Upbeat Magazine - Summer 2014: Aberdeen International Airport

SOAK UP THE SUMMER WIN TWO RETURN TICKETS WITH VIRGIN WORLDWIDE! UPBEAT CHATS TO ABERDEEN FOOTBALL CLUB’S DEREK MCINNES AROUND ABERDEENSHIRE – IN A DAY!

As regular clients of Raemoir we have found it to be one of the very few places in the North-east able to provide an exclusive venue opportunity at the same time offering a genuine Country House setting and experience. It’s hard to beat the seclusion, privacy and indulgence. - GH, Aberdeen

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RAEMOIR HOUSE HOTEL Banchory, Aberdeenshire, Scotland AB31 4ED | +44 (0)1330 824884 | hotel@raemoir.com www.raemoir.com

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CONTENTS

P20 - 22

TEL: +44 (0) 844 481 6666

> EXPLORING LEEDS

P44 - 45

> SUMMER DESTINATIONS

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

P9 - P11 Meet the Locals Wild Dolphins!

FACEBOOK: Search 'Aberdeen Airport'

P36 - P37 Golden Golf - All Set for the Scottish Open P40 - P41 Around Aberdeenshire in a Day!

P12 - P13 Reviews - Fun and Foodie Favourites

P42 - P43 What’s On?

P16 - P17 Summer Homecoming

P44 - P45 Soak Up the Summer

HELPFUL LINKS

P18 - P19 Head for the Hills!

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

P46 - P47 Behind the Scenes National Air Traffic Services

P20 - P22 Lively Leeds

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

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

P23 Competition - Win a Luxury Global Experience with Virgin

P48 - P50 Perspective - Derek McInnes on the Dons P52 Unwind in Oslo

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

P54 - P55 Business Travel Focus

P28 Plane Talking - Confessions of a Frequent Flyer

P58 Competition - The Beat Goes On!

P29 Words Worth Reading

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 (June 2014). Cover: GpointStudio / Thinkstock.

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WELCOME

to this sizzling summer edition of upBEAT, the passenger magazine for Aberdeen International Airport.

Following a strong start to the year, we plan to continue the momentum throughout 2014, while maintaining our Customer Charter commitments. You can catch up with the latest Airport news inside, including the next steps in our terminal expansion plans; our fundraising activities with our charity partner, Friends of ANCHOR, and details of how we plan to mark our upcoming 80th birthday.

Whether you’re a visitor to the North-East or a local resident, upBEAT helps you find a wealth of exciting opportunities to have fun, explore the area, immerse yourself in local culture and experience all the diverse family-friendly activities that Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have to offer during this Year of Homecoming.

We highlight the many delights city breaks in Leeds and Oslo have to offer the leisure visitor - and you’re invited to ‘soak up the summer’ in some of the many popular sunshine destinations available direct from Aberdeen.

There’s also a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into our National Air Traffic Service Unit; a focus on the changing face of business travel, and we catch up with a very upbeat Aberdeen Football Club Manager Derek McInnes, following a highly-successful season!

Enjoy your summer, and we hope to welcome you to our ever-improving Airport again very soon.

CAROL BENZIE, Managing Director, Aberdeen International Airport

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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

On 28 July 1934, Dyce Airport was officially opened. This summer, 80 years on, Aberdeen International Airport is holding a number of events to mark the occasion.

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

The first will thank staff for their hard work in recent years and allow them to take stock of how far the Airport has come in 80 years. Then, on 28 July, the team will be joined by a fellow octogenarian who is also celebrating his birthday on that day, and who will receive VIP treatment with some of his nearest and dearest.

Finally, an event will be held at the Scottish Parliament, to mark the anniversary among the Airport’s key stakeholders.

using a satellite navigation system, the Airport postcode is AB21 7DU.

Sarah Rochester, who has been organising

the events, says: “We are pleased to be able to have a programme which allows everyone to celebrate our birthday. We want to do something to mark this in full view of the passengers, while holding an event for our staff and another for our key stakeholders. There is so much happening, as our terminal redevelopment plans get off the ground, that it feels like an exciting time to be marking a special anniversary.”

If you’re flying from Aberdeen on 28 July, keep your eyes peeled for birthday cake!

BY BICYCLE Aberdeen International Airport is a relatively easy airport to get to by bike. There is a high quality off-road cycle route from the A947 (Dyce) roundabout onwards.

If travelling for a short break an option may be to leave your bicycle in the modern, covered cycle stand at the Airport.

John Deffenbaugh has joined the Airport senior team in the new role of Head of Terminal Redevelopment.

John, who previously worked extensively on the commercial development of T2, The Queen’s Terminal, at Heathrow, brings a wealth of major capital projects experience.

“I am delighted to be joining the Airport team at such an exciting time,” he says. “This is an opportunity to help shape the terminal redevelopment and create the space that we know our customers are seeking.”

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AIRPORT NEWS

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

Airport golf team (l-r): Managing Director Carol Benzie; Security Officer Elaine Wallace; Airside Compliance Manager William Wallace, and Airside Operations Manager Robert Paterson.

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

Aberdeen International Airport has teamed up with charity partner Friends of ANCHOR to promote the work of this vital local organisation in the community.

In recent months, the Airport team has been speaking to a number of people involved with the ANCHOR unit. They include cancer survivors, people whose family have used the ward, and the staff whose work helps to progress our understanding of cancers and their possible treatment. As a result, a short film has been created to tell their story.

The film explains exactly what the ANCHOR unit does, and how its work affects the lives of the many people

who pass through its doors each year.

It is hoped that the film will be a useful tool for the charity in the coming years, allowing them to raise awareness among more people than ever. You can watch the film by heading to the Airport YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/ABZAirport, and you can read more about the charity at: www.friendsofanchor.org

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,

to check-in and clear through security.

> Remember to check the rules on sharps! > Dispose of liquids above 100ml before you

reach the security area.

> Remember that jackets & belts must

Meanwhile, a team from the Airport recently pitched their golfing might against other North-East businesses, at the annual Friends of ANCHOR Gala golf day. The event was held at Peterculter Golf Club and was followed by a gala dinner.

be removed.

> Laptops & mobiles to be presented separately.

FORBIDDEN ANYWHERE ON BOARD

Bus services to and from Aberdeen International Airport have stepped up a gear, with changes to the popular Jet 727 service. The route will see an additional four buses operating; the first bus will now begin its schedule at 0330, and the frequency of buses is increasing.

The changes are in response to demand on the popular service from operator Stagecoach, whose Managing Director Steve Walker says: “We are committed

to providing our passengers with the frequency and number of buses they need and this is an important substantial commitment to one route. We hope even more people will use the Jet 727 bus service, while enjoying a relaxing journey, with comfortable seating, extra leg room and great value tickets.”

You’ll find the bus timetables at the Airport website: www.aberdeenairport.com Transport and Directions tab.

SHARPS: NO BLADES OVER 6CM

100ML MAX: LIQUIDS, GELS & PASTES

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AIRPORT NEWS

Airport Managing Director Carol Benzie has been appointed to the Board of Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC).

A member of the Airport management team since 2008, Carol has held her current role since October 2013 and is a key figure in the Aberdeen business community. She is also a Board member of Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce.

The AECC Board comprises 13 members, from industry, Aberdeen City Council and also includes three members of the venue’s senior management team. Ed Gillespie, Chairman of the AECC Board, said: “We are delighted Carol has joined the Board. This is a very exciting time for the venue and having someone with the Carol’s expertise will be advantageous for the future vision of

Work is moving ahead at pace to enable the start of the full phase of terminal redevelopment at the Airport.

Airport, while increasing the amount of space and light within the building.

In late 2013, the funding was approved for a £15 million redevelopment of the terminal, adding extra space, new baggage facilities, a new security product, and an expanded departure lounge.

The second half of 2014 will see more exciting progress towards the new-look Airport. First, work will begin to refresh the retail and catering offering prior to Security.

Then the first major piece of the puzzle really gets under way, with the demolition of the existing DHL building - the operation has relocated - making way for the building of the extension that will house a large part of the new Arrivals and Executive Lounge areas.

Work has already been completed to add new check-in capacity, and the new desks are now in operation, used

by British Airways passengers. A new vestibule is also preparing to open, bringing a refreshed approach to the

the company.”

Brian Horsburgh, AECC Managing Director, added: “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Carol to the Board and look forward to working with her.”

week, giving our passengers more opportunities to travel than ever before with Thomson and First Choice.

Thomson and First Choice have just announced their flying programme from Aberdeen for 2015. It means a flight for every day of the week direct to a sun-spot and the introduction of a flight to Faro, in Portugal.

“The strength of the programme from Aberdeen this year is choice,” says Airport Managing Director Carol Benzie.

“There is a flight to a sun destination every day of the

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“Adding new destinations, such as Faro, to the portfolio is one of the other key strengths, as it is in the top three requested destinations our customers tell us they would like to see served. This shows how seriously we take leisure route development and is a step towards returning us to our pre-recession position.

“We hope that the North-East public will embrace these new services and make the most of the opportunities from their local airport.”

Read more at www.aberdeenairport.com/news

MEET THE LOCALS

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MEET MEET THE THE LOCALS LOCALS

DOLPHIN-SPOTTING in the city

Around 50 decorated dolphins are making a multicoloured splash in Aberdeen this summer - and you are invited to spot them! The Wild Dolphins Trail has been officially launched as part of a vibrant Wild in Art project that’s challenged local artists to transform life-size white dolphins into unique and engaging sculptures.

The resulting works of art - whose kaleidoscopic designs include graffiti art,

story’, and every one of them is special.”

