Skylife Magazine by Aberdeen International Airport

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PEOPLE

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C U LT U R E

REVIEWS

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OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

AMSTERDAM City Life

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Contents. Welcome

4 AMSTERDAM It’s one of Europe’s most popular destinations for a city break and KLM has added more flights this winter 6 GENEVA The Swiss city is a perfect base for skiing in the Alps but also ideal for a city break at any time of year

8 DUBLIN Cobbled streets, rich literary history, castles, culture, music and, of course, Guinness – you’ll find it all in Dublin 10 WINTER SUN Tenerife in the Canary Islands and the Spanish hotspot of Alicante are perfect winter sun options

14 UK STAYCATIONS Fancy a city break closer to home? Birmingham, London, Manchester and Newcastle are just a short flight away 22 CITY ON THE RISE Russell Borthwick, CEO of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, is excited about the northeast’s future 31 SPE OFFSHORE EUROPE SPE Offshore Europe 2019 is the first exhibition to take place at Aberdeen’s new P&J Live events complex 34 AIRPORT SHOPPING Head to World Duty Free to snap up fantastic bargains and pop into Dixons Travel for all your gadgets 42 NEWS, REVIEWS & WHAT’S ON Visit castles, distilleries and have a laugh at the forthcoming Aberdeen International Comedy Festival

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Managing Editor Karen Peattie karen.peattie@skylifemag.co.uk Publisher Darren Bruce darren.bruce@skylifemag.co.uk PA to Publisher Mandy McHarg mandy.mcharg@skylifemag.co.uk Head of Digital and Creative Services Shirley Derani shirley.derani@skylifemag.co.uk Creative Services Manager Allan Black allan.d.black@skylifemag.co.uk Circulation & Distribution Manager David Boyle david.boyle@skylifemag.co.uk

We’ve had a busy summer here at Aberdeen International Airport with thousands of travellers passing through the terminal. In September, we will welcome around 8,000 visitors to the airport and the city as P&J Live hosts SPE Offshore Europe, the leading oil and gas industry event. I also can’t wait to give a warm welcome to P&J Live, the northeast’s £333 million events and exhibitions complex – a new neighbour right on our doorstep. This is also a fantastic opportunity to show off our new terminal and all that our spectacular region has to offer. In this issue of Skylife, we also look ahead to the winter sports season in our feature on the Swiss city of Geneva, a perfect base for skiing in the Alps and just a short flight from Aberdeen. Our cover destination is Amsterdam, a popular city-break destination – and KLM, celebrating its centenary in October, has added a fifth daily service to Amsterdam Schiphol as part of its winter 2019/20 schedule. We wish you a safe journey wherever you’re going and look forward to welcoming you to Aberdeen International Airport over the coming months. Steve Szalay Managing Director Aberdeen International Airport

Key Accounts Manager Karen MacBeth karen.macbeth@skylifemag.co.uk Sales Development Manager Ronnie Dodd ronnie.dodd@skylifemag.co.uk Senior Sales Executive Carol-Anne Forbes carol-anne.forbes@skylifemag.co.uk Senior Sales Executive Paul Johnstone paul.johnstone@skylifemag.co.uk Sales Executive Charlotte Mills charlotte.mills@skylifemag.co.uk Head of Marketing Danielle Camillo danielle.camillo@skylifemag.co.uk

Skylife is published for Aberdeen International Airport by Herald & Times Group Magazines, 200 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 3QB Tel: 0141 302 7700 or 0141 302 7722 All destinations images courtesy of Getty Images and iStock unless credited.

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AMSTERDAM

Going

DUTCH

Thinking about a city break but don’t want to travel far? Amsterdam is the perfect European destination – compact, friendly and picturesque, and just a short flight from Aberdeen International Airport It’s one of the most popular city-break destinations in Europe with something for every member of the family to enjoy, including museums, great shops and, of course, canals, windmills and tulips

Getting there Fly to Amsterdam Schiphol from Aberdeen International Airport with KLM klm.com

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10 things to do in Amsterdam 1. DAM SQUARE An ideal meeting place and somewhere to peoplewatch, Dam Square is home to the Royal Palace and the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk church. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring the city. 2. ANNE FRANK HOUSE This is where the young Anne lived in hiding with her family for more than two years during the Second World War. Now a museum it houses a sobering exhibition about the persecution of the Jews during the war. Tickets must be booked online.

3. PUBLIFE The traditional Dutch pub is called a “brown café” due to its dark, wooden décor and walls often stained by cigarette smoke. Very much part of the city’s culture, these cosy and welcoming watering holes serve mainly Dutch beer and a taste of local life. 4. MUSEUMS As well as the Rijksmuseum, the Dutch national museum, the Van Gogh and Stedelijk Museums are a magnet for art lovers. Rembrandt House, where the painter worked and lived, provides an insight into his life in 17th-century Amsterdam. 5. CAT CABINET Cat-lovers won’t want to miss the Cat Cabinet (Kattenkabinet), dedicated to the role of felines throughout history and named after a ginger cat called John Pierpont Morgan. The dramatic rooms of this 17th-century canal house even featured in the film Ocean’s Twelve. 6. CANAL CRUISING The Canal District consists of three main canals: Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht. So get out there and enjoy the famous UNESCO heritage waterways. The extensive network of canals runs through the city centre – several cruise options are available.

7. TULIPS AND WINDMILLS During tulip season (mid-March to mid-May), parts of Holland are transformed into a colourful patchwork quilt. Take a day trip to the famous tulip fields around the Keukenhof and marvel at the traditional windmills in Zaanse Schans. 8. CYCLING You won’t miss the cyclists in Amsterdam so hire a bike and whizz around on two wheels – it’s safe and easy. Amsterdammers are serious about their cycling and you can choose from 767km of cycle lanes. It’s a great way to see the city. 9. SHOPPING Batavia Stad, a lakeside fashion outlet mall in Lelystad, offers more than 250 fashion brands, cafés and restaurants. Bargain-hunters flock here from around the country to seek out top-name brands at discounted prices. There’s a shuttle bus service from Amsterdam. 10. FLEVOLAND This province is where you’ll find the world’s biggest concentration of land art – giant works by internationally-renowned artists including Anthony Gormley and Richard Serra, who were influenced by the newness of the landscape. You can tour them all in a day.

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G E N E VA

Sloping OFF

Planning a skiing holiday this winter? Geneva, the elegant Swiss city at the foot of the Alps, is an excellent base with its proximity and easy access to some of the best snow in Europe ALETSCH A popular resort, Aletsch Arena has plenty of slopes for beginners and intermediates. Kids’ areas make it easy for parents and for experienced skiers there’s a high-speed course on Fiescheralp and a giant slalom course on Bettmeralp. Located within the first UNESCO World Heritage site in the Alps, nearby mountain villages can be accessed by cable car. CHAMONIX Chamonix, host of the 1924 Winter Olympics, caters for skiers of all levels of experience. It’s made up of five different ski areas, two of which are linked together with the rest separated along the length of the valley. The cable car takes skiers to heights of 3,842m on the Mont Blanc massif and Vallée Blanche. This resort boasts a particularly lively après-ski scene. CHAMPÉRY Nestling in the popular Les Portes du Soleil skiing area, Champéry oozes traditional charm and is one of Switzerland’s oldest tourist destinations. There are plenty of cable cars and chair-lifts, a snow park for freestylers, and slopes to suit winter sports enthusiasts of all levels of experience. The village has an indoor ice rink and a curling hall which are open all year round.

