Aberdeen International Airport upBEAT Magazine - Winter 2017 Issue

PEOPLE / TRAVEL / CULTURE / REVIEWS / BUSINESS / SHOPPING

> Belfast

The bright future of Belfast

> Stonehaven Foodie heaven

> Love is in the air

Seven places to enjoy the day of love

Malta Home to

City 0f Culture 2018

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> CONTENTS

CONTENTS

07

BUSINESS

07 Carol’s Viewpoint 09 Terminal Transformation 10 Airport News 16 Visit Aberdeenshire: Festivals

16 36

PEOPLE

36 ABZ Adventurers 40 Local Flavours: Stonehaven Foodie Heaven 44 Golf in Aberdeenshire: More than a bucket list 51 Richard & Judy bookclub 54 Diary

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42 What’s On 52 Nuart Aberdeen: The street art festival returns

40 Local Flavours: Win £30 off a meal at the Marine Hotel & lunch for two at Molly’s Café Bar 50 The Beat Goes on

CULTURE

COMPETITIONS

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TRAVEL

12 The Bright Future of Belfast 20 Malta: Home to City of Culture 24 Chloe’s on the Move: Morocco and Gdansk 32 Connecting you to the World 38 Head for the Sun 48 Love is in the Air: Seven romantic destinations

40 30

SHOPPING

30 Our mystery shopper’s recommendations for the best duty free buys

WELCOME <

Welcome to the first upBEAT magazine 0f 2018 We hope you had a good beginning to the year, and are starting to plan ahead for 2018.

We have been very busy bringing you a magazine packed with travel features, information on developments at the airport, and suggestions of great places to visit and things to do, both here in Aberdeen and abroad.

We delved into the wonders of Malta

I took a trip to Belfast, which is a lively city bursting with character, read about my whistle-stop tour round the streets with Billy the taxi guide. We’ve got a run down on fabulous seaside places to eat and drink in Stonehaven, and a guide to golf in Aberdeenshire.

We delved into the wonders of Malta as a holiday destination, and Chloe Hodge, the airport’s Communications and Marketing Co-ordinator tells us all about her recent trips to Poland and Morocco. As Valentine’s Day approaches we’ve got loads of lovely suggestions for romantic trips away to celebrate, plus the lowdown on what’s hot to shop this season at the airport.

I used Shop and Collect for the first time on my trip to Belfast, picking up my festive purchases from the airport on my way home very convenient!

Editorial JAN LEATHAM info@janleatham.co.uk Sales & Marketing CLARE FINDLAY clare@trendmagazine.co.uk Design LISA THOMPSON lisa@trendmagazine.co.uk Publisher TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD PO Box 11858, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire AB39 9AN trendmagazine.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 344 481 6666 Email: feedback@aiairport.com Text: 80800 (start message with “Airport”, texts are FREE) Web: aberdeenairport.com Search 'Aberdeen Airport' Follow us @ABZ_Airport Follow us @aberdeen_airport Search 'Aberdeen International Airport' Scan to visit aberdeenairport.com

Print STEPHENS & GEORGE PRINT GROUP

Cover Image: © iStockphoto

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Prices are correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. The publisher cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions of contributors in the magazine may not represent the views of the publisher. upBEAT magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication. All information correct at time of going to print (Jan 2018).

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>> BEFORE CONTENTS YOU FLY

> GETTING TO

ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

TRAIN

Aberdeen and Inverness services stop at the local station at Dyce which is just a short taxi ride from the Airport. The mainline station is in Aberdeen City Centre where there are frequent services to all parts of Scotland.

For further information, please visit: travelinescotland.com

BUS

Regular bus services operate to the airport from Aberdeen city centre.

Jet Service 727 Aberdeen Airport terminal to Aberdeen Union Square bus station, right by the city centre bus and train stations. 7 days a week service, operating up to every 10 minutes throughout Monday - Friday.

Service 747 Weekday-only service running between Peterhead and Dyce via the airport Details at stagecoachbus.com or call +44 (0) 1224 597590 Service 16 7 days a week service to Guild Street in central Aberdeen. Details at firstgroup.com or call +44 (0) 870 200 22 33

> BEFORE YOU FLY

2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR TRIP

THE DAY BEFORE YOU FLY

For the best deals, book your carparking online: aberdeenairport.com/parking

1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP

THE DAY YOU FLY

Order your currency online for easy collection when you get to the airport: aberdeenairport.com/currency.

Check all your travel documents and ensure your passport is current, that you have a visa (if required) and that you have noted the flight times on your tickets.

Forbidden anywhere on board

Check the weight of your suitcase and prep your cabin bag. Decant any liquid, gels, etc. into a small plastic bag.

Allow plenty of time to get to the airport, to check-in and clear through security. > Check the rules on sharps! > Dispose of liquids above 100ml before reaching the security area. > Remember that jackets & belts must be removed. > Laptops & mobiles to be presented separately.

Sharps: No blades over 6cm

100ml max: Liquids, gels & pastes

CAR

The access road to the Airport is signposted from the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road. The Airport is seven miles from Aberdeen City Centre. The main car park is located at the front of the terminal building for short-stay parking. If you are using a satellite navigation system, the Airport postcode is AB21 7DU

BY BICYCLE

Aberdeen International Airport is a relatively easy airport to get to by bike. There is a high quality off-road 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.

AIRLINES & TOUR OPERATORS AER LINGUS AIR BALTIC AIR FRANCE AIRWAYS HOLIDAYS BALKAN HOLIDAYS BMI REGIONAL BRITISH AIRWAYS EASTERN AIRWAYS EASYJET FIRST CHOICE FLYBE ICELANDAIR JERSEY TRAVEL KLM LOGANAIR LUFTHANSA RYANAIR SAS TUI WIDERÃ&#x2DC;E WIZZ AIR

aerlingus.com airbaltic.com airfrance.co.uk airwaysholidays.com balkanholidays.co.uk bmiregional.com ba.com easternairways.com easyjet.com firstchoice.co.uk flybe.com icelandair.co.uk jerseytravel.com klm.com loganair.co.uk lufthansa.com ryanair.com flysas.com tui.co.uk wideroe.no/en wizzair.com

Carol’s

CAROLS WELCOME VEWPOINT <<

© Newsline Media

VIEWPOINT

2017 was an exciting year for us at

F

rom April we began to see a slow recovery in passenger numbers which continued steadily throughout the year. We welcomed royalty to our terminal for the official opening of our extension building and launched five new routes to some fantastic destinations.

2018 will undoubtedly prove to be yet another exciting year for us, as we anticipate further recovery in our passenger levels. This steady growth will be aided by the launch of two further routes already scheduled for Summer 2018, namely Malta with Ryanair and Reus, with TUI. 2018 will also bring the completion of the second phase of our ongoing Terminal Transformation project. From the summer, our passengers will be able

to benefit from the significant improvements that this phase will bring, including our new central search security area, World Duty Free store, and three further retail units.

The opening of these new facilities will lead us into the third and final stage of our transformation project, with construction scheduled to get underway later in the year. This phase will be the most intricate portion of the project working within live terminal areas. Our teams are dedicated to keeping any disruptions to a minimum during this phase of construction, however, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our passengers for their continued patience and understanding as we work to improve your terminal facilities.

The year ahead will bring great changes not only within our terminal building, but throughout our region. There is growing positivity in the local economy, the oil price has stabilised above $60 per barrel, and investment in the region is at an all time high with a projected investment total of £9billion by the year 2030. This significant investment is already very apparent to both the local community and to those visiting our region.

