Aberdeen International Airport upBEAT Magazine - Summer 2015 issue

WIN TWO FREE FLIGHTS TO BRISTOL! FUN AND HIGHLAND GAMES BERGEN AND BEYOND BEST OF THE WEST COUNTRY

© P.ZONZEL / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CONTENTS

© T PHOTOGRAPHY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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14 Best of the West Country

26 Connecting You to the World

PEOPLE

CULTURE

22 ABZ Adventurers 32 Local Flavour Restaurant Review 44 Star Treks Around the City and Shire 50 Words Worth Reading 52 Diary 54 The Beat Goes On - Win £100

to spend in World Duty Free!

12 Fun and Highland Games 42 What’s On?

SHOPPING 20 Don’t Travel Without Them!

TRAVEL BUSINESS 6 Airport News 8 Routes Europe 2015 36 SPE Offshore Europe 2015 46 Behind the Scenes with Airport Engineering

14 Best of the West Country 16 Win Two Flights to Bristol

with BMI! 18 Air France & KLM Focus on Canada 26 Connecting You to the World 30 Head for the Sun! 39 Bergen and Beyond

EDITORIAL

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192 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 6DA

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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 (July

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2015). Cover: Jupiter Images/Thinkstock

WELCOME

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

The summer is finally here (or so they say!) and we have plenty going on at the Airport, with people flying-off for their summer holidays to our sunshine destinations - including our most popular choices of Dalaman, Faro and Tenerife - as well as taking advantage of the launch of our first Polish route to Gdansk.

Carol Benzie Managing Director

In Scotland, summer is the season of Highland games and gatherings, and in the North-east a wonderful selection of these traditional events runs right through until September. Take a look at our games guide for some key diary dates. There are many other cultural events happening, too, as you’ll see in ‘What’s On’.

Explore Norway ticket, which provides a marvellous ‘hop-on-hop-off’ overview of the entire scenic country.

Closer to home, another favourite summer holiday destination is the English South West, flying directly to Bristol from Aberdeen. With a choice of nine destination centres offering dozens of fantastic visitor attractions - including Stonehenge - we think it’s a great UK ‘staycation’ option to explore.

Whatever you do and wherever you go, I hope you enjoy your summer!

Aberdeen has long enjoyed strong business links with Norway, and as you’ll read inside, leisure visitors also love our Widerøe Bergen route. Just imagine: the gateway to the fjords is only just over an hour away, and you can also make Bergen your first stop on the Widerøe

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

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

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

www.atholl-aberdeen.co.uk

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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.

Welcome to Wizz!

June saw the launch of the inaugural flight from Aberdeen to the Polish city of Gdansk. To celebrate the new route, the Airport’s marketing team welcomed the Wizz Team and waved-off the first passengers, while visitors enjoyed entertainment and Polish treats at check-in and within World Duty Free.

Carol Benzie, Aberdeen International Airport MD, said: “This is a great opportunity for both leisure and business passengers looking to travel for meetings and short breaks. We wish Wizz Air every success with the route.”

The twice-weekly service offers visitors to the Baltic Coast an energetic city crammed with historical and

..and welcome back to Flybe The Airport has welcomed back Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, as it began operating its 2015 Summer Schedule from its newly re-opened base.

The78-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft has returned, servicing the demand for the airline’s routes to and from Aberdeen: the daily service to Belfast City; the first summer of operation for Flybe’s three-timesa-day service to London City; multi-daily flights to Birmingham and Manchester hubs, with multiple

seamless onward connections - both regionally, with Flybe, and also as far afield as Dubai and Helsinki, through its codeshare partners; and the return of summer seasonal flights to Jersey.

Paul Simmons, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer said: “I would like to thank all parties involved for welcoming back Flybe’s based operations. We look forward to welcoming all our passengers on board this summer.”

Accessible Flying Scheme takes-off An innovative aviation programme for people of all ages with learning difficulties and disabilities, launched in Aberdeen in June, aims to use the challenges of flight as a tool for improving the lives of young people.

Aerobility is a registered charity offering disabled people the opportunity to fly their own aircraft. Working alongside Cabro Aviation at Aberdeen International Airport, the programme uses speciallyadapted aircraft and trained instructors to remove the barriers to aviation for those less abled.

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contemporary visitor attractions. Gdansk is also a key destination for the Aberdeen energy market.

The course includes all aspects of aviation, with sessions carefully planned to ensure knowledge transfer and personal development, including improved social skills, problem-solving ability and confidence. www.aerobility.com

AIRPORT NEWS

Local groups benefit from Airport donations Nine lucky groups have been awarded cash donations as part of the first round of Aberdeen International Airport’s Community Fund.

The donations, ranging from £300 to £1250, were awarded to various organisations in the local community ranging from a sea cadet unit through to a family support 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.

Among the selected groups was Maggie’s Cancer Charity, who were awarded funds to purchase specialist literature and support materials. Vicki Corbett from the charity said: “We’re delighted that the Aberdeen Airport Community Fund has chosen to support Maggie’s Aberdeen. Having information materials available in the right environment with a Maggie’s qualified staff member at hand can help people absorb and make sense of the various books and leaflets available. We estimate we will see around 8,000 visits to the Centre this year by people affected by cancer, many of whom will access this important resource and we’re grateful to the Fund for their kind support in this.”

Community Fund has helped so many organisations with such a wide range of initiatives and benefits across the local area. It’s great to see the results of donations made, past and present, and we’re pleased to see applications for the Fund increase year on year.”

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

1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP > Order your currency online for easy

To find out more about the Fund and how to apply, visit www.aberdeenairport.com/about-us/ community-matters/ or email communityfund@ aiairport.com.

online: www.aberdeenairport.com/parking

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.

Organisations receiving Community Fund first-round awards:

THE DAY BEFORE YOU FLY Check the weight of your suitcase and prep

• Aboyne Village Green Improvement Project • Grampian Transport Museum Trust Road Safety Initiative • Westpark School’s ‘Westpark loves to Read’ Project • Aberdeen Care & Repair work experience programme for young people • North East Sensory Services Young Persons Scheme • Home-Start Aberdeen • Bridge of Don Sea Cadets • Beacon Rhythmic Gymnastics • Maggie’s Cancer Care Centre Aberdeen

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.

John Rahtz, Chairman of the Grampian Transport Museum Trust, who also received funding, said: “The award to the Grampian Transport Museum will be used to support our Junior Driving School which is a ‘learning through play’ road safety training facility for children from the age of four. The museum is grateful to the Airport for this support which will allow an enhanced experience for our young learner drivers.” Dan Peck, Head of Development at the Airport and a member of the Fund’s Board, said: “We’re delighted that the first round of the

> MAGGIE’S CANCER CHARITY’S LIBRARY, WHERE FUNDS WILL PURCHASE SPECIALIST LITERATURE FOR PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

> GROUP OF YOUNG GYMNASTS FROM THE BEACON RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS CLUB WHO WERE AWARDED FUNDS FOR A NEW SPECIALISED TRAINING CARPET.

> BRIDGE OF DON SEA CADET UNIT WITH THEIR HANDHELD RADIOS, PURCHASED THROUGH FUNDING FROM THE COMMUNITY FUND. 7

ROUTES EUROPE 2015

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ROUTES EUROPE 2015

SHOWCASING THE REGION AT ROUTES EUROPE 2015 In April, Aberdeen City and Shire played host to more than 1200 delegates from across the world at the prestigious Routes Europe 2015 conference, marking the very first time the event has been held in the UK. Routes Europe is the largest European event of its kind and brings together a wide range of airlines, airports and tourism authorities at a forum for networking, and to discover potential opportunities for doing business across the continent.

It also placed a spotlight on Aberdeen International Airport, promoting the opportunities available to airlines and demonstrating to decision-makers that Aberdeen is a premium choice for both leisure and business travel.

