Upbeat Magazine - Autumn 2014 - Aberdeen International Airport

AUTUMN FUN ACTIVITIES IN ABERDEEN CITY & SHIRE WIN A TRIP TO GENEVA WITH EASYJET LEARN TO SKI – LOCALLY! CUSTODIANS OF THE COAST

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CONTENTS

P18-19

TEL: +44 (0) 844 481 6666

> LEARN TO SKI - LOCALLY!

P44 - 45

> PLAN YOUR ESCAPE TO THE SUN

EMAIL: feedback@aiairport.com WEB: www.aberdeenairport.com

P6 - P8 Airport News

TEXT: 80800 (start message with 'Airport', texts are FREE) TWITTER: Follow us, @ABZ_Airport

P10 - P11 Meet the Locals Custodians of the Coast

FACEBOOK: Search 'Aberdeen Airport' INSTAGRAM: Follow us, @aiairport LINKEDIN: Search 'Aberdeen International

P12 - P13 Reviews - Out and About in Alford

Airport'

P31 Competition - Win a Fabulous Trip to Geneva with easyJet P36 - P37 A Grand Day Out in Aberdeenshire P40 - P41 Our Terminal Transformation Continues

P16 - P17 Autumn Homecoming Events P42 - P43 What’s On?

HELPFUL LINKS

P18 - P19 Learn to Ski - Locally!

Type the following to access key parts of our website, www.aberdeenairport.com/...

P20 - P21 Buoyant Belfast

AIRPORT CONTACTS /contact

P22 - P23 There’s No Place Like Houston!

P44 - P45 Plan Your Escape to the Sun P46 - P48 Behind the Scenes - Retail

AIRPORT GUIDE /airportinformation AIRPORT JOBS /jobs AIRPORT MASTER PLAN /masterplan BOOK CAR PARKING /parking BOOK FLIGHTS & HOTELS /travel CHECK-IN INFORMATION /checkin

P26 - P27 Connecting You to the World Long-haul Destinations

P50 - P51 Have a Wonderful Weekend in Aberdeen City and Shire

P28 Plane Talking - By a Frequent Flyer

P54 - P55 Business - ‘Insider’ and Newcomer Perspectives

P29 Words Worth Reading

P58 Competition - The Beat Goes On!

P30 Take Swiss Time Out in Geneva

P60 - P61 Diary Pages

COMPETITIONS /competitions CURRENCY /currency CUSTOMER CHARTER /charter DESTINATIONS & AIRLINES /destinations

CONTACTS

FEEDBACK /feedback

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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. Trend 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 (September 2014). Cover: Monkey Business Images/Thinkstock.

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WELCOME

to upBEAT, the magazine we hope you’ll take with you wherever you go!

It’s been an exciting few months. The Airport celebrated its 80th birthday in July and, while it has changed beyond recognition from its original 1934 format, we are all very proud to play our part in its long and successful history. Our own legacy will come in the form of the Terminal Transformation project, whose initial enabling projects are already well under way. Inside, you can read about some of the changes afoot - and you can also take a peek behind the scenes of our busy Retail operations. If you think it’s all about shops and eating places, you’re in for a big surprise...

As the ski season is almost upon us, we look at some great places to learn and improve on the slopes - be they snowy or dry - before perhaps booking a skiing holiday in Switzerland and flying there via easyJet’s new service from Aberdeen to Geneva.

If you’re wondering what else to do with your weekends during autumn and winter, Visit Aberdeen’s warming itinerary, together with our castles and gardens feature, have plenty of ideas to inspire you and your family to explore a wealth of activities, places and spaces around the City and Shire.

Chilly weekends are also a good time to plan for next year’s holidays, so check out upBEAT’s selection of dream destinations, all of which can be reached from Aberdeen International Airport.

Your journey starts here!

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AIRPORT NEWS

GETTING TO ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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

A Happy 80th!

Celebrations were held this summer to mark a major milestone in the history of Aberdeen International Airport - its 80th birthday.

is AB21 7DU.

Opened in 1934, the Airport has

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

undergone a dramatic transformation over the years, and is anticipating even more exciting change in the years to come.

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.

Monday 28 July, which marked the big anniversary, was used as a platform for reflection, as well as looking forward with a focus on terminal transformation.

Celebratory events were held for staff, key stakeholders and passengers.

The Airport team were joined by a very special visitor on the day. Norman Robertson, from Oldmeldrum, who shares a birthday with the Airport, was unaware of the connection until he was discovered through a social media search via his daughter! Norman visited the Airport to

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cut the shared birthday cake and speak to the gathered media about the milestone for both. He commented: “I couldn’t believe it when I found out. The first time I used Aberdeen Airport was to go on holiday to Malta 35 years ago and I’ve been quite a regular visitor since then.”

See Diary - page 61

AIRPORT NEWS

> Norman Robertson and Airport Managing Director > Staff and their families enjoy the catering and Carol Benzie cut the cake entertainment at the staff birthday barbecue

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

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

collection when you get to the airport:

www.aberdeenairport.com/currency > Check all your travel documents and ensure

your passport is current, that you have a visa

(if required) and that you have noted the flight

times on your tickets.

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

your cabin bag. Decant any liquids, gels, etc

into a small plastic bag.

THE DAY YOU FLY > Allow plenty of time to get to the airport,

Flybe flies to London City

> Dispose of liquids above 100ml before you

In a move welcomed by UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Flybe has announced that it will begin operating the route between Aberdeen and London City.

Conversations between the Aberdeen team and a number of airlines began as soon as it became clear that the route could be lost.

The airline will take over operation the day after the incumbent carrier, BA CityFlyer, stops its service, resulting in

no disruption for the customer.

David Cameron said: “I welcome this announcement that Flybe will introduce daily flights from Aberdeen to London City later this year - a vital route that helps support the north-south economy.

to check-in and clear through security.

> Remember to check the rules on sharps! reach the security area.

> Remember that jackets & belts must

be removed.

> Laptops & mobiles to be presented separately.

“Keeping our cities connected is part of our long-term economic plan to encourage investment and promote growth, so that we can generate jobs, pay our way in the world, and create stability, security and a brighter future for our country.”

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AIRPORT NEWS

easyJet

to launch new Aberdeen route easyJet has announced that it will introduce Aberdeen’s only scheduled flights to Geneva.

The new route to Switzerland launches on 13 December and will operate weekly on a Saturday until April 2015, to help Scottish skiers reach some of the world’s best slopes. Flights are now on sale at www.easyJet.com The airline will operate the flights using a 156-seater Airbus A319, and it expects to carry more than 3500 passengers to and from Geneva throughout the winter.

Ali Gayward, Commercial Manager for easyJet, said: “We’re pleased to add an exciting, new European destination to our Aberdeen network - taking our total volume of flights up to 40 per week during winter.

We believe the beautiful city of Geneva will be a popular choice with holidaymakers looking for a break at Lake Geneva and skiers seeking easy and affordable access to Europe’s slopes.”

See pages 30-31

Spotlight on charity partner The Airport’s partnership with local cancer support charity Friends of ANCHOR is in the spotlight, as part of a prominent local advertising campaign.

Thanks to outdoor advertising company JCDecaux, prime space on one of the Airport media sites has been earmarked for a new billboard campaign, to promote the work of the charity to the thousands of people who use the Airport each day. The campaign encourages people to learn more about Friends of ANCHOR’s activities, how they can help, and even includes a dedicated ‘text to donate’ number to raise funds.

To make the campaign even more special, it stars a colleague who has worked at the Airport for more than 27 years and whose battle with cervical cancer while pregnant encouraged her to get involved with fundraising and awareness for the charity who supported her.

Now cancer-free and mother to a healthy 13-year-old, Caroline Mackland said she was delighted to appear in the ad campaign: “It’ll be funny seeing my face staring back at me every morning as I drive to work over the next couple of weeks. It is a great honour to be asked to be a part of the Airport’s advertising campaign for Friends of ANCHOR.” Meanwhile, the Airport has created two short films, gifted to the charity as a legacy, in the hope that they can be used to raise awareness of their work. You’ll find the films at: www.youtube.com/ABZAirport

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Wildlife photographer Ian Hay is helping to create the ‘big picture’ capturing the health and wealth of the North-East coastline.

As Project Manager of the East Grampian Coastal Partnership (EGCP), Ian says his role is to get individuals and organisations working together on the coast by encouraging local projects and “letting people know what’s out there”.

“If people don’t know it’s there, who cares if it disappears?” he says of the marine wildlife populating the waters stretching from the mouth of the River Esk, by St Cyrus, north to Kinnaird Head, Fraserburgh.

Ian explains what this special stretch of coastline has to offer: “It has fantastic sand dunes, stunning beaches, and wonderful cliffs and rocky shores. RSPB Fowlsheugh, near Stonehaven, is the second-biggest 'city' in the area - but it’s only inhabited by seabirds! There are 160,000 pairs of seabirds, including puffins and guillemots.

“Then there’s Dunnottar Castle and Slains Castle; the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses at Kinnaird Head; Europe’s largest whitefish port (Peterhead) and shellfish port (Fraserburgh), and Aberdeen Harbour - where wildlife, such as rare bird species and dolphins share the same space as industry incredibly happily.”

As a wildlife photographer, Ian’s favourite place along the coastline is the Ythan Estuary, near Newburgh: “When the tide is low, it’s one of the most beautiful places on the planet. You can get very close to the seals and other wildlife, and I use my photography to help to tell the story of what’s there.”

Coordinating and encouraging ‘green’ tourism is an important aspect of Ian’s EGCP role and he provides input to the website discovereastgrampiancoast.com, which tells people where and how to look for local wildlife. One of the highlights of autumn is the RSPB’s Goosewatch, at Loch of Strathbeg, between Peterhead and Fraserburgh, where visitors can experience the marvellous sight and sound of 80,000 geese taking off during October and November. “It’s the UK’s answer to the wildebeest migration,” he laughs.