Completion of the new Aberdeen bypass road (AWPR), the new conference and exhibition centre, the new harbour, and the upgrades to our historic music hall and art gallery are all scheduled before the end of 2019; providing a massive facelift for our region.

I look forward to the exciting new developments that the year ahead will bring for all of our staff and passengers, and thank you for your continued support as we head towards the completion of our transformation project.

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TERMINAL TRANSFORMATION <

FIND OUT THE LATEST ON OUR

Terminal Transformation

C

onstruction of the second phase of our terminal transformation is now underway in earnest, with works due to be completed by mid-June 2018 ahead of our peak summer season.

The space which once housed our international arrivals facility, border control, and airline lounges, is now being transformed into our new central search security area and new retail units.

From June, passengers will enter the facility via an entrance located opposite the existing Joe’s Coffee House and WH Smith store. The new central search security area will benefit from modern automated security equipment, which will help to make our passenger’s journey through security faster and more efficient. The additional square footage that this space provides will also allow for a fourth security lane to be available during peak times.

As passengers exit the security area they will pass through a calm ‘decompression zone’, themed

with tranquil lighting designed to emulate the feel of the Northern Lights. This zone is designed to allow passengers to regroup with fellow travellers, check flight statuses, or to just take a breath following security. Passengers will then move into our all new World Duty Free retail space. The new store will be more than double the size of our current World Duty Free facility, allowing for new and extended brands and products to be offered.

This leads to a further three retail units, WH Smith, Rolling Luggage, and WH Smith Bookstore, which will begin to be fitted from February onwards. From here, passengers will then move on into the current departure lounge which will be the focal point of the third and final phase of the transformation project, due to commence in July as soon as phase two is complete.

The significant developments of this penultimate phase of construction, will allow us to provide a much enhanced and improved experience for all of our passengers from summer 2018.

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> AIRPORT NEWS

Gama gets new home Gama Aviation opened their new hangar facility based at Aberdeen International Airport at the end of October 2017. The aviation services company opened the new hangar facility in line with their ongoing investment strategy, to support their existing contract with NHS Scotland.

The new hangar is based on the design of existing facilities in Glasgow, and now accommodates the Scottish Ambulance Service as well as private and business aviators.

Countdown to Christmas On arrival: TUI to launch own makes 14 aircraft and team from ABZ lucky winners

Aberdeen International Airport’s Countdown to Christmas Campaign made 14 lucky people winners of some incredible prizes just in time for Christmas.

Thousands of hopefuls entered the daily prize draw to win prizes from numerous airport partners including TRG, Dixons Travel, Wetherspoons, Brewdog, Eat on the Green, Flybe, airBaltic, bmi regional, WiderØe and many more.

TUI will be operating their own aircraft along with cabin crew at Aberdeen International Airport for the Summer 2018 flying programme. Previously TUI has sourced third party flying to help with the summer schedule but this year a Boeing 737-800 will be based at the Scottish airport. Our B737 has 189 seats and will be flying customers to seven different destinations across Europe this summer

including Corfu, Dalaman, Ibiza, Gran Canaria, Majorca, Reus and Tenerife.

As well as welcoming the new aircraft, Aberdeen International Airport will also be welcoming a new team of cabin crew in May. Cabin crew Assessment Centres are being held throughout January and February with training scheduled to start in March.

Redevelopment works completed Works have now been completed on the airport’s upper forecourt coach area, which is where customers can find public buses, hotel shuttle buses, off airport car park buses and private coaches. The construction work includes doubling the size of the pedestrian steps leading to and from

the main terminal building entrance to the upper forecourt and short stay car park areas.

The short stay car park has also had resurfacing work done and an extended motorcycle shelter has been erected opposite the customer service office.

Airport staff raise funds for charity partner

AIRPORT NEWS <

New shelter for Jet727 The award-winning bus service, Jet727, has an all new bus shelter located on the lower forecourt directly outside the main terminal building. The shelter has clear glass to allow better visibility for passengers waiting for the service, which won ‘Best Bus Service’ at the Scottish Transport Awards 2017.

Throughout December, staff across the Aberdeen International Airport campus committed to fundraising for official charity partner Befriend a Child, raising a total of £2220. Fundraising activities included a bake-off coffee morning and raffle, a Christmas Jumper day, a car park space raffle and other donations.

Handling agent Swissport held three Christmas Jumper days, donating £120 to the total raised for the charity. The main terminal building was also home to a Christmas ‘giving tree’, which contributed towards the charity’s larger Christmas campaign, raising a total of £25000 worth of gifts and donations for local children in need.

New advertising contract for airport Primesight Ltd. have taken over the advertising contract for Aberdeen International Airport. The leading media owners have replaced JCDecaux as advertising partner for the AGS airport group, which is made up of Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports.

For advertising enquiries contact: greig.slatter@primesight.co.uk

Airport community fund supports 5000 local people This year, Aberdeen International Airport’s Community Fund helped to fund projects which are estimated to have benefited over 5000 people locally. The fund, which is open to public application, prioritises funding for projects linked to education, the environment, and economic regeneration. Organisations receiving funding in 2017 include Belhelvie Community Trust, Choices Aberdeen, Mental Health Aberdeen, Grampian Child Bereavement Network and 18 others. In total, £25000 was donated to 22 different organisations throughout 2017.

Visit: aberdeenairport.com/community to find out more.

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> DOMESTIC

Don’t let anyone tell you that four quarters make up a whole.

B

elfast boasts at least five with more in the offing, and as I headed for the Titanic Quarter, the taxi driver reminded me how recent much of the city’s development is. My bed for the night, the brand new Titanic Hotel Belfast, lies in a hugely atmospheric setting, occupying the former offices of Harland and Wolff, draughtsmen for the White Star Line, of which the Titanic is the most famous. A doorman greets you dressed like Cillian Murphy from Peaky Blinders, a nod to the working man’s dress of the era.

The corridors that lead from reception resemble those on board a

DOMESTIC <

liner, with heavy studded doors and replica Titanic linoleum pattern. At the top of the building is the presentation room, used to impress wealthy clients, and guests drink and dine in the splendid vaulted rooms that once housed those gifted ship designers.

Just across the way is the imposing bulk of Titanic Belfast, its points representing the prows of the Titanic, Olympic and Britannic, three giants of the White Star Line, maker of ships for the ocean-going elite of the day. The museum has been open for four years and houses possibly the best interactive and immersive experience I have had, with shuddering handrails, a simulator which takes you from engine room to bridge, holograms of waiters, investors and passengers talking right in front of you, and an actual ride, which takes you through the building process, swinging you close to the heat of the furnaces and getting up close and personal with the riveters.

A Titanic Belfast ticket includes free entry to the SS Nomadic, the last remaining vessel from the White Star Line.

It’s a much smaller boat which was used as a taxi between Cherbourg and the larger liners, separating first from second class passengers even on a 30 minute journey. The ship has been restored after spending time as a floating restaurant in Paris, and some time abandoned, to include many fascinating original features.

It was time to head into the city centre, and right at the heart sits Belfast City Hall whose build started the year after Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status in 1888. There are

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free daily guided tours around the Baroque Revival building, a visitor exhibition on the history of the city and a coffee shop. After wandering around the many pedestrianised shopping streets, I headed for Victoria Square, a modern shopping mall with a glass geodesic dome on top, where a guide pointed out city landmarks around the 360˚ panorama.

Studio Souk also caught my eye, a communal retail space in Ann Street which allows local artists and crafts people to showcase their wares and support each other. It’s full of unique pieces that would make perfect souvenirs.