Mary’s own atmospheric design, ‘Seadog’ - sponsored by Aberdeen Inspired - reflects her strong interest in Aberdeen’s marinebased industries and features images of all kinds of vessels, acrylic-painted in her signature blend of light and dark.

“I wanted to contrast the elaborate structures humans need to create in order to go to sea, with the streamlining and

mosaics and a knitted cover - are simply stunning and great fun to spot at various venues around the city. upBEAT asked three of the artists involved what inspired them to create their own special dolphins.

natural ‘seaworthiness’ of the dolphin,” she says.

Mary Louise Butterworth, of The Butterworth Gallery, the family-run gallery in Aberdeenshire, has not only designed an eye-catching dolphin - she is also the Wild Dolphins art coordinator.

“It’s been a very exciting project to work on,” she says. “Hundreds of dolphin designs were submitted and it was a hard choice for those who selected the 50 designs. Each dolphin has its own ‘back

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Mary’s father, Howard Butterworth, says his famous poppy paintings seeded the idea for his own delightful dolphin, which has deeply personal associations for the renowned artist, who was a favourite of his former neighbour, the late Queen Mother.

year’s contribution to the collection. And, of course, ‘Poppy’ also commemorates the centenary of the First World War. My wife was a strong supporter of military and children’s charities, as am I.” ‘Poppy’ is sponsored by John Clark Motor Group. www.thebutterworthgallery.com

“In memory of my wife Hilary, who died in 2012, I’ve painted the garden of our former home, in Glen Muick,” he explains.

“The red poppies I planted there some time ago inspired me to paint one poppy painting a year, and my dolphin is this

MEET THE LOCALS

Inspired by Nature The Year of Homecoming was the inspiration for Finzean wildlife artist Mel Shand’s dolphin, ‘Adeona’ (the Roman goddess of safe return), which beautifully depicts, in Indian ink, a range of migratory wild birds, fish and insects that return each summer to the North-East.

The wildlife is painted against a backdrop of the confluence of the Rivers Dee and Don, leading the eye upriver to various inland habitats.

“Working on the 3-D surface of the dolphin was a completely new experience for me, and I didn’t want it to stop.

It’s a wonderful, challenging medium,” she says.

Mel’s dolphin is sponsored by Michies the Chemist. www.melshand.com

The Wild Dolphin sculptures are sponsored by local businesses and organisations, and at the end of the summer will be auctioned off for charity.

All proceeds from the project will go to the ARCHIE Foundation at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital, and Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), to help protect local wild dolphins. As part of the scheme, school pupils also designed their own smaller versions of the dolphins, and teachers used the Wild Dolphins

Did you know...that real, live dolphins can often be spotted as close to the city as Aberdeen Harbour?

education pack to bring wildlife to life in the classroom.

To find out more about the Wild Dolphin Trail map and app, visit: www.wilddolphins.org.uk

LOCAL REVIEWS

Looking for a great day or evening out in and around Aberdeen?

Three local reviewers - a student starting out, a business professional and a community volunteer - sample more of the area’s excellent entertainment and eatingout opportunities.

The antique surroundings of Aberdeen’s His Majesty’s Theatre (HMT) were treated to an evening of rock excess, as the Rod Stewart musical Tonight’s The Night rolled into town mid-May. The high-energy West End show, inspired by Stewart’s songs, is written by Ben Elton, and has toured sold-out arenas throughout the UK.

The show featured excellent vocal performances from the full cast, including former Sugababe Jade Ewen.

The fact that the actors were clearly having fun and sometimes failed to keep a straight face, just made the audience enjoy the show more.

Paper sailor hats had been left on seats and the show ended with a sea of waving arms and bobbing hats, as the entire cast belted out a triumphant ‘Sailing’.

The story begins with shy Stuart pining his days away in Gasoline Alley, Detroit, too shy to declare his love to Mary and plagued by not possessing the cool of his idol Rod Stewart. Lamenting his shyness, Stuart announces: “Man, I’d sell my soul to the devil to be as cool as Rod Stewart.”

HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen AB25 1GL Tel: + (0)1224 641122 See HMT’s full summer programme at: wwwaberdeenperformingarts.com

With a crack of thunder, a blonde, bejewelled female Satan promptly appears and serenades Stuart with ‘Tonight’s The Night’, as a group of she-devils give him a star makeover. Satan makes Stuart an offer he can’t refuse - the heart and soul of Rod Stewart for the rest of his days, in return for his own soul.

This sets the stage for a rock 'n’ roll romp that has the crowd clapping along with hits such as ‘Maggie May’ and ‘Baby Jane’.

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> BEN HENDRY, MSc Journalism Student, Robert Gordon University

LOCAL REVIEWS

What a treasure Grampian Transport Museum at Alford is.

As you enter, you’re greeted by an array of old-fashioned motorbikes and the very eccentric-looking Boom Lowrider Billy Connolly rode along Route 66, on one of his TV tours.

Continuing through the Museum, you pass King George VI’s majestic Daimler and an ornate 1915 Romani Wagon, with a small raised bed for the adults and a cupboard underneath for the children!

An employee demonstrated the Mortier Dance Organ, which got all the visitors jigging away.

The biggest hits with our two children, however, were the Penny Farthing, the exhibit on the Great Train Robbery, the former US Army vehicle-turned-Aberdeenshire-snowplough, and the Star Wars memorabilia in the 1960s-90s pop culture section which complements some of the transport icons of that era.

A really big plus point of the Museum is that many of the exhibits can be climbed on - a guaranteed hit with the younger visitors.

A large Scorpion tank and some climbing and jumping in the outdoor play area rounded off a great day out.

With its permanent and visiting exhibitions and associated family events throughout the year, it’s easy to see why Grampian Transport Museum was voted 'Best Visitor Attraction' at this year’s Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards.

GRAMPIAN TRANSPORT MUSEUM Alford, Aberdeenshire AB33 8AE Tel: + 44 (0)1975 562292 www.gtm.org.uk

> SALLY BOWMAN, Volunteer/ Fundraiser with Friends of Anchor

In June 1976, chef Didier Dejean opened his restaurant on Aberdeen’s sea front, bringing French cuisine to the dining experience of the people of the North-East.

Today, with the culinary ‘entente cordiale’ firmly established, his Silver Darling restaurant continues to fuse the flavours of France, the Mediterranean and, occasionally, the Far East, with fresh, locally-sourced produce from the sea and land.

From its elevated position in the old custom house, the restaurant provides wonderful panoramic views over Aberdeen’s bay, harbour and surrounding countryside, enhancing the atmosphere as diners enjoy the excellent food and service of this little gem of an establishment. And, with the sun shining down, the setting for my first meal at the Silver Darling could not have been better.

My starter, panfried scallops in leek and onion, on a puff pastry, dry Serrano ham and bisque, was a delicious introduction to my first meal at The Silver Darling. My colleague Gordon’s dish of Provençal-style fish and shellfish soup was served with parmesan toasted bread and rouille.

My main course, braised blade of beef and mashed herb potatoes with jus, was beautifully cooked and presented, as was Gordon’s main of steam rock turbot with mussels, langoustine, fresh homemade ink pasta, spring vegetables and marinière sauce.

To finish off the meal, I indulged myself with a sticky toffee pudding with toffee syrup, fried pineapple and ice cream, while Gordon enjoyed the dark chocolate pancake delice with nougatine dust, suzette butter sauce and orange ice cream.

With service from our waiters Noel and Julian (chef Dejean’s son) to the same excellent standard as the food, my dip into the Silver Darling’s menu was, indeed, a gold star experience. It won’t be long before I’m back - and next time it might just have to be the beer-battered deep fried haddock, which looked spectacular and smelled wonderful, as it wafted its way to a neighbouring table.

SILVER DARLING Pocra Quay, North Pier, Aberdeen AB11 5DQ Tel: + 44 (0) 1224 576229 www.thesilverdarling.co.uk

> PHYLLIS STUART, BA Customer Services Manager Aberdeen & Glasgow

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LONG HAUL AIRLINE FOCUS - AIR FRANCE

KLM WORLD BUSINESS CLASS: ALL THE COMFORTS OF HOME

KLM is gradually introducing a brand new World Business Class cabin across its long haul fleet, offering a brand new stylish interior and improved comfort thanks to:

Thanks to the partnership between Air France and KLM along with the SkyTeam members, the two airlines offer one of the largest networks, giving you access to over 1000 destinations. Enjoy the world departing from Aberdeen and benefit from the convenience of flying from your local airport: a hassle-free and friendly experience, with seamless connections via Paris Charles de Gaulle or Amsterdam Schiphol.

> Fully-flat seat that reclines to a bed position > Added legroom and fewer seats in the cabin > Maximum privacy with screen between seats > In-seat power and more storage > Personal entertainment system with 17” screens > Sustainable design using recycled materials Book now at www.klm.com > IPENEMA BEACH, RIO DE JANEIRO

NEW AIR FRANCE BUSINESS CLASS: YOUR COCOON IN THE SKY Air France recently unveiled its new Business Class seat, available in long haul flights in the upcoming months. It will bring a completely renewed travel experience. Some of its key features include: > A seat that converts to a horizontal bed, for crossing time zones without fatigue > Direct access to the aisle, thanks to a 1-2-1 seat configuration > A protected area through the seat’s enveloping curves provides a true bubble of privacy in the sky > An enhanced gastronomic offer with menus created by top chefs Discover more at www.airfrance.co.uk

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> CATHEDRAL OF BRASILIA, BRASILIA

Travel in style and comfort to Brazil Air France and KLM continue their quest to offer the best network and the ultimate comfort in the sky. You can now fly from Aberdeen to Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro and enjoy the best Brazil has to offer. Whether you want to do business, relax on a sandy beach, wander around colourful streets, or discover its impressive fashion and cultural life, Brazil has it all.

