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The Spring 2015 issue of the Aberdeen International Airport official magazine - upBEAT.
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EXPLORE THE BEAUTIFUL BANFFSHIRE COAST
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FESTIVAL FEVER ADRENALINE ADVENTURES
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responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication. All information correct at time of going to print (April 2015).
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26 Connecting You to the World 50 Win Two Virgin Flights to Anywhere in the USA!
PEOPLE
TRAVEL
BUSINESS
32 Local Flavour - Restaurant Review34 Words Worth Reading 44 Adrenaline Adventures52 Diary54 The Beat Goes On - Win £100 to spend in World Duty Free!
10 New Route - Gdańsk11 New Route - Gran Canaria26 Connecting You to the World 30 Sunny Outlook36 Explore the Beautiful Banffshire Coast39 Discover Jersey50 Win Two Virgin Flights to Anywhere in the USA!
6 Airport News16 British Airways’ Transatlantic Partnership46 Behind the Scenes with Airport Fire & Rescue
22 Travel Essentials
CULTURE
12 Marvellous Museums14 Festival Fever42 What’s On?
SHOPPING
CONTENTS
4
A QUARTER OF THE WAY THROUGH THE YEAR - ALREADY - IT’S SAFE TO SAY WE’VE HAD A GREAT START TO 2015!
We’re very excited to be part of the hosting team for Routes Europe
2015 (12-14 April), welcoming more than 1200 delegates to
Aberdeen City and Shire and sharing with them all the delights
the North-East of Scotland has to offer.
Inside, you can catch up with the latest Airport news, including
details of our new service to Poland, the launch of our brand new
website, and our work on behalf of charity partner Friends of
ANCHOR. There’s also a behind-the-scenes focus on the vital role
played by our Airport Fire & Rescue Service colleagues.
In the local spotlight this time are the beautiful Banffshire Coast’s
wealth of activities and visitor attractions; Aberdeen’s diverse and
colourful festivals, which run right through to the end of the year,
and - to really get the adrenaline pumping - the exciting range of
sea and river adventure activities available on our doorstep.
Our destination features include some of the many long-haul
locations accessible from our Airport, as well as summer holiday
suggestions and a focus on the Channel Island of Jersey, which you
can now fly to directly from Aberdeen.
Enjoy your read - we look forward to welcoming you back very soon.
Welcome to the spring issue of upBEAT, Aberdeen International Airport’s passenger magazine.
Carol BenzieManaging Director
WELCOME
5
The inaugural meeting of the Airport’s
Forum for all matters relating to special
assistance on site, was held in March,
attended by a range of local organisations
representing the needs of passengers
requiring additional assistance, and
their carers.
Building on the services already in place
for those requiring a little extra assistance,
the Forum is designed to discuss the issues
surrounding special assistance and what
measures can be taken to improve the
Airport’s offering.
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 TRAIN Aberdeen and Inverness
services stop at the local station at Dyce
which is just a short taxi or bus ride from the Airport.
Bus number 80, operated by Stagecoach, runs
from Dyce Station (Mon-Fri only). Details at
www.stagecoachbus.com or call +44 (0) 1224
597590. The mainline station is in Aberdeen City
Centre where there are frequent services to all parts
of Scotland. For further information, please visit:
www.travelinescotland.com
BY CAR The access road to the
Airport is signposted from the A96
Aberdeen to Inverness road. The Airport is seven
miles from Aberdeen City Centre. The main car park is
located at the front of the terminal building for short-
stay parking. If you are using a satellite navigation
system, the Airport postcode is AB21 7DU.
BY BICYCLE Aberdeen
International Airport is a relatively easy
airport to get to by bike. There is a high quality off-
road cycle route from the A947 (Dyce) roundabout
onwards. If travelling for a short break an option may
be to leave your bicycle in the modern, covered cycle
stand at the Airport.
AIRPORT NEWS
66
February saw the launch of the Airport’s
new website, offering a bold new look
and an enhanced digital experience for
its visitors.
Along with essential information on
travelling through the Airport and the
facility to book everything from flights to
parking, the site offers expert destination
guides with travel tips and the latest
weather reports, to allow passengers to
make a more informed choice on their
holiday destination. The new ‘My Flights’
functionality allows users to ‘pin’ one
or more live flights to their browser, to
provide live status updates on their screen.
The new website builds on the
improvements made in 2014 which are
already enjoyed by over 100,000 visitors
each month, with more than 1.2million
people visiting the site in 2014 alone.
Jason Stewart, the Airport’s E-Commerce
Manager, says: “After 13 months of
research into the needs of our online
stakeholders, we are delighted with the
outcome. The new site is unique in terms
of airport websites - we have implemented
technology to understand our users based
on their locations and flight selections, and
serve them the content they are most likely
to want to see using this information. This
approach is designed to enable our users
to enjoy a seamless online experience as
part of their overall travel journey.”
The new website can now be accessed
at www.aberdeenairport.com
New website unveiled
AIRPORT NEWS
7
2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR TRIP
For the best deals, book your car parking
online: www.aberdeenairport.com/parking
1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP
> Order your currency online for easy
collection when you get to the airport:
www.aberdeenairport.com/currency
> Check all your travel documents and ensure
your passport is current, that you have a visa
(if required) and that you have noted the flight
times on your tickets.
THE DAY BEFORE YOU FLY
Check the weight of your suitcase and prep
your cabin bag. Decant any liquids, gels, etc
into a small plastic bag.
THE DAY YOU FLY
> Allow plenty of time to get to the airport,
to check-in and clear through security.
> Remember to check the rules on sharps!
> Dispose of liquids above 100ml before you
reach the security area.
> Remember that jackets & belts must
be removed.
> Laptops & mobiles to be presented separately.
Wizz Air, the largest low-cost airline in
Central and Eastern Europe, has announced
a new scheduled service between Aberdeen
and the Polish city of Gdańsk, which will
start operating on 19 June this year.