The evening was spent in the trendy Cathedral Quarter, where industrial chic bistros rub shoulders with beer barrels and live music. We ate at Coppi, named for an Italian cycling champion and serving quick and tasty Venetian tapas called cichetti amid a bustling weeknight crowd. The Cathedral Quarter is full of nooks and crannies, serving up cobbled streets full of cosy pubs and a great late night vibe.

The next morning I ventured out onto the vast slipways from which the Titanic and the Olympic were launched, and from where you can also see Little and Large (locally known as Samson & Goliath) the two huge yellow Harland & Wolff cranes that still dominate the skyline, and feature in so many artistic representations of the city. Then back to the hotel, where I was being picked up by Billy Scott for a black cab driving tour.

Images: © Northern Ireland Tourist Board

> DOMESTIC

Images: © Northern Ireland Tourist Board

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If I say that the next three hours were intense, don’t let that put you off. They were, intensely entertaining, interesting and educational. Billy took me past the Titanic Studios where Game of Thrones is filmed, past the Belfast Waterfront Hall and the statue Beacon of Hope (known locally as the Thingy with the Ringy), past Michelinstarred Ox and the Bullitt Hotel, which models itself on the no-nonsense star of the famous film.

The whole journey was filled with anecdotes and facts, shopping and eating recommendations, all delivered in Billy’s inimitable style.

Then we drove on to West Belfast where we took a tour of the political murals and memorials of both sides of the Troubles, past the Crumlin Jail which is now a visitor attraction and wedding venue and the crumbling Court House. With Billy’s colourful narrative, it wasn’t difficult to imagine the strife and hardship even in these peaceful times. Then we stopped at the Peace Wall, which divides the Falls and Shankill Roads, and is now home to a huge colourful mural, to which visitors are encouraged to add their thoughts.

We stopped briefly to allow me to sprint round the Ulster Museum (I recommend taking your time) to see the beautiful Game of Thrones tapestry, some beautiful 16th century gold jewellery from the Spanish Armada, and fossils from the sea floor 200 million years ago. The museum is set within the Botanical Gardens which contains the Tropical Ravine, a unique Victorian garden feature which is currently undergoing restoration.

Sadly it was almost time for my flight from the George Best Belfast City Airport, only 15 minutes from the city centre. I already can’t wait to go back, there was so much to see and do, along with a definite feeling of new beginnings and hope for the future.

Daily flights to Belfast City Airport are available with Flybe, for information visit: flybe.com visitbelfast.com titanichotelbelfast.com touringaroundbelfast.com

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> LOCAL

WORDS BY: Stevie Brown | VisitAberdeenshire

You could say the testament of a good festival or event is its ability to transport you from the normal hustle of everyday life, to a place where you forget about your daily worries and lose yourself in an immersive experience.

F

rom the excitement of sport, to the beauty of art and the emotion of music, there is an emerging destination establishing itself on the world stage as a leader in festivals and events, bringing together a strong and varied lineup of amazing experiences. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a destination easily reached and affordable to get to, with up to 40 inbound flights from around the world, and yet it remains largely unexplored compared to its more famous counterpart, Edinburgh.

Welcome to the Aberdeen events and festivals collective.

The 2018 Aberdeen festival scene bursts into life from 8 to 11 February, as Spectra the festival of light takes over the city for four nights, transforming the streets around Aberdeen in a series of stunning interactive light displays. The family-friendly event is a great way to brighten up the dark winter nights, with many of the attractions free to attend.

As the bright lights of Spectra fade, jazz performers from around the world step into the spotlight for the Aberdeen Jazz Festival from 14 to 18 March,

WELCOME LOCAL <

Images: © Visit Aberdeenshire

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> DOMESTIC

featuring performances from iconic performers in various locations throughout the city. The five-day festival, now in its 12th year, is establishing itself as one of the best jazz events of its kind in the country. Last year the festival attracted legendary crooner Curtis Stigers who wowed audiences with his performance at His Majesty’s Theatre.

If you’re in search of high-speed action-packed racing, then you’re in luck, as Aberdeen city centre is transformed into a racing mecca on 17 May, as many of the world’s top cyclists gather to compete in the Tour Series. The cycling event, which travels around the UK, is the only domestic cycle race series to be broadcast on free-view TV, and during last year’s inaugural event thousands of fans lined the circuit to watch the speedy cyclists race against each other and the clock. This year’s event promises to deliver even more action and is free to attend.

If the action from the Tour Series inspires you to take part in a sports event, get your running gear looked out and start your training, as the Great Aberdeen Run returns on Sunday 26 August.

The event, now in its second year, will yet again see thousands

of runners take part in a selection of events, including a half-marathon, 10k race and family events. If, however the thought alone of running makes you feel exhausted, you can still be part of the action, as thousands of spectators line the route to cheer on family and friends.

Whether you are watching or taking part, Aberdeen’s event calendar will transport you to a very special place, in more ways than one.

For more information and to see a full list of family friendly festivals and events, visit visitabdn.com, where you can plan your trip by using the itinerary builder facility.

Images: © Visit Aberdeenshire

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> INTERNATIONAL

Home to

© iStock/christobolo

CITY OF CULTURE

INTERNATIONAL <

Malta sits between the northern coast of Africa and Sicily, and is made up of three islands including smaller Gozo, famous for its stunning beaches and scenery, and tiny Comino which has no cars and just one hotel.

M

altaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history dates back 7,000 years, and includes prehistoric temples, catacombs, a medieval walled town, and one of the oldest working theatres in Europe; but the island also has an open-air theatre built by the designer of The Shard, superclubs and salsa bars in Paceville just outside St. Julian, and an

enviable programme of arts and culture.

In fact, Valletta is European Capital City of Culture in 2018 - the perfect time to visit!

Just a four hour flight from Aberdeen, Malta is blessed with hot, dry and sunny summers, often alleviated by cooling sea breezes, and mild winters.

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Malta International Music Festival 15 April - 1 May

Valletta Green Festival 4 - 6 May

Malta Fashion Week 28 May - 2 June

Earth Garden Festival 31 May - 3 June

FROM KNIGHTS TO A NURSE

NATURAL BEAUTY

From 1800 to 1964 Malta was under British protection, and as a result many connections remain, intermingled with a strong Italian influence. During WWII Malta was known as the ‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’, playing a vital role as a supply station and a recovery base for the wounded; as a result the whole island was awarded the George Cross for valour. The island’s drivers still keep to the left, beer is still sold in pints and many shops and cafés in the capital Valletta still have British names from the middle of the last century.

Malta’s historical riches are framed by its natural beauty: the coastline is made up of stunning beaches, sea caverns and cliffs, popular with outdoor enthusiasts ranging from abseilers to sailors, horse-riders and sun worshippers.

Valletta is less than one square kilometre, so very manageable on foot.

The pretty town is filled with baroque architecture and colourful closed-in balconies. Head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for a great view of the city and harbour; these grounds are where the Knights of St. John who founded Valletta once relaxed, and where a cannon is still fired every day at 12 noon and 4pm amid great ceremony.

The Knights of St. John were responsible for a wealth of military engineering and architectural feats across the archipelago, as well as being responsible for a legacy of art and culture.

The Knights were a hospital order and as such established the foremost hospital in Europe during their 250 year stay.

Most significantly perhaps, they left the legacy of the eightpointed Maltese Cross on the flag which remains to this day.

Gozo is great for walking, and the Golden Bay beach on the island’s north-west coast is heaven for horse-riding. All three islands are renowned for their climbing and abseiling suitability, boasting more than 1300 ideal spots between them, and plenty of rock climbing clubs and adventure tour operators to help you discover them.