What’s more, Air France and KLM passengers can travel to over 30 additional

destinations across the region on flights operated by their Brazilian partner, GOL. With low fares, countless travel options, better cabins and the ease of flying from your local airport, there’s no excuse for not travelling with Air France and KLM. Book now at www.airfrance.co.uk and www.klm.com

HOMECOMING 2014

27 - 29 JUNE - SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL, PORTSOY

2 AND 4 JULY - DRUM CASTLE - SCOTLAND’S GARDENS WALK

25 JULY - 2 AUGUST ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL

“Explore Drum’s famous Garden of Historic Roses by day and at dusk, with guided walks from our Head Gardener, in aid of Scotland’s Gardens.”

“Our Festival selects the most talented individuals and groups from all over the world, giving them a platform to ‘shine’ at one of the world’s best celebrations of youth arts. More than 1000 talented young performers are now preparing to take part in over 100 performances, across 50 venues in Aberdeen and the North-East.” > www.aiyf.org

And from 5th July - Storytelling in Drum Castle Walled Garden “Be transported to another world in our Saturday afternoon summer storytelling sessions in the magical “Don’t miss our 21st Festival, with beautiful boats, fascinating crafts, nonstop music, song and dance, and delicious food and drink. Celebrate the opening of The Boatshed - dedicated to the craft of traditional Scottish boat-building.” > www.stbfportsoy.com 28 JUNE - PIPING HOT FORRES “Around 100 pipe bands competing in the European Pipe Band Championships and up to 20,000 people attending - it will be the biggest single day event in Moray in years!” > www.pipinghotforres.com

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3 - 4 AUGUST - TURRIFF SHOW

Walled Garden.” > www.nts.org.uk/Property/Drum-CastleGarden-and-Estate 10 - 13 JULY - STONEHAVEN FOLK FESTIVAL “Now in its 26th year, Stonehaven Folk Festival 2014 offers a fantastic range of performers, with some very exciting new bands and artists. There’s also the ever-popular World Paper’n’Comb Championship - and the Aqua Ceilidh at the Art Deco outdoor swimming pool, celebrating the pool’s 80th anniversary.” > www.stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk

“It’s our 150th anniversary and a number of special attractions will feature at Scotland’s largest two-day agricultural extravaganza - including a Homecoming hospitality marquee for overseas visitors; a pre-show ceilidh, and an action-packed show, with first-class ringside entertainment.” > www.turriffshow.org

HOMECOMING 2014

28 - 31 AUGUST - FYVIE HOMECOMING FESTIVAL 2014

8 - 10 AUGUST - ROUTES TO YOUR NORTH-EAST ROOTS “Celebrate your connection with Aberdeen City and Shire against the stunning backdrop of Haddo House. Enjoy hands-on demonstrations of traditional skills and experience the music and song of the North-East.

“This area is rich in music of various types, and there will be plenty to sample at our three-day festival of music and culture. Fyvie Castle will provide a wonderful backdrop for our gala on the Sunday afternoon, and we look forward to welcoming you to the celebrations.” > www.fyviehomecoming2014.com

Trace your roots at our family history and heritage fair, and sample fantastic locally-produced food and drink at the farmers’ market, in Haddo Country Park.” > www.northeastscotlandroots.com 10 AUGUST - PITMEDDEN SCOTLAND’S GARDENS OPEN EVENING “Join Head Gardener Susan Burgess for an exclusive evening walk in the tranquil setting of Pitmedden’s historic walled garden.” > www.nts.org.uk/Property/Pitmedden-Garden 24 AUGUST - THE MYTHS AND LEGENDS AROUND BRAEMAR “Keep fit and have fun on Royal Deeside - listen to ‘Truth or Fiction’ fascinating stories from the past, on our six-mile hill walk above Inverey, with a wonderful view of the Cairngorms.” > www.nts.org.uk/Events/Mar-Lodge-Estate

6 SEPTEMBER - BRAEMAR GATHERING “Held since 1832, Braemar Gathering attracts royalty, competitors and spectators from all over the world.

There’s an exciting mix of Highland Dancing, traditional ‘heavy’ events, running, jumping, tug-ofwar and a hill race - accompanied throughout the day by first-class piping performances.” > www.braemargathering.org

www.homecomingscotland.com

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OUTDOOR PURSUITS

The Munros were originally listed by Sir Hugh Munro, in 1891. Sir Hugh Munro did not manage to reach all the summits on his list. This was achieved by Reverend A E Robertson, in 1901.

Experience a bird’s-eye view of the North-east’s natural beauty As well as inviting everyone to enjoy an array of special activities and events, the Year of Homecoming 2014 is also encouraging visitors and local people to get out there and experience the wonderful abundance of natural beauty Scotland is renowned for throughout the world.

For those who love hillwalking and mountaineering, the North-East offers an incredible amount of opportunities, from gentle hikes through rolling hills, to extreme rock-climbing adventures on the craggiest of peaks!

A few miles west of the city, you’ll find Elrick and Brimmond Hills, which are ideal for family walks. Scoltie, at Banchory, on Royal Deeside, is another family hillwalking favourite. Around 20 miles north-west of Aberdeen, Bennachie is an impressive range with several tops, the highest of which - Oxen Craig and Mither Tap - are around 1700 feet, and provide panoramic views of the coast and countryside.

The terrain consists of waymarked paths in woods and exposed moorland, and it’s a steep climb, with rocky steps to the summit.

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Munro-baggers - people committed to climbing each one of Scotland’s 283 Munros (mountains over 3000 metres high) - are in their element in this part of the country. Twenty-four Munros alone can be found in the spectacularly scenic Cairngorm National Park, whose massive, 1748 square mile area takes in parts of Royal Deeside. As the UK’s largest national park, Cairngorm is home to Britain’s highest mountain range, including four of Scotland’s five highest mountains - Ben Macdui, Braeriach, Cairn Toul, Sgor an Lochain Uaine, and Cairngorm (Ben Nevis, in the Highlands, is the highest). You’ll also find Britain’s largest native forests, along with pristine rivers and lochs, moorland and farmland, which provide a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, including some 25% of the UK’s most endangered species of birds and mammals. The park is a pure paradise for walkers, climbers and ramblers, with 55 summits in total and more than 65 miles of high-level walks and cycle routes of varying length and difficulty. www.cairngorms.co.uk

By May 2013, more than 5000 people had completed all the Munros and recorded their completion with the Scottish Mountaineering Club. www.smc.org.uk/Munros

There are dozens of guided summertime adventure opportunities available in the Northeast cliffs, hills and mountains, including: rockclimbing, mountaineering, scrambling, wilderness skills, orienteering, mountain biking, abseiling and expeditions. You can also practise your skills on differing levels of climbing walls at many of the outdoor activity centres in the area.

Find out more at: www.visitaberdeen.com www.visitscotland.com www.aberdeeshire.gov.uk

When you’re out walking or climbing in the hills and mountains, always remember to take appropriate clothing and equipment, including a map and compass, enough food and drink for the day, and check the weather forecast before you set out.

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Singing Burn O burnie with the glass-white shiver, Singing over stone, So quick, so clear, a hundred year Singing one song alone, From crystal sources fed forever, From cold mountain springs, To o’erpersuade the haunted ear It new-creates the tune it sings.

- Nan Shepherd “This poem haunts me - I hear it when I am in the hills,” says mountaineer, writer and broadcaster Robert Macfarlane, who has written the foreword to the recently-republished edition of In the Cairngorms*, by celebrated Aberdeen poet and novelist Nan Shepherd (1893-1981). “Nan’s writing powerfully shaped my own vision of the Cairngorms. Like her, I spent years pursuing summits and what she calls ‘the tang of height’; like Nan, I have come to take greater pleasure in wandering and exploring the hills than in ticking off their tops. Mountains possess a strange magic and I often come back from them feeling I have been not just to another country, but to a new world altogether.” * GALILEO PUBLISHERS, CAMBRIDGE

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EXPLORE LEEDS

Fancy a UK break that combines shopping, sightseeing and culture with family fun, fine dining and lively nightlife?

Look no further than Leeds! upBEAT editor Judy Mackie flies Eastern Airways to experience a city that’s crackling with energy.

Tucked on board an Eastern Airways 29-seater

pleasantly surprised that our city is so green - we’re

Jetstream 41, it’s a short, hassle-free hop from Aberdeen to Leeds Bradford Airport - which takes minutes to clear and lies only seven miles from the city centre.

on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, and we have lots of parks and mature trees.”

My cheery guide for the day is the airport’s Faye Oakey - a Leeds lass and proud of it! “Leeds folk are friendly, outgoing and forthright, and we always give our visitors the warmest welcome,” she smiles. As the weather isn’t quite as friendly today, we duck in out of the rain for coffee and a chat in one of the dozens of independent cafés dotted around the surprisingly compact city centre.

We tour the centre, whose Victorian Quarter is home to some exquisitely-preserved shopping arcades, featuring top-label designers. After lunch in the relaxing townhouse interior of The White House, Faye has a surprise. I find myself sitting in the glorious surroundings of the Victorian-tiled Grand Theatre and Opera House, watching a matinée performance of West Side Story - a wonderful way to relax and enjoy one of Leeds’ stateliest cultural venues.

“We enjoy socialising in Leeds - life revolves around food and drink!” Faye continues. “It’s also a very diverse place, and people of different ages and nationalities tend to mix well. Many visitors are

The heart of the city is dominated by Trinity Leeds - Western Europe’s biggest shopping destination - which opened in March 2013.