Visitors to the Baltic coast destination can
expect an energetic city crammed with
diverse sights and historical thoroughfares,
offering a wealth of culture and some of the
oldest red brick churches in Europe. Gdańsk
is also recognised as a key destination for
the Aberdeen energy market.
Wizz Air’s Daniel de Carvalho says:
“Aberdeen is the 107th airport in the Wizz
network. We are delighted to fly to our
seventh UK airport and second Scottish
airport, and look forward to carrying many
passengers on our new Gdańsk route.”
Carol Benzie, Managing Director of
Aberdeen International Airport, adds:
“We are very pleased to welcome Wizz
Air’s new service, offering Aberdeen’s
only direct flight to Poland. This is a great
opportunity for both leisure and business
passengers looking to travel for meetings
and short breaks. We wish Wizz Air every
success with the route.”
The Polish service from Aberdeen
International Airport will operate twice-
weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, with
a 180-seat Airbus A320 aircraft. The airline
is currently putting the finishing touches to
their flight timings.
Booking is now available at:
www.wizzair.com
See ‘Explore Gdańsk’ - page 10
Wizz Air launches Gdansk service
The Aberdeen Airport Community Fund holds its first meeting in April, with the
aim of awarding grants to City and Shire organisations for projects focused on
the topics of education, employment and the environment. The group meets
four times a year and each funding application is reviewed by a selected board
comprising various stakeholders from across the Airport and the community.
If you are interested in learning more about the Community Fund, email
AIRPORT NEWS
For the second year running, the
Airport has won a British Safety Council
International Safety Award with merit,
in recognition of its commitment to
keeping its workers and workplace
healthy and safe during 2014.
The International Safety Awards is an
annual scheme designed to recognise
and reward good health and safety
management by organisations of all
sizes and sectors around the world
during the previous year. The Award
seeks to celebrate and promote the
success of an organisation and its
employees in maintaining a safe and
healthy working environment for all.
Aldrich Blignaut, Head of Health and
Safety at the Airport says: “We’re
thrilled to achieve this award for the
second year in a row, which clearly
demonstrates a real team effort across
the site to maintain
high levels of health
and safety.”
A day trip to Santa’s Lapland has been
announced by tour operator Transun,
flying from Aberdeen International
Airport in December 2015.
Departing from Aberdeen in the
early morning of 6 December, excited
families will set off on a once-in-a-
lifetime trip to see Santa Claus in
his Arctic homeland. Upon arrival in
Lapland, youngsters and adults alike
will mush their own team of husky
dogs, ride snowmobiles and take
reindeer sleighs through the snow,
before having a very special meeting
with Santa. A dedicated charter flight
will transport the adventurers home
later that evening.
Transun’s James Crawshaw says:
“This is a fun-filled day in Lapland,
which both adults and children will
enjoy - and how many people can say
they have been to see the real Santa
in Lapland and returned home in time
for supper?!”
Bookings can be made at
www.transun.co.uk
From the North-East to the North Pole
The Airport’s Health & Safety team were
delighted to present a cheque to partner
charity Friends of ANCHOR, thanks to
input from staff across the Airport.
During 2014, more than 400 safety
suggestions were raised by those
working on site, with £1 being donated
for every suggestion received. The
initiative is part of the Airport’s wider
safety management system, which
encourages staff to take responsibility
for everyone’s safety, using the iconic
clown campaign, ‘Safety is no laughing
matter’ to spread the message.
Airport scoops safety award
Safety reporting reaps rewards
8
HEADER
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10
NEW ROUTES
Explore Gdańsk!
Poland’s principal seaport, Gdańsk sits at the mouth
of the Motlawa River and, together with the port of
Gdynia and the spa town of Sopot, forms the Tricity
(Trójmiasto) - an area rich in cultural and
architectural relics.
With a 1000-year history, Gdańsk is perhaps most
famously known in modern times as the birthplace
of the Solidarity movement, which played a major
role in bringing an end to Communist rule across
Central Europe.
> OLD TOWN Gdańsk’s Old Town has to be one
of the most interesting in Europe, with its ancient
buildings, fascinating museums and friendly people.
The area showcases the city’s architecture in all its
glory, and is also home to some of Gdańsk’s best shops
and restaurants.
> EXCELLENT VALUE With its lively culture and great
value for money, Gdańsk is a popular city-break venue
for groups of friends. Head to No To Cyk, in the Old Town,
a stylish ‘Communist kitsch’ bar where drinks cost only
four Polish Zlotys (less than one pound)! Food in Gdańsk
is equally low-cost and delicious in the many restaurants
in and around this fascinating and vibrant city.
Fly to Gdańsk with Wizz Air
www.wizzair.com
Must-visits...Gdańsk’s most important historical and characterful attractions include:
> MONUMENT TO FALLEN SHIPYARD WORKERS: Comprising three 36-tonne, 138ft-
high crosses with anchors attached, this gigantic
memorial commemorates all those who died
during the 1970 labour strikes.
> ST MARY’S BASILICA: Said to be the largest
brick church in the world. Marvel at the panorama
from the 255ft viewing platform!
> THE CRANE: Constructed in the early 15th
century and now part of the National Maritime
Museum, this was once the largest port crane
in Europe, used for moving goods and raising
ship masts.
> ST MARY’S STREET: One of Gdańsk’s most
enchanting streets, featuring granite cobblestones
and wonderful architecture. St Mary’s has inspired
writers and artists down the decades, and has
provided the backdrop for many movies.
> THE NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN: Seen as the
symbol of Gdańsk, the fountain has stood in front
of the Artus Court since 1633. Throw in a coin to
make sure you return!
> THE UPHAGEN HOUSE: Home to the
Museum of Patrician Interiors, the magnificently-
decorated Uphagen House celebrates Gdańsk’s
former glory.