Another of his tasks is environmental monitoring: “We need to understand where things happen in the marine environment, as fluctuations in water temperature, food availability and current can mean marine life moves around.

We work with the Seawatch Foundation, which uses citizen science to obtain information on the whereabouts of whales and dolphins, for example. This has led to the awareness that more hump-backed whales and orcas (killer whales) are visiting our local waters.”

Ian also helped to compile the new Energetica Walking & Wildlife Guide, which encourages people to explore the Energetica corridor, running from the north of Aberdeen to Peterhead. The booklet, available at visitor information points and online at www.energetica.uk.com, includes the ‘Aberdeen Business Walk’ - a short and scenic route designed to suit business delegates attending Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.

“I guarantee that having done that walk, visitors will want to spend more time in Aberdeen on their next visit - and bring the family, too!” says Ian. www.egcp.org.uk www.creativewildlife.co.uk

Annabel Drysdale's workplace covers 1000 hectares and there are some parts of it that she has yet to explore!

As Manager at Forvie National Nature Reserve (FNNR), Annabel is responsible for a very special wilderness, stretching 5km up the North-East coast from the Ythan Estuary at Newburgh, to the village of Collieston. This includes the estuary itself and the magnificent Sands of Forvie.

“The reserve, which is managed by Scottish Natural Heritage, is a very important little fragment of wild land among the enormous expanse of agriculture covering the Buchan plain,” she says. “Together with the sand that stretches the 20km from Aberdeen up to Forvie, it comprises the fifth-largest dune system in the UK. What makes it unique is that it has hardly been developed. The

IMAGES: © Lorne Gill/SNH

amazing landscape is very much shaped by nature - by the wind, the tides and the plant species that grow here.”

Traditionally, FNNR has been well-loved and visited by local people, schoolchildren and science students, but in recent years it has also seen a welcome increase in overseas visitors. The reserve is famous for its abundance of grey seals and dolphins, and also for its seasonal birdlife, as the Ythan is a Ramsar site (wetland of international importance).

Annabel explains: “In winter, the noise of thousands of pink-footed geese is associated with this area, and we also have ducks, curlews, redshanks, lapwings

and golden plovers. During spring and summer, we have eider ducks and four species of nesting terns. The Arctic tern, the furthest migrating bird in the world, comes here to nest and its numbers have increased to record levels.”

At the heart of the nature reserve is the medieval lost village of Forvie, which gradually became obliterated by sand.

Visitors can see the partly-excavated Forvie Kirk, as they walk through the towering sand dunes. They may also spot some of the many native roe deer that roam the reserve. www.nnr-scotland.org.uk/forvie

REVIEWS

Around 20 miles west of Aberdeen International Airport, Alford is the ideal place for a family outing.

The small Aberdeenshire town boasts a country park, a transport museum, a ski centre, numerous cafés and restaurants - and neighbouring Kildrummy is home to a well-known Inn. upBEAT asked a local businessman and a charity volunteer to check out two of the attractions on offer.

I am not a skier; I had never previously skied, but I wanted to give it a go after a fair bit of goading from Mrs Bream, who has been known to grace the slopes.

I arrived at Alford Ski Centre with the mindset of my alter ego, James 'Dangerous’ Bream. As it happened, once I got out of the car I was more like James ‘A Bit Scared’ Bream, but the team at Alford Ski Centre sorted me out good and proper.

So a few stats to start with: > Alford Ski Centre welcomes more than 8,000 visitors a year, many in the summer! > 5,000 visitors go for ‘tubing’, which is what I spent most time doing. Basically, this involves tanking down the slope in a rubber ring. I was one of a good few adults who followed on from a kids’ party from noon to 1pm (they went for birthday cake and we took to the slopes). > School visits are welcome; more than 2,000 pupils visit each year.

After ‘tubing’, Mrs Bream (aka Michelle) and I received personal tuition on skis from Graham. He helped the more expert

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Michelle hone her skills and stopped me from injuring myself with real ease.

Most importantly, he taught me the basics quickly and with a smile. Darren, who runs the Centre, was superb. He gave us a great welcome and clearly knows how to make his customers feel special.

We’re now going to take our two boys along to Alford to learn to ski and will plan it with a trip to include Grampian Transport Museum.

So, in advance of leaving from Aberdeen International Airport for a week’s trip to Geneva, or even just to have a great day out on your doorstep, why not give Alford Ski Centre a call - you just might surprise yourself!

ALFORD SKI CENTRE Greystone Rd, Alford Aberdeenshire AB33 8TY Tel: +44 (0) 1975 563024 www.tinyurl.com/oy8kk7q > JAMES BREAM, Research & Policy Director, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce

REVIEWS

Kildrummy Inn is remotely located in the Aberdeenshire countryside, meaning you will most likely need to go out of your way to visit. However, those who know about the Inn also know that it is worth the effort.

My partner and I received a warm welcome from the friendly owners and enjoyed a drink in the cosy lounge before our meal. The local, family atmosphere really set the tone for the evening.

For dessert, we sampled the cheese board, which comprised a decent selection of cheeses with oatcakes, and we also enjoyed the selection of home-churned ice cream.

Rustic homemade bread rolls, flavoured with dates and cranberries, were a nice touch to open the meal. For starters, we tried the pigeon and smoked salmon dishes. Both were very well presented and served in good portions. The pigeon was especially well received; it was the first time we had tried this dish and we were instantly hooked by the aroma, which was only surpassed by the taste.

Overall, Kildrummy Inn provides a delicious meal, complemented by a warm and cosy atmosphere.

We will be keen to return and share the experience with friends and family.

KILDRUMMY INN Kildrummy, Alford, Aberdeenshire AB33 8QS Tel: +44 (0) 1975 571227 www.kildrummyinn.co.uk

We were then pleasantly surprised by an intermediate tomato and roasted pepper soup, which provided a perfect addition to the meal.

For the main course, we both enjoyed the haddock and chips - served in an interesting, if somewhat impractical, deep-frying dish.

> EMMA LEDINGHAM, Befriending Support Worker and Volunteer, Befriend A Child, Aberdeen

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LONG HAUL AIRLINE FOCUS - LUFTHANSA

A baggage allowance of two items weighing up to 23kg each means passengers can take twice as much free luggage with them compared with Economy Class.

For an extra 25 euros, passengers can also enjoy the comfort of the Lufthansa Business Lounges before their departure. The Welcome Lounge, with its spacious showers and a breakfast buffet after night flights, can be used for 50 euros.

Lounges were previously open only to status customers and are otherwise unavailable on a paying basis.

An enhanced service awaits Premium Economy passengers on board. They are greeted with a welcome drink and will find their own water bottle, as well as a high-quality amenity kit.

Meals are presented on menus commensurate with the new travel class and served on porcelain tableware.

New premium service from Aberdeen provides greater comfort on long-haul flights.

Passengers can navigate the extensive in-flight entertainment programme using their own touchscreen monitor. Alternatively, this can be done using a remote control, which also serves as a controller for video games.

Lufthansa’s new Premium Economy Class, which combines affordability with greater

The new Premium Economy seats, specially-designed for Lufthansa, offer up

Book now at www.LH.com

comfort, will be available from December 2014, initially on the Boeing 747-8.

to 50 per cent more space than the normal Economy Class seats. Seats are wider and provide greater privacy, as well as having their own wide armrests and centre consoles. The back rest can be reclined and the seat pitch is more spacious.

Passengers travelling from Aberdeen with a Frankfurt connection will have the opportunity to enjoy a new travel experience, with the installation of 3,600 seats in all 106 long-haul aircraft in just one year.

Destinations can now be booked for onward connecting flights from Frankfurt, including: Bangalore, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Chicago, Hong Kong, Houston, Johannesburg, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, New York, San Francisco, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore and Washington, DC.

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For extra comfort, the headrests can be set to the desired height and folded at the sides, and the footrests are heightadjustable. Features around the seats, such as a bottle holder, electrical socket and lots of storage space for passengers’ belongings, also help to ensure a relaxed journey.

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HOMECOMING 2014

ABERDEEN FILM FESTIVAL 4-12 OCTOBER The Belmont Filmhouse, Aberdeen The lively annual event includes web-series, shorts, features, documentaries, animation and children’s films, as filmmakers from around the globe showcase their work alongside the best Scottish talent. The festival includes an outdoor cinema, with restaurant and bar facilities. www.aberdeenfilm.com

A host of special North-East events are in store, rounding off Scotland’s highly-successful Year of Homecoming.

DUNNOTTAR WOODS: WOODLAND ART 16 OCTOBER, 10AM-12NOON Dunnottar Woods, Aberdeenshire

Join the rangers to get creative in the forest. Let your imagination run wild and create some works of art out of things you find in the woods! Booking essential: moray&aberdeenshire@forestry.gsi. gov.uk

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HOMECOMING 2014

RACE THE CASTLES 2014

FRASERBURGH SUPER SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire

The new International Orienteering Festival is a great way to experience some of the most famous parts of Scotland on foot!

Following on from a weekend of urban racing in Edinburgh and Stirling, here’s a chance to try classic orienteering through the forests and sand dunes of Royal Deeside.

SOUND FESTIVAL 23 OCTOBER - 10 NOVEMBER, Woodend Barn, Banchory, Aberdeenshire

> BALMORAL CASTLE SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER (10AM-2PM) Balmoral Castle, Ballater Classic orienteering in the grounds and forests of Balmoral - the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Incorporating the UK Senior Home Internationals.