The size of 13 football pitches, with an iconic

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EXPLORE LEEDS

> THE VICTORIAN QUARTER

> LEEDS GRAND THEATRE

glass-domed roof and cleverly designed to link up several of the red-bricked shopping streets, the bustling Trinity offers an amazing variety of experiences, including more than 120 high street shops, space for arts, crafts and other fun family events, Britain’s largest Everyman Cinema, and more than 20 multi-national cafés, bars, and

A hearty hotel breakfast sets me up for a visit to Leeds Art Gallery - described as housing “probably the best collection of 20th-century British art outside London”, and the interactive Leeds City Museum, where I come face-to-face with the famous Leeds Tiger (which spent part of its ‘afterlife’ as a rug), visit the ‘Ancient Worlds’, and watch

restaurants offering everything from authentic street food to fine cuisine.

In the evening, Faye and I meet up on the sixth floor, in Angelica - a chrome-and-glass cocktail bar with wraparound terrace, packed with young professionals, tourists and older residents, all sampling the mysteries of mixology. Upstairs, in the stylish Crafthouse, we enjoy a fabulous dinner, which concludes with a shared dessert platter comprising every sweet treat on the menu!

children dig for fossils in the ‘Life on Earth’ gallery.

Back in the comfortable, contemporarystyled Bewley’s Hotel, I plan my itinerary for the next day.

Inevitably, I return to Trinity for lunch at the Cielo Blanco - a lively restaurant specialising in superb Mexican street food.

> ANGELICA TERRACE

> LEEDS ART GALLERY

I just have time to take in the Leeds Corn Exchange - a magnificent domed Victorian arcade housing independent vintage, craft and food shops - before hopping on the airport bus to begin my short journey home to Aberdeen.

It’s my first visit to Leeds - but it most certainly won’t be my last.

> FIRST DIRECT ARENA

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EXPLORE LEEDS

Living in Leeds

The Roxy Ball Room, Albion Street, offers ping-pong, pool, craft beers, cocktails and pizza.

Former Aberdeen resident Louise Rodger has recently moved back to Leeds, where she previously spent several years. She says: “Leeds has continued to thrive, despite the recession, and Trinity has added even more variety to an already vibrant shopping centre. Harvey Nichols’ rooftop bar is ideal for a cocktail, especially on a sunny day. The Art Gallery is lovely and has a great café and gift shop; there’s a new museum in Millennium Square, and now we have the First Direct Arena, which attracts some great concerts. It’s a very clean and exciting city!”

Leeds’ many other visitor attractions include:

Nearby Roxy Lanes - has four lanes of bowling, a pizza kitchen, local ales and cocktails.

Dance on the tables at MOJO, Merrion Street - the award-winning rock n’ roll dive bar!

> ROYAL ARMOURIES MUSEUM > LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM > TROPICAL WORLD

> KIRKSTALL ABBEY AND GARDENS > LEEDS TOWN HALL

...and the city makes a fantastic base for trips to the nearby heritage towns of Harrogate, York, and the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

Gearing up for The Grand Départ!

Blind Tyger, Belgrave Street - a quirky cocktail bar and drinking den, offers homemade nectars, craft beers and cocktails - including the weird and wonderful Popcorn Mai Tai!

The world’s greatest cycle race - the Tour de France - starts in Yorkshire, on 5 & 6 July, bringing millions of fans to the roadside to cheer on the champions. The Grand Départ cycle route starts at Leeds city centre and finishes in Harrogate, on 5 July. Next day, the cycle route starts at York and finishes in Sheffield.

Independent venue Belgrave Music Hall features music, art, film and food - as well as Leeds’ best roof terrace.

www.letour.yorkshire.com

Around 15 clubs offer the full spectrum of live and DJ music.

www.visitleeds.co.uk www.easternairways.co.uk

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COMPETITION

> ENJOY YOUR PREMIUM VIRGIN ATLANTIC EXPERIENCE!

> RELAX IN THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE

· Connect to over 15 worldwide destinations through London Heathrow. · Fly in Premium Economy. · Access to Servisair lounge at Aberdeen International Airport & London Heathrow’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse. · Priority security access.

Aberdeen, we bring you our world. )O\ 9LUJLQ $WODQWLF /LWWOH 5HG IURP $EHUGHHQ WR /RQGRQ DQG WKHQ RQ WR RXU ZRUOG RI DPD]LQJ GHVWLQDWLRQV %RRN QRZ DW virginatlantic.com

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© JONATHA BORZICCHI / THINKSTOCK

TOKYO, JAPAN WITH SAS Tokyo is a modern, neon-flashing metropolis and is sure to impress you. A large part of the city is like an urban, hectic jungle, but it is also what makes Tokyo a unique experience. From the electronic noise of Akihabara to the Imperial gardens and temples in Chiyoda, Japan’s capital city is a dream destination for any cultureseeking traveller. 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

DUBAI, UAE WITH KLM Looking for an oasis in the desert? Book KLM flights to Dubai and discover phenomenal hotels, beach resorts, souks and shops. No expense or effort has been spared in making Dubai the world capital of luxury. The architecture is awe-inspiring. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, will bowl you over as will everything else you’ll find to see, do and buy in Dubai.

Fly KLM via Amsterdam Schiphol. www.klm.co.uk

BEIJING, CHINA WITH LUFTHANSA

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.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS The busy port of Nassau, on New Providence Island, is renowned for its tropical climate, natural beauty and colourful combination of old world and colonial architecture. Take a stroll through Old Town to see some traditional Caribbean dwellings; enjoy the marching flamingo shows at Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Center. Explore Bahamian art at the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. And don’t miss the Pirate Museum’s replicas of a pirate town, ship and battle, complete with real artefacts!

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

CHICAGO, USA WITH AER LINGUS

One of the most visited capitals in the world, Beijing is a city for all seasons - a rapidly-changing, sleepless metropolis that combines old and new. There are hundreds of tourist attractions to explore, both within and beyond this exciting city - but be sure to include the celebrated top 10 in your itinerary: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, the Temple

Chicago greets you with a sweeping skyline, featuring the Willis (Sears) Tower - the second-tallest building in America - and offers unlimited opportunities for an unforgettable holiday experience, with top attractions including the Hancock Observatory, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile shoppers’ paradise. Explore miles of sandy

of Heaven, Ming Tombs, Hutong Tour, Lama Temple, Beihai Park and Capital Museum.

beaches along Lake Michigan, check out the dinosaurs at the Field Museum and take a ride on the 15-storey Ferris wheel, at Navy Pier.

Fly Lufthansa to Beijing via Frankfurt. www.lufthansa.com

Fly Aer Lingus to Chicago via Dublin. www.aerlingus.com

MIAMI, USA WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC

SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA

Ever-popular Miami offers multiple attractions for everyone. Check out the cool South Beach nightlife; the stylish Art Deco district; bustling Calle Ocho, and energetic Little Havana. Chill out on legendary Miami Beach and explore the historic hideaways of Coral Gables. There are fantastic shopping opportunities, both in the sprawling malls and in the family-owned shops of Coconut Grove - and be sure to take in Miami’s art festivals and sample the fare at the outdoor food and wine extravaganzas.

Fly Virgin Atlantic to Miami via London Heathrow. www.virgin-atlantic.com

WITH AIR FRANCE Do you enjoy shopping, luxury and delicious food? Book Air France flights to Singapore and be amazed by the countless attractions the city has to offer. Discover the vibrant Chinatown, take a walk through the beautiful gardens by the bay, and wander through the streets of old Geylang. Children will have the time of their lives at Universal Studios and Singapore Zoo. And in the evenings, you’ll never be bored, as Singapore has an exciting and varied nightlife.

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

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PLANE TALKING

AFE LANDING I was lost and close to panic, but the cool, measured tones of the Air Traffic Controller at the other end of the line kept me from losing my head. “You’re doing fine, just follow my instructions and we’ll see you safely on to the airfield.” Hanging on his every word, I did as I was told and finally landed at my destination - 20 minutes late, completely stressed and more than delighted to see the friendly faces and mug of coffee awaiting me.

It wasn’t a learner pilot’s worst nightmare just my own undignified arrival by car for an interview with the ever-patient John Millar, General Manager of the Airport’s National Air Traffic Services (NATS). Not being the most competent of navigators, I’d taken a wrong turning to the Security building and ended up in the bus drop-off lane.

I feel quite privileged, though - how many lost drivers can claim they’ve been guided to their destination by the Head of NATS Aberdeen?

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MULTI-TASKING MEN Speaking of my NATS visit, it was fascinating to have this rare insight into an airside operation most of us know very little about (find out more on pages 46-47). Not surprisingly, 20 out of 3000 people who apply to NATS will validate as an Air Traffic Controller. While national educational initiatives are undoubtedly improving the statistics, it’s still the case that the majority of ATCOs are male.

MADE UP! While I’m still in confessional mode...my natural scattiness recently cost me more than I’d bargained for, when I realised too late that I’d forgotten to pack a small, but essential item in my handbag. Going through Security at Aberdeen International Airport, I tortured myself with visions of my little cream makeup bag sitting, accusingly, on my dressing-table at home. Thankfully,

As one of the role’s most important skills is the ability to work with various pieces of information simultaneously, I can’t help wondering why it doesn’t attract many more females. However, seeing the male NATS Aberdeen team members at work certainly knocked on the head the myth about men being less able to multi-task!

a trip to Boots in the Departure area allowed me to stock up on the requisite eyeliner, mascara, lippie, etc, to see me through my short trip. But the unnecessary expense - I mean, who needs two sets of eyelash curlers? - has since made me treat that little cream makeup bag with a lot more respect. ;-)

Three regular North-east travellers tell upBEAT which of WHSmith’s top 20 bestsellers they’ve selected to keep them engrossed on their next flight.