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Getting there Fly to Geneva from Aberdeen International Airport with easyJet during the winter months easyjet.com

COURCHEVEL Located in one of the world’s largest lift-linked ski areas, the Three Valleys, Courchevel covers 600km of slopes. It comprises several villages, each one with its own unique vibe and traditional charm. Courchevel is popular with the jet set so there are a lot of high-end hotels – and no wonder, it’s a truly beautiful resort with outstanding facilities. VERBIER Verbier, in southwest Switzerland, is bordered by France to the west and Italy to the south. It’s an ideal starting point for first-time skiers and snowboarders – and perfect for children, too, with a dedicated area for young ones. You can also take a cable car from Verbier to the summit of Mont Fort for fabulous views of the imposing Matterhorn, Grand Combin and Mont Blanc.

DUBLIN

In Ireland’s

FAIR CITY

Cobbled streets, a rich literary history, castles, culture, live music and, of course, the black stuff – you’ll find it all in Dublin DUBLIN WRITERS MUSEUM Located in an 18th-century mansion in Parnell Square, the museum boasts an impressive collection featuring the works of the city’s literary celebrities over the past 300 years. HA’PENNY BRIDGE This pretty and much-photographed pedestrian bridge spans the River Liffey, its name derived from the price people had to pay to cross it when it was first built. It’s a postcard-perfect image of Dublin. THE BLACK STUFF Have a pint of the black stuff at the world-famous Guinness Brewery at St James’s Gate and the Storehouse – Ireland’s number one international visitor attraction. 8 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Getting there Fly to Dublin from Aberdeen International Airport with Aer Lingus. aerlingus.com

Connect to North America Direct routes to North America from Dublin include: Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington

TEMPLE BAR DISTRICT Find it on the southbank of the River Liffey. It’s well known for its lively nightlife and bars, including the famous Temple Bar. The area is also known as Dublin’s Cultural Quarter. LITTLE MUSEUM OF DUBLIN This gem at St Stephen’s Green charts the cultural and social history of Dublin over the past century, from George Bernard Shaw to U2 and much more. OUT OF TOWN If you have time it’s worth venturing out of the city centre to visit attractions such as Howth and Malahide Castles. You can also visit quaint coastal spots like Dalkey and Dún Laoghaire. Find more inspiration at visitdublin.com

WINTER SUN

Chasing

THE SUN

Planning a sunshine break to add some warmth to the long winter months? Tenerife in the Canary Islands and the Spanish hotspot of Alicante are available all year round from Aberdeen International Airport – why not book now?

Alicante This lovely Spanish city on the Mediterranean coast is known for its many family-friendly beaches, cultural attractions and, of course, the world-renowned nightlife of nearby Benidorm. Benidorm, just a short drive from the airport, is home to great nightclubs which attract some of the world’s biggest DJs, and there are hundreds of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. But if you’re looking for a more authentic Spanish experience, head over to the Old Town and explore the lovely cobbled streets with their cafés, bars and shops. It’s also great for food – head for “Tapas Alley”, nicknamed such because of its many tapas bars. There’s also the Church of San Jaime with its white-washed walls and blue-tiled domes – a prominent landmark in the Old Town. Just south of the Old Town is Benidorm’s ruined castle. Santa Bárbara Castle, dating back to the 9th century, stands atop Mount Benacantil and is well worth a visit on a day trip to Alicante. Mundomar Animal Park, meanwhile, will give the kids a chance to see animals, birds, sea lions and reptiles up close.

Getting there Fly to Alicante from Aberdeen International Airport all year round with Ryanair on Thursdays and Sundays ryanair.com 1 0 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Tenerife A firm favourite with Scots, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and is known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, including Pico del Teide – the highest mountain in Spain – located in El Teide National Park. With 350km of coastline to enjoy, its beach resorts, including Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, are popular with sun-seekers but there are also plenty of quieter resorts. The capital Santa Cruz is twinned with Rio de Janeiro so if you go in February don’t miss the annual carnival with its parades, round-the-clock music and street parties. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts looking to hit the pristine greens in year-round sunshine can choose from nine courses across the island, including Buenavista, designed by Seve Ballesteros and set between the Teno Country Park and the coast. Another popular option is Golf Las Americas in Playa de Las Américas – all of the courses here offer a great backdrop. For families, there a several water parks with swimming pools and waterfalls that are perfect for a great day out while Tenerife’s largest theme park, Loro Parque, is home to over 4,000 parrots along with a zoo and aquarium.

Getting there Fly to Tenerife from Aberdeen International Airport all year round with TUI on Wednesdays and Sundays tui.co.uk

EUROPEAN CIT Y BREAKS

Cities of

DISCOVERY Thinking about where to jet off to for your next city break? There are plenty of options from Aberdeen International Airport over the coming months

BERGEN Norway is famous for its fjords and mountains and Bergen, set against a backdrop of incredible landscapes, is an inspiring choice for a city break. Located near the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord fjords, it’s a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and Bryggen is a good starting point from which to explore Norway’s second city. This is home to Hanseatic Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a waterfront fish market and colourful wooden buildings. For panoramic views of Bergen, walk from Bryggen to the base of the Fløibanen funicular. In less than 10 minutes you’ll be at the top of Fløyen, one of the seven mountains surrounding the city. Bergen is awash with museums and art galleries so head for the KODE galleries where there are several areas dedicated to the country’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch.

COPENHAGEN The Danish capital, which combines historical buildings with modern architecture, is a popular city-break destination. Nyhavn, the gorgeous waterfront district, is packed with good restaurants and lively pubs. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and listen to live music in the area which was once home to Hans Christian Andersen. Check out Freetown Christiania, described as Copenhagen’s alternative neighbourhood. It’s an interesting mix of homemade houses, workshops, art galleries, music venues, cheap and organic eateries, and nature. Everyone loves the city’s Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park which has restaurants, outdoor theatres and roller coasters. It’s particularly special at night with its atmospheric lights. Then there’s The Little Mermaid at Langelinje Pier. The 4ft sculpture built of bronze and granite was inspired by a fairy tale written by Hans Christian Andersen.

GDANSK Gdansk sits on Poland’s Baltic Coast and is a perfect year-round destination for a city break. It does have an unsettled past, its red-roofed medieval centre decimated by bombing during the Second World War. But now beautifully restored, it’s a pleasure to walk around, taking in St Mary’s Church, Royal Way and Oliwa Cathedral. Explore the narrow, cobbled streets and pastel-coloured terraces of the Old Town and discover a world of bohemian cafés, microbreweries and live music bars. Meanwhile, former Lenin shipyard Stocznia Gdansk is the birthplace of the Solidarity movement and another important tick on any culture-lover’s Polish itinerary. And the city’s maritime history lives on – you can visit the National Maritime Museum while The Crane is one of the defining symbols of Gdansk. Gdansk is a vibrant city that is mindful of its past – and it’s perfect for a few days away.

Getting there

Fly to Bergen from Aberdeen International Airport with Widerøe wideroe.no 12 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Fly to Copenhagen from Aberdeen International Airport with SAS flysas.com

Fly to Gdansk from Aberdeen International Airport with Wizz Air wizzair.com

OSLO Norway’s capital is a beautiful city located on the south coast at the head of the Oslofjord, and is famous for its museums including the Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, featuring Viking ships from the 9th century Then there’s Fram Ship Museum, dedicated to the Norwegian polar expeditions and home to the world’s strongest polar vessel – Fram, built by Scots-Norwegian shipbuilder Colin Archer. Winter sports fans should head for Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Ski Tower. Not for the faint-hearted, the ski jump opened in 2010 as one of the first designer ski jumps. It’s also a good viewing point. Of course, no visit to Oslo is complete without a trip to the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design – home of Edvard Munch’s The Scream, an icon of modern art.