Get the ferry to the tiny island of Comino to see the Blue Lagoon and swim in the fabled turquoise waters, or make your way to the Blue Grotto on the south coast of Malta where the phosphorescence in the sea cavern makes for an unforgettable dive or sail.

The calm, clear waters are great for first time divers, whilst the more experienced can explore shipwrecks, natural reefs and rock formations, including the massive limestone chunks from the recent collapse of the Azure Window, a 28 metre tall natural sea arch on the island of Gozo.

Pageant of the Seas 7 June

Valletta Film Festival 8 - 17 June

Malta International Arts Festival 29 June - 14 July

Malta Mediterranean Book Festival 23 - 25 August

MOVIE STAR

ISLAND CUISINE

TOURS WITH A DIFFERENCE

Malta has played a starring role in more than its fair share of blockbusters, including Gladiator, The Da Vinci Code, and The Spy Who Loved Me, as well as providing the backdrop to most of series one of Game of Thrones. However, it was the 1980s musical ‘Popeye’ starring Robin Williams which has left a lasting impression, today the fictional village of Sweethaven has been turned into a family attraction where you are greeted

by Popeye and Olive Oyl, and invited to star in the movie with them.

Maltese eating is very influenced by the proximity of Italy, with classic Italian staples featuring prominently on the islands’ menus. There are now a few vineyards on the island producing wine for local restaurants, as a well as locally brewed beer called Ċisk. Salads are robust and Mediterranean with loads of ingredients, think beans and cheese and olives along with your lettuce; and a must-try is the small but perfectly formed Pastizzi, a traditional pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas.

Families will also enjoy the recently opened ‘Esplora’, Malta’s National Interactive Science Centre, where there are exhibitions, workshops, shows and a huge planetarium.

It won’t come as a surprise that seafood is popular, with the biggest fish market taking place every Sunday in the village of Masaxlokk. You can buy a wide selection of local seafood here, or try it out at one of the restaurants lining the shore, try the national favourite lampuki (mahi mahi) in a pie.

The Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea and Conspicua were founded in the Middle Ages and even before that used as entry points to the island by the Ancient Greeks. Today they make a very pleasant days outing from Valletta, and there are a number of options: take the ferry and make your own way round the narrow cobbled streets, book a sightseeing boat trip, or even a vintage bus tour. Perhaps the most unusual tour can be booked through Rolling Geeks, who hire out electric self-drive cars complete with pre-programmed GPS to take you on your own Three Cities experience. The vehicles all seat 2-4 people, and come equipped with an SOS button, a selfie feature and a luggage carrier for those market purchases.

Book now for summer 2018 with: ryanair.com

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> CONTENTS

ON THE MOVE Chloe Hodge is Communications & Marketing Co-ordinator at Aberdeen International Airport and is a keen explorer of other countries and cultures.

She recently travelled to Morocco and Gdansk and is happy to share

Š iStock/cipango27

her experience and top tips with you.

A

Morocco

few months ago, I had no real plans to travel to Morocco which, I often find, can make for the best adventures. A good friend and I had been daydreaming about booking a late escape in 2017 in an attempt to stifle our ever growing wanderlust pains. Then in October, while talking about my last winter trip to South Africa, I suddenly remembered how easy and what great value my connection to Africa had been. In no time I had snapped up two return tickets to Casablanca, Morocco with Air France via Paris Charles de Gaulle from Aberdeen, taking the decision to fly to Casablanca instead of Marrakech after reading that we could easily get a train connection between the two cities for just £9.50.

Setting off in late November, the weather was just right for exploring, between 20 – 27˚C. Our first day was spent wandering around the incomprehensibly busy souks surrounding Jemaa el-Fna place. Soon we began to wonder if we had made a mistake by starting our trip with the souks. Desperate to find a quiet space to find our bearings, we saw a semi-familiar signpost reading: ‘Palais el Bahia’. Without delay, we made for the entrance to the Palace, which we had read about in one of the many travel blogs about Marrakech, paid 10 Dirham (about 80p), and escaped behind the walls. Almost instantaneously, the noise of the busy city outside fell away. The Palace walls were like a sound trap for peace and quiet and, as we ventured further inside the grounds, we discovered the most intricately beautiful buildings and gardens that either of us could have imagined.

Having saved so much on our flights and our accommodation (£170pp Air France, & just £9 per night) we

were able to use most of our spending money enjoying exquisite dining scenes and five star cocktail bars. Narwama was an instant favourite , as were Azar and La Mamounia. We explored palaces and walled gardens, visiting fascinating museums, and trekked in the desert on camelback. The souks provided us with daily mini-adventures, and whilst there was no structure or real plan to our trip, every day we did something truly incredible. This made Marrakech a unique and exhilarating once-in-a-lifetime trip.

A memorable part of our trip was spent at a resort just outside of the city named Palais Namaskar. For 600 Dirham (around £48) we got a full day pool pass, which was the most expensive part of our trip but worth every penny. We found ourselves entirely awe-struck from the moment we walked through the ornate archway entrance of the ‘palace’. The attentive staff brought us Moroccan iced teas, iced water, and hot towels as we soaked up the sunshine, before serving up a complimentary 3 course meal from the five star, poolside restaurant.

Leaving Morocco would have been a much sadder affair, had I not booked to go on a second trip to Gdansk, in Poland, the following day. This time taking advantage of the direct flight with Wizz Air from Aberdeen to this fantastic city!

CHLOE ON THE MOVE <

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>> CHLOE CONTENTS ON THE MOVE

Gdansk

CHLOE ON THE MOVE <

A

rriving into Gdansk in the wee small hours, we quickly found that the travel services from Gdansk airport were superb, meaning that we made it to our Airbnb with no trouble at all. The next day we headed out to get stuck into the city’s Christmas markets in Gdansk’s old town which provided a beautiful and unique backdrop for our trip.

Everything was either close enough to walk to, or the walk was pretty enough not to notice the distance.

There was no way my four days in the country would permit me enough time to sample all of the food on offer, but one of my favourite things to do was to purchase a hot chocolate and wander around the stalls taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the market. Coming straight from the busy souks of Marrakech I was well prepared for the hustle and bustle of the markets which were, by comparison, very relaxed.

Outside of the markets we visited the many fascinating museums that the city houses including the enlightening Solidarity Museum and the grounding War Museum. Both of these feature mammoth-sized exhibits which take visitors on an in-depth, immersive journey through Poland’s fascinating yet tragic history. There are also countless restaurants and bars in the Old Town which made perfect sanctuaries from the cold such as the quaint little wine bar, Rotterdam.

Resembling an ancient wine cellar, the bar is made up of just ten tables and offers an extensive menu of delicious wines from around the world, great tapas and brilliant live music on the weekend.

Visiting two such diverse climates and cultures, and with no time in between for the holiday blues to set in, made for a truly incredible and unforgettable experience.