I’ve chosen Khaled Hosseini’s And the Mountains Echoed. I loved his previous novels, The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, both set in Afghanistan. Hosseini engages the reader through the wonderful characters who spring from the pages with heartbreaking realism. He is a master storyteller, writing with profound insight and compassion about war-torn Afghanistan and the lives of the people who don’t hit the headlines.

I decided to read Get Things Done: What Stops Smart People Achieving More and How You Can Change, by Robert Kelsey. This book seems very personal to the author and his own journey is intertwined with the text, in that he goes out of his way to show that whatever failures and faults we may have, he himself either has, or has had them. The book didn’t set out any drastic new theories; however, Kelsey did a good job of bringing a

I’m looking forward to an engrossing read - packed with beautifullydrawn people - about families, relationships and humanity. Perfect for a long flight!

CHRISTINE REW, Art Gallery & Museums Manager, Aberdeen Art Gallery

number of other people’s theories into a more or less coherent whole. There are interesting chapters in the book, where Kelsey looks at the use of his recommended approach in areas such as time management, meetings, managing others, dealing with information overload, and so on. I enjoyed reading it - and it is always nice to remember that even one’s self-sabotaging tactics can be replaced by better productive thoughts!

ANTHONY ONUKWU, Chairman, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Aberdeen

My choice is The Skin Collector, by Jeffery Deaver.

I am constantly travelling, both around the UK and overseas, inevitably by plane, and almost always alone. I love a really gripping thriller, and will become totally engrossed in a chilling story such as this, where ‘The Skin Collector’, a tattooist with a chamber of torture hidden deep underground, uses a lethal poison which will render his targets dead before they can even entertain the prospect of escape. As the NYPD detectives try to decipher a series of cryptic

messages left etched into the skin of the deceased, I will inevitably become obsessed with working out the mind of this killer, and who his next victim will be.

ALI GAYWARD, UK Commercial Manager, easyJet

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LONDON CITY

ENCHANTING EUROPEAN GEMS ABZ

VENICE

LCY

Venice is a remarkable city with an unrivalled choice of things to see and places to go.

ANE

MAD

VCE GRX

British Airways operates from Aberdeen to London City Airport and onwards to 26 destinations across the UK, Europe and North America, making it easier than ever to fly further afield to Europe’s most exciting locations.

The recent introduction of a new Rotterdam service and new route to Florence, means passengers transferring through the Docklands airport from Aberdeen have more choice than ever before.

British Airways’ services to Europe reflect the true diversity of the continent.

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From the unique ‘floating city’ of Venice, to Spain’s capital, Madrid, and the beautiful French city of Angers, on the fringes of the Loire Valley, there is something to attract everyone - and all at highly-competitive prices with new, lower fares now available.

Discover celebrated historic monuments, art galleries offering priceless treasures and a world-class opera house.

Sumptuous, handcrafted clothing and jewellery are to be found in the city’s abundant boutiques - at prices to match the high quality. Food lovers are also spoiled in Venice, where wonderfully fresh seafood and mouth-watering traditional dishes are waiting to be enjoyed with fizzing Prosecco.

LONDON CITY

MADRID

ANGERS (LOIRE VALLEY)

GRANADA

Experience the Madrileños way of life and sample the cosmopolitan capital of Spain.

Admire incredible works of art at the world-renowned Prado Museum. Take in iconic sights such as the Royal Palace and Plaza de Cibeles. Indulge in luxury shopping along Grand Via, or take a stroll in Parque del Buen Retiro.

The medieval city of Angers, in the North-West France Maine-et-Loire region, is steeped in history and culture. Visitors are lured to the Chateau d’Angers, whose tapestry is regarded as one of the most important works of medieval art in Europe. There’s also the Museum of Fine Art, the Jean Lurcat Museum and the David d’Angers Gallery, plus the Regional Angers Marce Air Museum.

This unique region on the southern tip of Spain offers a breathtaking range of activities. You can quite literally ski in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains in the morning, be relaxing on one of the sun-kissed beaches in the afternoon, and sip cocktails in the city in the evening, as you look out on to the world-famous, awe-inspiring Alhambra palace.

Madrid’s buzzing social scene really comes alive at night - join locals for tapas, wine and conversation, before taking in one of the many late-night bars or nightclubs.

The best way to see Angers is on foot. Take a walk along the River Maine, which winds its way through the city, or pause to relax in one of the many parks.

Fly British Airways through London City By the end of this year, with the addition of three new Embraer E190s, British Airways will be operating 20 aircraft on its domestic and European network, plus two A318 aircraft on the successful exclusive, all business class long haul service to New York’s JFK airport from London City, offering customers more choice than ever.

New lower fares from Aberdeen to Europe start from just £81 one way.

Customers can also earn Avios, if members of British Airways’ Executive Club, which can be redeemed against future flights.

To book flights, hotels and car hire to one of these fantastic destinations, take a look at www.ba.com/londoncity

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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 > 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 > LONDON CITY with British Airways > 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 > STORNOWAY with Eastern Airways > SUMBURGH with Loganair > WICK with Eastern Airways

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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

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

GLORIOUS GOLFLAND

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35

GLORIOUS GOLFLAND

Royal Aberdeen - the world’s sixth-oldest golf club - is all set to welcome a host of international star players to this year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open (10-13 July).

Phil Mickelson (USA) will defend his title against a field of top names, including Sir Nick Faldo (England), Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland), Henrik Stenson and Jonas Blixt (Sweden), Thomas Björn (Denmark), Victor Dubuisson (France), Jeev Milkha Singh (India), Edoardo Molinari (Italy), José Maria Olazabál (Spain), Paul McGinley (Ireland), Matt Jones (Australia), and, of course, Aberdeen’s own Paul Lawrie and Richie Ramsay.

Played a week before The Open Championship, the Scottish Open is one of the most keenly-contested championships on the European Tour calendar. Ronnie MacAskill, Secretary at Royal Aberdeen says: “This is the first leading Tour event to

36

be staged on our historic links and we will see some of the world’s greatest players test their skills on what is considered by many to be one of the finest stretches of natural classic links land anywhere. It will be a golfing bonanza and I am certain everyone in the area will give their 100 per cent support to this superb event.”

For details of the full field of players and to buy tickets for the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open, visit: www.aamscottishopen.co.uk.

Ticket Hotline: + 44 (0) 800 023 2557. www.royalaberdeengolf.com

GLORIOUS GOLFLAND

Raise your game ...on a links course

Aberdeenshire Master Teaching Professional, Willie McKenzie, shares three top tips on playing golf in the windy conditions of a coastal course.

upBEAT asks Cruden Bay Golf Course Manager Alister Matheson about the challenges of maintaining a premium links course.

1. MAKE THE WIND YOUR FRIEND: don’t try to fight it, as it will surely win every time! If the wind is blowing from the right, be sure to aim well right of target and let the wind help your ball back to your target - and vice versa, if the wind is blowing from the left.

2. WHEN FACED WITH A SHOT FROM THE FAIRWAY INTO A STRONG WIND: make sure you take lots more club than you would normally need; make a ¾ swing from shoulder to shoulder, swinging as smoothly as you can grip lightly, and watch the ball fly through the air somewhat lower than your normal ball flight. Don’t try to hit the ball hard, as this will only make it spin up into the air and more often than not take it away from your intended target making your shot look really poor, as it flies away in the wind.

3. WHEN ON THE TEE WITH THE WIND BLOWING STRAIGHT DOWN THE FAIRWAY: try taking a three wood instead of a driver, as the wind has a habit of knocking the ball down out of the air, resulting in loss of distance. The added loft of the three wood helps to keep the ball in the air longer, allowing the wind to help it travel down the fairway.

Willie McKenzie helps golfers improve their game at Berryhill Driving range, Peterhead; Dunes Golf Centre, Fraserburgh, and Myrus Golf Centre, Macduff. He also plays on the European Seniors Challenge tour when he gets time! www.WLMgolf.com

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE? I look after the day-to-day running of the course, plus longterm planning and execution of the course and grounds maintenance. I manage a staff of 10 Greenkeepers.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN GREENKEEPING CHALLENGES? It’s very important to retain firmness, to give that authentic running links golf experience to our members and visitors from across the globe. Plenty of aeration, sand top dressings, and the frugal usage of water, all help to keep playing firm.

The weather is always a challenge, and so is managing traffic and wear-and-tear. Our course was built in the 1890s for the ‘wealthy elite’, and was never designed for the volume of traffic it now receives!

HOW CAN GOLFERS HELP YOU KEEP THE COURSE IN PREMIUM CONDITION? Golfers can play a very important part, by repairing pitch marks properly, raking bunkers and replacing divots. It’s a question of basic etiquette.

You can follow Alister’s ‘Greenkeeper’s Blog’ at: www.crudenbaygolfclub.co.uk

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CAR HIRE

upBEAT editor Judy Mackie and her husband Allan Montgomery enjoy a day’s drive around Aberdeenshire, reminding themselves of the fantastic variety of visitor attractions available only a short car journey away from Aberdeen International Airport.

It’s true that you take for granted the delights on your own doorstep, and while we love our native North-East, we rarely have time to sample the many enticements Aberdeenshire has to offer its visitors. This whistle-stop day tour provides the ideal opportunity to catch up with more than a few!

A couple of miles on, at the amazing Bullers of Buchan, we encounter crashing seas and dizzying cliffs haunted by the cries of cormorants, guillemots and puffins, and softened by the pretty pinks of wild flowers.