PARIS Paris is a city that needs no introduction! Famous for romance, fashion, food and the arts, the French capital will lure you back time and time again. You can’t miss the world-famous icon that is the Eiffel Tower. Soaring into the Parisian skyline at a dizzy 324 metres, its Tower offers unbeatable views of the city. Meanwhile, France has been famous for its food culture since the late 18th century, and you can see why – it has more Michelin stars than any other country although you will find restaurants and bistros to suit all budgets. Then there’s the Louvre, the world’s largest art museum. Located on the right bank of the River Seine, it is home to works of art including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. A Seine river cruise will let you see many notable Paris landmarks while the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also well worth a visit.

STAVANGER Norway’s fourth-largest city offers some spectacular natural sights set in a fascinating mix of old and new. Explore Old Stavanger, the historical Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and postcard-perfect wooden houses. Here you can learn about the city’s seafaring past in the Maritime Museum or explore the city’s fishing history in the Norwegian Fish Canning Museum. Preikestolen – the Preacher’s Pulpit – is a stunning cliff-top and one of Norway’s most famous attractions. It’s a truly natural viewpoint, towering over the green valleys of the Ryfylke region. You’ll also marvel at the views at Lysefjord, a 23-mile cleft in the mountains. Rocky walls drop down to the water and are the breathtaking remains of the last Ice Age. Are you brave enough to climb Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged into the middle of the Kjerag Mountain in Rogaland? It’s an Instagram-friendly natural wonder, popular with base jumpers.

Getting there

Fly to Oslo from Aberdeen International Airport with SAS flysas.com

Fly to Paris from Aberdeen International Airport with Air France airfrance.co.uk

Fly to Stavanger from Aberdeen International Airport with SAS & Widerøe flysas.com, wideroe.no W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 1 3

U K S TAY C AT I O N S

Closer to

HOME

BIRMINGHAM From Cadbury World, one of Birmingham’s most popular attractions, to the Bullring & Grand Central, the city’s premium retail and dining destination, there’s plenty to see and do here on a city break. Did you know that the city has more miles of canals than Venice? If it’s culture you’re after, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery displays centuries of European history in more than 40 galleries.

There’s nothing like a city break and if you choose Birmingham, London, Manchester or Newcastle during the winter months you might discover the unexpected in these great cities just a short flight from your local airport

LONDON The UK’s capital offers the ultimate city break. Explore markets like Old Spitalfields and Camden, go to the top of The Shard, London’s best vantage point, or visit a museum – you’ll find new things to do every time you visit. Why not head out of the city to the fantastic Bicester Village in Oxfordshire where you can buy luxury brands at discounted prices? It’s just 45 minutes by train from London Marylebone.

Getting there

Fly to Birmingham with Flybe seven days a week flybe.com

Fly to London Southend with Loganair and Heathrow with British Airways seven days a week ba.com, loganair.com

MANCHESTER Explore the Northern Quarter, an area where former warehouses and factories are now home to an array of independent shops, bars and restaurants, head for the famous cobbles of Coronation Street on a tour of the TV soap opera’s sets at MediaCityUK and visit the National Football Museum – Manchester has something for everyone. The city also has a great food and drink scene.

NEWCASTLE This city on the River Tyne is known for its nightlife and heritage – and the Geordie charm of the locals is legendary. Hit the shops at the intu Metro Centre, Europe’s largest shopping and leisure centre. Located in the historic heart of the city, Newcastle Castle has a stunning Great Hall, Norman chapel and dungeons. Make sure you photograph Grey’s Monument, one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Getting there

Fly to Manchester with Flybe seven days a week flybe.com

Fly to Newcastle with Flybe and Loganair five days a week flybe.com, loganair.co.uk

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CONNECTING YOU TO THE WORLD

SAN FRANCISCO There are many reasons to visit San Francisco – the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the wine, the cable car to Chinatown and the infamous Alcatraz. Its steep walkways and many landmarks are familiar to us from the movies. San Francisco is a cosmopolitan and diverse city, boasting world-class shopping as well as beautiful outdoor spaces and those vintage cable cars. Make sure you enjoy a tasting tour of some of the 400 wineries in California’s wine country north of the city.

Fly from Aberdeen with Aer Lingus via Dublin aerlingus.com

SINGAPORE Singapore is renowned for its multicultural diversity, green urban spaces, shopping, nightlife and some great bars and restaurants. It’s also home to Raffles and no trip to Singapore is complete without popping into what is arguably the world’s most famous hotel. Take the amphibious Duck tour or a bumboat cruise along the Singapore River. Visit Kampong Glam, the former Sultan’s palace that is now a heritage museum – there’s so much to do. Other attractions include the world’s largest observation wheel – the Singapore Flyer – and Chinatown Heritage Centre.

Fly from Aberdeen with KLM via Amsterdam Schiphol klm.com 1 6 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Connecting you to the

WORLD

BANGKOK Traditional, modern and intriguing – it can only be Bangkok, the political, economic, cultural, culinary and spiritual capital of Thailand in southeast Asia. Known as the City of Angels, its bustling streets and skyscrapers make way for temples, palaces and museums. Find magic on every corner as you stroll along Khao San Road and browse its stalls – then see it change at night with music and street food. Key attractions include Thailand’s Grand Palace as well as the iconic Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun).

Fly from Aberdeen with Air France via Paris airfrance.co.uk

TOKYO Japan is a country of many faces and none more so than its capital, Tokyo, with its metropolis of skyscrapers and neon advertising hoardings. It’s a country very much in the spotlight with the 2019 Rugby World Cup looming (September 20-November 2) and Tokyo the venue for the 2020 Olympic Games. Tokyo can also move at a slower pace with beautiful gardens and green spaces, ancient temples, shrines and hidden alleys offering a more tranquil experience. It’s also famous for its cherry blossom, or sakura – the trees are in bloom in March/ April. No visit is complete without taking a trip on the famous bullet train – and, of course, enjoying tea in a traditional tea room.

Fly from Aberdeen with British Airways via Heathrow ba.com W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 17

ROUTES NEWS

City break? More reasons to visit Amsterdam this winter If you’re planning a city break in the wonderful city of Amsterdam over the next few months then there’s some very good news – KLM has added a fifth daily midweek service to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol as part of its winter 2019/20 schedule. The enhanced winter schedule will see a fifth daily flight introduced from October 28. Using one of the airline’s 100-seat capacity Embraer E190 fleet, the additional daily midweek flight will add nearly 22,000 seats to and from Amsterdam – that’s an overall increase in seat capacity of 18% compared to the same period last year. This extra capacity creates even more opportunities for business people and city-breakers to visit Amsterdam for a short break – and take advantage of quick and convenient connections to 165 KLM 18 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

destinations worldwide, via KLM’s we are delighted to add 18% award-winning hub at Schiphol. extra capacity on our Aberdeen to The news was welcomed by Amsterdam route for winter. Steve Szalay, managing director “The addition of an extra weekday at Aberdeen International Airport, flight will give people in the Aberdeen who said: “Amsterdam area five daily flights to Airport Schiphol is a Amsterdam, providing Amsterdam is a key destination for both key destination passengers with a inbound and outbound greater opportunity to for both regular business travellers. take advantage of our business and also worldwide connections “Given the leisure travellers connectivity it provides from Amsterdam Airport in its capacity as one of Schiphol.” Europe’s busiest hub airports, our Amsterdam Schiphol offers Amsterdam route is also extremely passengers starting their journey popular with our leisure passengers at Aberdeen International Airport and those working in the oil and gas convenient onward travel to 165 industry.” destinations worldwide. Benedicte Duval, general manager klm.com for Air France-KLM in the UK and Ireland, added: “As a result of KLM is celebrating its centenary positive commercial performance in 2019 – turn to page 24 for our and strong passenger numbers, interview with Benedicte Duval.