> SANDS OF FORVIE

Sound - Scotland’s most prominent annual festival of new music - is celebrating its 10th year by focusing on new approaches to the riches of traditional and indigenous music from within Scotland and across the world. The packed programme features an exciting international lineup, including a collaboration between Orchestre d’Auvergne (France) and Red Note Ensemble (Scotland), as well as late-night concerts, workshops and family events. www.sound-scotland.co.uk

A festive family day out in the coastal town of Fraserburgh, bringing fantastic opportunities to support and buy local - whether it’s a fresh warm doughnut made to order, the best of catches from the North-East coastline, or quality meats from locally-reared beasts. Entertainment includes dance groups, live musicians and cooking demonstrations - and you can also learn more about Fraserburgh’s rich farming and fishing heritage. www.facebook.com/fraserburghsuper-saturdays

DANIEL SLOSS - REALLY?!

22 NOVEMBER The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen

SUNDAY 19TH OCTOBER Newburgh, Aberdeenshire

Fast and furious racing at another iconic Aberdeenshire location. Sands of Forvie is the best open sand dune orienteering area in Scotland. You will have the opportunity to run either as an individual or part of a relay team. Relax on the beach afterwards, and build your own sandcastle!

Incorporating the UK Senior Home International Relay. www.racethecastles.com

The smash-hit, hilarious new show from comedy’s internationally acclaimed and award-winning ‘half-man-half-Xbox’.

With seven consecutive sold-out Edinburgh Fringe seasons under his belt, Daniel has also toured extensively through the UK, Australia & USA, and appeared on a variety of TV comedy shows. www.aberdeenperformingarts.com

www.homecomingscotland.com

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WINTER SPORTS

WHAT DO THE SKI RESORTS OFFER? > Ski and snowboard hire and lessons for all levels > Free car/coach parks > Ski and snowboard schools > Cafés, restaurants, shops and toilets > A great day out surrounded by spectacular scenery!

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? > Several layers; avoid cotton, as it can be cold when wet and dries slowly > A water- and wind-proof outer layer > A warm hat and warm waterproof gloves > Sports sunglasses or ski goggles and lip salve > Ski centres hire ski suits and helmets, as well as boots, skis and snowboards

With two fantastic ski resorts right on our doorstep, learning to ski in the North-East is no slippery task!

Photographs: VisitScotland THE LECHT AND GLENSHEE SKI CENTRES renowned for their excellent ski and snowboard facilities - offer friendly, professional coaching for beginners of all

WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT? > When snow conditions look good! > Be ready to plan quickly; usually January-April is best > School mid-term (February) can be busy > You can register online to be alerted to new snow at the Ski-Scotland website ski.visitscotland.com ...and if you don’t want to wait for snow, you’ll find excellent dry ski slope facilities at Aberdeen Snowsports Centre, Huntly Nordic & Outdoor Centre, and Alford Ski Centre (see ‘Local Flavour’, p12). www.skiaberdeen.com

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ages, as well as for those more seasoned skiers who want to develop their skills.

The resorts benefit from a relatively long snow season, which often stretches from October/November to early April, so there’s plenty of opportunity to practise during autumn, winter and spring.

THE LECHT Located 2,090ft (637m) above sea level, The Lecht, in the eastern Cairngorms, is reached via the picturesque A939, and offers some of the most consistent snow in Scotland. This is helped by a snow-making facility.

The compact, scenic resort has 18 pisted runs extending to 20km, and

there are seven blue and five red runs for the improver or intermediate skier.

The beginners’ area, close to the car park, includes five green-graded runs, as well as the ‘Magic Carpet’ an easy-to-use conveyer-belt style lift. Snowboarding and snowtubing facilities are also available when conditions allow.

The Lecht Ski School offers private or class lessons daily. www.lecht.co.uk

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GLENSHEE Glenshee Ski Centre, which straddles the PerthshireAberdeenshire boundary, is situated at the top of one of the highest roads in the UK, and has a distinctly Alpine atmosphere.

The UK’s largest ski resort, it covers an area of more than 2,000 acres, extending across four mountains and three valleys.

With its 21 lifts and tows, Glenshee offers a choice of 36 runs comprising 40kms of pisted snow. Its extensive snow-making facilities mean the centre enjoys a long season. Its Ski School offers instruction to all levels of ability, and equipment is available to hire.

There are plenty of overnight and eating-out opportunities nearby, at Braemar and Ballater, to the north, and Spittal of Glenshee, Kirkmichael and Blairgowrie, to the south. www.ski-glenshee.co.uk hnoc.nordicski.co.uk Why not take your new-found ski skills abroad to the stunning Swiss Alps? It’s never been easier to reach these top European resorts from Aberdeen International Airport, with easyJet’s new service to Geneva! - see p30-31

LEARNING TO SKI LOCALLY MEANS IT’S EASY TO: > get started - all resorts have great beginners’ slopes > reach, even last-minute - no need for a passport, travel insurance or foreign currency (unless you’re visiting Scotland from overseas) > get friendly, qualified, professional instruction at all resorts > book a short break, with a great choice of local accommodation near each of the resorts

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EXPLORE BELFAST

For those who lived through the 60s and 70s, Belfast might not be top of the list of ‘must-do’ destinations. Yet, a Flybe flying visit to today’s Belfast quickly reveals a city that, while not afraid to face up to its troubled past, is focusing on shaping its future in positive - and prosperous - new ways, reports upBEAT editor Judy Mackie.

Belfast folk love visitors. From taxi drivers to pub landlords; shop assistants to tourist guides, they give you the friendliest welcome, delighted that you’ve chosen to park any preconceptions and spend time exploring their clean and compact city.

One of the best - and most fascinating ways of doing that is to book a guided tour by taxi or bus. My Visit Belfastaccredited Blue Badge Guide, Billy Scott, is not only incredibly eloquent on the history of his native city, but also has a wicked sense of humour that has me sorting out fact from ‘fun fiction’ during the two-hour afternoon taxi tour.

Thankfully, he’s quick to put me straight about the blarney!

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We take in the Cathedral Quarter, where I’m staying at the stylish Ramada Encore Hotel, behind St Anne’s Cathedral,

Moore and Snow Patrol; comedian Frank Carson, and - to my eternal mortification Clodagh Rodgers, of 1971 Eurovision fame.

We pass the beautiful early 20th-century City Hall, which offers guided tours, and Billy tells stories about the many elegant Victorian brick buildings, which include churches, banks, former linen mills (Belfast was once known as ‘Linenopolis’ for its leading role in the Irish Linen trade), and the spectacular Queen’s University.

which features a giant Celtic cross and the 40m-high steel Spire of Hope. Down one of the city-centre entries (alleys) we stop at colourful murals depicting many of Belfast’s celebrated citizens, among whom I identify rock legends Van Morrison, Gary

Then comes the more contemplative part of the tour, as we drive along streets with unforgettable names from the past - the republican Falls Road, with its political murals; the loyalist Shankill Road, adorned by the largest collection of Union

EXPLORE BELFAST

> THE TITANIC BELFAST VISITOR EXPERIENCE Eat out at...

The John Hewitt - a cosy, traditional-style bar and restaurant featuring contemporary artwork and serving outstanding freshlycooked food. The award-winning venue, named after the late Belfast poet and socialist, is owned by the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre, is the haunt of artists, journalists, trade unionists, musicians and writers, and features live music six nights a week.

> ULSTER MUSEUM

The stunning white stone-clad St Anne Square, whose eateries include The Potted Hen, Salt, The House of Zen, and SQ Bar and Grill Restaurant.

It’s Belfast Restaurant Week 4-11 October visit-belfast.com/food > THE BIG FISH, DONEGALL QUAY

flags I’ve ever seen - and we pass Crumlin Road Gaol - now a visitor attraction where political prisoners/terrorists were detained during the Troubles. It’s a sobering journey, but one very popular with UK and international tourists trying to get to grips with the complex history of Northern Ireland and its people. They also have the opportunity to explore the subject further

ship. Perhaps another example of Belfast facing up to its past? “Yes,” agrees Fiona Ure, of Visit Belfast, who says the city that built Titanic is today proud of its immense engineering achievements.

in the Ulster Museum’s gritty exhibition, ‘The Troubles’.

- Game of Thrones is filmed at Titanic Studios - and the whole harbour-front location, at the mouth of the River Lagan, is a pleasant place to wander around, with its cosmopolitan cafés, the Odyssey concert and sports arena, and the moored SS Nomadic - tender to the Titanic, the last White Star Line ship in the world, and a popular visitor attraction and events venue.

Billy’s taxi tour ends in one of the most exciting parts of Belfast: the Titanic Quarter, where the world-famous Harland & Wolff Heavy Industries (home of the giant 96m and 106m ‘Samson’ and ‘Goliath’ gantry cranes and the world’s largest dry dock) has successfully added renewable energy business to its portfolio.

Its heritage as builder of the Titanic, among other famous vessels, is celebrated in the imaginatively-designed Titanic Belfast visitor experience, in whose nine interactive galleries visitors can ‘fly’ through the shipyard, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the true legend of the ill-fated

The rapidly-developing Titanic Quarter has also recently attracted the aviation, conference/exhibition and film industries

I leave this dynamic city as it prepares for a busy festival season of food, fashion and culture. Buoyant Belfast has much to look forward to! www.visit-belfast.com www.touringaroundbelfast.com

Shop at...

CastleCourt shopping centre, in the city centre, which offers more than 80 stores, 15 food venues and a multi-storey car park Victoria Square, where you can enjoy the spectacular city views, shop and eat on four levels, and visit the eight-screen Odeon Cinema The world-class Co Culture, specialising in producing and serving single-origin artisan chocolates and gourmet coffee

Relax and enjoy...

The colourful and exotic Victorian Palm House at the Belfast Botanic Garden, home to the Ulster Museum - entry is free!

Fly with Flybe from Aberdeen to Belfast - and you’ll be there well within the hour!

IMAGES: VISIT BELFAST

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EXPLORE HOUSTON

The fourth-largest city in the USA, Houston combines the cosmopolitan with the ‘down-home’, with its strong focus on arts and cultural excellence, and its straightforward, Southern style.