Passing Peterhead, with its famous red granite houses and Maritime Heritage Centre, we turn inland to Mintlaw - home of Aden Country Park and the Aberdeenshire Farming Museum - before driving due north to Fraserburgh, to the Scottish Lighthouse Museum, Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, and Fraserburgh Heritage Centre. Coffee in the museum’s top-floor Stevenson Café brings breathtaking views of the sea through floor-to-ceiling windows.

First stop, the Airport, where a friendly Avis car hire assistant hands us keys to a smart black Vauxhall Insignia, whose comfortable, roomy interior and powerful enough performance ensure an enjoyable road trip around the Shire.

We start our semi-circular tour by heading north on the A90, passing the glorious golden-sanded beaches and dunes of Balmedie Country Park, Trump International Golf Club and Forvie Nature Reserve.

Taking the A975, we visit the clifftop village of Collieston and, a little further north, Cruden Bay, where another world-renowned golf course overlooks the dramatic ruins of Slains Castle - believed to be the inspiration for Dracula.

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Turning south-west, we travel through beautiful rolling farmland and the lovely old villages of New Deer and Methlick, noting that nearby attractions include a series of stone circles, Haddo House, Tolquhoun Castle and Pitmedden Gardens and Farm Museum. At Oldmeldrum, we visit Glen Garioch Distillery - Scotland’s most easterly - which for over 200 years has been handcrafting a range of natural, non-chill-filtered single malt whiskies. The distillery is one of eight featuring in Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire, a new guide available at local visitor information centres.

Although shopping is not on our agenda, we can’t resist stopping off at bustling Inverurie town centre, where there’s a terrific selection of quality

CAR HIRE

> JUDY & THE INSIGNIA

independent shops, including Sinclair’s, where you can buy gifts, china and jewellery - and enjoy a delicious lunch at their bistro.

Castle Fraser, just off the B993, is a magnificent example of the 17 castles to be found in Aberdeenshire, with its preserved historic interior, walled garden and woodland walks. You can download the official Castle Trail at: www.visitscotland.com

the old Deeside railway is under way. The wonderful Crathes Castle is close by!

We then take the A957 south-eastwards, through Durris Forest, to the charming coastal town of Stonehaven, which - among other attractions - boasts an Art Deco outdoor swimming pool and one of the prettiest harbours in the area, whose red sandstone buildings and good choice of pubs and restaurants make it a favourite gathering-place among locals and visitors alike.

> CRAIGIEVAR GARDENS

> CASTLE FRASER

Further west, at Alford, there’s the Grampian Transport Museum, Alford Heritage Trail and Haughton Park miniature railway rides for all ages!

A short trip along the B9119 takes us to Royal Deeside, and we arrive in the picturesque town of Ballater - with its mountainous backdrop - in time for a late afternoon tea at the atmospheric Station Restaurant, housed, alongside a small museum, shops and other local businesses, in the refurbished former station so often visited by Queen Victoria and other royals.

Heading eastwards, the scenic North Deeside Road takes us through Banchory, to the Milton of Crathes art gallery, shop and restaurant, where restoration of a section of

After a tasty meal in Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel, where seafood dishes are, not surprisingly, a speciality, we drive back to Aberdeen International Airport - tired, but inspired by the fantastic array of visitor attractions we’ve encountered during our memorable day out in the Shire.

> GLEN GARIOCH DISTILLERY

Choose from four global car hire specialists (Avis, Enterprise, Europcar National Alamo and Hertz) at Aberdeen International Airport. Book ahead at: www.aberdeenairport.com You’ll find details of many more Aberdeenshire visitor attractions at: www.visitscotland.com and www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk

> ARCH AT THE BULLERS OF BUCHAN > PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLAN MONTGOMERY

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WHAT’S ON

> HOME > INTERNATIONAL 2ND JULY Musical: Carnaby Street: The Concert Music Hall, Aberdeen 3RD - 7TH JULY Sport: UEFA Europa Cup - First Round Qualifications Aberdeen Football Club 5TH - 27TH JULY Sport: Tour de France Stage 1 - Leeds to Harrogate 6TH JULY Sport: F1 British Grand Prix Silverstone 7TH - 12TH JULY Illusionist: Derren Brown: Infamous His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen 10TH - 13TH JULY Golf: Scottish Open Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

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9TH - 12TH JULY Musical: Singin’ in the Rain Giz Giz youth theatre presentation Arts Centre, Aberdeen 12TH JULY Sport entertainment: An Evening with Sir Nick Faldo Music Hall, Aberdeen 13TH JULY World Cup Final Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 15TH JULY Music: The Levellers Lemon Tree Lounge, Aberdeen 20TH JULY Stonehaven Highland Games Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

5TH - 27TH JULY - TOUR DE FRANCE

28TH JULY Business: The Future of Finance Lunch ‘n’ Learn Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce 31ST JULY Aberdeen International Youth Festival Dance Gala His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

25TH - 27TH JULY Children’s entertainment: The Singing Kettle’s Fantastic Funfair

2ND AUGUST Aboyne Highland Games Aboyne, Aberdeenshire

22ND - 24TH AUGUST Granite City Country Music Festival Aberdeen

2ND AUGUST Sport: jogScotland One Big Weekend 5K Run Aberdeen Beach Esplanade

23RD AUGUST Lonach Highland Gathering & Games Bellabeg, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire

14TH AUGUST Ballater Highland Games Ballater, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire

25TH - 28TH AUGUST Business: Offshore Northern Seas Conference Stavanger, Norway

15TH AUGUST Comedy: Elaine C Smith: Still Standing...Just!

His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

26TH AUGUST Music: Richard Thompson Music Hall, Aberdeen

17TH AUGUST Dog festival: DAWGS DAY Hazlehead Park, Aberdeen

27TH AUGUST La Tomatina Festival Bunol, Spain

21ST AUGUST Music: The Lord Provost’s Charitable Trust Concert His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

28TH AUGUST Business: Oil & Gas UK Aberdeen Breakfast Briefing Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre

29TH - 31ST AUGUST - FYVIE HOMECOMING FESTIVAL

2ND AUGUST - JOGSCOTLAND ONE BIG WEEKEND 5K

29TH - 31ST AUGUST Fyvie Homecoming Festival Fyvie, Aberdeenshire 30TH - 31ST AUGUST Celebrate Aberdeen Aberdeen City Centre

WHAT’S ON

1ST - 6TH SEPTEMBER Fame - the Musical His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

16TH - 20TH SEPTEMBER Musical: Annie Get Your Gun His Majesty’s Theatre

4TH - 7TH SEPTEMBER Aberdeen Art Fair Music Hall, Aberdeen

18TH SEPTEMBER Comedy: Danny Bhoy Music Hall, Aberdeen

4TH - 10TH SEPTEMBER Orkney International Science Festival Orkney

20TH SEPTEMBER- 5TH OCTOBER Oktoberfest Munich, Germany

9TH SEPTEMBER Business: London Breakfast Briefing – Financial Regulation of Energy Markets London

21ST SEPTEMBER Sport: MotoGP 2014 Aragon, Spain

9TH SEPTEMBER - LONDON BREAKFAST BRIEFING

12TH SEPTEMBER Comedy: Jon Richardson - Nidiot Music Hall, Aberdeen 13TH SEPTEMBER Travel & comedy: Michael Palin Music Hall, Aberdeen 16TH SEPTEMBER Business: Regional PILOT Share Fare Norwich

25TH SEPTEMBER Northern Star Business Awards Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre

20TH SEPT - 10TH OCT - OKTOBERFEST

26TH - 28TH SEPTEMBER Scottish Home Show Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre 27TH SEPTEMBER Magic: Morgan & West - A Grand Adventure Lemon Tree Studio, Aberdeen

27TH SEPTEMBER - MORGAN & WEST

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 Summer Homecoming, p16-17.

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SUMMER SUN 2014

Escape to the Holiday Village Seaview Ibiza this summer, with First Choice.

Formerly the Sirenis Seaview Country Club, the Holiday Village has had a ‘Stars in Their Eyes’-style makeover. There’s a waterpark, hosting adrenalin-pumpers such as a sky-high multi-lane slide. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Pirates play area racks up 10 mini-slides. There’s a huge main pool, too, that’s decorated with palms, a bar, and a sea-view sun terrace.

Miles of golden sands, sunshine by the bucketload, and a choice of resorts to suit all ages and tastes - it has to be the Costa del Sol! Find your perfect getaway in this lovely corner of Spain, from lively Torremolinos and celeb-friendly Marbella, to quaint, mountainside Mijas.

Take your pick from a selection of accommodation options, from self-catering to all-inclusive, and explore all this attractive region has to offer.

More loungers stripe the sandy beach, which is just a moment’s walk away.

The hotel’s clutch of restaurants includes a buffet with a kid-friendly zone, plus three à la carte restaurants. Rooms are modern and come with flat screens, Wi-Fi, and

With Barrhead Travel’s direct flights operating from Aberdeen International Airport all summer, your Costa del Sol escape starts right here. Fly on British Airways aircraft to the sun!

a bonus balcony or terrace.

Daytime, weekend flights, premium-style seating with generous legroom, and a 25 kg total baggage allowance... it’s the perfect way to get your holiday off to a flying start.

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

These exclusive flights allow you the ultimate in holiday flexibility: book for the flights alone, or enjoy seven or 14 nights in a resort on the Spanish sunshine coast.

Call Barrhead Travel on 01224 578270 to find out more. www.barrheadtravel.co.uk

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SUMMER SUN 2014

Newmarket Holidays has spent over 30 years taking happy customers on holiday - and now they’re offering you an exciting opportunity to fly direct from Aberdeen to a number of Italian destinations, including Sicily.