Throughout the three-day event,

This year’s event provided a fantastic opportunity to promote the many diverse attractions offered by the City and Shire, as well as highlighting the area’s significance to the oil and gas and renewables industries for many years to come.

a number of tours and visitor experiences were organised, including golf tournaments, castle visits and whisky-tasting, to showcase the region’s finest attractions and give delegates a real sense of place, with traditional Scottish hospitality.

1 | Routes main conference centre, AECC

8 | Aberdeen International Airport

2 | Meeting hall for Airlines and

9 | Golf event, Trump International Golf Links

Airports, AECC

3 | Network awards evening, Castle Fraser 4 | Energy Brunch 5 | Networking evening, AECC 6 | Award winners, Castle Fraser 7 | Delegate Strategy Summit, AECC

welcomes Routes Europe delegates

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ADVERTORIAL

If you were to ask what a Greek banker, several police officers and an Aberdeen optician have in common you might get a few amusing quips but you’d be hard-pressed to come up with the definitive answer.

However, thanks to some visionary academic thinking, the link is an innovative business management course at RGU’s Aberdeen Business School and they’re all among an eclectic mix of students, including oil company and retail staff, who have embarked on a new path to academic achievement.

With the School’s flexible approach, part-time study and blended method of learning, embracing face-to-face and on-line distance activities; students with no previous academic history but plenty of hands-on experience can now work their way to a BA degree, some in just a year.

Sounds impressive and it’s undoubtedly hard work but it is revolutionising life for hundreds of people who would otherwise never have envisaged graduating with that prized qualification. Previously parttime study involved evening classes - a punishing schedule over several years,

particularly after a hard day at work - but the part-time course is flexible, accessible and a departure from the traditional, providing opportunities for all ages and walks of life to widen their horizons while doing their day job anywhere in the world, including offshore.

Under the guidance of Programme Leader Susan Lawrie, students start at various entry points: some with monthly Saturday workshops in key business subjects, leading to a management diploma, whereas those with prior business management experience can tackle the BA degree course in a year online, so it can be studied anywhere worldwide.

For some it’s an opportunity to become a better manager, for others it’s a route to return to work, to overcome the current energy sector downturn or, in Jackie Allen’s case, change direction entirely. She ran her

own award-winning retail business, The B’s Knees, for 25 years before switching careers in her 50s to become a selfemployed business consultant.

After graduating with the BA degree last year she says it has given her added confidence and professional credibility.

‘I’ve reinvented my career and got a thirst for knowledge. It was challenging, difficult sometimes, and you need focus and sheer determination, but if I can do it anybody can.’

Online applications for September’s intake are open now. For further information email Susan Lawrie at s.lawrie@rgu.ac.uk or visit www.rgu.ac.uk/itstime

LEFT TO RIGHT: SUSAN LAWRIE & JACKIE ALLEN 10

ADVERTORIAL

FoodFest15 is a year-long celebration of the finest food and drink in the North East of Scotland. Bringing together local food producers, restaurateurs, hoteliers and retailers, the packed programme highlights the wide variety of food and drink offerings available in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

From world class foodie events to celebrity chefs; from distinguished fine dining to grassroots craft brewers, FoodFest15 offers a fascinating glimpse into the delicious fare produced in the region. Encompassing a number of well-established events alongside newer food and drink gatherings throughout the region, the exciting FoodFest15 programme includes the likes of Taste of Grampian, in June, the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival in July, and Deeside Food and Fiddle Fortnight, in October. Other events that will form part of the festivities include Feast North East, which takes places in Inverurie across June, July and August, the Banchory Beer Festival, in August, and a number of Highland games and gatherings that will take place across the region.

Restaurants and hotels, in which at least 40 per cent of the produce used is sourced locally, also form a major part of the festival’s focus. As part of FoodFest15, the spotlight is being shone on local producers in the area: everyone knows about Aberdeen Angus beef, but how many have discovered the brilliant craft beers, bespoke chocolates, and delicious cheeses that make up just part of the incredible menu available in Aberdeen City and Shire?

FoodFest15 coincides with Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink. For participating partners see advert, right. For more information on FoodFest15, and all the region’s food and drink offerings, visit www.foodfest15.com or follow the festival on /foodfestfifteen and @foodfest15 11

THINGS TO DO

Hee-ee-yeuch! If you’re not familiar with this uniquely Scottish sound, stick around for the summer and you’ll hear it resounding around the towns and villages of the North-east, as Highland games season takes hold.

The wild cry of Highland dancers, as they leap and birl to the skirl of the bagpipes, is one of the traditional sounds of the games, along with the roars of the shot-putters and caber-tossers and the warrior howls of the tug-o-war teams. Yes, Highland games are noisy, exciting events, where communities gather to celebrate the music, dance, strength and sporting skills of their families, neighbours and friends.

According to the Scottish Highland Games Association (SHGA), Highland games originate in the Scottish Clan system and date back more than 300 years: “The Clan Chief would encourage his men to participate in feats of strength, skill and endurance to prove

themselves skilled in battle. While the competitive elements of the games are still an integral part of the proceedings, the spectacle of Highland dancers and pipers, combined with the colour and grandeur of the Scottish scenery, make Highland games and gatherings a highlight for every visitor to Scotland.”

The games traditionally include: throwing the hammer, tossing the caber, putting the shot and tug o’ war (heavy events); athletics/ track and field events (light events), and dancing and piping competitions. You’ll also find trade stalls and refreshment tents, which in this year of Scotland’s Food & Drink, will be bursting at the seams with delicious examples of the region’s finest fare.

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01. SWORD-DANCING AND PIPING AT BALLATER HIGHLAND GAMES PAUL TOMKINS 02. TUG O’ WAR AT THE LONACH GATHERING IAN HALLIDAY 03. THE LONACH HIGHLANDERS - ONE OF THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS AT THE LONACH GATHERING IAN HALLIDAY 04. BALLATER HIGHLAND GAMES PAUL TOMKINS

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THINGS TO DO

18TH JULY - TOMINTOUL HIGHLAND GAMES 11AM - 5PM, PUBLIC PARK, TOMINTOUL Known as ‘The Friendly Games’, they’ve been held on the third Saturday in July for more than 170 years! As well as featuring traditional Highland events for experienced competitors, the games include events for the public, including the 90m dash, barrel-rolling, and the hill race. Apply on the day! www.tomintoulhighlandgames.co.uk 19TH JULY - STONEHAVEN HIGHLAND GAMES MACKIE ACADEMY, SLUG ROAD, STONEHAVEN Featuring all the traditional events, this year’s games also include for the first time a pipe band competition and the Scottish Tug o’War Championship. www.stonehavenhighlandgames.com 25TH JULY - DUFFTOWN HIGHLAND GAMES MORTLACH SCHOOL FIELD, HILL STREET, DUFFTOWN Games have been held here on the last Saturday in July since 1892! Massed pipe bands depart from the clock tower at 1pm, and head to the field for the opening ceremony, returning at the end of the afternoon to Beat the Retreat. As well as enjoying all the traditional events, visitors can take part in the Overseas Race, and join fellow games-goers for some evening entertainment at the Commercial Hotel, The Royal Oak and the Stuart Arms. www.dufftownhighlandgames.com

1ST AUGUST - ABOYNE HIGHLAND GAMES ABOYNE GREEN, ABOYNE Now 140 years old, the Aboyne Games offer a funpacked day of traditional Highland Games, refreshment stands, a funfair for kids of all ages, and more than 80 trade stands, offering the finest local products, clothing, crafts and foodstuffs. Unique to Aboyne Highland Games is the ‘Clan Village’, where at least a dozen clan chiefs and their followers will be on hand to regale you with tales of their history and culture. www.aboynegames.com 13TH AUGUST - BALLATER HIGHLAND GAMES HIGH TREES, MORVEN WAY, BALLATER Held in Ballater since 1864, the games have attracted many famous athletes and champions over the years.

