergy created between texture and colour to create fabric and artwork. Although I use traditional looms to create items such as cushions, hangings, ties and scarves, my most recent fascination is with jacquard weaving”.

In 2007 Belinda acquired a digital jacquard hand loom, enabling her to design using image editing software which governs the digitally operated part of the loom. The jacquard technique opens up a world of possibilities for colour combinations and designs, 48

giving the weaver more freedom to create. Belinda still carries out the weaving part by hand which allows her to study and respond to the pattern as it grows. She is inspired by drawings, paintings and photographs covering a wide range of subjects.

In 2012 the Roses built an inspirational but simple new studio, The Colourbothy. It makes full use of natural daylight and creates a bright working weaving environment. It covers 64 square metres and using wood, glass and more modern materials, makes a bright punchy statement within the cottage garden.

Belinda adds, “It’s north-facing with a steady light, and when I’m working there, I feel a real sense of stillness and connection with nature”.

She offers tuition at all levels, the only requirement is for students to be curious about texture and colour.

Students are encouraged to explore using tablet weaving (a simple traditional technique using cards with four holes), along with table looms and foot powered treadle looms. Jacquard students are usually established weavers who want to extend their skills and come to The Colourbothy from all over the world.

Details of all Belinda’s classes are on her website www.belindarose.co.uk, including beginner, refresher and jacquard. For individual tuition, simply get in touch through the website.

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WORDS WORTH READING

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

I’m more of a thriller reader on holiday, but this time round I would have to pick Harper Lee’s GO SET A WATCHMAN, and not without a touch of trepidation. This is because To Kill a Mockingbird is my favourite book of all time, and has been since I was in my teens, when everything else was all about The Beatles, miniskirts and boys. Later, I found it intriguing that she only ever wrote one book and a legendary best-seller at that (in my head, the book-I-have-never-written is based on a sinister interpretation of that fact!). So how could I resist Go Set A Watchman, the genesis from which my favourite book sprang, and I am fairly confident I won’t be disappointed.

JOYCE SUMMERS, Press & Communications Manager, Aberdeen Performing Arts

Although this is the 20th in the Jack Reacher series, I always find them ‘thrilling’ and can’t wait until the next day to keep reading about his next challenge. In MAKE ME, Jack Reacher plunges into another action-packed page turner. Reacher is a military policeman turned drifter who travels light and changes direction on a whim, this time getting off a train in the middle of miles of wheat fields because he is curious about the name of the town - Mothers Rest. The intrigue starts there and builds up to a final twist, making this book hard to put down.

STEWART SPENCE, Owner of The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

GONE GIRL is a book I love to recommend because I found it gripping, right from the start. The characters were very three dimensional, and I loved hearing their internal thoughts and opinions. I don’t like a book with bland ‘’good guys’’ and ‘’bad guys’’. In Gone Girl sometimes you agree with the characters and sometimes you don’t, which makes it a bit more realistic. It keeps you guessing right from the start, and for me is just the right side of ‘’eerie’’ without being terrifying. I would definitely recommend the book rather than the film, the only problem is, it is very hard to put down!

STEVE DAUN, Sales Manager, Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC)

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

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DIARY

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DIARY

01 & 02 | WDF BERTIE BASSET & WDF BALVENIE World Duty Free have had lots of visitors recently, including Bertie Basset and Denny from Balvenie!

03 | NHS ROAD SHOW We saw a two day NHS roadshow visit the terminal where the team spent time talking to staff and passengers on healthy working lives, including alcohol consumption, smoking and sugar intake.

There were a number of interactive demonstrations which highlighted how much sugar is in everyday items and discussions around blood pressure, stress and healthy eating.

04 | ICELANDAIR FAMILIARISATION TRIP The Icelandair team visited Aberdeen following their announcement of a new direct route from Aberdeen to Reykjavik. They spent two days exploring Aberdeen City and Shire and meeting local travel businesses.

05 | SAFETEA TEAM The Aberdeen International Airport’s SafeTEA Party saw the re-launch of the ‘Keeping Health & Safety Alive’ campaign to drive home the message of safety across the campus.

06 | SPITFIRE BATTLE OF BRITAIN 75TH ANNIVERSARY The airport recently hosted a memorial service in conjunction with Aberdeen’s Royal Air Force Association to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Led by airport

Chaplain Lewis Rose, the short ceremony was attended by members of RAFA and local Air Cadets.

07 | CR UK The Cancer Research team spent time in the terminal speaking to passengers and staff alike on early warning signs of cancer and how to keep yourself fit and healthy.

08 | AFC TEAM We caught the Aberdeen Football Team on their way to Kazakhstan to play Kairat Almaty in the Europa League qualifiers.

09 | FRIENDS OF ANCHORS CHARITY BALL Our partner charity, Friends of Anchor held a Masked Ball, with a silent auction raising over £84,000 for the charity. bmi regional donated a pair of tickets to be used on any destination on the bmi regional network.

10 | BA BALL Almost 200 guests attended British Airways’ annual Aberdeen Flying Start Ball, in support of Comic Relief, when it was held at the Aberdeen Skyway Hotel (formerly The Thistle).

The Ball raised £25,000.

Television personality Shane Richie and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Danny Posthill provided top-class entertainment.

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