Join us on one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating and beautiful islands for the chance to holiday in charming hotels and enjoy warm waters, fine dining, Sicilian hospitality and - on optional excursions - explore beguiling sights, such as the stunning hilltop town of Taormina, the ancient treasures of Agrigento and snow-capped Etna.

For Summer 2014 and 2015, Balkan Holidays - the UK’s leading specialist operator to Non-Euro Bulgaria continues to offer the rich and varied resorts of Sunny Beach, Elenite, Nessebar, Pomorie, Sozopol and Duni, direct from Aberdeen.

Sunny Beach is ideal for young people and families looking to experience the wonderful beach, water parks, lively bars and clubs.

Nessebar and Sozopol provide history and charm, and are perfect for couples and culture vultures.

PRICE INCLUDES: > Direct daytime flights from Aberdeen

Elenite and Duni are purpose-built resorts ideal for families - and Pomorie is great for

International Airport to Sicily, on 4 October 2014, returning 7 days later > Return airport-to-hotel transfers > Seven nights’ half-board or bed and breakfast accommodation in the hotel of your choice (single rooms are available for a supplement) > The services of a Newmarket Tour Manager

those looking to unwind and rejuvenate, while enjoying a beautiful seaside resort.

Book today for just £70 per person deposit at: www.balkanholidays.co.uk, or visit your local Travel Agent.

On the south-west coast of Majorca, popular resort Palma Nova is famous for its beautiful, white sandy beaches.

Palma Nova is brilliant for families, offering a great selection of restaurants, shops, bars and cafés. If you fancy a break from the beach, you can take a boat trip to Majorca’s capital, Palma, or visit ancient sites - for Roman ruins, head to Alcudia, in the north-east. After a leisurely morning shopping for bargains in the old town, families can make a splash and cool off in the waterpark.

If you’re looking to get away from it all, the east coast is dotted with small cove resorts, such as Calas de Mallorca, with a beautiful beach and headland promenade offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

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

www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Our series on the normally unseen work of support staff at Aberdeen International Airport continues with a chat with John Millar, General Manager of NATS, the air traffic control provider.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT THE AIRPORT? I’ve been in this role for one year, and started here at the Unit 16 years ago, as an Air Traffic Controller.

Their job is to coordinate the air traffic coming down the ILS (ie approaching using the Instrument Landing System) with the traffic making visual approaches, and to make sure everyone makes their slot times.

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE NATS UNIT? The tower part that everyone sees is the Visual Control Room (VCR). My colleagues there are responsible for all movements that can be seen out on the airfield. One Controller is responsible for all non-runway activity, such as taxi-ing and pushbacks.

The Tower Controller is responsible for the runway and the airspace immediately surrounding the airfield, out to visual range.

Downstairs, we have the Operations Room, where our radar operations are carried out.

Our Airport Radar Controllers operate out to 55 miles from the airfield, in coordination with our Prestwick Control Centre, which looks after the higher-altitude traffic. The Airport Radar Controllers separate the inbound traffic from the outbound traffic, while other Controllers have designated roles looking after all the offshore oil and

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gas air traffic movements, from Norwich, in East Anglia, up to the boundary with Iceland. Both the Airport and Offshore activity is supported by a large and specialised engineering operation, also based in the Unit and we also have Air Traffic Services Assistants who have duties around weather observations, flight planning and flight data management.

WHAT KIND OF TEMPERAMENT DO YOU NEED TO HAVE TO BE AN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER? We’re asked this question a lot! The skills set is very difficult to define. You need to be fairly quick-witted, calm, able to deal with

to ensure that the candidates possess the aptitude and skills required for the role.

After that, the trainees are posted to a UK unit, ie an airport or control centre where they spend up to a year training under a fully qualified Controller with live air traffic.

They then sit their final exams and are validated by an independent assessor from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

things as and when they happen, and to respond positively to change. You also have to have a very good memory, as there are a lot of rules and instructions to remember.

Another important skill is the ability to work as part of a close-knit team, but also have the resilience to work on your own initiative when necessary. The academic requirements for the role are not unusually high - the focus is more on whether people have the required aptitude and skills, and this only becomes evident during training.

WHAT DOES THE TRAINING INVOLVE? Our training centre is in Hampshire, on the south coast of England. The first level of training depends on what the trainee will be specialising in, and can range from six months to a year, initially. Throughout that period, exams are held every few weeks,

WE’RE ALL HUMAN AND MAKE MISTAKES; HOW DOES NATS MITIGATE AGAINST THAT? Our operations are supported by a very robust Safety Management System. We have detailed procedures and instructions to follow, and our regulator, the CAA, ensures that by law we adhere to strict working practices, governing, for example, how many hours we work, and our shift and leave patterns.

WHAT MAKES ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT UNIQUE COMPARED WITH OTHER UK AIRPORTS? The high volume of offshore helicopter activity is unique. To support this, we have a cross-runway operation, which enables us to use the three helicopter runways in tandem with our main, predominantly fixed-wing, runway. Most other airports have only a single, fixed-wing runway (although Heathrow and Manchester have two, parallel, runways). The cross-runway operation enables us, on a good weather day, to increase the volume of traffic per hour from around 36 movements - on the

main runway - to more than 40 movements overall. This makes us, consistently, the fifth-busiest airport in the UK Monday to Friday - and on certain days during last winter, we were the third-busiest, after Heathrow and Gatwick.

Our three helicopter terminals, as well as our Main Terminal, are very busy, and looking to expand in line with the current increase in offshore activity. Added to that, the Airport team have been very successful in attracting a lot of new routes. All in all, it’s an active, vibrant airfield, with a very positive future!

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LOCAL VIEW

upBEAT catches up with Derek McInnes following his highly-successful first season as Aberdeen Football Club manager.

Congratulations on a fantastic season! Aberdeen is now back in European competition and, of course, you’ve won silverware for the first time in 19 years. What’s been the secret of the club’s success?

Testament to a superb season, you picked up both the PFA Scottish Manager of the Year and Scottish Football Writers’ Manager of the Year awards. How do you rank these among your career achievements?

There’s no single most important thing; it was a collective effort. As a club, we had to raise our game in all areas and earn the right to be back at the top end of the league. Past achievements, having a good stadium and operating in a big city don’t guarantee anything. The only thing that guarantees success is hard work.

It’s nice to be recognised, but as with any award, I believe it’s down to a collective effort and it’s an indication of how hard the team and all the staff have worked.

There’s also been a confidence and a belief in the team right from the start - both from the Club’s perspective and, most importantly, from the support.

The players’ commitment has been excellent, too. For too many years Aberdeen has been outside looking in, in terms of being in the fight for the competitions. Now, we feel we have a squad and a way of working that will give us every chance to be in the fight every year. The new players we’ve brought in have helped us achieve a good mix of personalities and a collective resolve. We had a lot of ‘late winners’ in the matches this season and that’s down to the belief and the determination of the team.

We’re aware we’ve started something and now we need to build the momentum and continue to raise our game.

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Aberdeen city centre ‘turned red’ on 23rd March, as around 80,000 fans flocked to celebrate the team’s League Cup triumph. How proud a moment was it to win the competition and to see such a strong support following you?

Winning the trophy was something we aspired to and visualised from the outset.

We set out to win both tournaments.

Ultimately, we lost the semi-final of the Scottish Cup, but we won the League Cup without losing a goal and with a real bit of style into the bargain. We were desperate to bring that trophy back and so were the 42,000 fans who turned up to support us. Winning the Cup and the celebrations in Union Street were brilliant experiences.

LOCAL VIEW

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What’s your impression of the North-East?

Everyone has made me feel very welcome. Family members who have lived here have always spoken highly of the area, but before I arrived earlier this year my own experience was limited to visiting as a player and a manager.

There hasn’t been much time to explore, but we’ve had some family days out at the beach, and enjoy eating out - there are many good restaurants. I like to relax by playing golf - we’re blessed with plenty of great courses here. Aberdeen has a lot going for it; it’s a prosperous and lively city. As in any community, the football club doing well generates a positive energy and pride, so we need to make sure we keep that going in the right direction!

How do the forthcoming Europa League qualifiers affect your pre-season planning, and what are your expectations?

We want to do as well as we can in Europe. A lot of clubs use European competitions as part of their pre-season preparation, but I don’t think anybody sees it that way at Aberdeen. We want to make an impact. Traditionally, the club had a good name in Europe and I’d like to re-establish ourselves as a decent team there. The pre-season qualifiers mean coming back two weeks sooner than usual - but we’ll be prepared.

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How important is it that the ‘Red Army’ follows the team into the European qualifiers this summer?

Strong travelling support is always important in Europe, and traditionally our support has always enjoyed European campaigns. Sometimes, negative results in the early rounds can hang over into your domestic campaigns and so we want to make sure that doesn’t happen. This means getting the players in good nick, and recruiting and signing players, so that we give ourselves the best possible chance to meet the demands of both European and domestic football.

The last former Rangers player to win silverware with Aberdeen as a manager (Sir Alex Ferguson) went on to achieve domestic and European successes for many years - tell us you’re here to stay!

I’m really happy here and I’ve signed a new contract in good faith. A lot of my players are on long-term contracts over the next few years, and we have new players in the squad. In football generally, I think there’s too much chopping and changing if the results don’t go well - and if they do go well, managers are sometimes too quick to jump. I feel really settled and at home here. There’s lots of work to do and I, my staff and all the players feel there’s a lot to achieve before we think about moving on.

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DESTINATION FOCUS

With the new regular flights from Aberdeen to Oslo via bmi regional and SAS airlines, increasing amounts of non-business travellers are now discovering a delightful Nordic leisure destination.