Houston’s impressive modern architecture reflects its solid industrial and business heritage - the city has made its name in oil, finance, aerospace and shipping. But it also boasts more than 650 urban green spaces, including 1,500 acres of parkland right in the heart of the city.

Downtown’s dynamic arts scene includes professional resident ballet, opera, symphony and theatre companies, and

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> MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS you’ll find no fewer than 18 cultural centres in the nearby Museum District.

With more than 8,000 restaurants offering award-winning cuisine representing more than 35 countries and American regions, it’s little wonder that Houston’s 2.2 million residents dine out more often than residents of any other US city!

Foodies will get a real flavour of what’s on offer by joining a Houston Culinary Tour - a chef-led exploration of the city’s eclectic tastes.

Shoppers will love Houston’s numerous stylish malls, not to mention its 6.5-mile, pedestrianised underground city!

The word ‘Houston’ is, of course, synonymous with space travel - the city broadcast Neil Armstrong’s famous “small step” around the globe - so a visit to Space Center Houston is a must. Visitors are swept into outer space via simulations and films, and, once back on terra firma, can take a tram to NASA/Johnson Space Center, to see astronauts and engineers in action.

Insert images: (LEFT) Shannon O'Hara, (RIGHT) Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

Big, bold and bursting with energy ‘H-Town’ , as it’s affectionately known to the locals, is not only a thriving business centre, but also offers a wonderful array of visitor attractions for all the family.

EXPLORE HOUSTON

With so many fantastic attractions on offer, it can be hard to choose which to visit during your stay...

The Award for ‘Houston’s best-kept secret’ goes to: JPMORGAN CHASE TOWER At more than 1000 feet, the Chase Tower is the tallest composite building in the world. The 60th-floor Sky Lobby offers a spectacular vista of Houston - including the Reliant Stadium, the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria, Greenway Plaza and Joan Miró’s 55-foot steel sculpture, Personage With Birds.

> HERMANN PARK

Here's where some reliable inside information can help...

VisitHouston.com asked local people to vote for their favourite places and experiences for 2014 - and some of the winners are: Museum Art Gallery Cultural Experience Performing Arts Group Houston Public Art Houston Attraction

Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts Houston Miller Outdoor Theatre Theatre Under The Stars The Waterwall Kemah Boardwalk

Houston Brewery Tour Houston Golf Course Historic Site Houston Spa Sports Team Annual Event in Houston Kids Activity Hiking Trail Place to take a Visitor Event or Festival Free Thing to do in Houston Place to take a Photo Houston Souvenir Houston Boutique Store Kid-friendly restaurant Breakfast restaurant Hotel Restaurant

Saint Arnold Brewing Company Hermann Park Golf Course Miller Outdoor Theatre Houstonian Trellis Spa Houston Texans Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Houston Zoo Memorial Park Kemah Boardwalk Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

> At 634 square miles, the City of Houston could contain the cities of New York, Washington, Boston, San Francisco, Seattle, Minneapolis and Miami. > Eighty-three languages are spoken in Houston. > In 1969, “Houston” was the first word spoken from the moon. The Apollo 11 mission established a place in history for the city when astronaut Neil Armstrong spoke the now-famous line: “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed.” > The city’s temperate climate sustains tropical vegetation, allowing residents a pleasant outdoor lifestyle. In a statistically average year, Houston experiences 90.3 ‘clear’ days in October and November; 114.5 ‘partly-cloudy’ days during June- September, and 160.3 ‘cloudy’ days, common during December-May. There have been only 14 measurable snowfalls since 1939. > Twenty-five companies on the Fortune 500 list call Houston home.

As the Energy Capital of Europe, Aberdeen has close and long-established business links with Houston, the Energy Capital of the World. Whether you fly there for business or leisure - or a combination of both - you have the choice of travelling to Houston with six global carriers from Aberdeen International Airport: Air France, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, SAS and Virgin Atlantic.

Miller Outdoor Theatre The Waterwall Goode Company Pecan Pie Kuhl Linscomb Downtown Aquarium The Breakfast Klub Monarch Restaurant at Hotel ZaZa

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

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LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS

NEW YORK, USA WITH AER LINGUS Experience the electric atmosphere of the city that never sleeps. The Big Apple has something for everyone, from shopping and sightseeing to culture and cuisine. New York is home to some of the world’s most recognised landmarks, including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway, Times Square and Brooklyn Bridge. And it’s closer than you think...fly Aer Lingus from Aberdeen via Dublin and you can check your bags straight through and pre-clear US Immigration, saving you time on arrival.

Fly Aer Lingus to New York via Dublin. www.aerlingus.com

BRASILIA, BRAZIL WITH AIR FRANCE The splendid capital of Brazil is also one of its newest gems. Inaugurated in 1960, in what was parched desert, Brasilia today is the ideal place to combine business and discovery, as it’s famous worldwide for its stunning modern architecture. Brasilia is included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list of cultural sites, so a visit to goes far beyond business and holds many pleasures, including the Cathedral of Our Lady of Aparecida, or Oscar Niemeyer’s many avant-garde buildings.

Fly Air France to Brasilia via Paris Charles de Gaulle. www.airfrance.co.uk

06.

BANGKOK, THAILAND WITH KLM Love shopping, sandy beaches, temples, luxury hotels and a dynamic nightlife? Thailand is your holiday dream.

Book flights to Bangkok and discover ancient architecture; wander through traditional markets, or sip a sublime coconut drink in one of the many bars. Visit the Royal Palace and try a Thai curry at the Suan Lim night market. If time permits, why not explore the coast of Phuket, Khao Yai National Park, or the ancient capital of Ayutthaya... a trip to Thailand can become a journey of inspiration.

Fly KLM to Thailand via Amsterdam. www.klm.com

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC Johannesburg is a fantastic destination for winter sun. If coffee shops and bars are your thing, visit the trendy suburb of Melville.

Delve into South Africa’s history at the fascinating Apartheid Museum. Wildlife-watchers will find the world’s most magnificent creatures congregating on Africa’s stage. Experience some of it first-hand at nearby Oudtshoorn and give ostrich riding a go! Or relax at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical garden: with 740 acres of wide open space, there’s plenty of room for your picnic rug.

Fly Virgin Atlantic to Johannesburg via London Heathrow. www.virginatlantic.com

With seven global carriers at Aberdeen International Airport, there’s a world of choice to connect long-haul to any global destination, through London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, or Dublin.

TOKYO, JAPAN WITH SAS From the ‘white noise’ of Akihabara to the tranquil Imperial gardens and temples in Chiyoda, Japan’s capital city is a dream destination for any culture-seeking traveller. Tokyo is a modern, neon-flashing metropolis that won’t fail to impress.

Let the journey be part of the experience and fly to Tokyo with SAS. Enjoy our superior onboard comfort and excellent service, together with our world-class punctuality. When you travel with SAS, you can choose from three service classes: SAS Go, SAS Plus and SAS Business.

Fly SAS to Tokyo via Copenhagen. www.flysas.co.uk

MAURITIUS, MAURITIUS WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS With its myriad contrasting colours and flavours, this fantasy island, set in the turquoise Indian Ocean, is an oasis of tranquillity for honeymooners, families, golfers and deep-sea fishers.

Mauritius is a melting pot blending past and present, with the renowned Grand Bay shopping and leisure paradise; impressive 19th-century Maheswarnath Hindu temple, in the village of Triolet; lively Pereybere beach resort, and exotic flora and fauna, which can be explored on mountain biking or hiking trips into the heart of the island.

Fly British Airways to Mauritius via London Heathrow. www.ba.com

HONG KONG WITH LUFTHANSA Find out why Asia’s global city has been described as ‘indescribable’ and the ‘coolest city on earth’ by checking out Hong Kong’s main attractions, including: the glittering Avenue of Stars; the Peak - the island’s highest point, offering stunning views of the cityscape; Ocean Park Hong Kong; Hong Kong Disneyland; the Ladies’ Market; Temple Street Night Market; the cultural Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade; Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple - home to Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, and the historic Clock Tower.

Fly Lufthansa to Hong Kong via Frankfurt. www.lufthansa.com 27

PLANE TALKING

TRIP BACK IN TIME As it’s Aberdeen International Airport’s 80th anniversary year, let’s take a brief trip back to the city in 1934, the year it all began...

Aberdeen is in the middle of a period of rapid development, as urban slums continue to be cleared to make way for modern housing estates.

The British Association for the Advancement of Science holds its 102nd meeting in the city, with discussions including the future of rail transport and ‘photoelectricity’.

Local residents are still reeling from the shock of the grisly springtime ‘Sack Murder’ of young city girl, Helen Priestly, at the hands of her tenement neighbour, Jeannie Donald. Everyone is now closely following newspaper reports of the ongoing trial.

On a lighter note, weekend dances at Aberdeen Beach Ballroom - which the City Council have just taken full management of - are as popular as ever, and many a match is made to current hits such as Cole Porter’s I Get a Kick out of You, Dick Powell’s I’ll String Along With You, and You’re the Top, by Paul Whiteman and his Orchestra.

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It’s a golden age for cinema, too, with opulent picture houses providing more cinema seats per head of population than in any other UK city. Playing at ‘The Starrie’ (Star Picture Palace, Park Street) is Happiness Ahead, starring Dick Powell and

fashions of the day, reflecting Chanel’s ‘understated elegance’, Schiaparelli‘s ‘hard-edge’ chic’ - and all with pronounced padded shoulders. Matching hats and gloves are still essentials. Meanwhile, during football season, huge crowds are

Josephine Hutchinson. Big hits this year include The Barretts of Wimpole Street, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Tarzan and His Mate. Residents of the relatively new Kittybrewster area are eagerly awaiting the opening of the grand Astoria Cinema, currently being built directly opposite the similarly Art Deco Northern Hotel - also under construction.

throwing their caps in the air at Pittodrie Stadium, where Bob Fraser, new skipper of Aberdeen Football Club, is making his mark.