> GDYNIA - BULWAR NADMORSKI (SEA BOULEVARD): Visit Gdynia’s most popular
walking destination, leading from the city’s beach
to the beach in Redłowo.
> SOPOT - MONCIAK AND THE PIER: A town historically renowned for the health
benefits of its high concentration of atmospheric
iodine, Sopot also boasts the longest wooden pier
in Europe, as well as the breathtaking Art Nouveau
architecture of the stylish 1920s Grand Hotel.
Fly direct from Aberdeen Airport to the Baltic city of Gdańsk and discover a captivating destination, steeped in history, yet lively with contemporary culture and fun.
> SOPOT PIER
> THE CRANE > THE NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN
11
NEW ROUTES
You can book a Summer 2016 getaway with Thomson
from 23 April 2015. Flights take off weekly from
Aberdeen International Airport, with great departure
times. The only question is, where will your Gran
Canaria escape take you...?
WHY GO?Looking for lively beaches? Playa del Ingles
is the island’s most popular holiday spot,
thanks to its expanse of golden sand and neon
nightlife. Maspalomas, just next door, moves at
a slower pace - think miles of Saharan-style sand
dunes backed by a strip of smart hotels, open-air
restaurants and a handful of bars.
WHAT TO DOThere are all sorts of attractions, from water parks
to wildlife parks. Take your pick from Thomson’s
first-class excursions, available to buy from your
Holiday Advisor at your hotel. A must-do is a visit to
capital, Las Palmas - it’s packed with upbeat shopping
districts, a lively harbour and a wide choice of bars and
restaurants. In its historical centre, you’ll find standout
sights such as the 15th-century Santa Ana Cathedral
and the city’s modern art museum, Centro Altantico
de Arte Moderno.
WHERE TO STAYCouples will love the 4T+ Hotel Suite Princess, in Playa
Taurito. Tucked into the foot of a mountain and just
metres from the sandy beach, this stylish adults-only
hotel comes with double junior suites with ocean
views, as standard. By day, you can chill out by one of
its two sea-view pools, or give the wellness centre a
whirl. After dark, you can enjoy first-class food, live
acts and a piano bar serving up cocktails. And when
you want to get out and about, there’s a shuttle bus to
pretty Puerto Mogan, less than five minutes away.
Families will have fun at the Orquidea Hotel in Bahia
Feliz. Part of the Thomson Family Resorts collection,
this hotel offers brilliant kids’ clubs and entertainment,
special menus for little ones, and a splash park with
slides, water jets and shallow pools. Other highlights
include three pools, an international buffet restaurant,
and a tapas-style bar. And all just footsteps from the
beach and right opposite a shopping bazaar! Playa del
Ingles is just six kilometres down the road, and there’s
a bus to Las Palmas every 20 minutes.
For a great deal on your next getaway, pop
into your local Thomson Travel Shop or click
www.thomson.co.uk
INTRODUCING GRAN CANARIA THOMSON’S NEW SUMMER 2016 DESTINATIONIt might only be the Canaries’ third-biggest island, but for somewhere the size of Greater London, Gran Canaria strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. With soft sands in the south, lush forests in the north and sky-high mountains in the centre, it’s a place that covers all bases.
Explore the rich heritage and culture of North-East Scotland and see some wonderful artefacts from around the world, in the diverse array of museums scattered throughout Aberdeen City and Shire. With their exciting, interactive displays, gift shops and cafés, these tantalising time-capsules will keep you and the family entertained for hours!
06
02 03
04
01
05
HISTORY
12
ABERDEEN
ABERDEEN MARITIME MUSEUM, SHIPROW
The award-winning harbourside attraction examines
the city’s relationship with the sea and the emergence
of the oil and gas industry in the late 20th century. Its
unique collection covers shipbuilding, fast sailing ships,
fishing and port history, brought dramatically to life
through art and artefacts, computer technology, and
hands-on exhibits. www.aagm.co.uk
GORDON HIGHLANDERS MUSEUM, VIEWFIELD ROAD
A 5-star VisitScotland attraction telling the compelling
200-year story of the Gordon Highlanders, from the
Napoleonic Wars to the modern day. Follow in the
footsteps of serving soldiers to discover the history
of “the finest regiment in the world” (Sir Winston
Churchill, 1900). www.gordonhighlanders.com
UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN MUSEUMS,HIGH STREET
King’s Museum, at the heart of the University’s Old
Aberdeen campus, is Scotland’s newest museum -
and may also be the oldest, as its origins lie in a museum
collection established in King’s College in 1727.
Exhibitions change every few months to display these
collections, some involving students and academic staff
collaborating with the museum to bring recent research
to a wider audience.
With status as a Recognised Collection of National
Significance, the University’s Zoology Museum’s
displays are worldwide in scope, ranging from
protozoa to the great whales!
The spectacular Sir Duncan Rice Library houses the
largest of the University’s modern collections and
historic collections of rare books, manuscripts and
archives, showcased in changing exhibitions.
www.abdn.ac.uk/museums/exhibitions
ABERDEENSHIRE
ABERDEENSHIRE FARMING MUSEUM, ADEN COUNTRY PARK, MINTLAW
Relive the story of Aberdeenshire’s famous farming past
in the beautiful surroundings of Aden Country Park. Start
at the unique, semi-circular Home Farm steading and
explore the Aden Estate Story and the ‘Weel Vrocht Grun’
exhibitions. Visit Hareshowe, a working farm set in the
1950s, and see oatcakes baked at the Horseman’s House.
www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums
GRAMPIAN TRANSPORT MUSEUM, ALFORD
Enjoy a treasure house of transport history at the
Grampian Transport Museum. Follow the history of
travel and transport in the North-East, through dramatic
displays, working exhibits and DVD presentations.
There’s also an exciting events programme, where you
can experience rides on a road circuit in a wide range
of historic and modern vehicles.
“FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER I’VE HAD A REAL LOVE OF CARS. IN MY WORKING CAREER I’D ALWAYS LOVED MEETING NEW PEOPLE AND IT’S THESE TWO THINGS COMBINED WHICH GOT ME INTERESTED IN JOINING THE TEAM HERE. I THINK IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP DEVELOPING MY INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND WOULD ALSO LIKE TO PASS ON MY KNOWLEDGE AND PASSION TO VISITORS.” Graham King, Grampian Transport Museum Volunteer.
www.gtm.org.uk
TOLBOOTH MUSEUM, STONEHAVEN
Originally a store for Dunnottar Castle, then the town jail
and court (1600-1767), the Tolbooth is now a museum,
whose exhibits cover ‘crime and punishment’,
Stonehaven’s fishing and farming heritage, and local
history. www.stonehaventolbooth.co.uk
BANCHORY MUSEUM, BANCHORY
Uniquely showcasing the archaeological wealth of the
North-East, Banchory Museum also highlights Deeside’s
royal connections and 19th-century tartans, as well as
celebrating the life and work of the late local musician
and composer, James Scott Skinner - the ‘Strathspey
King’. www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums/ visit/
locations/banchory
MUSEUM OF SCOTTISH LIGHTHOUSES,KINNAIRD HEAD, FRASERBURGH
This fine 16th-century castle was altered in 1787
to incorporate the first lighthouse built by the
Commissioners of the Northern Lighthouses. Enjoy
a 45-minute guided tour to Kinnaird Head Lighthouse,
and visit the museum to marvel at the giant lenses,
lighting technology and social history artefacts
covering the lives of the men and families who
guarded Scotland’s coastline for over 200 years.
www.lighthousemuseum.org.uk
FRASERBURGH HERITAGE CENTRE, KINNAIRD HEAD
Manned by volunteers, the Centre illustrates the
historical, social and economic development of
Scotland’s premier herring port, including the stories
of famous townsfolk who made their mark around the
world. Children can have fun learning about the past
with an exciting range of hands-on activities.
www.fraserburghheritage.com
ARBUTHNOT MUSEUM, PETERHEAD
One of Aberdeenshire’s oldest museums, Arbuthnot
provides a fascinating insight into Peterhead’s fishing,
shipping and whaling past. Here, you’ll find Inuit
artefacts and Arctic creatures; local history stories and
objects, and one of Northern Scotland’s largest coin
collections. www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/museums/
visit/locations/arbuthnot
TARVES HERITAGE MUSEUM, ELLON
Opened in 2004, the museum is housed in part of
a Victorian school building and features displays,
historical artefacts and photograph collections reflecting
the Conservation Area status of the village of Tarves, as
well as an authentically-restored Victorian classroom.
www.tarvesheritage.org.uk
THE GRASSIC GIBBON CENTRE, ARBUTHNOTT
The life and writings of James Leslie Mitchell (Lewis
Grassic Gibbon) are celebrated here, in the Mearns,
where he spent his boyhood and where his best-loved
novel, Sunset Song, is set. Today, after adaptations for
TV, radio, theatre and music, it remains one of the most
popular of all Scottish stories. www.grassicgibbon.com
There are lots more North-East museums to
explore - details at:
www.visitscotland.com | www.visitaberdeen.com
Museum of Scottish Lighthouses 01King’s Museum 02
Fraserburgh Heritage Centre 03Grampian Transport Museum 04
Sir Duncan Rice Library 05Gordon Highlanders Museum 06
HISTORY
13
FESTIVALS
MAY FESTIVAL 2015 (29 - 31 MAY) -
an all-encompassing arts and science festival
offering more than 100 events with a variety of
themes, including sports, film, literature, food
& drink, science, music and Gaelic. May Festival
attracts all ages with thought-provoking events for
adults, as well as fun-filled family sessions. Venue:
University of Aberdeen campus, Old Aberdeen.
www.abdn.ac.uk/mayfestival
ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL
(24 JULY - 1 AUGUST) - the city’s longest-
running festival, bringing talented young people
from around the world to showcase a range of
performing arts alongside local and national
performers. This year, AIYF will produce more
than 80 performances in nine days of top-class
entertainment across 50 North-East venues.
www.aiyf.org
And there’s much more to follow later in the year!
Find out more about the full range of
North-East festivals at:
www.aberdeenfestivals.com
www.visitaberdeen.com
www.visitscotland.com
Nine major North-East festivals, which joined forces in 2014 to showcase their unique offerings on the world stage, have a fantastic programme of exciting events lined up for local people and visitors alike.
The Aberdeen Festivals collective includes a diverse
spread of colourful celebrations which run throughout
the year: Arts Across Learning Festival, Aberdeen
Jazz Festival, May Festival, Aberdeen International
Youth Festival (AIYF), the Fifty Plus Family Festival,
TechFest, North East Open Studios (NEOS),
DanceLive and Sound Festival. The group is funded
by Aberdeen City Council and VisitAberdeen, with
significant sponsorship investment from Statoil UK.
“We have a really strong and distinctive festival offering
in the North-East,” explains Angela Michael, Aberdeen
Festivals Manager. “DanceLive, for example, is one of the
UK’s foremost contemporary dance festivals; Sound is
Scotland’s only festival of new music, and AIYF is
a world-class festival spanning more than 40 years.
Our geography, heritage, architecture, and cultural
narrative also make us very different from other
festival locations.”
This year being Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink,
Aberdeen Festivals has received a £25,000 funding
boost by VisitScotland to help promote Aberdeen as
“a place where festivals, food and drink make for special
weekends.” The new campaign links the festivals -
which include everything from music and the visual arts
to science and dance - with the city’s rich array of food
and drink and high-quality accommodation.
14
COMING UP THIS SPRING/SUMMER...