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28

> CONTENTS

Our Destinations aberdeenairport.com/destinations

> International

> Domestic

UNITED KINGDOM BULGARIA > BOURGAS Balkan Holidays > BELFAST CITY Flybe > BIRMINGHAM Flybe DENMARK > BRISTOL bmi regional > COPENHAGEN SAS > CARDIFF Eastern Airways > ESBJERG bmi regional > DURHAM TEES VALLEY Eastern Airways, Loganair FRANCE > HUMBERSIDE Eastern Airways > PARIS Air France > JERSEY Jersey Holidays, Flybe GERMANY > KIRKWALL Flybe & Loganair > FRANKFURT Lufthansa > LEEDS BRADFORD Eastern Airways GREECE > LONDON CITY Flybe > CORFU TUI & First Choice > LONDON GATWICK easyJet ICELAND > LONDON HEATHROW British Airways & Flybe > REYKJAVIK Icelandair > LONDON LUTON easyJet IRELAND > MANCHESTER Flybe > DUBLIN Aer Lingus > NEWCASTLE Eastern Airways LATVIA > NEWQUAY Flybe > RIGA airBaltic > NORWICH bmi regional, Eastern Airways & Loganair MALTA (New 2018) > SOUTHAMPTON Eastern Airways & Flybe > LUQA Ryanair > STORNOWAY Eastern Airways NETHERLANDS > SUMBURGH Loganair > AMSTERDAM KLM > WICK Eastern Airways NORWAY > BERGEN Eastern Airways, & Widerøe > OSLO bmi regional & SAS > STAVANGER Eastern Airways, SAS & Widerøe POLAND > GDAŃSK Wizz Air MANCHESTER PORTUGAL > FARO Ryanair SPAIN > ALICANTE Ryanair > IBIZA TUI & First Choice > GRAN CANARIA TUI & First Choice > MÁLAGA Ryanair > PALMA TUI & First Choice > REUS TUI & First Choice > TENERIFE TUI & First Choice SWITZERLAND > GENEVA easyJet TURKEY Manchester is the > DALAMAN TUI & First Choice most linguistically diverse city in Western Europe with 200 spoken languages Routes are correct at time of publication but are subject to change. Please check with your airline before travelling.

DALAMAN

Dalaman Image: © iStock/Yarygin

Turkey is home to more than 400 blue flag beaches

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> RETAIL CONTENTS

Undercover Shopping

RETAIL <

Our mystery shopper took a trip through World Duty Free and Dixon’s Travel to seek out the perfect gift for special occasions.

I

have travelled through the airport many times, and am often struck by how bright and welcoming the entrance to the duty free area is, often with really eye-catching displays. My mission was to search out something special for Valentine’s and Mother’s Day, as well as some great value gifts for any time. All the staff I spoke to were extremely friendly and I was approached as soon as I entered the shop to see if I required any assistance.

I mentioned the new Tiffany and Co. fragrance which gets great reviews, and the Versace Yellow Set which comes with a body lotion, both of which the assistant knew instantly, in fact she was extremely knowledgeable about all the new ranges of perfumes.

The assistant explained that I could use the new Reserve & Collect Service to order from the full World Duty Free range before flying and also advised me about the Shop & Collect Service which allows you to buy before you fly and collect on your return - I thought this was the perfect solution as there’s no need to carry bulky items on holiday with you.

I then made straight for the spirits and champagne, where I was shown the Champagne Laurent Perrier Twin Pack and Copper Dog which is a new blended whisky and apparently lovely with apple juice. The staff are great at working with your budget and suggesting combinations of gifts within your price range, such as St. Andrew’s golf course items with a whisky gift set, or some Swarovski and a Molton Brown Ladies Carry-on, and the latter is also a perfect gift for yourself with five 100ml bottles of essential travel products. I was also amazed to see whisky collector items available (£2,500 plus).

I was also looking for something special for my other half on Valentine’s Day, and I was spoilt for choice! I was shown a couple of Tom Ford fragrances as well as Emporio Armani Stronger With You, and the new YSL ‘Y’ fragrance for men, but in the end I went for Fitbit Blaze from Dixons Travel, perfect for any fitness fan! Dixons have a wide range of the latest tech and gadgets at great prices. They have a great range of cameras from compact to DSLR and even the Instax Mini 9 instant print camera for creating those instant memories! I chose a beautiful Signature Scents Candle fora Mother’s Day gift and decided that the Estee Lauder Ingenious Colour Palette was my gift to myself for Valentine’s Day, fantastic value and no need for anything else in my make-up bag!

Gift Ideas Around £50

Around £100

Around £150

Best Buy

Versace Yellow Diamond Set

Estee Lauder Advanced Time Zone Set

Fujifilm XP120 tough camera

Molton Brown Candle

Valentines For Him

YSL ‘Y’

The Singleton Master’s Art Scotch

Fitbit Blaze

Copper Dog

Valentines For Her

Tiffany & Co. Fragrance 50ml

Amazon Paperwhite

Amazon Echo Plus

Molton Brown Travel Set

Mothers Day

+ exclusive travel kit

Prices quoted are correct at time of publication but can be subject to change.

£14.95

£32.99

£32.85

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32

> LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

DALLAS

WITH ICELANDAIR

“Yee haw!” Most people hear Dallas and immediately think of cowboys, oil and the legendary 80s TV show but there’s more to the city than that. There are real ale trails, gourmet dining experiences, art galleries, beautiful architecture and stunning countryside to explore. This is also the city where JFK was assassinated and so it has museums and memorials in honour of the famous President, a must for any history enthusiast.

Icelandair begins flights to Dallas Fort Worth via Reykjavik on 30 May 2018.

Remember that you can enjoy a stopover in Iceland for up to 7 nights at no additional airfare.

Book at icelandair.co.uk

y Cit a Panam

PANAMA CITY

WITH KLM

Panama City is a dazzling and multi-faceted mix of modernity, colonial heritage, and tropical rainforest. In the Casco Viejo, the capital's old town colonial mansions have been converted into beautiful boutique hotels and restaurants. The new Biomuseo showcases the country's amazing biodiversity in a fascinating super-modern building. A few kilometres north of the city, on the Atlantic coast, Portobelo-a port discovered and named by Christopher Columbusdisplays the remains of a defensive arsenal that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Panama is also home to kilometres of pristine beaches, ethnic groups with ancient traditions, and countless natural parks filled with toucans, quetzals and sloths.

Fly via Amsterdam. Book at klm.com

LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS <

HAVANA

WITH AIR FRANCE

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 via Paris. Book at airfrance.co.uk

NEW YORK

WITH LUFTHANSA

The city that never sleeps. As the world’s most talked about city, New York is a place it’s impossible not to love. Its cultural currency comes from its huge diversity, with over 200 languages spoken and millions from across the globe flocking to see its sensational sights.

Manhattan teems day and night, its museums are full of the finest art and design the world has to offer. Brooklyn’s burgeoning reputation as the planet’s cultural capital makes it an essential stop-off for music lovers, beer drinkers and food fanatics. Throw in endless cityscapes, beautiful squares and parks for escaping the bustle, and you have the quintessential modern-day metropolis.

Fly via Frankfurt. Book at LH.com

Th ckies e Ro

CALGARY

WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS

Calgary has the most sunny days a year of Canada’s 100 largest cities, as well as a thriving snowsports scene that can be enjoyed from within the city limits at the Canada Olympic Park, to the Rockies just over an hour away. Stay in the city for a vibrant foodie vibe with locavore leanings, as well as fantastic shopping on 17th Avenue, and 800km of interconnected walk and cycle ways; or head to Banff or Lake Louise for three world class ski resorts. This Albertan city is also famous for the Calgary Stampede, held in July every year, as well as an International Film Festival and a burgeoning arts and culture scene.

Fly via London Heathrow. Book at britishairways.com

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The Balearics’ biggest island is all about the beaches.

Whether you pick stretches like 13-kilometre-long Ca’n Picafort, or tucked away coves like Cala d’Or, you’re guaranteed golden sands and calm waters. You have a choice of three flights per week for summer 2018 season. tui.co.uk

BULGARIA WITH BALKAN HOLIDAYS This summer you can enjoy historic and welcoming seaside resorts on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. Fly to non-Euro Bulgaria direct from Aberdeen with Balkan Holidays for a great value and unique holiday experience. Weekly flights for summer 2018 , with the choice of two flights per week during peak summer on Monday's & Friday's. balkanholidays.com

SUMMER DESTINATIONS <

ALGARVE WITH RYANAIR Best known for its stunning Mediterranean beaches and world renowned golf resorts, the breath-taking Algarve region offers endless sun, surf, sand and so much more.