On Saturdays, Union Street, St Nicholas Street and George Street are the main shopping magnets for the ladies, where well-established department stores Watt & Grant, Falconers, Esslemont & McIntosh, Reid & Pearson and Isaac Benzie’s display the new, ready-to-wear

The rest is history - and you can read all about it in ‘About Us’ at: www.aberdeenairport.com

And on a certain summer Saturday - 28 July 1934 - more excited crowds gather for the formal opening by Lord Arbuthnott of Scotland’s largest airport: Dyce Airfield!

WORDS WORTH READING

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

‘Page-turner’ is a horribly overused phrase - but that is exactly what James Patterson’s Invisible is. Patterson has the uncanny ability to draw you in to the story almost from the first page, and his development of characters leaves you with no choice but to read “just a few more pages...”

You would imagine such a prolific author would find it increasingly difficult to maintain originality, particularly within the crime genre. However, each new book manages to retain the creative spark and would stand alone as a good read. Invisible plays more to Patterson’s darker side, as he

I’ve chosen Think Like a Freak: How to Think Smarter about Almost Everything, the latest offering from Freakenonomics authors Steven D Levitt and Stephen J Dubner. Dubiously, the title suggests the writers are entering the ‘cash-cow’ territory of the Popular Psychology market. Yet, beyond the title, the same quirky examples of everyday

creates a chilling world that there seems no way out of. The only question is: how many times will you say “just a few more pages” before the novel is finished?

CRAIG STEVENSON, Manager Bon Accord & St Nicholas Shopping Centres

human behaviour are the draw, rather than any real instruction as to how to train your mind in a lifechanging manner. If you enjoy seeing the world in a slightly different light through the power of fiction, it is worth giving this book a go to experience the transformative powers of cold hard fact.

SHANE STRACHAN, Writer and University of Aberdeen PhD Student

Karin Slaughter’s Cop Town a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller set in 1974 - revolves around a series of brutal, execution-style killings of six local policemen, which rocks the city of Atlanta, Georgia. There’s an interesting twist, with tension building over traditional, male-dominated policing versus the alternative style

of two new lady police partners who want to go their own way to find the killer. With possibly explosive repercussions within the police department, which path do they take...? Definitely a book worth reading!

EILEEN MCBAY, Sales Manager, Eastern Airways

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CITY BREAK

Geneva is the gateway to a fantastic selection of superb ski resorts - most within 90 minutes of the airport, which has excellent road and rail connections.

The French region of Haute Savoie borders both Switzerland and Italy, and is home to resorts such as Chamonix, Morzine and Avoriaz, which offer breathtaking views, world class ski and snowboarding slopes, and a variety of pre- and apri-ski activities.

Within an hour’s transfer from the airport, the picturesque Le Grand-Bornand, Aravis also has pistes for all the family, as well as a kids’ ski school, a skating rink and a toboggan run.

For those who prefer more leisurely pursuits, Geneva itself is a perfect gem of a city. Voted ‘Europe’s Leading City Break Destination 2014’ at the World Travel Awards, it sits snugly between its namesake lake and the beautiful, snow-capped Mont Blanc.

The unique landmark Jet d’Eau, on the shore of Lake Geneva, shoots water 140 metres into the sky, and is best seen from the Bains des Pâquis city-centre ‘beach’, where the smart set meet year-round for a swim and a sauna - or from a boat cruise on the lake.

Geneva’s Old Town is overlooked by the historic St Peter’s Cathedral, whose tower offers panoramic

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views of the city. Another ancient must-see is the Reformation Wall, in the scenic Parc de Bastions, whose four giant statues mark Geneva’s important role in religious history.

In another beautiful park, the Jardin Anglais, you’ll find the famous Flower Clock - a living timepiece featuring the world’s longest second hand. The floral marvel comprises around 6,500 flowers and plants, whose arrangements change with the seasons.

Geneva, also known as the ‘Capital of Peace’, is home to the Palais des Nations - the European headquarters of the United Nations and the centre of world diplomacy. It’s also the birthplace of the internet and the epicentre of particle physics - don’t miss a visit to CERN laboratory’s remarkable Globe of Science, with its ‘Universe of Particles’ exhibition.

Art can be browsed in Geneva’s Bains district, which houses MAMCO - Switzerland’s largest contemporary art museum - as well as private art galleries and bistros. And for an exquisite Swiss shopping experience, visit the jewellery and fashion boutiques of the smart and stylish Rue du Rhône.

Fly easyJet to Geneva from Aberdeen International Airport www.easyJet.com

COMPETITION

Fligh ts 13th D starting ecem 2014! ber

Whether you’re a skier, a shopper, a sightseer - or all three - here’s a wonderful opportunity to visit the picturesque and cosmopolitan city of Geneva, courtesy of easyJet’s new service from Aberdeen.

Start your Swiss adventure here!

Win:

µ Two return flights from Aberdeen to Geneva. µ Priority parking for your trip. µ Priority security through Aberdeen International Airport. µ No charge for single item of hold luggage per passenger.

Enter online aT www.aberdeenairport.com/competitions Terms & Conditions apply. See online for details.

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BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP NOW AT - www.aberdeenairport.com/destinations

Routes are correct at time of publication, but are subject to change. Please check with your airline for any alteration or u ADVERTISEMENT

INTERNATIONAL: > AMSTERDAM with KLM > BERGEN with Wideroe > BODRUM with Thomas Cook > 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 > FUERTEVENTURA with Thomas Cook > GENEVA with easyJet (December 2014) > IBIZA with Thomson & First Choice > KRISTIANSUND with bmi regional > MENORCA with Thomas Cook > 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 > RIGA with airBaltic > SICILY with Newmarket Holidays > STAVANGER with Eastern Airways, SAS & Wideroe > TENERIFE with Thomas Cook, Thomson & First Choice > VERONA with Newmarket Holidays

> KIRKWALL with Loganair > LEEDS BRADFORD with Eastern Airways & Flybe (from October 2014) > LONDON CITY with British Airways & Flybe (from October 2014) > LONDON GATWICK with easyJet > LONDON HEATHROW with British Airways & Virgin Atlantic > LONDON LUTON with easyJet

> MANCHESTER with bmi regional & Flybe > NEWCASTLE with Eastern Airways > NORWICH with bmi regional & Eastern Airways > SCATSTA with Eastern Airways > SOUTHAMPTON with Eastern Airways & Flybe (from October 2014) > STORNOWAY with Eastern Airways > SUMBURGH with Loganair > WICK with Eastern Airways

Co-operative Travel co-operativetravel.co.uk Eastern Airways easternairways.com easyJet easyjet.com First Choice firstchoice.co.uk Flybe flybe.com KLM klm.com Loganair logainair.co.uk Lufthansa lufthansa.com

Newmarket Holidays SAS Thomas Cook Thomson Virgin Atlantic Wideroe

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 & Flybe (from October 2014) > HUMBERSIDE with Eastern Airways > JERSEY with Flybe

AIRLINES & TOUR OPERATORS: airBaltic airbaltic.com Aer Lingus aerlingus.com Air France airfrance.co.uk Atlantic Airways atlantic.fo Balkan Holidays balkanholidays.co.uk Barrhead Travel barrheadtravel.co.uk bmi regional bmiregional.com British Airways ba.com

newmarketholidays.co.uk flysas.com thomascook.com thomson.co.uk virgin-atlantic.com wideroe.no/en

updates, or visit the website: www.aberdeenairport.com before travelling.

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HOUSES & GARDENS

here are 17 castles and stately homes to explore in the Shire, all within easy reach of Aberdeen.

You can wander through their impressive interiors, absorbing stories of the past; browse and enjoy local crafts and produce in their gift shops and cafés; stroll through their wonderful walled gardens, and follow their many and

CASTLE FRASER, GARDENS & ESTATE This atmospheric 15th-century baronial castle was the ancestral home of the Fraser family and gives a real sense of life from medieval to Victorian times. Explore the castle and experience the atmosphere of the family home, with its portraits, furniture and mementos.

diverse countryside trails.

Many of these popular venues are open throughout the autumn and winter, offering a programme of seasonal family activities during weekends and the October school holidays. Check opening times before setting off - and enjoy a grand day out!

Highlights include: the Great Hall, dating back to the 1400s; a library filled with family books, and the grand Worked Room, featuring 18th-century embroideries. Visit the round tower, which has panoramic views of the gardens and estate, whose two easily-followed trails through parkland, farmland and woodland, open out to give splendid views of Bennachie.

LOCATION: Sauchen, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire (a 30-minute drive from Aberdeen) AUTUMN/WINTER EVENTS: > 11-24 October: Children’s Hedgehog Crafts & Quiz

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> 25-26 October: Rush on a Brush fun family Halloween trail through the castle > 22-23 November: Exclusively Highlands Christmas Craft and Food Fair > 13-14 December: Christmas through the Ages

HOUSES & GARDENS

CRATHES CASTLE, GARDEN & ESTATE

LOCATION: Crathes, Banchory, Aberdeenshire (a 40-minute drive from Aberdeen)

AUTUMN/WINTER EVENTS: > 30 September & throughout October: Archaeological Excavations at Crathes - discover traces of the castle’s long history buried beneath sweeping green lawns. > 1-2 November: Exclusively Highlands Christmas Fair > 20-24 November: Enchanted Castle 2014 - a spectacular sound and light show illuminating Crathes Castle and its winter woodland surroundings. www.theenchantedcastle.info > 6-7 December: Christmas Weekend - meet Santa and his reindeer

Designed by Scottish architect William Adam in 1732, Haddo House is a

AUTUMN/WINTER EVENTS: > 25-26 October: Griselda the Witch’s

magnificent example of a historic Scottish stately home. Originally Palladian in style, the house now has late Victorian interiors after a 19th-century refurbishment, and is renowned for its stunning decorated ceilings. It also has impressive collections of period furniture, ceramics and art, including paintings by Sir Thomas Lawrence and James Giles. The house is open for guided tours only, but the grounds are open all year round. These include the formal terrace garden and Haddo Country Park, with its lakes, monuments, woodland walks and deer park.