> RESONATING UNIVERSES IN CONCERT, SOUND FESTIVAL (22 OCTOBER - 9 NOVEM
BER)
ADVERTISEMENTS
15
Search ‘musa aberdeen’ on the App Storefor awesome forthcoming offers and deals
33 Exchange Street, Aberdeen AB11 6PHTel: 01224 571771
www.musaaberdeen.com
LONGHAUL AIRLINE FOCUS - BRITISH AIRWAYS
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NEW FLEET:> Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787, Airbus
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Since 2010, British Airways has partnered with American Airlines, Finnair and Iberia to deliver a seamless transatlantic experience with benefits for our customers, including:
British Airways’ Transatlantic Partnership
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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE
20
uring school holidays, you’ll see hordes
of kids jumping from one activity
to another with their multi activity
‘Monster Camps’ and half-day ski and
snowboard camps. The Centre offers
lessons for all ages and abilities, and has packages
to suit everyone - even if you work offshore and
have non-standard work patterns. ‘Taster’ lessons are
available for those who just want to dabble in skiing
or snowboarding, and there are block lessons for
regular weekly sessions, or ‘Fast Tracks’ for those in
a hurry to learn.
The Centre has also recently started offering snowboard
lessons to children as young as three! The launch day saw
more than 60 children strapping into a snowboard for
the very first time.
As well as helping toddlers take their first steps into
the world of snow sports, the Centre is home to some
great emerging talent. This is due to dedicated coaching,
provided by experienced, highly-qualified coaches. Many
of its members have been selected to train in the UK Park
and Pipe Academy, the UK’s elite training academy
for youngsters whose goal is to make the British team.
So whether you’re looking to have your skis or
snowboard serviced, rent some equipment out, or -
as an outdoor enthusiast - get your next adrenaline
hit, be sure to visit the Centre and introduce yourself to
snow sports. You won’t regret it!
Aberdeen Snowsports Centre
Garthdee Road, Aberdeen AB10 7BA
Tel: +44 0 1224 810215
www.aberdeensnowsports.com
Aberdeen Snowsports Centre is a fantastic resource for outdoor enthusiasts in the city and shire. The artificial slope, located in Garthdee, offers far more than you would expect, too, with a dedicated no-skill tubing slope; astro and grass football pitches; facilities for birthday parties, and ski and snowboard tuition for any ability!
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22
RETAIL
TRAVELESSENTIALSDon’t forget to pick up your travel essentials before you fly. Shop at the Airport and you might just be surprised by the huge savings to be had!
THEY’RE REAL MASCARA The UK’s No.1 best-selling
mascara in a jet black long-wearing formula. The
specially designed brush lengthens, curls, volumises,
lifts and separates lashes. This great value set includes
one mascara, one eye-liner and eye make-up remover.
(Available in World Duty Free)
BOSE QC25 Don these Bose QuietComfort 25 Noise-
cancelling Headphones and sink into a private world
of musical bliss. You’ll be able to operate your Apple
smartphone and other compatible phones using the
in-line controls. (Available at Dixons Travel)
RAY-BAN SUNGLASSES Ray-Ban offers a great range
of sunglasses which come in an array of styles and
colours. Choose the perfect pair to match your summer
style. (Available in World Duty Free)
23
RETAIL
NO7 PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE DAY CREAM
SPF 15 Smooth deep lines and wrinkles and help
delay new ones with this protecting & renewing
daytime formula. Created to address your skin’s
needs now and help it have a more youthful future.
Its unique triple protective power is made up of
SPF15, 5-star UVA technology and our patent
pending antioxidant complex. (Available at Boots)
Shop & Collect is a FREE service, available
when you are flying within the European Union
(including flights within the UK). We will store
your goods securely while you are away and
insure them. Upon your return to the Airport,
they will be ready and waiting for you at
a convenient collection point, after you have
claimed your luggage and cleared Customs.
To use the service, simply tell the assistant
in-store that you would like to Shop & Collect,
give them your details and they will take care
of the rest for you. And don’t feel you have to
stop after the first shop - this convenient service
means you can shop in all stores and still not
have to carry anything.
Shop & Collect is perfect if you plan to buy
fragile or heavy items, but it also lets you take
advantage of time-limited special offers. In
addition, it’s a great way to get around the
current restrictions on carrying liquids on your
return flight.
So why not go for that extra fragrance, large
cuddly toy or a bottle of whisky?
Your Aberdeen Airport Shopping Collection
point is located at the end of Check-in, next
to check-in desk 20.
LIKE PRE-FLIGHT SHOPPING, BUT HATE STRUGGLING WITH THE EXTRA BAGS?
WITH SHOP & COLLECT YOU DON’T HAVE TO: JUST BUY BEFORE YOU FLY, THEN PICK UP YOUR PURCHASES ON YOUR RETURN.
YSL - TOUCHE ÉCLAT Refresh your make-up on the
go with Touche Éclat. The travel-friendly pen-brush
is perfect for highlighting to create a natural radiant
glow. Single pens and duo sets available. (Available
in World Duty Free)
SONY CYBER-SHOT WX220 Cyber-shot
WX220 Compact Digital Camera has an 18.2 megapixel
Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers detailed, realistic
and compelling photographs. It’s backlit to reduce
image noise, improve contrast and give each shot
a smoother appearance. (Available at Dixons Travel)
NO7 PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE ADVANCED SERUM 30ML Supercharge
your skincare regime with this clinically proven serum. Independently tested and
proven to work. Helping to achieve younger-looking, more radiant skin in just
two weeks, it’s targeted to tackle fine lines that typically start to appear between
the ages of 35 and 45 years old. (Available at Boots)
MICHAEL KORS - WHITE Opens with a delicate floral
scent, with a hint of jasmine and peony leading to base
notes of musk and vanilla. This is a great fresh fragrance
for summer. (Available in World Duty Free)
HEADER
24
ADVERTISEMENTS
25
DUBAI, UAE WITH KLM 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 glitzy 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.