Today’s events form part of the circuits comprising the Glenfiddich Heavy Events Championship and the Grampian Games Qualifying Championship, which encourages younger athletes to participate in the heavy and field events. www.ballaterhighlandgames.com 22ND AUGUST - LONACH HIGHLAND GATHERING AND GAMES BELLABEG, NEAR STRATHDON This year, the 174th Lonach Gathering also marks the 300th anniversary of the 1715 Jacobite rebellion, and in true tradition starts with the March of the Lonach Highlanders, which enters the games arena at 1pm and 3pm, followed by massed pipe bands. As well as

dancing displays, heavy and light events and children’s races, there’s a Hill Race, which can be entered on the day. www.lonach.org 23RD AUGUST - GRANTOWN ON SPEY HIGHLAND GAMES HEATHFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN ON SPEY Events include running, cycling, heavy weights, solo piping, light field, Highland dance and a special 56lb Weight for Distance Championship. www.shga.co.uk/ events/grantown-on-spey-highland-games 5TH SEPTEMBER - BRAEMAR GATHERING THE PRINCESS ROYAL AND DUKE OF FIFE MEMORIAL PARK, BRAEMAR While there have been gatherings at Braemar for some 900 years, today’s Braemar Gathering - world-famous for its friendship and hospitality - is run by Braemar Royal Highland Charity. Traditionally, large crowds attend to acclaim the monarch as Chieftain of the Braemar Gathering and to witness the breathtaking skills of international athletes, pipers and dancers, as well as cheer-on competitors from the Army, Navy and RAF, in the InterServices Unit Tug of War Championship and Services Medley Relay Race. www.braemargathering.org For more information, visit: www.shga.co.uk www.visitscotland.com 13

DOMESTIC OUTBOUND

Known as the cosmopolitan capital of the South West, Bristol is renowned for its successful combination of centuries-old history with contemporary culture. Its strong maritime heritage and acres of parkland blend with its lively leisure and entertainment scene to

create a characterful destination for visitors of all ages.

As Bristol is compact enough to navigate around on foot, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the sheer buzz of this ‘city of bridges, balloons, boats, bikes, Brunel and Banksy’!

THINGS TO SEE > Brunel’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge > Banksy’s street art

> Bristol Cathedral > M Shed - a modern museum documenting the history of Bristol

VILLOREJO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Bristol - the gateway to the English South West (West Country) - is only a one-hour hop away from Aberdeen International Airport, flying bmi regional. Here’s upBEAT’s guide to just some of the visitor attractions available in this fascinating corner of the UK - whether for a short break, or a fully-fledged summer adventure.

> Millennium Square and the Harbourside > The At-Bristol science centre > Bristol Aquarium

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DOMESTIC OUTBOUND

From Bristol, you can explore an exciting array of West Country destinations, including Bath, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall. With its own mild Gulf Stream microclimate, the area offers a wonderfully diverse scenic experience, including the rolling Mendips hills, vast areas of heather moorland and the wild and rocky Cornish coastline.

Excellent road and rail links make touring the area easy - the biggest challenge is where to go first! Everyone will find something to suit, whether it’s exploring ancient historical sites and stately homes, relaxing in English country gardens, or having fun at the many beaches, zoos, interactive museums and amusement parks. It’s also a walker’s paradise, with hiking opportunities aplenty in places such as Exmoor National Park, Bodmin Moor, Dartmoor, the Mendip Hills, and the UK’s longest public right-of-way, the South West Coast Path.

> BATH (SOMERSET) A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bath is the only place in the UK where you can bathe in naturally hot spa water and original Roman-style baths. You’ll also find England’s most complete Georgian architecture (The Royal Crescent and the Circus are must-sees), fabulous boutique shopping and a lively nightlife. Other highlights include the Victoria Art Gallery, the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.

> GLOUCESTERSHIRE Gloucestershire, on the northern edge of the West Country, consists of a major part of the Cotswolds, the 27,000-acre Royal Forest of Dean and the wildlife haven of Severn Vale - and is famous for its many picturesque towns and villages, including Stow-onthe-Wold, Tewkesbury and Cheltenham. Historic attractions include the 12th-century Berkley Castle, the 500-year-old Tewkesbury Abbey and the ruins of Witcombe Roman Villa.

> WILTSHIRE Home to the medieval city of Salisbury, the magnificent 5000-year-old Stonehenge monument, on Salisbury Plain, and Longleat Safari Park, Wiltshire is an unmissable part of the West Country experience. You’ll be wowed by Salisbury Cathedral - a striking example of Early English Gothic - where you can view the original Magna Carta.

Within the Cathedral Close, you’ll find a variety of historic visitor attractions, and Salisbury also enjoys a thriving arts scene and café culture.

> DORSET Walkers, golfers and water sport enthusiasts will adore Dorset, whose idyllic countryside and stunning cliff-studded coastline offer a multitude of outdoor activities. It’s a magnet for Thomas Hardy fans, who can visit the home and haunts of one of England’s best-loved writers. Dorset is also renowned for its castles, stately homes and thatched villages, as well as fun family attractions such as the Dinosaur Museum at the Jurassic Coast World Heritage site, Monkey World and the Swanage Railway.

> DEVON More beautiful beaches and spectacular scenery await you in Devon, whose coastline around the historic towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham is known as the ‘English Riviera’. Families will find a wealth of things to do in Plymouth - the cultural centre of the county. In Exeter, you can walk the Roman wall and browse the wealth of independent shops along its cobbled streets. > CORNWALL Cornwall is famous for its captivating coastline, cream teas and pasties, Celtic Cornish culture and delightful seaside villages, as well as the ancient and atmospheric Bodmin Moor. Its mining and maritime heritage and Bronze-Age monuments make it a pleasure-ground for history-lovers, while the strong creative community of artists and crafters provides dozens of gallery-browsing opportunities. There’s a fantastic gourmet experience awaiting visitors to Cornwall, thanks to prolific local producers and talented chefs.

Find out more about what the West Country has to offer at: www.visitsouthwest.co.uk 15

TWO FREE BMI REGIONAL FLIGHTS FROM ABERDEEN TO BRISTOL! We’re giving one lucky upBEAT winner the chance to win a pair of return flights from Aberdeen to Bristol. bmi regional have up to two direct flights a day between Aberdeen and Bristol. Fares start from £69 one way including taxes and charges.

Enter online at www.aberdeenaiport.com/competition *terms and conditions apply. See online for details.

ADVERTISEMENTS

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LONGHAUL AIRLINE FOCUS

AIR FRANCE & KLM:

EDMONTON, CANADA

FOCUS ON CANADA This year, as part of its ever-expanding network, Air France launched a new service to Vancouver, while KLM commenced flights to Edmonton.

Thanks to their existing routes to Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Montreal, including a bus service to Ottawa, the two airlines provide one of the largest networks in Canada. What’s more, the partnership between Air France KLM and domestic carrier WestJet further increases this offer, giving passengers from Aberdeen access to 38 routes in the country. www.airfrance.com | www.klm.co.uk

FLY IN STYLE WITH THE NEW AIR FRANCE BUSINESS CLASS*

NEW AIR FRANCE SERVICE TO VANCOUVER From March 2015, Air France offers up to five flights per week to the cosmopolitan coastal city of Vancouver.

Passengers can fly in the morning and connect seamlessly to the service in Paris, arriving in Vancouver just before midday. This new service will complement the existing daily KLM flight to Vancouver. Travellers can also combine the airlines as they please to take advantage of even greater flight frequencies.

EXPERIENCE THE NEW KLM WORLD BUSINESS CLASS*

KLM INTRODUCES EDMONTON In May this year, KLM introduced a new service to the city of Edmonton. A key destination for the gas, petroleum, agriculture and forestry industries, the capital city of Alberta also has one of the fastestgrowing economies in the country. KLM offers up to four flights per week, in addition to daily services to Calgary in the same province. *On selected routes to Canada

VANCOUVER, CANADA

ADVERTISEMENTS

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RETAIL

MICROSOFT LUMIA 640 | the Lumia 640 is the third smartphone to bear the new Microsoft brand, with big features including : 8MP camera, secondary frontfacing camera, 1.2GHz quad-core processor, and 4G connectivity. Prices from £119.97

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB A | designed for everyday living, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A is perfect for your modern lifestyle. This tablet delivers amazing performance and an optimised design, combined with dynamic aesthetics to suit your lifestyle. Prices from £219

MICHAEL KORS SUNGLASSES | summer fashion is made easy with a range of stylish sunglasses by Michael Kors. Find this range of sunglasses plus other popular brands in WDF. £151.65 (RRP £182.00)

Make great savings compared to high-street prices by stocking up on your travel essentials 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!