Halloween Tea Party > 1-2 November: Christmas Craft Fair

An enchanting 16th-century tower house, Crathes is surrounded by 240 hectares of formal gardens, woodland walks and rolling Scottish countryside. Turrets and towers, winding staircases, ornate ceilings and ancient sculpted yew trees, combined with a café, gift shop, children’s adventure playground for children, the North-East’s only Go Ape treetop adventure, and the Arting Around studio, make it an unmissable family day out!

HADDO HOUSE & GARDENS

LOCATION: Haddo House, Methlick, Aberdeenshire (a 40-minute drive from Aberdeen)

Details of all three venues are available at: www.nts.org.uk You can download the official Castle Trail leaflet at: www.tinyurl.com/castletrail

PHOTOGRAPHS: National Trust for Scotland

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TERMINAL TRANSFORMATION

Hot on the heels of the opening of the smart new vestibule comes the next phase of the Airport’s major Terminal Transformation project - an upgrade to WHSmith’s landside store and a new catering concept - Joe’s Coffeehouse.

It’s all happening behind the hoarding, and all will be revealed in time for Christmas!

"We’re very excited to enter the next phase of the terminal transformation by using existing retail space to create two great opportunities,” explains Airport Retail Operations Manager Jemma Forrest.

“Our passengers tell us they would like to see more

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choice, and by bringing in a brand new catering experience, we believe we are going some way in delivering this to them.”

TRG (The Restaurant Group) has a significant presence in the airport and high street catering markets, with major brands such as Frankie and Benny’s, Giraffe, Chiquito, The Filling Station, and EAT. At Aberdeen International Airport, TRG will launch Joe’s Coffeehouse - a successful brand currently operating in Bournemouth and Standsted Airports.

If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of eating at Joe’s in these locations, here’s a flavour of what you can expect in Aberdeen very soon...

TERMINAL TRANSFORMATION

> Yvonne Birch, Head of Property & Retail Operations and David Robertson, Store Manager, WDF, with the plans for the new shop

Packed with personality, Joe’s Coffeehouse is proud of its barista coffee and freshlymade food. You’ll find seasonal products, local products and exciting new flavour combinations, as well as traditional well-loved dishes. If you’re not after a steaming hot espresso, cappuccino or latte, perhaps Joe’s can tempt you with a delicious fresh fruit juice or a wonderfully indulgent smoothie - or one of Joe’s own sandwiches, salads, soups and extra special treats. Many have tried, but no one can resist a little nibble of one of Joe’s delicious cupcakes! Joe’s welcomes everyone with a smile and warm welcome, no matter what time of the day.

Jemma says: “TRG has committed a considerable investment over the duration

of the Terminal Transformation project for all four of their catering units across the site, showing how committed they are to serving our Aberdeen passengers.

“Joe’s will appeal to all passengers, whether they need a quick ‘coffee fix’ in time for an early morning flight, or they’re visiting the terminal to see off friends and family. Everything is freshly-made on site and will cater for all tastes, from those with a sweet tooth to those with a healthy option in mind. We can’t wait to welcome the Joe’s team and brand into the Airport.”

See 'Behind the Scenes with Retail' - p46-48

Have no fear - while the popular retailer upgrades its landside store behind the scenes this autumn, WHSmith has temporarily relocated to the main arrivals area, beside Travelex, where it’s business as usual.

The new-look store will re-open in November, having undergone a major facelift in line with WHSmith’s other airport outlets.

Jemma says: “WHSmith is one of our partners investing significant amounts to upgrade both its landside and airside stores as part of the Terminal Transformation project.

We’re looking forward to continuing our great relationship with them and will be very excited to unveil the new landside store to our passengers, just in time for Christmas.”

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WHAT’S ON

· HOME · INTERNATIONAL

2ND OCTOBER

Royal Scottish National Orchestra Music Hall, Aberdeen

4TH - 12TH OCTOBER

20TH - 26TH OCTOBER

Aberdeen Film Festival Cineworld Cinema, Aberdeen

Tennis: WTA Championships Singapore

7TH - 28TH OCTOBER

22ND OCTOBER

DanceLive Festival Venues across Aberdeen

Comedy: Mark Watson: Flaws The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen

13TH - 18TH OCTOBER

23RD OCTOBER - 10TH NOVEMBER

Comedy: One Man, Two Guvnors His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

Music: Sound Festival Venues across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

2ND OCT ROYAL SCOTTISH NATIONAL ORCHESTRA

20TH - 26TH OCT WTA CHAMPIONSHIPS

20TH - 22ND OCTOBER 3RD OCTOBER

Business: Low Carbon Networks & Innovation Conference Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

25TH OCTOBER

30TH OCTOBER - 1ST NOVEMBER

Comedy: Ross Noble Music Hall, Aberdeen

Aberdeen Country Fair Belmont Street, Aberdeen

Scottish Opera: La Cenerentola His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

3RD - 12TH OCTOBER

20TH - 25TH OCTOBER

28TH - 30TH OCTOBER

30TH OCTOBER - 2ND NOVEMBER

Haddo Arts Festival Haddo House, Aberdeenshire

Hercule Poirot: Black Coffee His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

Business: Hydro14: Energy & Enterprise Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

International Street Market Belmont Street, Aberdeen

6TH - 8TH NOVEMBER

23RD NOVEMBER

Stonehaven Real Ale Festival

Aberdeen Christmas Lights Switch-on

Stonehaven Town Hall

Union Street, Aberdeen

15TH NOVEMBER - 21ST

23RD NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Formula 1: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi

Christmas Continental Market Belfast, Northern Ireland

5TH NOV FIREWORKS DISPLAY

26TH - 28TH NOVEMBER 1ST NOVEMBER

18TH - 22ND NOVEMBER

Comedy: Dave Gorman Music Hall, Aberdeen

Musical: Barnum His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

Business: Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

5TH NOVEMBER

22ND - 23RD NOVEMBER

27TH NOVEMBER

30TH NOVEMBER

Fireworks Display Queen’s Links, Aberdeen Beach

Christmas Arts, Crafts & Food Fair Castle Fraser, Aberdeenshire

Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On Castlegate, Aberdeen

Music: Deacon Blue Music Hall, Aberdeen

6TH NOVEMBER

19TH - 23RD NOVEMBER

30TH NOVEMBER - 4TH JANUARY

Oil & Gas UK Awards Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

Enchanted Castle Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire

Pantomime: Beauty & the Beast His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

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23RD NOV FORMULA 1: ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX

WHAT’S ON

FIRST 3 SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER

7TH DECEMBER

Aberdeen Country Fair Christmas Markets Belmont Street, Aberdeen

Comedy: Paul Sinha The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen 8TH DECEMBER

6TH - 14TH DECEMBER

Christmas Craft Week Arts Centre, Monymusk, Aberdeenshire

Music: Peter Gabriel Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

20TH DECEMBER 18TH DECEMBER

3RD - 7TH DECEMBER

6TH DECEMBER

Swimming: World Short Course Championships Doha

Music: The Red Hot Chilli Pipers Music Hall, Aberdeen

5TH - 24TH DECEMBER

Pinocchio Arts Centre Theatre, Aberdeen

Royal Scottish National Orchestra Music Hall, Aberdeen

Ministry of Crafts: Craft Fair Crown Terrace Methodist Church, Aberdeen

Music: One Night of Queen Music Hall, Aberdeen 31ST DECEMBER

19TH DECEMBER 6TH DECEMBER

6TH DEC THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS

BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra: Christmas Classics Music Hall, Aberdeen

Hogmanay Fireballs Festival Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

In 2014 Scotland welcomes the world to join in our exciting Year of Homecoming.

In addition to the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup, there's a year-long programme of events and activities to showcase all that's great about Scotland.

To find out what’s on in the North-East during the next few months, see Autumn Homecoming, P16-17.

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SUMMER 2015

With the long winter months looming, there’s nothing more cheering than planning your escape to next summer’s sunshine!

Explore the Algarve

Stunning Sicily

Escape next summer to Portugal direct from Aberdeen International Airport.

Join Newmarket Holidays on one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating and beautiful islands - Sicily.

Portugal’s winning combination of sandy beaches, dramatic scenery and worldclass golf courses has kept it firmly on the holiday map for decades. And if all that isn’t enough, the country also has great weather credentials, basking in around 300 days of sunshine a year.

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost strip, isn’t just about ribbons of golden sand and world-famous golf courses.

It also has a great mix of modern resorts and traditional towns. Families can also enjoy a superb lineup of waterparks, theme parks, and restaurants where little ones are always welcome.

To book today, browse www.firstchoice.co.uk, or visit your local Thomson travel shop.

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Set between the ‘toe’ of Italy and Africa, Sicily has been influenced by many cultures and is a place of breathtaking natural beauty. Picturesque resorts and beaches dot the coast, while, inland, quaint hill-towns cling to volcanic slopes, and a wealth of ancient monuments await discovery.

This resort-based holiday will give you the chance to stay in charming hotels and enjoy warm waters, fine dining, Sicilian hospitality and - on optional excursions - explore beguiling sights, such as the stunning hill-top town of Taormina, the ancient treasures of Agrigento, and snow-capped Etna. www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

SUMMER 2015

Take your pick in Palma

First class Bourgas

Try Tunisia!

Ever-popular Majorca really does have something for everyone!

Balkan Holidays’ new Premier Selection brings together our leading 4 and 5 star hotels on Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea coastline.