ROUTES NEWS

British Airways ups winter frequency between Aberdeen and Heathrow Planning a business or leisure break to London? British Airways will increase its winter schedule between Aberdeen International Airport and London Heathrow from October 27. Services between Aberdeen and Heathrow will increase by three a week to 50 during the winter months – providing even more opportunities to visit one of the most exciting capital cities in the world. Want some culture? Visit museums including the Tate Modern, the most visited attraction in the UK in 2018, and the National Gallery. Fancy a show? The West End has something for all tastes, from perennial favourite The Phantom of the Opera to new stage sensations such as Waitress and Hamilton. Steve Szalay, managing director at Aberdeen International Airport, said: “London connectivity is 2 0 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

absolutely essential to the lifeblood of our airport for business and leisure travellers alike. We warmly welcome additional services and are delighted to further strengthen our capacity to London.” Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ director of networks and alliances, added: “British Airways has proudly served Scotland, its people and

its businesses for more than six decades and we are pleased to be able to connect Scotland with the rest of the world through a global network of more than 150 destinations.” British Airways’ winter programme runs until March 28, 2020. ba.com

BUSINESS INTERVIEW: RUSSELL BORTHWICK

City

ON THE RISE

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive Russell Borthwick tells Karen Peattie about his aspirations for his home city at one of the most exciting times in its history With early career aspirations to be a journalist but moving instead into the commercial field of publishing, latterly as regional managing director of a leading newspaper group based in Newcastle, Russell Borthwick is back home in northeast Scotland as chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC). “I’m Aberdeen born and bred but ended up living and working in the UK’s other ‘northeast’ for 22 years,” he smiles. “It’s great to be home again but it was never on my radar to return to Aberdeen – the family was really settled in Newcastle but then the opportunity arose to join the Chamber.” Following the city’s ups and downs from 2 2 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

south of the Border, Borthwick was ready to put his vast and varied business experience to good use when he joined the Chamber in 2016. “When a city is doing well, that’s when complacency can kick in and I think that happened to Aberdeen,” he says. “The oil sector was booming, the city was prosperous but the mindset was not to look at the bigger picture so when the downturn in oil and gas hit in 2014 it came as a shock,” Borthwick continues. “However, with that shock came a call to action and a stark realisation that there was a need to look at the wider picture, identify key growth areas and put the mechanics in place to drive the city forward.” As Aberdeen prepares to welcome 35,000 visitors and 900 exhibitors to SPE Offshore Europe at the city’s new P&J Live events complex in September, it’s clear that there’s a feelgood factor.

“Yes, you can sense it – everyone’s excited about P&J Live, the reopening of Aberdeen Art Gallery in November, the investment we’ve seen at Aberdeen International Airport,” says Borthwick. “Completed projects, which include the new Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route which opened last autumn, equate to a value of £1.7 billion and there’s more to come – a £330 million investment in Aberdeen South Harbour will make Aberdeen the largest port in Scotland when it’s completed next year then there’s also the new Aberdeen Science Centre plus the relocation of Aberdeen Football Club from Pittodrie to Kingsford.” What all of this investment does is safeguard against complacency, suggests Borthwick – but he warns that Aberdeen needs to “keep pushing boundaries”. In Aberdeen’s case, the key to recent success has been collaboration between key stakeholders, with organisations including Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, VisitAberdeenshire and Opportunity North East working together to make things

‘It’s about telling people that we’re open for business and have a compelling story to tell’

happen. “I’ve been very impressed with our ability to do this,” says Borthwick. “We’re not just a talking shop – we sit round the table then we get on with it. When you’ve got a region like ours which has identified key growth areas that are quite diverse – life sciences, digital business, energy, food and drink, tourism, oil and gas, agriculture – you need passionate people who are prepared to roll their sleeves up.” AGCC is also supporting Abzolutely, a new online toolkit to help businesses promote and celebrate the Aberdeen City Region. “It’s about telling people that we’re open for business and have a compelling story to tell – the hub provides a resource that can be used by everyone who wants to be part of our success.” Meanwhile, what does Russell Borthwick love about Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire? “That’s easy,” he says, without hesitation. “Fresh air, being close to the countryside and the sea, Royal Deeside and long, light nights during the summer.” agcc.co.uk W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 2 3

AIRLINE INTERVIEW

Landmark year

FOR KLM KLM reaches an impressive milestone this autumn as it celebrates its centenary. Karen Peattie catches up with Benedicte Duval, the airline’s general manager of UK and Ireland for Aberdeen International Airport, to find out why KLM’s relationship with northeast Scotland is so enduring

This is your 100th anniversary. What are you doing to make it special and is there anything happening ahead of the official day on October 7? Our 100th birthday is a very special occasion for us, especially as we are the first airline operating under the same name to reach this milestone. Celebrations kicked off on June 29, 100 days before our official birthday. On this day, we had a celebratory event at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the start of the celebrations was marked with the arrival of our latest fleet addition, a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner – the first of its kind in Europe – a day later. We have events happening across the world to commemorate the occasion. In the UK, we have plans to celebrate with our customers at our regional airports – including Aberdeen – and at regional events and, of course, with our staff based here in the UK. We are also very fortunate to have our CEO Pieter Elbers joining us in October for the festivities. Why is Aberdeen International Airport important to KLM? You’ve added extra flights this year – why? We are continually talking to our network of colleagues at the airports, discussing opportunities and ways to attract more passengers to maintain and then grow our footprint. KLM now has more departure 2 4 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

points in the UK than British Airways with 16 gateways, four of these being located in Scotland. Aberdeen has been an important hub for KLM for many years and continues to grow in importance for us, as passenger numbers on our routes continue to be strong for flights to and from Amsterdam, and for onward connections to our extensive global network. Our commitment to improving connectivity on our Aberdeen – and Glasgow – routes can be seen by the combined 20% additional capacity we have added from the two airports in the last year, largely achieved through increasing flights from Aberdeen to Amsterdam to five daily. How many years have you been flying to and from Aberdeen and Glasgow? Both Aberdeen and Glasgow are longstanding destinations for KLM. In 1967, KLM operated its first flight from Glasgow Airport to Amsterdam. Aberdeen followed 20 years later, in 1987. Will there be any special activity at Aberdeen and Glasgow airports as part of KLM’s centenary? On and around our birthday there will be events taking place at all the airports we service, Aberdeen and Glasgow included, to celebrate this important milestone with our customers. Plans are still being finalised and are currently

under wraps, but it is sure to be an enjoyable day for all involved. Do you find that more Aberdeen and Glasgow passengers are using KLM/ Schiphol as a route of choice to connect to other parts of the world? KLM currently operates to 165 destinations globally, providing passengers travelling from Aberdeen and Glasgow with easy access to our worldwide network through a quick transfer in Amsterdam. We are seeing strong numbers of passengers taking advantage of this seamless connectivity. From Glasgow, 63% of passengers connect worldwide through Schiphol and from Aberdeen this figure rises to 72%, showing just how important these links are for Scottish customers. Both Aberdeen and Glasgow airports have undergone significant investment, while Aberdeen and Glasgow are both vibrant cities that have seen – and continue to see – considerable regeneration and investment. Does an airline like KLM take that into account when reviewing routes? It is fantastic to see investment in regional airports. It allows them to grow in capacity, providing more local people with access to worldwide destinations without having to travel to a larger hub.