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RETAIL

CLINIQUE DAILY ESSENTIALS | this ideal travel set from WDF includes everything you need in skincare for your trip: 50ml Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion, 15ml All About Eyes, 30ml Liquid Facial Soap Mild, 60ml Clarifying Lotion, and 50ml Take the Day Off Make up Remover. Sets are available for all skin types. £37.00 (Travel Exclusive - not on high street)

DID YOU KNOW? ...THAT YOU CAN MAKE SAVINGS ON HIGHSTREET PRICES WHEN YOU SHOP AT THE AIRPORT? Find great value at WDF and Dixons, and save at least 15% on your favourite brands when you purchase at the Airport instead of on the high street.

...YOU CAN BUY WHEN FLYING TO ANY DESTINATION? If you are flying to a non-EU destination, you can purchase in any of our stores and also take advantage of great duty-free prices on range of products within our WDF store.

DKNY FRAGRANCE | MEN: an aromatic fruity scent with top notes of sweet orange, juniper berry and green cardamom. Make DKNY Men your essential fragrance this summer. £23.00 for 100ml

DKNY FRAGRANCE | WOMEN: DKNY Women EDT limited edition for summer 2015 consists mainly of citrus and floral notes to create a fresh, sweet fragrance perfect for this summer season. £25.00 for 100ml

...THAT WHEN FLYING WITHIN THE UK OR EU YOU CAN ALSO BUY IN ANY OF OUR STORES AND STILL MAKE YOURSELF SOME GREAT SAVINGS WITH TAX-FREE SHOPPING IN 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.

A member of WDF staff will also be happy to advise you and answer any questions you may have regarding prices and allowances. So why not pick up that new fragrance or single malt whisky at a great-value price?

World Duty Free and Dixons are located after Security Central Search.

CHARLES WORTHINGTON MINIATURES | Make sure your locks are beautifully beach ready with these Charles Worthington miniatures available from Boots. £1.99 each, and all travel minis on a 3 for 2 offer in Boots this summer.

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PEOPLE

upBEAT chatted to passengers at Aberdeen International Airport about their travel essentials, top tips and favourite holiday destinations.

KATE FINNEGAN LEICESTER

LYNETTE & EWEN MARNOCH ABERDEEN

BARRY RAPLEY

“We come from Aberdeen and we’re off to Norwich to visit our daughter, who has recently moved there. Ewen would never leave home without his wallet, phone and passport. Our favourite holiday memories are of Hawaii and Barcelona. My top travel tips are dress comfortably and don’t stress if you’re delayed - you’ll get there in the end!”

“I’ve been in Aberdeen on business and am returning home via Luton Airport. I like Aberdeen - it’s very green - and I would consider returning to explore the area further on holiday. I’d never travel without my computer, notepad and phone, if on business - or without my clothes and toiletries, if on holiday. My travel tips are to make sure you turn up on time and pre-check-in where possible.”

MARY SHARP & DAVID FOX

LUCIA & DANIEL BARRYCOUNTY CLARE, IRELAND

SURREY

LINCOLN & NEWARK

“I’ve had a one-day business trip to Aberdeen and I’ve been up since 4am, so please pardon the photo!

My travel essentials are my iPad, to watch Made in Chelsea; my iPhone; Vaseline; a good book, and my toiletries. I’d love to return to Italy - I’ve visited Venice a few times and would like to explore more of the country. My top tip? Be prepared - always have your passport and boarding card ready.”

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“We’re on our way home to England after holidaying in the North-east, where we visited Nairn, Thurso and Ballater. I’ve been here many times, but this is David’s first visit. Although I’ve travelled extensively and enjoy cruising, my favourite destination is Scotland because it has fabulous scenery and I have fond memories of swimming in Loch Lomond! My travel essential is my own hairdryer. “

“We’re travelling home via Dublin, after visiting friends in the North-east. I would never leave home without toothpaste, make-up and a mobile phone.

Daniel would love to go back to Las Vegas and stay at the Paris Hotel, because he enjoyed the pool and the restaurant - he also liked the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel. My top tips are to bring the children and drink wine!”

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

BANGKOK, THAILAND WITH AIR FRANCE Escape the daily grind in the tropical paradise of Thailand. Book Air France flights to Bangkok and explore ancient temples, wander through traditional markets, or sip a coconut drink in one of the many bars. Visit the Royal Palace and try a Thai curry at the Suan Lim night market. Or discover the many idyllic islands nearby and instantly forget the hectic pace of the city, sunbathing on a white sandy beach. In Thailand, life can be just as relaxing as exciting. FLY AIR FRANCE TO BANGKOK VIA PARIS WWW.AIRFRANCE.CO.UK

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

CHICAGO, USA WITH SAS Chicago - the Windy City - offers a truly breathtaking skyline, spearheaded by the Willis (Sears) Tower - the second-tallest building in America. Top attractions include Millennium Park - great to explore by Segway - where the giant sculptures and fun fountains are not to be missed; the fascinating Hancock Observatory; the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile shoppers’ paradise. Discover Lake Michigan’s miles of beautiful sandy beaches and enjoy the fun of the fair at Navy Pier, where you can see the sights from the top of the 15-storey Ferris wheel! FLY SAS TO CHICAGO VIA COPENHAGEN WWW.FLYSAS.CO.UK

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

NEW YORK, USA WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS In the city that never sleeps, you won’t want to, either! From shopping and sightseeing to culture, cuisine and fun family activities, New York offers an endless variety of visitor experiences for all ages. The city is home to the world’s most recognised landmarks, including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway, Times Square and Brooklyn Bridge. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History; the animals at Central Park’s Tisch Children’s Zoo - and the absolutely unmissable world-famous toy store, FAO Schwarz. FLY VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS TO NEW YORK VIA LONDON HEATHROW WWW.VIRGIN-ATLANTIC.COM

HOUSTON, USA WITH KLM Fly KLM to Houston and discover the largest city in Texas. Whether for business or pleasure, Houston offers it all. During the day, be amazed by its ultra-modern Contemporary Arts Museum, discover the 19th-century architecture that surrounds the Old Market Square, get yourself a pair of customised Texan boots, or just go for an antigravity walk at its Space Center. In the evening, Bayou Place is the perfect spot for a fantastic night out. Great bars, restaurants and night clubs will ensure that you end your day in Houston in style. FLY KLM TO HOUSTON VIA AMSTERDAM WWW.KLM.COM

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS White sandy beaches fringe Rio de Janeiro, while rainforest-clad mountains provide a backdrop. Get your bearings from Rio’s most famous symbol, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, on the summit of Corcovado, then head for a spot of sunbathing on Rio’s classiest beach, Ipanema - and, if you can, try to squeeze-in sunset from the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. FLY DAILY WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS VIA LONDON HEATHROW WWW.BRITISHAIRWAYS.COM 27

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 Widerøe & SAS > BOURGAS with Balkan Holidays > COPENHAGEN with SAS > CORFU with Thomson & First Choice > DALAMAN with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > DUBLIN with Aer Lingus > ENFIDHA with Thomas Cook > ESBJERG with BMI Regional

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

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

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

> NEWCASTLE with Eastern Airways > NORWICH with BMI Regional & Eastern Airways > SCATSTA with Eastern Airways > SOUTHAMPTON with Eastern Airways & Flybe > STORNOWAY with Eastern Airways > SUMBURGH with Loganair > WICK with Eastern Airways

easyJet easyjet.com First Choice firstchoice.co.uk Flybe flybe.com Jersey Travel jerseytravel.com KLM klm.com Loganair logainair.co.uk Lufthansa lufthansa.com Newmarket Holidays newmarketholidays.co.uk

SAS flysas.com Thomas Cook thomascook.com Thomson thomson.co.uk Virgin Atlantic virgin-atlantic.com 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

SUMMER SUN

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SUMMER SUN

Still looking for a summer break? Planning ahead for autumn? You’re sure to catch the sun at these idyllic holiday hotspots, flying directly from Aberdeen.