Sun-kissed Tunisia entices and delights many people for many reasons. The Romans loved it, and so do we!

It’s packed with pristine beaches, which are perfect for soaking up the sunshine but that’s far from the whole story. From pulsing clubs to culture and history; from tasty tapas to fish and chips, and from bustling resorts to breathtaking scenery, you’ll find variety wherever you look.

Choose from Barrhead Travel’s wide selection of resorts and accommodation options.

Majorca is an ideal departure point for cruises, too, so why not combine a holiday on land with a week at sea?

As specialist operator to the region, we have hand-picked these hotels based on our personal knowledge of their excellent service, quality, prime location and overall customer satisfaction.

Balkan Premier Selection customers are also entitled to a range of additional benefits, including: a priority transfer; additional 10kg baggage allowance (ie 30kg per person); premium representative service, and a welcome pack. Additional benefits vary per hotel, but can include a late check-out room, discounts on spa services and wine on arrival.

Barrhead Travel’s direct flights from Aberdeen to Palma make it easy to plan an unforgettable getaway. Call us on 01224 578270 to find out more.

Our Premier Selection hotels are available in numerous resorts, including Duni, Sozopol and the UNESCO-protected resort of Nessebar.

Landing in Enfidha, you’re right beside the stunning Gulf of Hammamet. At the resort of Hammamet, you’ll find stretches of sand and clear blue waters - a hotspot for watersports and relaxation.

The town of Sousse is perfect if you want the old mixed with the new, such as the ancient walled medina set alongside modern cafés and restaurants.

And if you prefer the quiet and enchanting, visit Djerba, an island off the south-east coast of Tunisia. Stroll around the quaint villages, learn about the culture of the island and take some time to explore the charming markets.

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

www.barrheadtravel.co.uk Book today at: www.balkanholidays.co.uk, or visit your local travel agent.

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BEHIND THE SCENES

There’s more to Retail than meets the eye at Aberdeen International Airport. Our series continues with an insight from Retail Operations Manager Jemma Forrest.

WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT THE AIRPORT? I was born and brought up in Stirling and I came to Aberdeen 13 years ago to study Corporate Communications at the Robert Gordon University. In 2005, I did a six-week placement at the Airport, working for Customer Service. I was asked back that summer, and in my last year at university, I got a job with World Duty Free. When I graduated, I joined full-time as Retail Executive. I then became Airport Duty Manager for two and a half years, and two months ago I re-joined the Retail team in my current role. You get fantastic development experience at the Airport, as you’re given the opportunity to build your confidence and knowledge in different areas, before moving on to the next level.

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> Jemma, Emma and Debbie

HOW MANY ARE IN THE TEAM AND WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE? We’re a team of three, led by Yvonne Birch, Head of Retail and Property.

My assistant, Emma Simpson, is Retail Coordinator. Debbie Clark, our Retail

...it is always well worth their while bringing high-end offerings and world exclusives to Aberdeen!

Ambassador, also supports our sales by helping passengers with their shopping needs.

Our main aim is to create revenue for the Airport, and my role is to look after all

the contracts and concessions that come under the Retail banner. These include: World Duty Free; APCOA (car parking); car rentals (Avis, Enterprise, Europcar/ Alamo and Hertz); The Restaurant Group (The Kitchen, Costa Coffee and The Globe); JD Wetherspoon; Travelex; Dixons; Boots; WHSmith; Rolling Luggage; all vending machines; massage chairs, and advertising sites. Up until two years ago, all our retail contracts were run

by Heathrow Airport and negotiated on a group-wide basis. Now, we are autonomous and we negotiate contracts at a local level, based on our own knowledge of what our passengers want and what works here in Aberdeen.

Being in charge of our own destiny works very well!

I meet with the retail managers regularly

BEHIND THE SCENES

RETAIL FACTS

to discuss performance and update them on opportunities that lie ahead so that they can plan accordingly. These include

Communications teams, to ensure we get our retail messages across to our passengers via the many different forms

forthcoming events in the North-East and extra charters during holiday times.

For example, our car hire colleagues are already planning ahead for next year’s Offshore Europe, which is a very busy time for them (their new, larger centre at the Airport will make a big difference then, too). Immediately on the horizon are the October school holidays, so we’re making sure everyone is prepared for the extra charters, and our World Duty Free colleagues are planning special promotions for the kids.

of media available today.

Our team has also been involved in negotiating all the Terminal Transformation project contracts at local level, and we work closely with the Marketing and

WHAT’S YOUR MAIN CHALLENGE? We are small, compared to many other airports, but our passengers have the highest disposable income outside London.

So we need to keep reminding retailers that it is always well worth their while bringing high-end offerings and world exclusives to Aberdeen!

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS? Very well. Boarding card scanner technology allows us to better understand what our customers like and want, so that we can respond by making sure it’s available at the right time and place.

> Aberdeen International Airport has a total of 1254 car parking spaces. > The multi-storey car park, which was built in record time, celebrated its 5th anniversary on 31 August. > Pre-book online from £4.99 per day for one of our official, on-site car parks at: www.aberdeenairport.com/parking. > A record sale was made in July 2014, when a local customer purchased three bottles of Brora whisky for a total of £21,000. > You can save up to 40% on the high street price of many perfumes/aftershaves (100ml) at World Duty Free. > During World Duty Free’s Whiskyfest 2014 (27 August-14 October), selected whiskies are at least 30% lower than the high street price - a great bargain for those visiting the Whisky Trail. > Dixons at the Airport promises to beat the web prices offered by Amazon, John Lewis and Argos on all Apple products, laptops, cameras and premium headphones. > If you pre-book your currency online at www.travelex.co.uk, you will receive the best online rate available - and you can arrange to pick it up from our landside Travelex store before you fly. > For more information, money-off vouchers and special offers, visit: www.aberdeenairport.com/ shopping-and-eating

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BEHIND THE SCENES

For example, during winter we know that our Norwegian passengers buy a lot of cold and pain relief medicines at our Boots store (many of them are available only on prescription in Norway), so we make sure they’re always well stocked up.

Also, we know that a lot of our offshore travellers love the latest electronic gadgets, and so Dixons offer great value to them with their price promise (see sidebar on previous page).

HOW DO YOU DELIVER VALUE FOR MONEY FOR CUSTOMERS? People automatically think airports are expensive, and there’s no doubt that we have a ‘captive audience’ - but we do ensure we deliver good value for money.

For instance, the larger bottles of perfume and the beauty and whisky offers in World Duty Free are not available at a lower cost anywhere on the high street.

The same goes for our car parking, which is among the cheapest in Scotland. And customers can save over 50% if they book 24 hours beforehand online (see sidebar).

AREN’T THERE CERTAIN ITEMS THAT YOU CAN’T BUY IN WORLD DUTY FREE? If you’re travelling within the European Union (including all UK destinations),

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you can buy anything in World Duty Free, including wines, whisky and champagne.

If you're travelling outwith the EU, you can make the most of the 'Duty Free' offers on liquor and cigarettes. This includes passengers travelling on our new route to Geneva.

Another thing worth noting is that all the airlines allow passengers to take a bag of shopping on board, as well as one item of hand luggage.

Also, for our customers’ convenience, we have a Shop & Collect option, allowing people buying goods before they fly to pick them up on their return to Aberdeen.

HOW DO OTHER AIRPORT OPERATIONS IMPACT ON RETAIL? There are many things that make working in an airport environment different for retailers. One example is that all our stock needs to be securityscreened, so it’s important that we build that logistical operation into our stock control process. I’m about to lead an improvement project to build a new screening area dedicated for retail goods, which will help to streamline that process.

WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL THE TERMINAL TRANSFORMATION PROJECT MAKE TO RETAIL? It’s going to be fantastic! The size of the Security area will increase to allow faster passenger throughput, and that will have a positive impact on our airside retailers.

A 50% larger World Duty Free store will mean more choice for customers, and the new store will include a much larger World of Whiskies section, which is always very popular with tourists and collectors, as Aberdeen has such close links with local distilleries and can offer fantastic deals and special promotions such as tastings.

Every airside retailer needs more space and the Terminal Transformation project will address that by increasing floor space for all of them. The Kitchen will move airside and the landside Costa will go (although the popular airside Costa will remain), freeing up more space for Security and the other airside improvements. And of course, landside, we will have the new-look WHSmith and new Joe’s Coffeehouse as soon as November. We have a lot to look forward to!

See pages 40-41 for the latest Retail transformation news.

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HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND... ...IN ABERDEEN CITY AND SHIRE > ORCHID BAR ABERDEEN

> KING'S MUSEUM

> DUSK BAR

> NICK NAIRN COOK SCHOOL

> KILAU CAFÉ

> THE GRILL

> MALMAISON

> WALK AROUND DEESIDE > CRATHES CASTLE > ROYAL LOCHNAGER DISTILLERY

LOCAL VIEW

Whether you’re a visitor to the area, or a local looking for something different to do, here’s a warming autumn weekend itinerary from Visit Aberdeen showcasing Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire at one of the most colourful times of the year.

DAY 1 - EXPLORING ABERDEEN MORNING Start your visit where it all began, in beautiful Old Aberdeen. With a selfguided tour, you can enjoy soaking up the history in these cobbled streets and alleyways, the ancient home of monks and scholars, traders and travellers. Architectural highlights include the 14th-century St Machar’s Cathedral; the University of Aberdeen’s King’s College, founded by Bishop Elphinstone in 1495, and King’s Museum, with its student-curated exhibitions. Particularly beautiful at this time of year are the Cruickshank Botanic Gardens and Seaton Park, where the foliage is a riot of autumnal colour. Kilau Café and the St Machar Bar offer a cosy haven, right in the heart of Old Aberdeen.