Twice weekly flights with Ryanair from March 2018. ryanair.com

JERSEY

WITH CI TRAVEL An island small on size, but big on personality, where country lanes open to cliff top views and the sea is never more than ten minutes away. Enjoy an island break in Jersey with weekly Saturday flights from May to September. jerseytravel.com/abz

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36

> ABZ ADVENTURERS

JACK & ANNE MCKIMMIE

ANETTE BIESE, KAROLINA JANSEN, NEA LEPA

FROM: FINLAND TRAVELLING TO HELSINKI We’re students at Aberdeen University travelling home to Helsinki for Christmas. We would never leave home without our phones, a Sudoku book, lipstick and a watch. Our favourite summer holiday destinations are the Philippines, Finland (any time of year) and Chicago. Our top tips for international journeys are comfortable clothes and a power cell to charge your phone without a plug.

JOY & HERMAN FUCHS

FROM: ELLON TRAVELLING TO FLORIDA VIA HEATHROW

FROM: STONEHAVEN TRAVELLING TO FRANKFURT VIA PARIS

We are flying out to be with family for Christmas and we wouldn’t do that journey without presents for our children and grandchildren, and Jack’s golf clubs. We love holidaying in Bitez (Turkey) and Moreira (Spain), and our top tips for long flights would be these inflatable pillows for your neck - they make such a difference - and we absolutely love the new Northern Lights lounge, what a difference it makes to a wait in the airport.

We would never fly without our medication and reading glasses. Our favourite summer destination is Spain, particularly Estapona and Malaga. Our top tip for an enjoyable flight would be to travel light, just take the essentials you can buy anything else you need when you’re there!

DAVID LAVERY, PETER MAXWELL

JAMIE CLARK, MARK TAYLOR

FROM: ABERDEEN TRAVELLING TO ESBJERG

FROM: PETERHEAD TRAVELLING TO ESBJERG

We travel on this flight almost every week with work. David: I take my Kindle everywhere, and my favourite holiday destination so far has been Cuba, but in future I really fancy going to Japan. My travel tip would be to expect the unexpected. Peter: I just make sure I have my passport, wallet and phone, everything else can be sorted out. I really fancy Mauritius as a holiday destination, and I would always recommend wearing comfortable clothes when flying.

Mark: We’re travelling today for work, but my best summer holiday ever was in Lorette de Mar. My top travel tip would definitely be, not to worry - go with the flow. Jamie: I would be lost without my hat, especially in the cold weather, and my favourite holiday destination is Ibiza.

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> ADVERTISEMENTS

Book your space & reach a mobile, affluent & global audience.

ADVERTISMENTS <

39

> LOCAL FLAVOURS

LOCAL FLAVOURS STONEHAVEN

S

tonehaven is a thriving seaside town just 15 miles from Aberdeen, with a working harbour, wide stretch of pebble beach and dramatic cliffs. The town is also home to the art deco Olympic-sized Open Air Pool, world-famous Dunnottar Castle and seabird cliffs just up the coast at Fowlsheugh. But there’s another reason that Stonehaven is well worth a visit: its foodie credentials.

We concentrated on cafés and restaurants with a sea view, but we have sneaked in a few other treats too, and this is by no means an exhaustive list of the places on offer in Stonehaven.

Shamrock and Thistle

FOODIE HEAVEN

Stonehaven Harbour Bay

STONEHAVEN GOLF CLUB

The Marine Hotel

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Stonehaven Golf Club might not be your first thought when planning a gourmet trip to the town, but the club has a café called The View which is open to non-members, and the freshly baked scones, friendly welcome and simply stunning views over the coastline and bay are unforgettable.

They are also open for lunch and dinner.

AUNTY BETTY’S Next along the coastline is Aunty Betty’s, a legendary ice cream shop selling bespoke ice cream cakes, doughnut cake pops and marshmallow sheep.

But it’s the ice cream by the cone from Simpsons of Buckie that send the queue round the block in summertime, with tablet flavour scooping top spot.

THE BAY FISH & CHIP SHOP Next door is The Bay fish and chip shop, awardwinning and royal warrant-holding purveyors of the finest fish and chips. Calum is a firm believer in promoting sustainability, and he has also taken The Bay on the Road with a mobile van for outdoor events.

<

MORE THAN THE SHORE...

On our foodie sea-view mission, we stumbled across some other, slightly more inland gems which we just had to share…

Shamrock & Thistle’s name reflects the owners’ birthplaces rather than the cuisine. Try freshly made crepes and waffles with a huge menu of fillings, from simple lemon and sugar to bacon and cheese, or toffee fudge sauce, butterscotch sauce, tablet and shortbread!! They also make real tea and serve it with colour co-ordinated timers so you get the perfect cuppa.

Cool Gourmet is a tearoom and catering business located on the High Street in the Auld Toon. Their baking is absolutely top-notch, with a Victoria Sponge to die for. They serve home-cooked favourites on the premises as well as offering meals for customers to take home, and an outside catering service.

MOLLY’S CAFÉ BAR

SHIP INN

On to Molly’s Café Bar, where we took the only free table, surrounded by groups of friends and couples of all ages, tucking into fabulous full Scottish breakfasts, hot chocolates and filled rolls. A glance at the menu showed commitment to local produce, including beers from Deeside Brewery and Esker Gin. Friendly staff complete the package, which includes breakfast and lunch daily, and dinner Thursday to Saturday.

Follow the sweep of the harbour round to the Ship Inn, which dates back to 1771 and has a lovely restaurant, The Captain’s Table on the ground floor looking out over the harbour. Make sure you book ahead for this popular spot, and make time afterwards to sample some of the extensive malt whisky collection (more than 100!) and growing gin selection.

TOLBOOTH SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Heading round to the harbour, and the Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant has earned a place in the Michelin Guide again this year. The relaxed bistro feel of the interior is perfectly complemented by the sea views and fresh seafood from the harbour wherever possible. Try Stonehaven crab soup for a real local treat. Located above the Tolbooth museum, the 16th century building is the oldest in Stonehaven.

MARINE HOTEL Finally we reached the Marine Hotel, owned by Robert Lindsay who also has the brewery six˚north. His passion for beer and food combine to create a thoughtful menu full of local produce with suggested beer pairings, which we sampled whilst admiring the harbour from yet another angle, a view which never gets old.

Graingers is a small deli on Evan Street with a big reputation for their coffee and delicious sandwiches which can be enjoyed at a few tables in the window of the shop or taken away. There is a fine selection of cheeses, charcuterie and antipasti and Dave makes homemade bread every Friday and Saturday. Hampers, gift vouchers and cheese orders are all available year round.

Competitions

Win £30 off a meal for two at The Marine Hotel

Q: What is the name of the brewery associated with the Marine Hotel?

Win lunch for two at Molly’s Café Bar

Q: What is the name of the local gin served at Molly’s?

To enter go to aberdeenairport.com/competitions Terms and Conditions apply

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42

> WHAT’S ON

What’s on?