01.

DALAMAN DELIGHTS

There’s so much to do in Dalaman - a true Turkish delight! Ride the rapids on a thrilling white-water raft adventure on Dalaman River, past canyons and arched Roman bridges showing off the centuries of history in the region.

In Dalaman you’re at the heart of the Turquoise Coast, and where better to relax than on a gulet (traditional wooden boat), as you explore the coastline of hidden-away coves.

You’re also close to attractions, including Butterfly Valley and the crenellated walls of 16th-century Marmaris Castle, overlooking the harbour.

When it’s time to relax, enjoy the laid-back beaches at Dalyan, with their views of ancient Lycian rock tombs cut into the cliff face.

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

02.

SORRENTO & THE BAY OF NAPLES

Join us in one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular corners, a stunning coastline of colourful towns bustling with life, glorious views and warm waters. Choose between world-famous Sorrento or its overlooking neighbour, Sant’ Agata, and enjoy well-priced optional excursions, including brooding Vesuvius and Pompeii’s haunting ruins, enchanting Capri and the scenic Amalfi Coast. Your Newmarket holiday includes return flights to Italy; return airport-to-hotel transfers; seven nights’ B&B accommodation at the Villa Angelina, Sant’ Agata (half-board upgrades available for a supplement), and Tour Manager services. www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

03.

EXPLORE MORE IN MAJORCA

The shining star of the Mediterranean, Majorca keeps holidaymakers coming back year after year and it’s easy to see why! Spectacular scenery, dramatic coastlines, world-class hotels, fascinating local culture and vibrant nightlife are just some of the reasons why this incredible island never fails to impress. Wherever you choose to base yourself, a visit to the island’s historic capital of Palma should be on your must-see list. When in Palma, why not indulge in some retail therapy in the many department stores and boutiques, or simply explore the cobbled streets, lined with traditional tapas bars.

Majorca truly offers something for everyone, so discover your very own piece of paradise and enjoy direct flights with Barrhead Travel.

To book, visit Barrhead Travel in Union Square Shopping Centre, Aberdeen, or call us on 01224 578270 www.barrheadtravel.co.uk

04.

BULGARIA’S GOLDEN BLACK SEA COAST!

Balkan Holidays, the UK’s leading specialist operator to Non-Euro Bulgaria, continues to offer the rich and varied resorts of Sunny Beach, Elenite, Nessebar, Pomorie, Sozopol and Duni, direct from Aberdeen (deposit just £49 per person).

From the 8km-long Sunny Beach, with its buzzing seaside promenade complete with bars, restaurants, water sports, aquaparks and fairground, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Nessebar, with its 3000 years of history, remains of more than 40 churches and a picturesque harbour, Bulgaria’s golden Black Sea coast has something for everyone.

Great value for money is what Bulgaria does best - once again it’s been named as the best value for money resort in Europe in the 2015 Post Office Travel money survey. You can still buy an evening meal for around £10 and pint of beer for under £1.

However, there is more to Bulgaria than simply good value - our Premier Selection range of hotels offer our customers 4- and 5-star luxury hotels in idyllic locations, with added benefits including 30kg baggage and priority transfers. www.balkanholidays.co.uk

05.

TOP TENERIFE!

Tenerife is the largest and most developed of the Canary Islands. Attractive beaches, watersports and exciting adventures to Loro Parque, Siam Park and the cliffs of Los Gigantes, make holidays to Tenerife popular year after year, offering activities for everyone to enjoy.

It’s an island of two halves, with Spain’s highest mountain Mount Teide - dividing the lush tropical north from the rocky south.

Book a Thomas Cook holiday to Tenerife and enjoy an island adventure among dramatic volcanic peaks and long sweeping beaches. To book, visit your local travel agent or www.thomascook.com.

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LOCAL FLAVOUR

A 20-minute drive from Aberdeen allows you to escape the city and takes you south to the seaside town of Stonehaven, home of the harbour-front Marine Hotel.

Review by Alison Sim Volunteer Cook with Aberdeen Cyrenians Street Alternatives Project

Despite it being an evening in June, the temperate was brisk as opposed to balmy, but this did not deter the many folks gathered outside, sitting along the harbour wall, enjoying the view along with their evening drinks. Inside, the bar was a happy hubbub, as one would expect of this popular establishment on a Saturday evening.

We dined upstairs, in the comfortable and contemporary dining room, seated at a table by a window which allowed us to fully appreciate the lovely harbour view.

For our starters, I opted for pan-fried chicken livers, with a ‘wanderlust wheat and coconut cream’ and a homemade coriander naan bread. A Thai curry base to the sauce brought a surprising, but subtle heat to the dish. My husband sampled a local grilled

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enjoying a hint of the Orient that came from the Chinese spices and ginger in the sauce.

The generous portions meant a hiatus was required before tackling dessert! A fresh-tasting rhubarb and framboise terrine was calling to me, served with Chantilly cream and Advocaat, the Advocaat cutting-across the sweetness of the rhubarb beautifully. My husband was rewarded with wonderful textural contrasts in his choice of the hazelnut and chocolate cheesecake.

The Marine Hotel carries a stock of more than 170 bottled Belgian beers, and each menu item is matched with a suggested beer to complement the dish. Although tempted, we opted for a couple of refreshing glasses of chilled Sauvignon Blanc instead.

mackerel fillet, served with tangy rhubarb chutney. The pea-shoot garnish brought a fresh summer taste to the dish.

I recommend that you make time to visit this long-established local gem.

Spoiled for choice for main courses, I chose slow-braised ox cheeks with garlic mash, wilted kale and sweet, chunky carrots. The meat simply fell apart in the rich sauce, it was so beautifully cooked. My husband selected duck breast with stir-fry vegetables and noodles,

Marine Hotel Shorehead, Stonehaven AB39 2JY Tel: +44 (0) 1569 762155 www.marinehotelstonehaven.co.uk

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Stahlwille Tools Ltd Unit 2D, Albany Park Industrial Estate Frimley Road, Camberley, Surrey, GU16 7PL | + 44 (0) 1276 24080 | sales@stahlwille.co.uk

www.stahlwille.co.uk

AUTHORISED UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR:

OFFSHORE EUROPE 2015

SPE Offshore Europe 2015’s choice of theme, ‘Inspiring the next generation’, empowers the industry to address both the technical and people challenges facing the oil and gas business today. The free-to-attend global biennial event - the world’s largest upstream oil and gas conference and exhibition outside North America - will be held at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre from 8-11 September 2015.

The four days will include a series of keynote sessions, technical sessions, topical lunches and breakfast briefings. Alongside the conference, visitors can view the latest technology, product and service exhibits from the global industry. Taking over an entire hall, the dedicated Deepwater Zone will comprise its own conference and exhibition programme. For the first time, the event will include a series of workshops and meetings to connect entrepreneurs and investors. An ambitious ‘Inspire’ programme aimed at the younger generation will feature as well. A key message throughout will be that the industry is far from over and that it has a long and bright future, despite the current difficult market conditions.

The keynote programme, chaired by Michael Engell-Jensen, Executive Director of the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP), will offer 11 sessions focusing on the basic challenge of meeting energy demand while balancing concerns over climate change, security of supply and consumer affordability. Topics include: health; the safety and security of people and assets; well intervention; financing investments; oil spill response, and inspiring the next generation to join the industry.

economic recovery, smarter field development, pipelines and risers, subsea processing, talent development, unconventional gas development, process safety, and decommissioning.