Getting there For flights from Aberdeen International Airport to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport go to klm.com

Customer experience is a key focus for us, so the investment being seen at both Aberdeen and Glasgow to improve a passenger’s journey is hugely important. From Aberdeen’s terminal transformation project to Glasgow’s investment into lounges, we are pleased to see the positive impact these multiple improvements are having for our customers in Scotland. The cities themselves – and the surrounding areas – are also a consideration for us. When looking at expanding our capacity on a route, or adding a destination, we don’t simply look at connecting that region to the world, but also the world to that region. The tourism sector is of huge importance to the Scottish economy with millions of people visiting the country each year, and we want to continue to play our part in helping boost the local tourist economy in the areas we service. Do have a favourite holiday destination of your own and have you experienced a holiday or break in Scotland? This year my family and I are actually spending two weeks in Scotland for our holidays. We are not expecting to have much sunshine but we are very much looking forward to seeing what this beautiful country has to offer. W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 2 5

AIRPORT NEWS

Aberdeen International Airport’s new eco-friendly car valeting service Aberdeen International Airport is introducing car-wash facilities for the first time. The airport is partnering with Handl to launch an eco-friendly car valeting service which will allow people using the airport’s short stay and priority undercover car parks to benefit from the operator’s bespoke exterior valeting service when purchased online in advance. Handl already operates a service for residents in the Aberdeenshire area but is now opening this up to users of the airport’s car parks. Jonathan Knapper, chief executive of Handl, commented: “We are providing a service which not only provides outstanding quality for customers, but also tackles the issues of environmental damage in the industry today.” Managing director of Aberdeen International Airport, Steve Szalay, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this service to our customers at the airport. We believe it will be a popular service for both holidaymakers and business passengers alike.” Handl typically offers a monthly subscription that provides users with a suite of valeting and servicing options direct to their cars’ location. The partnership with Aberdeen International Airport, the first of its type in Scotland, will now allow customers to access the full exterior and polish service on an ad-hoc basis. For further information and to book please visit aberdeenairport.com/ parking 2 6 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Official airport taxi hub up and running Booking a taxi to and from Aberdeen International Airport? Our new hub has you covered. The Official Aberdeen International Airport Taxi Hub allows you to benefit from the best fares via our dedicated fleet whose experienced drivers will take you to and from the airport. Located beside the ticket desks, opposite Travelex in the main arrivals area of the terminal,

the hub will take care of all your taxi requirements while you are in Aberdeen. Our taxi rank is directly outside the front of the terminal – just turn left and our forecourt co-ordinator will assist you. If you’re arriving at the airport, simply go to the hub and our friendly staff will help you. To pre-book, call 01224 725725 or email abztaxis@apcoa.com

Essence of Harris lands in Aberdeen Luxury candle maker Essence of Harris brings the scents of the Outer Hebrides island to Aberdeen International Airport with its new shop in the departure lounge. The independent family business, based in Tarbert on Harris, offers a range of its candles, reed diffusers and soaps. It is the latest development in the airport’s £20 million terminal transformation project.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW: JIMMY BUCHAN

Catch of the

DAY

Fisherman Jimmy Buchan has spent over 40 years at sea, working in often treacherous conditions to provide the Scottish seafood and shellfish that is in demand all over the world. Karen Peattie catches up with him on dry land Generations of fishermen have set out to sea in the waters off northeast Scotland to catch the premium-quality Scottish seafood that ends up on the menus of restaurants across the UK and beyond, in fishmongers, and the fish and chip shops that serve up the nation’s favourite dish. Most people enjoying their fish supper don’t realise quite how much hard work and commitment goes into landing the haddock or cod on their plate but Peterhead-born skipper Jimmy Buchan changed that when he was invited to take part in a gritty BBC documentary about life at sea. Jimmy quickly became the unlikely star of the Bafta awardwinning Trawlermen, a series charting the fortunes of the skipper and his crew onboard the prawn trawler Amity 2 as they worked exhausting shifts in often treacherous conditions. 2 8 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

 Book the Northern Lights Lounge at aberdeenairport. com

Jimmy Buchan is one of the suppliers featured in the Northern Lights Lounge

In one episode, the Amity 2 is seen navigating a bad storm while in another it finds itself fishing around the Devil’s Hole, one of the most hazardous areas of the North Sea. Today, Jimmy is back on dry land in Peterhead at the helm of the Amity Fish Company which supplies fresh fish to the foodservice sector. He still manages his trawler but no longer has to get wet and cold. “I was just 16 when I left school and went to sea,” he says. “At 26, I bought my first trawler – Amity – which meant I was no longer just a fisherman, I was a businessman. “There have obviously been trials and tribulations over my 40-plus years at sea and lots of challenges, too,” Jimmy continues. “Advances in technology have made the fisherman’s job easier but with that

‘It’s great to see Aberdeen International Airport working to create menus that are interesting and showcase Aberdeenshire’s larder. The airport is really forward-thinking and I’m keen to see how this develops in the future’

comes the need to learn new skills – that’s difficult for some people. Progress is good but the industry needs the skills to keep up with it. “It’s not just the nature of the job that’s difficult, it’s living and working in such close quarters with other people when you’re at sea for five days – that’s hard and not everyone has the self-discipline or personality to deal with it.” Off-shore fishing is clearly not for the faint-hearted although it can be a very rewarding career, Jimmy points out. Trawlermen ran for four series, finishing with a special broadcast in 2010. “It seems a lifetime ago now but it certainly raised awareness of just how tough life at sea can be,” says Jimmy. “And I’m still amazed that people sometimes stop me in the street and say, ‘You were in Trawlermen, weren’t you?’ “I’m not the type who wants to be in the public eye but the series shone a light on one of the most dangerous jobs in the world and that was important,” he goes on. “I think people sometimes found my broad Doric dialect difficult to understand though!” Amity Fish Company, which has Marine Stewardship Council certification as a sustainable seafood operation, supplies a range of fresh and frozen fish and shellfish including haddock, cod, langoustine and halibut. “The business is growing on the back of our commitment to sustainability and provenance, and my passion for promoting the

industry and, of course, premium-quality Scottish produce – that’s what lies at the heart of it,” says Jimmy, who is also chief executive of the Scottish Seafood Association, the representative body for Scottish seafood processors. Travellers using the Northern Lights Lounge at Aberdeen International Airport may also recognise the northeast’s most famous fisherman – his image is displayed as a supplier to the kitchen where he joins a growing list of local producers whose produce appears on the seasonal menus. “It was quite surreal seeing myself on the board for the first time,” Jimmy laughs. “I’m in good company though – other great suppliers are also involved in supporting the Northern Lights Lounge – and it’s great to see Aberdeen International Airport working to create menus that showcase Aberdeenshire’s larder. “The airport is really forwardthinking in its approach and I’m keen to see how this develops in the future.” Find out more about Jimmy Buchan and Amity Fish Company at amityfish.co.uk W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 2 9