Relax on a sandy beach or go shopping during the day,
and when the sun goes down, dance the night away in a
stylish club. Whatever type of holiday you prefer, Dubai is
perfect for an unforgettable escape. FLY KLM TO DUBAI VIA
AMSTERDAM WWW.KLM.COM
LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS
26
CALIFORNIA, USA WITH BRITISH AIRWAYSGolden beaches, laid-back cities, fine wines and stunning
scenery - California boasts everything! Los Angeles is home
to the glitz and glamour; San Francisco is full of charm, and
San Diego, in the south of the state, is incredibly diverse.
Head away from the cities to discover much, much more
- from chic coastal areas along the Pacific Coast Highway,
to the vast deserts, as you head out to Palm Springs;
from the awesomeness of Yosemite National Park, to the
lush vineyards of the Napa Valley. Holidays to any part of
California offer an ideal location from which to explore.
FLY BRITISH AIRWAYS TO CALIFORNIA VIA LONDON
HEATHROW WWW.BA.COM
With five global carriers at Aberdeen International Airport this season, there’s a world of choice to connect long-haul to any global destination.
27
MAURITIUS, REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS WITH AIR FRANCE
With idyllic white sandy bays, turquoise waters and gently waving palms trees,
Mauritius is the perfect tropical hideaway. Famous for its wide range of sports,
the island’s offering includes: snorkelling with dolphins, scuba diving with
tropical fish, wakeboarding, kite surfing, golf...Among its most picturesque
regions are Le Morne, or the Ile Aux Cerfs, which both offer stunning beaches.
Grand Baie, in the north, is the cosmopolitan heart of Mauritius, with upscale
hotels, a magnificent bay and bustling colourful markets. FLY AIR FRANCE TO
MAURITIUS VIA PARIS WWW.AIRFRANCE.CO.UK
HONG KONG WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC Described as the ‘coolest city on earth’, Hong Kong offers a vibrant mix of heritage,
cultural and contemporary attractions for all the family, including: the glittering
Avenue of Stars; the Peak - the island’s highest point, offering stunning views
of the cityscape; Ocean Park Hong Kong; Hong Kong Disneyland; the Ladies’
Market; Temple Street Night Market; the cultural Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade; Sik Sik
Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple - home to Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, and
the historic Clock Tower. FLY VIRGIN ATLANTIC TO HONG KONG VIA LONDON
HEATHROW WWW.VIRGIN-ATLANTIC.COM
LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS
HOUSTON, USA WITH SAS Houston has never had it so good. There’s plenty to gush about, thanks to oil, and you
don’t have to drill too far under the surface - or go into orbit - to find it! No trip to
Houston would be complete without a visit to Johnson Space Center, where you can
experience gravity on Mars, learn about NASA missions, and, on Fridays, have lunch
with an astronaut! If you like driving and the weather is nice, head south to Galveston
Island, whose quaint downtown is reminiscent of the Wild West. FLY SAS TO
HOUSTON VIA STAVANGER WWW.FLYSAS.CO.UK
INTERNATIONAL:
DOMESTIC:
> AMSTERDAM with KLM
> BERGEN with Wideroe & SAS
> BOURGAS with Balkan Holidays
> COPENHAGEN with SAS
> CORFU with Thomson & First Choice
> DALAMAN with Thomas Cook, Thomson
& First Choice
> DUBLIN with Aer Lingus
> ENFIDHA with Thomas Cook
> ESBJERG with BMI Regional
> FARO with Thomson & First Choice
> FRANKFURT with Lufthansa
> GDANSK with Wizz Air (from June 2015)
> GENEVA with easyJet
> GRAN CANARIA with Thomson & First Choice
(from summer 2016)
> IBIZA with Thomson & First Choice
> MALAGA with Barrhead Travel
> NAPLES with Newmarket Holidays
> OSLO with BMI Regional & SAS
> PALMA with Barrhead Travel, Thomas Cook,
Thomson & First Choice
> PARIS with Air France
> REUS with Thomas Cook
> STAVANGER with Eastern Airways, SAS & Wideroe
> TENERIFE with Thomas Cook, Thomson
& First Choice
> VERONA with Newmarket Holidays
> BELFAST CITY with Flybe
> BIRMINGHAM with Flybe
> BRISTOL with BMI Regional
> CARDIFF with Eastern Airways
> DURHAM TEES VALLEY with Eastern Airways
> EAST MIDLANDS with Eastern Airways
> HUMBERSIDE with Eastern Airways
> JERSEY with Flybe
> KIRKWALL with Loganair
> LEEDS BRADFORD with Eastern Airways
> LONDON CITY with Flybe
> LONDON GATWICK with easyJet
> LONDON HEATHROW with British Airways
& Virgin Atlantic
> LONDON LUTON with easyJet
> MANCHESTER with Flybe
> NEWCASTLE with Eastern Airways
> NORWICH with BMI Regional & Eastern Airways
> SCATSTA with Eastern Airways > SOUTHAMPTON with Eastern Airways & Flybe
> STORNOWAY with Eastern Airways
> SUMBURGH with Loganair
> WICK with Eastern Airways
AIRLINES & TOUR OPERATORS:
Aer Lingus aerlingus.com
Air France airfrance.co.uk
Airways Holidays airwaysholidays.com
Balkan Holidays balkanholidays.co.uk
Barrhead Travel barrheadtravel.co.uk
BMI Regional bmiregional.com
British Airways ba.com
Eastern Airways easternairways.com
easyJet easyjet.com
First Choice firstchoice.co.uk
Flybe flybe.com
Jersey Travel jerseytravel.com
KLM klm.com
Loganair logainair.co.uk
Lufthansa lufthansa.com
Newmarket Holidays newmarketholidays.co.uk
SAS flysas.com
Thomas Cook thomascook.com
Thomson thomson.co.uk
Virgin Atlantic virgin-atlantic.com
Wideroe wideroe.no/en
Wizz Air wizzair.com
Serving more destinations from Aberdeen than any other airline www.easternairways.com
Routes are correct at time of publication, but are subject to change. Please check with your airline for any alteration or updates, or visit the website: www.aberdeenairport.com before travelling.