JANUARY

Scottish Ballet: The Nutcracker HMT, Aberdeen 17 - 20 Your Wedding Exhibition AECC, Aberdeen 20 - 21 Beautiful: The Carole King Musical HMT, Aberdeen 23 - 27 Band of Burns Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen 26 Gilbert & George: Scapegoating pictures for Belfast MAC, Belfast 26 Jan - 22 Apr Burns Ceilidh The Barn Arts Centre, Aberdeenshire 27 Royal Scottish National Orchestra: Sibelius Five HMT, Aberdeen 28 Influence - Building the Council for the Future Marischal College, Aberdeen 30

FEBRUARY David Baddiel - My Family: Not the Sitcom HMT, Aberdeen 1 Subsea Expo AECC, Aberdeen 7 - 9 Spectra: Aberdeen’s Festival of Light Various venues 8 - 11 GIN:NE Inverurie Town Hall, Aberdeenshire 9 - 10 SensationALL Ceilidh Westhill, Aberdeenshire 10 Northern Arc Sessions: Saltfishforty & Basco Lemon Tree, Aberdeen 16 Circus of Horrors Beach Ballroom, Aberdeen 16 Stereophonics AECC, Aberdeen 23 Granite Noir: Aberdeen’s new crime writing festival Various venues 23 - 25

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16 01

WHAT’S ON <

MARCH

05

1 - 4 Braemar Mountain Festival Braemar, Aberdeenshire 3 - 10 World Junior Curling Championships Curl Aberdeen 5 Paloma Faith AECC, Aberdeen 10 Six Nations Rugby: Ireland vs Scotland Aviva Stadium, Dublin* 14 Sing-a-long-a Beauty and the Beast HMT, Aberdeen 14 - 18 Aberdeen Jazz Festival Various venues 20 VisitAberdeenshire Tourism Conference The Chester Hotel, Aberdeen 27 - 31 A Play, A Pie & A Pint: For the Love of Chekhov Lemon Tree, Aberdeen 30 - 31 North Hop AECC, Aberdeen

14 14 APRIL

9 - 13 Aberdeenshire Coast Links Championship Various venues, Aberdeenshire 12 - 15 Nuart Festival Various venues, Aberdeen 15 Apr – 1 May Malta International Music Festival Various venues, Malta* 18 – 21 Fittie Fittie Bang Bang Aberdeen Student Charities Campaign HMT, Aberdeen 21 Slow Marathon Huntly, Aberdeenshire 21 & 22 Run Balmoral Balmoral Estate, Aberdeenshire 22 The Bollywood Brass Band Lemon Tree, Aberdeen 26 Russell Brand: Re-Birth HMT, Aberdeen

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44

> GOLF IN ABERDEENSHIRE

Braemar Golf Course

Banchory Golf Course

GOLF IN ABERDEENSHIRE <

Aboyne Golf Course Traditionally, when international golfers arrive in Scotland they do so with the classic bucket list, and will play the likes of St. Andrews, Kingsbarns, Muirfield, Carnoustie, and Royal Troon.

B

ut is it possible that they are missing out on some of the best links and parkland courses in the country?

Ranging from the luxurious to the challenging, and including some of the oldest golf courses in the world, set against stunning backdrops with views to behold; this is golf in Aberdeenshire.

The Scottish Government plan to put Scotland on the map as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No. 1 golf destination by 2020, and Aberdeenshire is a vital part of that plan. We have two of the oldest golf courses in the world, the highest golf course in Scotland, a Royal golf course, a fabulous new links course designed by Dr. Martin

Hawtree, as well as a Castle Trail, a Single Malt Whisky Trail, beautiful salmon rivers and 165 miles of spectacular coastline.

Golf courses fall into two main categories: links courses which are built on sandy soil along the coast, and parkland courses which are built inland. Each has its own set of challenges; links courses are often windy, but with a maritime climate tend to stay open all year round, while parkland courses can be more sheltered, but sometimes have to close if winter weather is challenging. Aberdeenshire has splendid examples of both, and to help you choose where to play, here are a some ready-made trails to enjoy.

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© VisitScotland/Richard Elliot

Ballater Golf Course

S

Royal Deeside Trail

tarting with Peterculter Golf Club, founded relatively recently in 1989, golfers are rewarded with a course that hugs the river and affords first glimpses of the mountains beyond. Next, Banchory Golf Club, once home to Paul Lawrie as a young assistant professional, is set right in the midst of the pretty Deeside town, meaning that a walk home after the nineteenth hole might well be possible. Head inland for a cheeky nine-hole at Tarland Golf Club, designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris in 1908, and still delighting visitors with its tranquillity and views of Lochnagar.

ancient river terraces, and then on finally to Braemar, at 1,200ft above sea level, officially the highest 18 hole course in Scotland.

Aboyne is next, and home to an attractive and memorable course, boasting watery challenges including a loch with its very own osprey. Heading into the Cairngorms, Ballater Golf Club is set within a ring of wooded hills on

At certain times of year, a limited number of tee times are released on the nine-hole at the Balmoral Estate during April and July, offering a chance to play golf at the Royal family’s summer home.

Every year four of these clubs hold a week long competition open to all, called the Royal Deeside Golf Classic, offering participants four rounds over five days with a rest day to take in some more of your surroundings, or play another course in the area. At £125 per person, this is an ideal way to experience Royal Deeside.

Trump International

Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Cruden Bay Golf Course

S

North-east Links Trail

tarting at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, the sixth oldest club in the world, and ranked amongst the finest of the country’s links courses, visitors are guaranteed a round steeped in the history of Scottish golf. On to Murcar Links, where the North Sea is a constant feature, and the testing terrain makes this course a must-play for the serious golfer. Trump International is a true feather in the cap of Aberdeenshire golf, and with six tees on every hole, there is room for every level of golfer amongst the massive dunes.

Next, Newburgh-on-Ythan Golf Club is not only great fun to play, but visitors to the course find themselves playing against the backdrop of the Ythan estuary, populated by

many seals and wading birds. Cruden Bay has a special place in many golfers’ hearts, and is another of Old Tom Morris’s designs with the help of Archie Simpson. Billed as challenging but ultimately enjoyable, this golf course’s charms have to be experienced first-hand. Peterhead and Fraserburgh both boast traditional links courses, reminiscent of uncomplicated early golf, and together with nearby Inverallochy represent an underrated trio of fine golfing experiences.

With 54 of Scotland’s 550 courses within an hour of Aberdeen, you could be looking at starting a whole new golfing bucket list.

48

but how about taking to the air to celebrate Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day? Aberdeen International Airport connects to a wide variety of destinations, perfect for a romantic break with the one you love.

H

ere in Britain many of us celebrate Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day on 14 February, traditionally with cards and flowers, chocolate and romantic meals, but across the world and even here in different parts of the British Isles, the language of love, and even the date it is celebrated can be very different.

VALENTINES <

Wales

Ireland

WALES In Wales a traditional gift is a carved wooden love spoon, covered with intricate patterns and symbols of luck and love, such as wheels, horseshoes and keys. You wouldn’t give your love spoon in February though, since the Welsh celebrate on 25 January which is the saints’ day of St. Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers.

IRELAND The village of Lisdoonvarna, a spa town in County Clare, Ireland has been the home of traditional matchmakers (not the chocolate kind) since the 1800s. Every year there is a week-long matchmaking festival in September with dance parties and traditional events, billed as the largest singles event in Europe, where you can visit the oldest surviving matchmaker Willie Daly in his office the Matchmaker Bar, and be paired up by an expert!

PARIS Paris is known as a city for lovers, ever since the first Valentine’s card was sent

by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife whilst imprisoned in the Tower of London.

Every year thousands of people propose at the top of the Eiffel Tower, and on romantic cruises down the Seine.

A popular engagement photo location is at the ‘Mur de j’taime’, an artwork featuring the words ‘I Love You’ written in 311 languages situated at the top of the Hill of Montmartre.