Exhibitors will represent the complete supply chain of companies, consolidating Aberdeen’s established reputation as a supplier of services and products to global projects. Around 1500 organisations are expected this year, including at least 280 companies - small and large - exhibiting for the first time at the show.

Reflective of the global nature of the overall industry, there will be a large international exhibitor presence, with 33 international pavilions booked so far. Large delegations are expected from Malaysia, Nigeria and Korea.

The technical programme, chaired by Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive Officer, Expro, will present more than 75 papers, demonstrating that the industry’s engineering,

Planning is also well under way on the Deepwater Zone, where a dedicated theatre will host industry experts presenting topical case studies and participating in panel discussions. With content programmed by Subsea UK and the Society for Underwater Technology, the sessions will address: deepwater developments; the future of inspection, repair and maintenance; new technologies for efficiency and effectiveness, and subsea challenges for enabling deepwater production.

manufacturing and technology excellence assures a long-term sustainable future.

International speakers will discuss topics such as asset and well integrity, maximising

Visit www.offshore-europe.co.uk for more information and to register.

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX, SPE OFFSHORE EUROPE 2015 PLENARY SPEAKER

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EXPLORE NORWAY

BERGEN... AND BEYOND! It’s always a delight flying over a scenic country such as Norway, and the approach to Bergen - the Gateway to the Fjords - is breathtaking, writes upBEAT editor Judy Mackie.

Only just over an hour after departing from Aberdeen, the super-efficient Widerøe flight lands in one of the country’s most beautiful cities and I’m whisked to the centre by the Airport Bus, which operates every 15 minutes.

If you choose to take advantage of Widerøe’s exciting Explore Norway offer this summer, Bergen makes a wonderful first stop; alternatively, with so much to see and do in and around the city, it’s also an ideal base for a shorter break. A useful pass - the Bergen Card - gives you free bus travel within the city limits, free admittance to most museums and attractions, and discounts on a variety of sightseeing and cultural tours.

“What I love most about Bergen - where I was born - is that you have all the benefits

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of city life; you’re by the sea and can easily visit the fjords, and, in just a few minutes, you can be up in the mountains and out walking in the wilderness,” Linn Kjos Falkenberg, VisitBergen’s Information and Marketing Coordinator, tells me in the foyer of the smart and ultra-minimalist Scandic Ørnen, where I’m staying overnight during my brief Bergen break. “It’s a very compact and safe city, so you can walk to nearly all the main attractions, and during our light summer nights, people stay outside enjoying the atmosphere until late.”

And walk is what I do - around the picturesque city-centre lake, bordered by beds of vibrant flowers and with a brooding backdrop of seven mountains shrouded in heavy cloud (it rains quite a lot here - but that’s what makes the area so lush and verdant).

I browse the neighbouring KODE Art Museums, where I’m thrilled to see a sketch of The Scream, by Edvard Munch; Picasso’s intriguing depiction of Bergen, and the stunning rural paintings and woodcuts of Norwegian artist Nicolai Astrup - among many other important works.

As time is short, I resist the lure of Bergen’s superb shopping streets, including the Strandgaten, Gågaten, and Torgallmenningen, where independents and designer-label names rub shoulders with traditional Norwegian knitwear outlets. (It’s worth noting that visitors who live outside Scandinavia can buy goods tax-free in most shops and have the VAT refunded when leaving Norway.) I stroll through Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring its quirky and colourful wooden houses, once owned by German fish merchants. At the nearby Fish Market, locals have traded fish, seafood, fruit, vegetables and flowers since 1276.

Despite the cool evening air, the harbour area is full of tourists clearly enjoying the

EXPLORE NORWAY

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01 | Lille Lungegårdsvann 02 | Bryggen 03 | Edvard Greig Statue, Bergen

Next morning, I board a Rødne Fjord Cruise catamaran, excited to be on my first-ever fjord trip. The three-hour minicruise through sunshine and rain takes us to Mostraumen, in the atmospheric inner region of the magnificent Osterfjord.

On the way, we marvel at waterfalls, colourful wooden houses and steep, rocky mountainsides, accompanied by the dramatic music of Bergen-born Edvard Greig, whose home, Troldhaugen, is

now a museum where lunchtime concerts are held daily throughout the summer.

Back at the harbour, I head for the Fløibanen Funicular Railway to ascend in style to the summit of Mount Fløyen, where the view over the city and surrounding area can only be described as awesome! You can also take a cable car to the top of Mount Ulriken both mountains and their surrounding neighbours are great starting-points for nature hikes.

Bergen Tourist Board / Espen Haagensen - visitBergen.com

Bergen experience, and it’s first-come-firstserved in the many restaurants and cafés, which are busy inside and out. Seafood is, not surprisingly, a local delicacy and, according to Linn, there’s an increasing focus on local produce, including new cheeses, with several gourmet Nordiccuisine restaurants opening up in recent years.

If you’re on holiday with the family, Bergen has lots to offer children. Fun places include Bergen Aquarium, where you can see sea lions, crocodiles and snakes, as well as fish, and VilVite Bergen Science Centre: an interactive experience featuring more than 75 exciting science installations and experiments. www.visitbergen.com

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EXPLORE NORWAY

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EXPLORE NORWAY

EXPLORE NORWAY WITH WIDERØE FOR TWO CONSECUTIVE WEEKS DURING THE PERIOD 18 JUNE - 27 AUGUST 2015, A WIDERØE EXPLORE NORWAY TICKET WILL GIVE YOU ACCESS TO UNLIMITED TRAVEL IN NORWAY WITHIN THE ZONES YOU SELECT. THE FLIGHTS CAN ALSO EASILY BE COMBINED WITH BUS, BOAT OR RENTAL CAR TRIPS. HERE’S JUST ONE EXAMPLE OF MANY POSSIBLE TRAVEL ITINERARIES:

From Sogndal, fly via Bergen to Stavanger to sample the city’s many unique cultural and

nature-based activities. Admire Old Stavanger’s colony of white wooden houses, built more than two centuries ago. The Norwegian Canning Museum celebrates the city’s most important 19th-20th-century industry, while the Norwegian Petroleum Museum highlights its most important industry today.

Avaldsnes is a short bus ride south, where you’ll find the Nordvegen History Centre and Viking Farm.

Nearby Jæren is one of Norway’s main food-producing areas. If you visit Stavanger at the end of July, you’ll be one of 250,000 visitors enjoying the country’s biggest food festival, Gladmat!

From Haugesund, fly via Bergen to Ålesund, a great base for sightseeing trips throughout the region - whether it’s by boat, kayak, whitewater raft, helicopter, bike, or on foot. You can take a Wildlife Sea Safari, to see seals, puffins and white-tailed eagles on the bird island of Runde. And, as Ålesund is one of three remaining towns in Europe dominated by Art Nouveau architecture, be sure to visit the incredible Art Nouveau Centre.

From Stavanger, take a boat to Haugesund - a small town with a lively cultural scene that plays host to the annual Sildajazz Festival, at the beginning of August.

When it’s time to go home, fly back via Bergen.

Visit www.wideroe.no to create your personal Explore Norway itinerary

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Sverre Hjørnevik / www.fjordnorway.com

From Bergen, fly to Sogndal, a charming base from which to explore the Sognefjord - at 205km, the longest open fjord in the world - located beneath the Jostedalsbreen Glacier (mainland Europe’s largest glacier). Take the bus to the Nigardsbreen Glacier and visit Breheimsenteret Glacier Centre.

Travel to Flåm - a half-hour bus journey from Sogndal - and ride the scenic Flåm Railway. At Myrdal, you can even hop on a bike and cycle the popular Navvies’ Road back to Flåm, for a lunch with beer-tasting at the award-winning Ægir Brewery.

JULY

WHAT’S ON?