S P E O F F S H O R E E U R O P E 2 019

City ready TO WELCOME SPE OFFSHORE EUROPE Aberdeen’s newest venue, P&J Live, will play host to one of the biggest and most important events in the northeast from September 3-6 Senior international industry figures will The latest chapter in the long and illustrious co-chair the keynote sessions which include story of SPE Offshore Europe’s relationship energy transition, artificial intelligence with Aberdeen will be written when the doors and the transformation of the workforce open on September 3. as well as decommissioning and late life, This biennial energy industry showcase underwater innovation, transformative will be in fresh surroundings for 2019 as the technologies to lower the city’s new events complex, P&J carbon footprint, digital security, Live, plays host to its first major Co-leader of Aberdeen City integrated technologies, conference. Council, Councillor Jenny digitalisation, standardisation and As the global climate change Laing, says: “We look forward finance. debate heats up and the oil and Attendees at SPE Offshore gas industry embraces a more to welcoming Offshore Europe Europe will have the opportunity digitalised and sustainable role in delegates to our new venue to engage directly with technical the energy transition, leaders and and it is fitting that an event experts on the exhibition floor, innovators from across the energy with such a long association from international market leaders mix will unite at SPE Offshore with Aberdeen is the first major to new, innovative technology Europe 2019. companies. Over four days, from September conference to be hosted at P&J In addition to the main show 3-6, world-class speakers, leading Live. Local, regional, national floor, exhibitor and presentation academics and technology and international visitors will areas will be dedicated to late transformers will converge at see the positive change in the life and decommissioning, and to P&J Live for the event themed start-up companies. “Breakthrough to Excellence – our city that P&J Live is a great Speakers at SPE Offshore licence to operate”. symbol of – a world-class venue Europe representing government Delegates will listen, learn and that will be the envy of cities organisations, service companies be part of discussions to tackle across the globe.” and E&P majors including the industry’s current challenges Total, Shell, Premier Oil, DNV and promote future opportunities. GL, TechnipFMC, Chevron, BHGE, Equinor, Conference chair Michael Borrell, Total’s Weatherford, Halliburton, Schlumberger and senior vice-president, North Sea and Russia, NOV, among others, will present and discuss and SPE president, Sami Alnuaim from the topics most relevant to Europe’s offshore Saudi Aramco, will welcome more than sector. 35,000 visitors and 900 exhibitors to the offshore-europe.co.uk free-to-attend exhibition and conference. W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 3 1

WORLD DUT Y FREE: FRAGRANCES, COSMETICS & BEAUT Y

CHLOÉ NOMADE EAU DE TOILETTE 50ML A modern, sunny and natural fragrance with timeless elegance AIRPORT PRICE: £49.60

SELECTED FRAGRANCE -20% VS UK HIGH STREET

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BEAUTY BUYS. Save on all your favourite brands at World Duty Free

MONTBLANC EXPLORER EAU DE PARFUM 60ML Embark on a journey of exploration with this woody-aromatic scent AIRPORT PRICE: £41.05

DOLCE & GABBANA K EAU DE TOILETTE 50ML An exciting new fragrance for men from Dolce & Gabbana AIRPORT PRICE: £44

OPI BEST CREW ABOARD SET Six best-selling shades for nails in the ideal travel size TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE SET: £17.55

Reserve & Collect Why not take advantage of our great Reserve & Collect and Shop & Collect services? Find out more at aberdeenairport.com 3 4 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

ESTÉE LAUDER ADVANCED NIGHT REPAIR FOR FACE AND EYES SET Let these products do the work while you sleep – you’ll wake up refreshed with smooth, revitalised skin TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE: £95.40

ELEMIS ULTRA SMART PRO COLLAGEN AQUA INFUSION MASK Minimise the signs of ageing for a more youthful, firmer appearance – available via our handy Reserve & Collect service AIRPORT PRICE: £100

GIVENCHY L’INTERDIT SET This bold fragrance from Givenchy will give you confidence and make you stand out from the crowd TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE SET: £65.10

CLINIQUE ALL ABOUT MOISTURE SET Keep your skin hydrated with this fresh and light set from Clinique AIRPORT PRICE: £41.95

ELEMIS SUPERFOOD FACIAL OIL This natural blend of concentrated plantbased superfoods deeply nourishes and hydrates for a healthy, radiant glow AIRPORT PRICE: £37.45

All prices correct at time of going to press and are subject to change. Items pictured are subject to stock availability. W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 3 5

WHISKY WHISKY: GLEN GARIOCH

Glen Garioch, one of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland – and the most easterly – has been making its mighty malt in the historic market town of Oldmeldrum, just a few miles from Aberdeen International Airport, since 1797 GLEN GARIOCH SINGLE CASK Airport Exclusive: £285 Glen Garioch 1997 is a single cask release, exclusively available at Aberdeen International Airport and launched in World Duty Free to coincide with SPE Offshore Europe when thousands of visitors will pass through the terminal. Just 188 bottles are available, bottled at cask strength. Matured in first-filled bourbon casks, this exclusive release is defined by its Highland characteristics and bold flavour. GLEN GARIOCH FOUNDER’S RESERVE Airport Price: £44.29 for 1L Founder’s Reserve, the quintessential Glen Garioch, celebrates the Manson brothers who first established the distillery and the 200-plus years of craftsmanship that go into every bottle. GLEN GARIOCH 12YO Airport Price: £47 for 1L Glen Garioch 12YO’s distinctive Highland character comes from maturation in two different types of wood: American bourbon and Spanish sherry casks. 3 6 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Reserve & Collect Why not take advantage of our great Reserve & Collect and Shop & Collect services? Find out more at aberdeenairport. com All products subject to availability. Prices are subject to change.

GLEN GARIOCH 15YO Airport Price: £79.99 for 70cl This 15YO Glen Garioch gains its rich and full-bodied Highland character from 100% maturation in Oloroso sherry casks. Look out for layers of orange peel, cinnamon, honey, rich spice and brioche, leading to a warming finish that’s rich and bold. Find out more about Glen Garioch at glengarioch.com and get another taste of the distillery in Aberdeenshire in our special feature on page 43.

D I X O N S T R AV E L

All prices correct at time of going to press and are subject to change. Items pictured are subject to stock availability.

FITBIT INSPIRE HR, BLACK AND LILAC AIRPORT PRICE: £79 AVERAGE HIGH STREET PRICE: £89.99

Grab a

GADGET

For all your technical requirements look no further than the great new Dixons Travel store at Aberdeen International Airport

RHA TRUECONNECT WIRELESS BLUETOOTH EARBUDS AIRPORT PRICE: £129.99 AVERAGE HIGH STREET PRICE: £149.95

HP ENVY 13.3” INTEL® CORE™ I7 LAPTOP 256 GB SSD AIRPORT PRICE: £1,059 AVERAGE HIGH STREET PRICE: £1,099

BOSE WIRELESS BLUETOOTH NOISECANCELLING HEADPHONES 700 – BLACK AIRPORT PRICE: £329 AVERAGE HIGH STREET PRICE: £349 3 8 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Where will you go? Shetland

Kirkwall

Connecting flights available with Aer Lingus to Boston, Chicago, New York, Orlando, Miami, Toronto & Washington

Belfast City

Wick

Aberdeen

Newcastle

Dublin

Durham

Humberside Manchester

Norwich Birmingham Cork London Luton London Heathrow Cardiff Bristol London Southend Southampton

Jersey

Worldwide connecting flights available with British Airways

Map for illustrative purposes only. Not to scale. 4 0 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Worldwide connecting flights available with Air France