BULGARIA Bulgaria celebrates on 14 February, not just the day of love, but the day of St. Trifon Zarezan, or Wine Day. It is traditionally the day to prune the vines, after which villagers gather to eat,drink wine and celebrate.

Italy

s

Pari

BARCELONA In Barcelona, romance is celebrated on World Book Day, combining their love of literature with that of romance.

Called St. Jordi Day, the tradition has men receiving books and women roses, and the city is filled with book and flower stalls that day

Bulgaria

DENMARK Valentine’s Day has only been officially recognised in Denmark since 1990, but there are still some lovely traditions attached to the celebration. Friends and sweethearts exchange pressed snowdrops along with lovers’ cards, and men give women a ‘gaekkebrev’ - a funny poem written on intricately-cut paper and signed with dots. If the women guesses the sender, she is owed an Easter egg when the time comes.

Denmark

ITALY In Italy, Valentine’s Day was originally celebrated as the Spring Festival, with couples gathering outside in gardens to enjoy poetry and music performances before taking a romantic stroll. Legend has it that if a young unmarried girl got up at dawn and looked out for the object of her affections, provided he was the first man she saw, then they were destined to be together.

ona

Barcel

Why not celebrate with someone you love somewhere different this year?

For inspiration visit aberdeenairport.com/destinations

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50

> BEAT GOES ON

Brigitte Ziebell, Cape Town

Ainslie Thomson, San Diego Zoo

Kostas-Tsattalios, Sydney

to spend at World Duty Free, at Aberdeen International Airport.

See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT - go on, be creative! Send your photo to ABZupbeat@aiairport. com. Please submit high resolution images, at least 1MB in size at 300dpi print resolution. See the winning picture in the Winter 2018 upBEAT it could be yours!

(Deadline: 31 March 2018).

George Slesser, New Zealand Marion Fryatt, Tasmania

Lorna Bell, Frankfurt

Lisa West, London

Rhona Bean, Sri Lanka Johnathan Graham, Cape Town

BOOK REVIEWS <

The thirst jo nesbo

How to Stop Time

The marriage pact

Matt Haig

Michelle richmond

How many lifetimes does it take to learn how to live?

Tom Hazard has a dangerous secret.

He may look like an ordinary 41-yearold but he's been alive for centuries.

From Elizabethan England to Jazz-Age Paris, from New York to the South Seas, Tom has seen it all. Always changing his identity to stay alive, Tom has the perfect cover - working as a history teacher in London. But the past is fast catching up with him. The only thing he must not do is fall in love . . .

It's the perfect wedding gift.

Newlyweds Jake and Alice are offered membership of a club which promises members will never divorce. Signing The Pact seems the ideal start to their marriage. Until one of them breaks the rules.

Because The Pact is for life. And its members will go to any lengths to ensure nobody leaves . . .

ATURED AU FE OR TH JO NESBØ is a musician, songwriter, and economist as well as a writer.

His Harry Hole novels include The Redeemer, The Snowman, The Leopard, and Phantom, and he is also the author of several stand-alone novels and the Doctor Proctor series of children’s books. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Glass Key for best Nordic crime novel. He lives in Oslo.

There’s a new killer on the streets...

A woman is found murdered after an internet date. The marks left on her body show the police that they are dealing with a particularly vicious killer.

He’s in your house… he’s in your room Under pressure from the media to find the murderer, the force know there’s only one man for the job. But Harry Hole is reluctant to return to the place that almost took everything from him. Until he starts to suspect a connection between this killing and his one failed case.

He’s out for blood When another victim is found, Harry realises he will need to put everything on the line if he’s to finally catch the one who got away.

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> NUART ABERDEEN

NUART ABERDEEN <

MULTI AWARD-WINNING

STREET ART FESTIVAL RETURNS TO ABERDEEN! Words by: Carla Furneaux - Marketing & Communications Manager, Aberdeen Inspired

N

ow in its second year, Nuart Aberdeen is fast becoming one of Aberdeen’s most anticipated festivals. Globally renowned artists will gather from all over the world to transform some of the city’s walls into works of art from 12 - 15 April 2018.

The Nuart festival originates from the Norwegian city of Stavanger, Aberdeen’s twin city. Working in partnership with Nuart Festival Stavanger, we hope to strengthen the link between the two cities by creating cultural hubs boasting some of the worlds best street art.

Images: © Brian Tallman

Adrian Watson, CEO of Aberdeen Inspired said, ‘The festival was very successful and sparked a huge amount of interest in the city with large crowds coming to see the street art throughout the year. The walking tours also proved extremely popular and therefore were extended from Spring to the end of October, we hope to build on this in 2018 and really market Aberdeen as a destination of choice for visitors from around the world. Aberdeen Inspired is the Business Improvement District for the area and the knock-on effect for local businesses in the city centre was also extremely positive.

It certainly sparked the imagination of both residents and visitors and we look forward to seeing what Nuart Aberdeen 2018 will bring’.

Some of the artists involved in Nuart Aberdeen 2017 included Herakut, two artists from Germany widely regarded as leading lights of the global street art movement, who have painted and exhibited in cities all over the world from São Paolo to Kathmandu. Here they created a mural on the Aberdeen Market building, which has become Nuart Aberdeen’s signature image.

Portuguese artist, Add Fuel researched traditional patterns from the region and created the tile artwork that can be seen from Union Bridge on Union Street.

This piece of art was also voted one of the most popular pieces of street art in 2017

by New York street art bloggers, Brooklyn Street Art. Add Fuel has been showcasing his work in both solo and group exhibitions since 2006, as well as participating in some of the world’s leading urban art.

...captured the imagination of people locally and nationally alike...

Angela Michael, festivals and cultural director of VisitAberdeenshire, says, ‘The Nuart Festival captured the imagination of people locally and nationally alike in its inaugural year, and this year it promises to build on this success. VisitAberdeenshire is in favour of high quality cultural experiences that add to the creative contribution in the area, and any addition to the North-east’s cultural calendar can only be a good thing, as events like these raise the profile of Aberdeen as a creative, vibrant city that is an exciting place to live or visit and brings further economic benefits to the area’.

The popular street art festival, delivered by local BID (Business Improvement District) Aberdeen Inspired and sponsored by Burness Paull and Aberdeen Standard Investments, won a total of 5 awards in 2017, including the British BID Place Management Award voted for by the public and the Association of Town Centre Management Award for Innovation. Aberdeen Inspired was also named the European BID of the year 2017 in Berlin due to the overwhelming success of the festival.

2018 is set to build on the success of the Nuart Aberdeen 2017, with another incredible line-up of worldwide artists set to descend on the Granite City. Complimented by engaging workshops and interesting walking tours, this unique, multi-award-winning festival is not to be missed!

For more information on this year’s festival, visit: nuartaberdeen.co.uk For city centre accommodation, check out some of the best city centre hotels by visiting: visitabdn.com

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Children in Need fundraising in our main terminal

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Swissport colleague, David Fettes, won his very own car park space for a year in a fundraising raffle.

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Mental Health Aberdeen came to speak to our team.

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Children from Befriend a Child got an exciting tour of our airfield and fire service.

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Local Aberdeen Airport Spotters take shelter from the rain under an aircraft wing

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The rain couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop our airport spotters from snapping some great photographs on our airfield

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Our lounge partner Craig Wilson created an anchor of light fundraising for Friends of Anchor

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Our main terminal housed a Befriend a Child Giving Christmas Tree.

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Aberdeen Airport Spottersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day 2017

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Airport staff got baking at Christmas to fundraise for Befriend a Child.

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WELCOME <

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