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SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL Portsoy, Aberdeenshire MOTORING Alford SpeedFest 2015 Grampian Transport Museum, Alford, Aberdeenshire FAMILY FUN The Jungle Book Crathes Castle, Banchory, Aberdeenshire

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MUSIC Jazz on a Summer’s Evening Pitmedden Garden, Ellon, Aberdeenshire GLADMAT FESTIVAL 22-25 Scandinavia’s largest food festival Stavanger, Norway* CULTURE Traditional Singing Weekend 24-26 Traditional singers from Scotland, England and Ireland. Cullerlie Farm Park, Echt, Aberdeenshire DANCE GALA Dancers from Aberdeen International Youth Festival, His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

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Various venues, Ballater, Aberdeenshire MUSIC Bagpipe and Drum Competitions Aden Country Park, Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire COMEDY Yap, Yap, Yap! 12-15 New standup show from comedian Alan Carr. His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

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15 20 26 30

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TURRIFF SHOW Scotland’s largest twoday agricultural show, The Haughs, Queen’s Road, Turriff, Aberdeenshire VICTORIA WEEK

JOHNSHAVEN FISH FESTIVAL Harbour, Johnshaven, Aberdeenshire BUSINESS Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’, Thistle Aberdeen Altens Hotel LA TOMATINA FESTIVAL Bunol, Spain* FAMILY FUN: DAWGS Day Dog show fundraiser, Hazlehead Park, Aberdeen

*International

AUGUST

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WHAT’S ON?

4-6

BUSINESS City Connections Networking event, Aberdeen Football Club, Pittodrie, Aberdeen ABERDEEN ART FAIR Music Hall, Aberdeen

BUSINESS SPE Offshore Europe 2015 Europe’s premier oil and gas conference and exhibition, Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre MUSICAL DIRTY DANCING 8 Runs until 3 October. His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen FAMILY FUN Fraserburgh Super Saturday 12 ‘Creative Fraserburgh’, Saltoun Square, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire RAPTUS: 20TH BERGEN COMICS 18-20 FESTIVAL Bergen, Norway* MUSIC Nicola Benedetti: Italy and the Four Seasons, Music Hall, Aberdeen 8-11

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SEPTEMBER

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© 2009FOTOFRIENDS / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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LEISURE

STAR TREKS AROUND THE CITY & SHIRE

There are many ways to experience the beautiful woodland, hillsides, beaches and riverbanks of rural Aberdeenshire and one of the most relaxing and rewarding is on horseback! Whatever your age or level of experience, you’ll find lots of first-rate pony-trekking opportunities throughout the North-east.

West of Aberdeen, there are trails leading through open moorlands and woods. The Bennachie Hill Range, with its nine distinctive hilltops, is a popular choice, offering forest roads and purpose-built tracks.

to instruction and countryside riding opportunities.

HAYFIELD EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, HAZLEHEAD PARK, ABERDEEN; www.hayfield.com

By the seaside, only a few miles north of the city, Balmedie Country Park’s award-winning beaches offer around 14 miles of dunes and coastal paths, grassland paths, picnic facilities and car parking.

FARAWAY RIDING & RECREATION CENTRE Hacking and trekking in rural Aberdeenshire. Pony camps, pony days and lots more during school holidays. FORGUE, NEAR HUNTLY, ABERDEENSHIRE; www.farawayequestrian.org

In Royal Deeside, at the Glen Tanar Estate, you can trek through riverside, woodland and mountain trails, admiring the breathtaking scenery and spotting native wildlife species, such as red squirrels, deer and birds of prey.

COWTON RIDING CENTRE Riding lessons, pony rides, trekking and hacking, pony parties and ‘own a pony’ days.COWTON FARM, RICKARTON, STONEHAVEN, ABERDEENSHIRE; www.cowtonridingcentre.co.uk

Local riding and trekking operators offer a range of safe and quality equestrian experiences, from short treks for children and beginners; hacks for more confident riders, and long-distance rides. Here are just a few of the options:

STRATHORN FARM STABLES Small, friendly riding school within view of Bennachie.

Facilities for children over 5 and adults. Carriage driving tuition and rides, riding lessons, hacking.

HAYFIELD EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Hayfield caters for all ages and abilities, offering everything from pony rides in the park for children,

You’ll find further information on North-east equestrian opportunities at: www.visitscotland.com | www.visitaberdeen.com

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PITCAPLE, INVERURIE, ABERDEENSHIRE; www.strathornfarm.co.uk

> Pony-trekking started in Newtonmore, in the Highlands, as a way of using strong, sure-footed Highland ponies outside the stalking season.

It’s also believed that several of Scotland’s wellestablished trekking paths were originally cattle droving roads many centuries ago. > Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire is recognised as having more horses per head of population than anywhere else in the UK (with the exception of Newmarket).

ADVERTORIAL

L to R - Mike Loggie, CEO of Saltire Energy, Lana Bambridge, Development and Resources Manager at Befriend a Child, Paul Lawrie

Saltire Energy Supports Local Charity as it marks its 40th Year The importance placed on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within business communities across the globe has steadily grown over the years. Many companies operating within the oil and gas sector in particular regularly participate in CSR initiatives, with the aim of giving something back to the areas in which they operate.

For the leading rental specialist of oil and gas equipment, Saltire Energy, CSR takes a prominent role alongside day-to-day business activity. Establishing and supporting local charitable initiatives has become an important part of the life of Saltire Energy CEO, Mike Loggie. His philanthropic spirit and inherent passion for supporting disadvantaged children has influenced the company’s ethos over the years, as a result the number and breadth of initiatives the company is involved in has grown alongside the business.

Saltire Energy established the Saltire in the Community programme in 2008 with the aim of offering life changing opportunities to disadvantaged young people in local communities worldwide, from Aberdeen to the Philippines.

The programme has helped thousands of youngsters build their confidence and learn new skills that will support them later in life. One charity that has benefited from the support is Aberdeen-based Befriend a Child. Reliant on volunteers, Befriend a Child aims to relieve distress, promote welfare and advance the education of children in the North-East through a befriending service.

Saltire Energy donated £1million to the charity in 2013, which saw the company enter into a five-year

commitment that would reduce the waiting list of young people looking for the much-needed support and friendship provided by the Befriend a Child volunteers. As a result of this support, Mike Loggie was made an honorary patron of Befriend a Child later in the year.

Marking Befriend a Child’s 40th year in service, Jackie Hothersall joined the charity as Chief Executive in June 2015. Bringing over 14 years of experience working with not-for-profit organisations to the new role, Jackie will spearhead Befriend a Child’s fundraising and awareness campaigns, promoting the support that the charity provides to more than 300 local children each year.

Commenting on her appointment Jackie said: “I am delighted to work for such an amazing charity which has an extremely dedicated staff team and over 300 volunteers all providing support and help to vulnerable children living across Aberdeen.

“We are pleased to see how the charity has grown over the past 40 years and developed using trust and grant funding alongside the generosity from local companies, donors and sponsors.

look forward to our ongoing relationship with the team for many years to come.”

As part of its community programme, Saltire Energy also sponsors a number of local sporting teams, professionals and events. The company is the title sponsor of the inaugural Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play, taking place at Murcar Links Golf Club in July this year.

Befriend a Child has been nominated as one of the benefiting charities of the Match Play. Local golf legend, Paul Lawrie, has pledged to donate £100 per birdie and £500 per eagle that he makes during the event, with many golfers expected to follow suit.

All funds raised will be split equally between the nominated charities.

In recognition of Saltire Energy’s support of local initiatives and charitable causes, it was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Society accolade at the 2014 Northern Star Business Awards. To find out more about the Saltire in the Community Programme please visit www.saltire-energy.com

“One of our most bighearted and prominent supporters over the past three years has been Saltire Energy, and we 45

BEHIND THE SCENES

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH...

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BEHIND THE SCENES

ARTHUR LEITH, HEAD OF ENGINEERING AT ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, PROVIDES AN INSIGHT INTO THE ROLE OF HIS AWARD-WINNING TEAM. HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR ROLE AND WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? I have worked at the Airport for 18 years, always in an Engineering role. I was previously an electrician and joined as a technician. A year later, I moved into the Engineering office to look after maintenance planning and the performance of the assets which comprise everything on site apart from the aircraft. I then worked in projectmanagement, before becoming Head of Engineering eight years ago, around the time I completed a BA (Hons) in Management at Robert Gordon University.