Bordered by water on one side and woodland on the other, Oslo is a cosmopolitan city that’s at home with its heritage, cool with its contemporary culture - and an ideal leisure destination for anyone who enjoys outdoor life.

Exploring Norway’s compact capital is easy, whether it’s on foot, or by bike, bus, tram or car. With a wealth of worldclass museums and galleries, dozens of family-friendly visitor attractions, and a sparkling nightlife, Oslo offers a vibrant array of memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

Brave enough to come face-to-face with Edvard Munch’s The Scream? You’ll find it in the National Gallery. Happier faces can be seen in the Museum of Children’s Art, which showcases art from 180 countries.

The Norwegian Folk Museum is one of Europe’s largest open-air museums, with 155 traditional houses from all parts

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of Norway; or there’s the Norwegian Maritime Museum, with exhibitions on shipbuilding, fishing and marine archaeology and art.

If beautiful green space is more your style, relax and be inspired in the city’s Botanical Garden, part of the extensive Natural History Museum. The kids will love Oslo Reptile Park, with its collection of boa constrictors, chameleons and many other cold-blooded creatures - and don’t forget to take them to Frognerbadet Open-Air Public Bath, which has two 50-metre pools, a children’s pool, water slides and a diving tower. Next door, you’ll find Vigeland Sculpture Park - one of Norway’s most visited attractions - and, only 30 minutes from the city centre, there’s Oslo Summer Park, one of Scandinavia’s largest climbing parks, with nine trails for differing levels of ability.

Shop, eat and enjoy entertainment along the seafront boardwalk, at the popular Aker Brygge Wharf. At Bærums Verk, in the olde-worlde 17th-century Bærumske Ironworks, you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, and art galleries and workshops.

Island-hopping in the Oslo Fjord is another popular summertime pursuit, with regular ferry trips and cruises available.

And if you’re lucky enough to be visiting in July, the Oslo Maritime Festival (17-20 July) will enchant you, as hundreds of historic ships and traditional boats from around Europe make their annual pilgrimage to Norway’s coastal capital. www.visitoslo.com www.bmiregional.com www.flysas.com

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BUSINESS

Travel is the business Business travel to and from Europe’s energy capital is a major feature of Aberdeen International Airport’s daily operations. upBEAT asks the locally-based leaders of a global oil and gas service company and its longstanding travel management company for their perspective on the changing face of corporate travel.

HOW IMPORTANT IS BUSINESS TRAVEL TO YOUR COMPANY’S OPERATIONS? Wood Group operates in around 50 countries. While our focus is primarily in employing local staff wherever we can, we still have a need for our people to travel regularly. Nothing beats face-toface interaction with our customers and colleagues. Every week, we have hundreds of people travelling from Aberdeen to Australia, Russia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, North America and South America. And, because Wood Group is headquartered here, we also have lots of people visiting Aberdeen from around the world.

HOW DOES WOOD GROUP MANAGE ITS BUSINESS TRAVEL? We rely on the support of experienced professionals wherever we operate, and from Aberdeen, we’ve been using Munro’s Travel for more than 30 years. We have a very good relationship; they know what we need, and they help us ensure our business travel is efficient, cost-effective -

HOW HAVE YOUR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? The development of ever-more sophisticated video conferencing and internet technology has meant that, where appropriate, we can have people participating in meetings and training sessions remotely, from different global locations. However, as I’ve said, faceto-face visits are still very important and of course many employees fly to their workplace. Nowadays we travel more and we use technology more - one doesn’t preclude the other.

WHAT KIND OF TRAVELLER ARE YOU? I like to travel with minimum fuss. I travel light, often with just a small cabin bag (hotel laundry services come in very handy). If I’m flying during the night, I listen to music and sleep. Thankfully I’m the kind of person who can fall asleep almost anywhere!

and above all, safe.

THE CLIENT: BOB KEILLER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, WOOD GROUP 54

BUSINESS

THE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY: MURRAY BURNETT, MANAGING PARTNER, MUNRO’S TRAVEL GROUP HOW LONG HAS MUNRO’S BEEN IN BUSINESS AND WHEN DID YOU START PROVIDING BUSINESS TRAVEL? The company was founded in 1903

by Mr Munro - the same year as the Wright Brothers’ first flight! From humble beginnings selling rail and bus tickets, the

experts manage large volumes of offshore personnel travelling to/from offshore installations globally, in addition to the regular transient travel for meetings, project work, etc. International travel is a huge growth area for our business.

The North-East of Scotland has become

WHAT DOES TODAY’S BUSINESS TRAVELLER LOOK FOR? The business traveller expects a quick and efficient booking process tailored to their specific preferences. Having a detailed traveller profile and a well-defined travel policy is essential to the delivery of a cost-

company grew significantly in the early years, relocating families from the NorthEast of Scotland into the New World and also servicing the package holiday boom that began in the 1960s. We launched our business travel division in 1973, with the advent of the North Sea oil and gas industry. Wood Group was one of our earliest customers and they’re still a very important part of our business today. Their growth is an incredible success story, and we’re delighted to have played our part in helping them to meet their travel needs over the many years.

a centre of excellence for the energy industry and exports its talents globally.

effective and seamless travel experience.

Internet technology enablers are also very important. Travellers want to receive their tickets electronically and to view itineraries on their smart phones and tablets.

WHAT IS YOUR MAIN FOCUS TODAY? The continued growth of business travel on a global basis. Our business travel

HOW DOES MUNRO’S SUPPORT ITS CLIENTS? We ensure that our clients receive a highquality service while delivering a costeffective solution. Our clients have access to beneficial rates for core services such as air, hotels and car-hire from suppliers on a worldwide basis. Our preferred supplier agreements include negotiated marine and offshore workers’ airfares, which offer significant cost savings and added value.

Corporate responsibility for our clients’ travellers is essential; safe travel is of prime importance.

HOW DO YOU SEE BUSINESS TRAVEL DEVELOPING AT MUNRO’S? While we will continue to invest significantly in the development of our people, our focus is very much on the continued development of our technology and tools, including the online booking tool and mobile solutions, specifically for the energy sector.

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THE BEAT GOES ON

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

> PAUL COLLIER IN TORONTO

> DEE PRATIWI IN SOUTHAMPTON

> DEREK MCINNES

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

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

28th - 31st August 2014 Four days of Music, Culture & Family History For information & tickets see:

www.fyviehomecoming2014.com

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THE BEAT GOES ON

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SOCIETY

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02.

> LEAGUE CUP IN THE TERMINAL After a victory in the Scottish League Cup, Aberdeen Football Club kindly offered the opportunity to our passengers and staff to enjoy a couple of moments with the club’s silverware!

01. Barbara Stephen (Aberdeen International Airport) 02. Chantelle Fitzpatrick, Lisa Dorman (both Menzies) 03. Staff members from across the Airport campus around the cup 04. David Smith (AFC), Leanne O’Brien (Virgin), Michael Gu (Virgin), Rhiannon Hayley (Virgin), Scott Duncan (AFC)

03.

04.

01. 02. ^ THOMSON & FIRST CHOICE (TUI) RETAIL DAY Aberdeen International Airport welcomed top-performing sales representatives from TUI’s retail stores to spend a day shopping and enjoying lunch at Jamie’s Italian to celebrate their success.

01. Tom Syme (Airport Commercial Director), Ian Moore (Aviation Manager, TUI), Laura McMeeking (Regional Sales Manager, TUI), Laura Finlayson (Manager Arbroath, TUI), Julia Zaczek (Manager Livingston South, TUI), Carol Benzie (Airport MD), Jason Stewart (Airport E-Commerce Manager), Lynn Harwood (Airport Route Development Manager), Nicola Milne (Assistant Manager Peterhead, TUI), Peter Butcher (Manager Bridge of Dee, TUI), Anne Anderson (Manager Portlethen, TUI), Kayleigh Stobie (Deputy Manager Aberdeen City Centre, TUI), Lisa Mackenzie (Assistant Manager Elgin, TUI) 02. The Airport hosts and TUI guests enjoy a relaxing apéritif at Jamie's Italian.

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SOCIETY

01. 02.

03.

04. 05.

06. 07. ^ SAS OSLO TRADE LAUNCH SAS held their trade launch in Aberdeen’s Soul Bar prior to the start of the Aberdeen to Oslo route. This was attended by the Aberdeen local travel trade who enjoyed an evening of competitions and learning about this new service.

01. Jane Montgomery (SAS) 02. Enjoying some quality reading! 03. Jason Stewart (Airport E-Commerce Manager), Rachael Ogg (Munro's Travel Group- MTG) - first prize winner (two tickets to Oslo), Jane Montgomery 04. Jason Stewart, Carol Benzie (Airport MD), Scott Hendrick (QA Travel), Jane Montgomery, Kevin Thom (QA Travel) 05. Tracey Stewart (ATPI), Alanna Fowler (ATPI), Jane Montgomery, Ashleigh Peel (ATPI), Gemma Lobban (ATPI), Melanie Quilter (ATPI), Kirsten Murray (ATPI) 06. Kevin Thom, Andy Yeomans and Scott Hendrick (All QA) 07. Kristina Boyack (MTG), Nicola Aldus (MTG), Jason Stewart, Rachael Ogg (MTG), Becky Shek (MTG), Laice Brown (MTG), Jane Montgomery, Jessica Preciado (MTG), Caroline Angus (MTG), Owen Thomas (MTG)

AIRBALTIC RIGA LAUNCH Carol Benzie along with airBaltic crew prior to the inaugural flight celebrating a new connection between Aberdeen and Riga, the Latvian capital.

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02.

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03.

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