Tenerife

Lapland

Bergen Oslo Stavanger Aberdeen Esbjerg

Copenhagen

Riga

Gdansk Amsterdam

Paris Geneva Verona

Worldwide connecting flights available with KLM Bourgas

Reus Alicante Faro

Malaga

Corfu

Majorca (Palma) Ibiza

Dalaman Malta

Rhodes

W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 41

ABERDEENSHIRE NEWS REVIEW

The Finnies watch team

Finnies marks Moon landing with Omega Eat on the Green Udny Green, Ellon Eat on the Green nestles unobtrusively in the lovely Aberdeenshire village of Udny Green, near Ellon, its exterior enticing with the promise of something quite special when you walk through the door. On an exceptionally hot Wednesday in July it’s a relief to take refuge in the cool dining room, its classic décor calm and unfussy, the maitre d’ welcoming and more than happy to accommodate a lone diner without a booking. I’d never been here before but having followed head chef and owner Craig Wilson’s career since he opened the award-winning Eat on the Green in 2004, I was aware that it has become one of the northeast’s most highly regarded fine-dining restaurants, attracting a loyal clientele and championing Scottish and local producers. Craig – known as The Kilted Chef – has also endorsed the locally-inspired menus available in the Northern Lights Lounge at Aberdeen International Airport just 12 miles away, taking his passion for quality, seasonal produce to new heights. I chose the chowder of sweet potato, cauliflower, coconut and chilli – accompanied by a rosemary scone – to start with, the portion not too big and the thick chowder gently spiced and flavoursome. My main was steamed seabass fillet with crushed potatoes, spinach, kale, chives and lemon, a dish that allowed the fresh ingredients do the talking. An ambassador for Scottish food and drink, Craig and his team should be applauded for what they have created in this little village off the beaten track – Scotland needs more culinary heroes like this. Karen Peattie Eat on the Green, Udny Green, Ellon AB41 7RS 01651 842337 enquiries@eatonthegreen.co.uk Open for lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Sunday and closed Monday and Tuesday

4 2 W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M

Omega watches have been associated with humankind’s greatest extra-terrestrial adventure since the brand’s Speedmaster model became the first watch worn on the Moon in July 1969. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing and the Omega Speedmaster has played an important role in lunar exploration, having taken part in all six lunar landings. Worn by Buzz Aldrin, the Omega Speedmaster Professional is one of the most significant wristwatches of the 20th century, being the only watch certified by Nasa for use on spacewalks. Family firm Finnies the Jeweller, based in Aberdeen, is a proud stockist of Omega watches. Ron and Peggy Finnie opened the store in 1957 and it is now personally managed by second and third-generation family members. Never standing still, Finnies plans to double its shop size on George Street in 2020. Visit Finnies the Jeweller on George Street, Aberdeen or at finnies.com

Aberdeen recognised by CNN as one of Europe’s ‘hidden gems’ cities The Granite City features at number nine in CNN Travel’s top 20 European cities classed as “hidden gems”. Travel writer Joe Minihane points to “Aberdeen’s amazing architecture with fascinating buildings at every turn”, and looks ahead to the reopening of Aberdeen Art Gallery in November. He also cites the abundance of local culture and Aberdeen’s proximity to “some of Scotland’s best single malt distilleries”, suggesting it’s a good option for tourists wishing to escape Edinburgh’s “hordes”.

ABERDEENSHIRE NEWS REVIEW

Experience a distillery tour like no other with Legends of Garioch There are distillery tours – then there’s the Legends of The Garioch experience at Glen Garioch Distillery, best described as an adventure that involves learning about the distillery’s rich heritage, the people behind it and, of course, its malt whiskies, writes Karen Peattie. One of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries, Glen Garioch – pronounced Geery in the ancient Doric dialect – has taken the traditional whisky tour to a new level with a half-day experience that begins at the distillery in the market town of Oldmeldrum then moves out into the Aberdeenshire countryside. Exploring the Valley of The Garioch, famed for producing some of the finest barley in Scotland, the tour goes behind the scenes to parts of the distillery that are usually hidden. It also involves boarding a minibus to hear the story of John and Alexander Manson, who founded Glen Garioch in 1797. As well as offering a chance to sample some of Glen Garioch’s oldest and rarest whiskies, the tour is a celebration of Aberdeenshire’s larder, combining a compelling story with an unexpected experience. The tour finishes with a whisky pairing lunch at nearby Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Club. The menu has been created around local produce, and complements Glen Garioch’s story and flavour profile. Turn to page 36 for more on Glen Garioch whiskies and book at glengarioch.com

Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course Arriving at Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course in rural Aberdeenshire is an experience in itself as you roll up the drive, spotting a swan with its cygnets then the resident Highland cattle grazing in the shade. Wonderful. Under normal circumstances, pre-lunch drinks would be enjoyed in the 800-year-old Cave Bar, or perhaps in front of a roaring fire. But today we are in the garden, taking advantage of the sunshine. I found myself in a sumptuous Club room in the new wing of the hotel, its floor-to-ceiling windows and corner position providing views over the golf course and countryside beyond. Who needs TV when you have that vista! This wing opened three years ago as part of a £4.5 million extension although the original 13th-century house has been a privately-owned hotel since the 1950s. Meldrum House’s new restaurant, Pineapple, opened in July, with a focus on fish and beef. Executive chef Paul Grant elevates the use of seasonal produce from local suppliers – scallops from Portsoy, meat from butchers Presly of Oldmeldrum and John Davidsons in Inverurie, along with grass-fed steak from Grace Noble’s Highland Beef farm in Banchory. Meldrum House, with general manager Jordan Charles at the helm, is an exceptional hotel – and I can’t wait to return. Karen Peattie Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course, Oldmeldrum AB51 0AE 01651 872294 enquiries@meldrumhouse.com meldrumhouse.com W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 4 3

ABERDEENSHIRE NEWS

Castles IN THE AIR Castles throw up magic, mystery and intrigue but whether they are legendary, grand and imposing, brooding or ruins, Aberdeenshire has had more than its fair share of these classic buildings over the years – 263, in fact. They are very much part of Scotland’s history, each with its own story to tell. Why not visit these ones? 1. BALMORAL Arguably Aberdeenshire’s most famous castle, Balmoral sits within the shadows of Lochnagar in Royal Deeside, near Ballater. The castle and estate were purchased by Queen Victoria in 1848 – and Balmoral is still the summer home of the royal family. The castle is an excellent example of Scottish Baronial architecture and is classified by Historic Scotland as a category A-listed building. Visitors are welcome to explore parts of the castle and grounds when the royal family aren’t in residence – 2020’s opening times are April 1 to August 2. 2. CRAIGIEVAR This idyllic castle with pink walls looks like something out of a fairy tale. Indeed, Craigievar Castle, near Alford, is said by some to be the prototype for Disney’s Cinderella castle. Beautiful and enchanting in equal measure, it was started in the Scottish Baronial style around 1576. Its exterior remains virtually unchanged since William Forbes completed it around 1626. Craigievar was a family home until the 1960s, creating a quirky blend of cosy interiors and rare antiquities within the ancient walls. It is open to the public until October 27.