30
SUMMER SUN
FLY DIRECT FROM ABERDEEN TO ANY ONE OF THESE FANTASTIC HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS AND BRING SOME SUNSHINE INTO YOUR SUMMER!
01.
04.
05.
Sunny breaks to Bulgaria from Aberdeen with
Balkan Holidays offer you great value for money and beautiful
beach resorts. In the annual Post Office survey of 2014, it was
revealed for the third year running that holidays in Bulgaria provide
British holidaymakers with the best value for money holiday in
Europe. Key findings showed that meals, drinks and other holiday
essentials are cheaper in Bulgaria than in all other European
holiday destinations.
Bulgaria’s Black sea coast stretches an impressive 230 miles and
boasts some of Europe’s finest sandy beaches. With a wide variety
of resorts from the busy and popular Sunny Beach to the UNESCO
protected heritage site of Nessebar, the traditional and picturesque
Sozopol and the delightful family resorts of Elenite and Duni, plus
many more, Bulgaria has a resort to suit every taste.
So, whether your ideal holiday is to let your hair down in one
of our sun-drenched seaside resorts, relax and enjoy one of our
quieter resorts where time appears to stand still, or explore one
of the breathtaking mountain resorts with their lush green slopes,
Bulgaria has something for everyone. Book today for just £49pp
deposit. www.balkanholidays.co.uk
Spain’s famous sunshine coast, the Costa del Sol, really does have
something to suit everyone - from upmarket Marbella, favourite
haunt of the jet-set, to relaxed Nerja, with its unspoilt beaches and
spectacular coastal landscape.
Wherever you choose to base yourself, it’s well worth hiring
a car and exploring the many charming mountain villages. The
dynamic cities of Malaga, Seville and Granada are also on your
doorstep. Each has its own individual character, making all three
perfect for day trips.
This stunning coastline has it all - and Barrhead Travel can
take you there!
To book, visit your local Barrhead Travel store, call 01224 578270,
or visit www.barrheadtravel.co.uk
Fly from Aberdeen International Airport to Dalaman
- the famous spot on the Turkish south coast - and enjoy white sand
beaches, blue-green waters and fantastic nightlife.
Holidays to Turkey also mean ancient sites to explore - as well as
colourful markets and excellent cuisine. Located in both Asia and
Europe, the country brings you the best of both continents.
Nights out in Marmaris offer everything from karaoke bars and 60s
disco to high-end modern nightclubs. Sedir Island, also known
as Cleopatra Island, is famous for its unique seashell beach and
beautiful sand, said to be imported by Cleopatra from the Red Sea.
Olu Deniz Bay, with its famous Blue Lagoon beach and verdant
national park backdrop, is one of the most popular and
photographed areas in Turkey.
To book, visit your local travel agent or www.thomascook.com
Climb aboard award-winning escorted tours
specialist Newmarket Holidays’ special departure from Aberdeen
to Naples this summer and you’ll be in for a Southern Italian treat
to remember.
The classic charms of the famous Amalfi Coast can be savoured
on a tour based in elegant Maiori on the blue Bay of Salerno -
a favoured spot since Roman times. The haunting ruins of a Roman
city, one of the Med’s most idyllic isles, and one of its most famous
resorts, can all be explored on the Capri, Pompeii and Amalfi Coast
holiday, based in glorious Sorrento. Or take the less well-travelled
road into the country’s often-overlooked southern ‘high heel’ of
Puglia, on an Undiscovered Italy tour.
A resort-based week in Sorrento completes the quartet of holidays
available via the special departure.www.newmarketholidays.co.uk
It’s no wonder Majorca - the big sister of Spain’s Balearic
Islands - gets the thumbs-up when it comes to family holidays
with First Choice.
Families flock to the safe shores of Ca’n Picafort, thanks to its
13-kilometre ribbon of sands. Other top distractions for kids on the
island include waterparks, horse-riding ranches and a safari park.
They’ll love the clickety-clackety Soller Railway train, too, which
runs from Palma to the pretty Soller, via a dramatic gorge. Plus,
you can get back to nature away from the coast, where you’ll find
sweet-smelling pine forests and traditional villages.
Find your perfect summer escape at www.firstchoice.co.uk,
or your local Thomson Travel Shop.
31
SUMMER SUN
Book now - and you’ll soon be basking in some of Europe’s
sunniest destinations. See all our holiday destinations at
www.aberdeenairport.com/choice
02.
03.
01.
02.
03.
Best-value Bulgaria
Discover the Costa del Sol
Turkish Delights
04.
05.
Italian Gems!
Family Fun in Majorca!
REVIEW
Review by Jim BrooksVolunteer with Aberdeen’s major social care charity, VSA
LOCAL FLAVOUR
32
Access has been improved throughout the hotel
- built as a private residence in 1892 - and in the
newly refurbished restaurant, lounge and bar, cleaner
lines combine with subdued colours for a modern yet
warmly traditional feel.
Starters were salt and pepper squid for me, freshly-
prepared in feather-light batter with a piquant chilli
dressing, while my guest, Mike, opted for the
prawn platter.
These palate-pleasers were the perfect overture to
the stunning main courses. I chose pan-fried cod,
light and flaky, its delicate flavour complemented by
delicious baby roast potatoes and tomatoes. Mike
loved the handsome, richly-flavoured roast rib of beef
and its quite magnificent Yorkshire pudding, mashed
potato, carrots and parsnips. Wine? Of course; the
excellent, summery Alfredini Garganega Pinot Grigio.
As a stylish finale, I couldn’t resist the velvety cherry
panacotta with whipped cream and shortbread, and
Mike chose kiwi sorbet. Smooth-textured and subtly
flavoured, it’ll be a ‘must’ on my next visit.