WHAT’S THE ROLE OF THE ENGINEERING TEAM AND WHO IS INVOLVED? We have 13 frontline technicians of various disciplines and nine office staff, ranging from our Faults Help Desk team to discipline engineers. There are two skilled technicians on shift at any one time, looking after the Airport’s electrical, mechanical and specialist systems. We also use various local contractors to support the delivery of our extensive general building and project works programme.

Primarily, we’re here to look after the assets on an ongoing basis and to react immediately to any faults or issues that may arise.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE ASSETS YOUR TEAM LOOKS AFTER We are responsible for five specialist assets critical to the Airport’s business: the runways and taxiways; the baggage system; the X-ray machines; the Security ID system (ie CCTV and access systems), and the airfield ground lighting. Aberdeen was the second airport in the UK to achieve full accreditation to PAS55 in Asset Management and we are one of the first UK airports to be currently working to gain accreditation to the new ISO55001 Standard in Asset Management.

We also have an environmental management role, in terms of ensuring energy efficiency, noise monitoring and management, and water quality monitoring and management.

In addition, we are currently supporting the Terminal Transformation Project team with engineering design input.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES FOR ENGINEERING? Maintaining the grass airside is a massive operation; for safety and environmental reasons, it must be kept between six and 10 inches high at all times. Grass is perhaps not something you’d think of as an asset, but it performs an important role in keeping the natural wildlife which could pose a threat to aircraft, away from the airfield.

Maintaining the airfield tarmac is another big job! Aberdeen is a very busy airport and getting access to the tarmac can be a challenge. We have only a short operating window - between 11pm and 4am - to carry out maintenance, and we work closely

with our partners, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the National Air Traffic Service (NATS), to co-ordinate this.

Legislation requires the Airport to provide and guarantee set patterns of airfield ground lighting, so that if there are outages, the lights will still provide a distinguishable pattern for aircraft landing navigation. This means generator backup needs to be in place within one second of a power failure. To provide this assurance, our technicians carry out daily monitoring of the backup systems.

As technology advances, the X-ray machines, Security ID systems and baggagehandling systems are becoming ever-more sophisticated, and the challenge is to ensure that our team keeps abreast of these developments through ongoing specialist training. The Airport terminal heating/cooling system presents another challenge, as it’s very important that the ambient temperature is comfortable for our passengers and staff - even on the busiest, hottest summer day.

One of our costliest challenges is the disposal of surrendered items - ie the hazardous objects confiscated from passengers. Some people are still trying to go through Security with aerosols, lighters, sharps, and toiletries over 100ml. And, believe it or not, we’re still having to dispose of items such as big knives, saws, hammers, machetes, and even a giant bolt! This kind of waste disposal has a significant impact on our Environmental budget.

WHAT ELSE DOES THE ENVIRONMENTAL PART OF THE ROLE INVOLVE? This is looked after by our Utilities and Environmental Asset Manager, Stuart Torpey.

Every year, as part of the Airport’s operational planning application requirements, we carry out aircraft ground noise monitoring at seven locations around the site, the city and Aberdeenshire. The resulting report, which goes to Aberdeen City Council, also helps to drive our noise management activities.

As the Farburn and Mains of Dyce water courses - which feed into the River Don run through the Airport site, we carry out ongoing water quality monitoring and management to ensure that the de-icing fluid used during the winter does not contaminate the river.

We’re always working to improve the Airport’s energy efficiency, and as a result of various methods we’ve put in place - such as use of LED lighting, use of electric and hybrid vehicles and improvements to the heating and air conditioning systems - we’ve succeeded in reducing our energy consumption by 9% over the past five years.

TELL US ABOUT THE AWARDS YOUR TEAM HAS WON I’m pleased to say that Maintenance Technician Iain MacDonald was voted Aberdeen International Airport’s Employee of the Year for 2014, and Engineering - particularly the guys working on the front line - also won the Team of the Year award.

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WORDS WORTH READING

Three local Airport-users recommend some riveting in-flight reading from WHSmith’s latest list of bestsellers.

No Safe House, by Linwood Barclay, is a cracking thriller by a bestselling author. Set in Middle American suburbia, it tells the story of Cynthia Archer trying to get her life back on track after nearly losing it seven years ago and hoping the past has been laid to rest.

Soon, we find out that two neighbours have been murdered and the plot thickens further when Cynthia’s daughter and boyfriend break into a strange house and are confronted with memories of the past.

I love the escapism of Linwood Barclay and his ability to relate believable characters into unbelievable twists. It’s a winning combination which keeps you hooked from the first page to the last.

PHILLIP FLEMING, General Manager, Tor-na-Coille Hotel & North East Hotel Manager of the Year 2015

I was first introduced to the work of Nick Hornby in 2002, in the big screen adaptation of his coming-of-age novel, About A Boy. Having adored the film, I decided to read the book on which it was based, and instantly became a fan of his work. I’ve since devoured numerous other titles by the British author, including High Fidelity, How To Be Good and Fever Pitch. So, I’m excited to sample his latest offering, Funny Girl, and hoping it lives up to expectations and rave reviews. Set in London in the ‘Swinging 60s’, Hornby’s latest novel is based upon a fictional TV show. I’m currently resisting the urge to read it before my holidays!

KATE MCGUINNESS, Marketing Executive, Stobart Air

On a flight, I would read The Monogram Murders, by Sophie Hannah. The author steps fearlessly into Agatha Christie’s shoes to bring Hercule Poirot out of retirement. The famous detective is faced with three identical murders, in separate rooms of the Bloxham Hotel, in one day. Is there a connection with the highly-disturbed woman he spoke to in his favourite café on the very same evening? Is she in line to be the next victim? Does she have blood on her hands? The plot twists and turns, but no clue escapes Poirot’s formidable intellect. A thoroughly riveting read.

IAN ANDERSON, The Lemon Tree Writers

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

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DIARY

> FRIENDS OF ANCHOR GALA GOLF Four members of the Airport team took part in Friends of ANCHORS’s Gala Golf event recently, held at Peterculter Golf Course. All proceeds from the event went to the NorthEast charity, the Airport’s chosen partner, and raised a whopping £75,000.

> TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE…

> STORMTROOPERS IN A TEA CUP!

Members of the Aberdeen branch of the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA), a charity which provides welfare support to the RAF family and ex-servicemen and women, spent an afternoon at the Airport, where they enjoyed a tour of the airfield. John Sefton, chairman of the Branch, said: “Many of our members remember Dyce Airport and its predecessor, RAF Dyce, and for them it has been a welcome trip down memory lane.”

Travelling from a galaxy far, far away, our intergalactic guests stopped for a quick cuppa at Joe’s Coffee Bar, in the Airport terminal, before heading to the Granite City Comic Con, in May.

> A WARM WELCOME TO WIZZ The Airport welcomed Wizz Air to Aberdeen in mid-June, with Ben Dempster, Operations Director, presenting a quaich to the Captain and crew from the airline’s Gdansk to Aberdeen inaugural flight.

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THE BEAT GOES ON

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

CSILLA BALINT | PAMUKKALE, TURKEY

CROMAR COLLIE | MACAU, CHINA

HOLLY BURGESS | GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

IVANA PETROVICH | DELFT, THE NETHERLANDS

CHRISTINE GIBBONS | SALTZBURG, AUSTRIA

COLIN PIRIE | BUTRINT WORLD HERITAGE SITE, ALBANIA

NIGEL PARKE | CAPRI, ITALY

JONELLE JEFFREY | DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT - go on, be creative! Send your photo to upbeat@ aiairport.com Please submit high resolution images, at least 1MB in size at 300dpi print resolution. See the winning picture in the Autumn 2015 upBEAT - it could be yours! (Deadline: 14th September 2015) 54

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