 Learn more Learn more about Aberdeenshire’s castles at visitabdn.com

3. DUNNOTTAR Dunnottar Castle, near Stonehaven, is a dramatic and evocative ruined cliff top fortress that was the home of the Earls Marischal, once one of the most powerful families in Scotland. Steeped in history, this romantic and haunting ruin is a photographer’s dream, a magnet for history buffs and an iconic tourist destination for visitors from all over the world. It has appeared in several movies and was the inspiration for Merida’s family’s castle in Disney Pixar’s Brave. Summer and winter visits are available. 4. SLAINS Brooding Slains Castle, on the Cruden Bay coast, is an imposing ruin that was said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous 1987 novel Count Dracula. More recently, it has featured in TV series The Crown, standing in for the late Queen Mother’s Castle of Mey. First constructed by the Earl of Erroll in 1597, Slains Castle has had various owners over the years and today visitors are welcome to wander around the ruins and gaze out to sea from the clifftops as its many former residents would have done. W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 4 5

W H AT ’ S O N

STARS COME OUT FOR ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL. Comedy’s biggest stars are set to make you laugh at the Aberdeen International Comedy Festival in October, From the ridiculous to the nostalgic and everything in between, the programme has something for all tastes with quiz show master Paul Sinha heading up the big names. A familiar voice on radio and a TV quiz favourite, Paul will bring his new show Hazy Little Thing Called Love to the Park Inn. Leading ladies Janey Godley, Ashley Storrie, Jojo Sutherland, Harriet Kemsley, Catherine Bohart, Megan Shandley, Lou Sanders and Vikki Stone also join the line-up, along with Desiree Burch, Fern Brady, Sindhu Vee and Sofie Hagen. The laughs don’t stop there as Stuart Mitchell, Rosco McClelland, Stephen Buchanan, Scott Gibson, Eddie Summers, James Nokise, Cal Halbert and Seska also join in the fun. Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, predicts that this will be “our biggest, funniest and best festival yet”. He said: “Whether you’re considering catching some live stand-up for the first time or are a comedy stalwart keen to enjoy the next big thing, then Aberdeen truly is the best place to be this October.” With over 20 years of performing award-winning comedy around the world, Janey Godley brings her Beyond The Fringe show to the Tivoli Theatre.

Below, from left to right: Paul Sinha, Seska and Megan Shandley

Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe last year, award-winning comic Harriet Kemsley brings her Slutty Joan show to BrewDog while the star of BBC2’s The Mash Report, Catherine Bohart, will smash stereotypes around sex, sexuality and relationships with her show entitled Lemon At The Tunnels. Megan Shandley, meanwhile, brings tales of nostalgia and “things forthcoming” to O’Neill’s Aberdeen, with likeable vigour and a high dose of sass as she makes her debut at this year’s festival with Megazoid. Fresh from touring the Middle East is Stuart Mitchell, a panellist on BBC Scotland’s Breaking The News who brings his new show Is It Just Me? to O’Neill’s Aberdeen. Fun for all ages will be found at the Carmelite Hotel as Seska throws buckets of happiness into the air with his magical show Quack Quack Bang! Critically-acclaimed New Zealand political comedian James Nokise will add to the laughs with two different shows focusing on a whirlwind of topics – he brings God Damn Fancy Man to The Glentanar and will be ready to Talk A Big Game on all things sport and politics at McGinty’s Meal an’ Ale. This year the festival has partnered with Cineworld Union Square to incorporate some of the best newly-released funny films including: Zombieland 2: Double Tap; A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Farmageddon; Abominable; and Joker. The Aberdeen International Comedy Festival, organised by Aberdeen Inspired with support from The McGinty’s Group Scotland and Balmoral Group, will run across several city venues, bars and clubs from October 3-13. Tickets for all shows are on sale now at: aberdeencomedyfestival.com W W W. A B E R D E E N A I R P O R T. C O M 4 7

OUT & ABOUT

Out & ABOUT 1. Our Northern Lights Lounge is two! We celebrated our second birthday in July with Buck’s Fizz and cake for our loyal customers. If you’ve not visited the lounge before why not pop in before your next flight? Book at aberdeenairport.com

2. Aberdeen International Airport has received the highest rating of “very good” from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for disability access. 3. Keep an eye out for our pawsome Canine Crew – you won’t miss them in their highvis jackets and bandanas, mingling with passengers and staff throughout the terminal to help alleviate stress. The dogs, including the lovely Luna, a Border collie, work in pairs for two hours at a time, once a week, on a rota basis. 4. Our second Aberdeen Runway Run, hosted by Aberdeen International Airport and CHC Helicopter, raised over £30,000 for two charities – Befriend a Child and Veterans with Dogs. Some 300 runners took on the 3.5km challenge. Richard Strachan was first to cross the finish line in a record 11 minutes and 14 seconds, followed by Jamie Reid and Mark McDonald MSP. 5. Staff spent two days at the popular Bon Accord Centre in Aberdeen city centre at the beginning of the summer, offering suggestions to shoppers who hadn’t yet booked their annual getaway. We also gave away copies of Skylife.

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BOOKS: AUTUMN READING

Editor’s

CHOICE

Reading and travelling go part and parcel so grab the latest titles at Aberdeen International Airport – these great reads feature in the Richard & Judy Book Club, on a Buy One Get One Half Price offer, at WHSmith

Title: How to be Famous Author: Caitlin Moran Date: 2-5-2019

HOW TO BE FAMOUS

See in store for terms and conditions.

CAITLIN MORAN

EXCLUSIVE COVER AND CONTENT

Trim page size: 198 x 126mm Spine: 25mm Number of colours: 4 Prints as: CMYK Finishes: 5th colour Pantone 2645 background colour; matt lamination; spot uv title, author and roundel on front and spine; emboss title and author on front cover

HOW TO BE FAMOUS

CAITLIN MORAN Cover by Head Design

EXCLUSIVE COVER AND CONTENT

T H E N U M B E R 1 S U N D AY T I MHOW E S TOB BE E SFAMOUS TSELLER

CAITLIN MORAN T H E N U M B E R 1 S U N D AY T I M E S B E S T S E L L E R

‘Glorious and life-enhancing’ NINA STIBBE

‘Laugh-out-loud funny’

‘Glorious and life-enhancing’

‘Laugh-out-loud funny’

NINA STIBBE

THE TIMES

ONE MINUTE LATER Susan Lewis, £7.99

HOW TO BE FAMOUS Caitlin Moran, £8.99

MARKED FOR DEATH Tony Kent, £7.99

With a high-flying job, a beautiful apartment and friends whose lives are as happy as her own, Vivienne Shager is living the dream. Then, on the afternoon of her 27th birthday, one catastrophic minute changes everything. Forced to move back to the small seaside town where she grew up, Vivi remembers the reasons she left. But the answers lie 30 years in the past. Shelley Raynor’s family home, Deerwood Farm, has always been a special place until darkness strikes. When Vivi’s and Shelley’s worlds begin to entwine, it only takes a moment for the truth to unravel all of their lives.

I’m Johanna Morrigan, and I live in London in 1995, at the epicentre of Britpop. I might only be nineteen, but I know that everyone around me is handling fame very badly. My new best friend has writer’s block and a rampant pill problem. So I’ve decided I should become a Fame Doctor. I’m going to use my new monthly column for The Face to write about every aspect of a million people knowing your name. But when my two-night stand with comedian Jerry Sharp goes wrong, people start to know my name for all the wrong reasons. How can one woman stop a bad, famous, powerful man?

When London’s legal establishment is shaken to its foundation by the grisly crucifixion of a retired Lord Chief Justice, Detective Chief Inspector Joelle Levy is tasked with finding his killer. Reporter Sarah Truman sets out to investigate, not suspecting that the trail will lead straight back to her own front door and fiance Michael Devlin. A criminal barrister determined to prove the innocence of his own client, Michael is at first oblivious to the return of the murderous figure from his past – until tragedy strikes closer to home. Michael must race to bring the killer to justice – before it’s too late.

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