LUNCH Head back to ‘New’ Aberdeen and enjoy lunch on Belmont Street, where appealing cafés and fantastic pub grub are available at every turn. The quirky CUP Tea Salon & Café offers one of the best tea selections in town, along with freshlyprepared sandwiches, cakes and more. Or, if chocolate is your thing, Cocoa Ooze café offers the usual light lunch options and you can round off with some of their hand-made chocolates. These are just two of many great eateries in this city-centre hub.

AFTERNOON Spend the afternoon learning how to cook some Scottish classics at Nick Nairn’s Cook School, at the heart of the city centre.

EVENING Sit back and enjoy a pre-theatre drink at one of our numerous pubs and bars.

From whisky to cocktails, or locallybrewed craft beer - we have it covered!

Internationally-renowned Brewdog originated, and is still brewed, just 20 minutes from Aberdeen. They now have bars from São Paulo to Tokyo - but Aberdeen’s is the original and best!

There’s also 6o North, specialising in Belgian-style beers, brewed in nearby Stonehaven, and The Bottle Cap Bar, which has its brewery on-site.

the famous gardens feature great yew hedges and colourful double herbaceous borders. If you’re visiting during 19-23 November, you can see Crathes in a whole new light, as it takes centre stage as The Enchanted Castle (see page 37).

If cocktails are more your scene, you’re spoiled for choice, with award-winning cocktail bars at every turn - from the chic Dusk, to the kitsch 99 Bar and Kitchen, to the stylish Tippling House.

AFTERNOON Nestled in the hill above Balmoral Castle, Royal Lochnagar Distillery has been distilling whisky since 1826 and was awarded the ‘Royal’ title after Queen Victoria visited in 1848. Today, you can re-trace her steps and take a distillery tour through the whole process - right up to trying a wee dram.

For whisky-lovers, The Grill is a must, with more than 500 whiskies from around the world. More recent additions to the whisky circuit include CASC, which offers regular cask strength tasting nights, and Orchid, with its new whisky wall.

Then relax with an evening of theatre, comedy or music, at one of Aberdeen’s many cultural venues, such as His Majesty’s Theatre, the Music Hall, the Lemon Tree and the Blue Lamp. Check out www.boxofficeaberdeen.com for programmes and tickets.

DAY 2 - A DAY IN ROYAL DEESIDE Autumn is one of the best times of year to explore Deeside, with the native woodland trees a riot of colour along the banks of the River Dee.

LUNCH Close to Crathes Castle, the Milton Brasserie offers delicious food using only the freshest local ingredients. It is set within the Milton of Crathes Craft Village, home to a fabulous range of boutique craft shops and art galleries.

Deeside is also peppered with delightful villages, with gift shops, cafés and small museums, which are well worth a stop along the way. For more information, see: www.visitroyaldeeside.com EVENING Try out some of Aberdeen’s newest restaurants, such as: the Adelphi Kitchen, which specialises in charcoalcooked steaks and seafood, or Rock & Oyster, which also offers great Scottish seafood, particularly imaginativelyprepared mussels!

For more itinerary ideas and information, visit: www.visitaberdeen.com

MORNING Visit Crathes Castle, where fairytale-style turrets, gargoyles and the ancient Horn of Leys, presented by Robert the Bruce in 1323, are just a few of the historic features. A delight at any time of year,

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COMPETITION WINNER

upBEAT accompanied Cabro Aviation’s competition winner (Spring 2014) Jordan Jack on his first-ever flying lesson!

Look out for an update on Jordan’s progress in the next issue.

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BUSINESS

My role is to head up the Administration and to promote our policies and strategies, making sure they are delivered for the people of Aberdeen.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN LOCAL POLITICS? My parents were heavily involved in politics: my mother, June Lamond, was a local Councillor for more than 30 years and my late father, Jim Lamond, was both a Councillor and an MP. I was a Community Councillor for four years and wanted to work for the wider community, so I put my name forward with the Labour Party. I was elected as a Councillor for Midstocket & Rosemount in 2007.

In 2012, I became Labour Group Deputy Leader and also Convener of Education, Culture & Sport. I took over as Aberdeen City Council Leader in May. WHAT DOES YOUR NEW ROLE INVOLVE? The Council is run by a coalition of Labour, Independents and Conservatives. My role is to head up the Administration and to promote our policies and strategies, making sure they are delivered for the people of Aberdeen.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ABERDEEN’S ECONOMIC HEALTH AND ITS DEVELOPMENT GOING FORWARD? We have a buoyant economy, which is heavily reliant on the oil and gas sector. The Airport is also very important to our economy, because of its relationship with the energy sector and the movement of people at the heliports and at the Airport itself, to our international links.

Economic development is essential for the city and the Council must always strive to make sure we’re meeting the needs of that development to ensure Aberdeen is in the best possible shape to attract new business and to encourage people to come here to work, live and visit.

WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF THE AIRPORT? I have some inside experience, as I spent the first five years of my career with Customs & Excise at Aberdeen Airport, as a Customs Officer!

The Airport has always been an important strategic asset to the area and the expansion we’ve seen over recent years is amazing. It’s now one of the fastestgrowing airports in the UK and the heliport operation is Europe’s largest.

As a passenger, I’ve always had good experiences at the Airport. The facilities are good and are set to improve even further, and the team have worked hard to bring in extra routes. A great example of recent partnership working across the city was attracting the Routes Europe conference to Aberdeen in 2015, which top aviation decision-makers will attend. It’s an incredibly prestigious event and Aberdeen’s success in securing it demonstrates the value placed by city organisations on the Airport’s strategic role.

It’s good to see the amount of commercial and hotel property development around the Airport. The Council is very keen to help to promote businesses to set up here, which will provide greater scope for people who want to visit.

BUSINESS

upBEAT asks an ‘insider’ and a newcomer for their perspective on Aberdeen City and Shire.

TRACY HARRISON, General Manager Village Urban Resort, Aberdeen WHAT CAREER PATH HAS LED YOU TO YOUR NEW ROLE IN ABERDEEN? I’m originally from Paisley and grew up in Germany and York. My career started at 15, when I was offered weekend work with Swallow Hotels in York - a job I would identify as career defining. At 17, I was Housekeeping Deputy Manager, looking after 20 staff, and at 19, I had won Employee of the Year and taken on a management position at an independent hotel.

Two years later, I moved to Birmingham to work for Marriot Hotels, where I was Deputy Housekeeping Manager and often supported other hotels as a brand standard ambassador. After four years, I became Housekeeping Manager at Malmaison Birmingham, then Deputy General Manager, before being appointed General Manager at Malmaison Reading and receiving the award of 2012 General Manager of the Year.

My favourite place right now is Aberdeen Beach, where I go running.

AND YOUR EXPERIENCE OF ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT? I’ve been flying regularly since May this year, and there’s no messing around at the Airport! You’re straight in, you can get settled quickly, and it’s a really fastflowing, friendly place that has everything you need.

As we get closer to the opening, we’ll have around 15 people travelling up weekly from our central support office to help us prepare. The great service and speed that we receive from the Airport is a key factor for us, and we find the links and flight timings work well. The 160 jobs we’ve created here, some of which have been internal relocations, will also produce further footfall through the Airport.

After five happy years with Malmaison, I saw Village Urban Resorts as a fantastic new opportunity, not only for my personal development, but to work with a hotel concept that was fast-paced, exciting and very different. I’ve worked for Village at Manchester Bury and Manchester Cheadle, and I’m now General Manager of the new Aberdeen resort which opens at the end of November.

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR IMPRESSION OF ABERDEEN AND THE NORTH-EAST SO FAR? I’ve had such a great first impression. Everybody has been so welcoming. Aberdeen is very clean and I find everything easily accessible. I’ve never encountered such friendly taxi drivers anywhere else I’ve been!

I love the city and countryside here. It’s a different world. The Maritime Museum is amazing, and I’m going to take my team there, so that they can understand the city’s maritime heritage and involvement with the energy industry. I’ve also been to Stonehaven, and plan to visit a distillery soon. I’m very surprised that there are 71 golf courses here!

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THE BEAT GOES ON

THE BEAT Goes On...

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

01. RAFAL WILOWSKI, Machu Picchu 02. SARAH LAKIN, Amsterdam 03. SHAZ COWLING, Mexico 04. PETER MILLER, Geneva 05. RACHEL & ZACHARY, Italy 06. ELAINE & KATIE ANDERSON, Hong Kong 07. EILEEN FENTY, Naples

See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT - go on, be creative!

01.

Send your photo to: upbeat@aiairport.com See the winning picture in the Winter 2014 upBEAT - it could be yours!

(Deadline: 20th November 2014)

02. 03.

04. 05.

06. 07.

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DIARY

03.

01. 02.

04. 05.

World Duty Free staff members dressed up as Disney characters to celebrate the start of the school holidays!

01. Pat Easdon, Gisella Thomas & Gayle Muir 02. Chelsie Riddel, Jenny Simpson & Samantha Nicoll 03. Warren Weber 04. ‘Mickey’ - Diane Buckley & Gisella Thomas 05. Back row: Jenny Simpson, Gayle Muir, ‘Goofy’ - Martyn Walker, ‘Mickey’ & David Robertson; Front row: ‘Minion Dave’ - Donna Emslie, Roslyn Robertson, Chelsie Riddel & Emily Norton 06. ‘Goofy’, ‘Mickey’ & ‘Minion Dave’ are joined by Emily McIntosh (Swissport) & Hannah McGregor (Swissport) 07. Gayle Muir, David Robertson & Gisella Thomas.

06. 07.

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DIARY

Aberdeen International Airport celebrated its 80th anniversary with a staff family fun day and an official cakecutting ceremony.

Shared celebrations: Octogenarian Norman Robertson, from Oldmeldrum, who shares his birthday with the Airport, spent the big day 28 July - as our VIP guest. He’s pictured with Airport MD Carol Benzie, cutting the official birthday cake.

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