And I most certainly will be back to sample Chef
Scott Craig’s thoughtful, wide-ranging cuisine,
engagingly presented by friendly, attentive staff.
Prices are extremely reasonable and even on
a midweek night the restaurant is almost full,
so be sure to book in advance.
Discover for yourself that at the Atholl,
tradition equals inspiration.
54 Kings Gate, Aberdeen AB15 4YN
Tel:+44 (0) 1224 323505
www.atholl-aberdeen.co.uk
The Atholl, one of Aberdeen’s best-known licensed hotels for 50 years, has always been renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional fare, and Managing Partner Gordon Sinclair honours that tradition while moving with the times.
LOCAL FLAVOUR
33
WORD WORTH READING
34
I bought Stuart MacBride’s first book while I was travelling in Australia, and as his
words brought to life the streets of the Aberdeen I knew so well, he transported me
back, helping to quash my homesickness. The Missing & the Dead is the ninth in his
DS Logan series about a work-worn policeman who gives everything to the job, often
to the detriment of his personal life, as he tries to unravel the latest murder-mystery in
the Granite City. I can’t wait to be lured-in by this next instalment.
However, let me assure you, the streets of Aberdeen aren’t as
dangerous as MacBride makes out!
JENNI FRASER, Leisure and Tourism Executive, VisitAberdeen
Three North-East Airport-users recommend some riveting in-flight reading from WHSmith’s latest list of top 20 bestsellers.
If you’re looking for a Big Book in every sense of the term, I can really recommend
The Goldfinch, by Donna Tartt. She’s one of America’s finest novelists and has
published only a handful of books, each one more dazzling than the ones before.
The Goldfinch has it all - it’s a literary epic, a page-turning mystery story, and
so much more. The last 10 or 20 pages are a sustained meditation on art
and what it does, and why it matters. Magnificent!
ALAN SPENCE, Author and Professor in Creative Writing, University of Aberdeen
Patricia Scanlan’s A Time for Friends jumped out at me as the perfect book to take on my flight, as I embarked on a girls’ trip to New York for a special birthday! It’s an interesting book about three very different people, their friendships, and how their upbringings impact their relationships in adulthood. I am only one-third of the way through, but have
already been sucked in to the intrigue and can’t wait to see how it will end up at the betrayal outlined in the prologue. Definitely one to curl up with at the weekend!
MARY HOLLAND, Membership Network Manager, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
Check in - and check out the latest releases at WHSmith, in the main terminal building at Aberdeen International Airport.
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35
ROAD TRIP
36
WITH WEATHER THAT’S SAID TO BE DRIER AND WARMER THAN IN OTHER PARTS OF SCOTLAND; SPECTACULAR SCENERY; AN EXCITING ARRAY OF OUTDOOR AND INDOOR ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS, AND A PACKED PROGRAMME OF FESTIVALS AND FOOD AND DRINK EVENTS LINED UP FOR THE SPRING AND SUMMER, THE BANFFSHIRE COAST HAS PLENTY TO BOAST ABOUT!
“Our coastline has a very wide variety
of offerings, and in terms of its natural
beauty, it has been rated by National Geographic magazine as one of the
top coastlines in the world,” says Zillah
Jamieson, of the Banffshire Coast Tourism
Partnership. “Yet it’s an area that’s
probably unexplored by many people
visiting the North-East - and there’s such
a lot they are missing!”
The Banffshire Coast stretches from
Pennan, in the east, to Cullen, in the
west, and inland to Turriff, and is easily-
accessible from Aberdeen International
Airport, with the farthest point (Cullen)
only just over an hour’s drive away via the
A96. Zillah says the great news for visiting
drivers is that the area has an unrushed,
relaxed atmosphere, free of traffic jams.
The area offers the full range of
accommodation options for holidaymakers,
including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering
cottages, caravanning, camping and
‘glamping’ (luxury camping!). Wherever
you choose to make your base, you’ll find
it easy to explore every part of this unique
coastal area, with something for everyone
to see, do, experience and enjoy!
> BANFF
> DUFF HOUSE > FISH DELIGHTS > GREY SEALS
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ALONG THE COASTThere are lots of scenic cycling routes along the
coastline, joining up with neighbouring routes in
the west and south (Moray-Speyside) and further
east towards Fraserburgh. Walking is another
favourite fresh-air activity, with 30 different walks
listed on the Banffshire Coast website. There are
also opportunities for golfing (with four diverse
courses and a driving range); sea and river fishing;
shooting; diving; surfing; kayaking, and sailing.
HERITAGE HARBOUR TRAILExplore Banffshire Coast’s nine historic harbours,
each with its own unique character and stories.
Visit Crovie, Europe’s best-preserved fishing village;
Pennan, where the 1980s classic, Local Hero, was
filmed (the red phone box is still there!), and some
of the fascinating fishing heritage museums dotted
along the coast.
SEASIDE FAMILY FUN
Enjoy a traditional family seaside holiday, with
fantastic beaches, rock pools and some of the
cleanest sea-bathing in Europe. Locally-made
ice-cream, cakes and scones, and freshly-made fish
n’chips are all part of the package!
WILDLIFE-SPOTTING Known as ‘Scotland’s Dolphin Coast’, the area is
home to around 130 resident bottlenose dolphins,
as well as colonies of grey seals. Meet the local
marine life face-to-face at the interactive Macduff
Marine Aquarium, which has a web-cam link to
Troup Head - Scotland’s only mainland gannet
colony; or take to the sea on an exciting, wildlife-
spotting boat trip.
MUSEUMSMust-see heritage attractions include the 5-star
Duff House, the traditional Salmon Bothy at Portsoy,
Buckie & District Fishing Heritage Museum, Delgatie
Castle, and Banff Museum.
SHOPPING TRAILFollow the Shopping Trail to find a range of high-
quality retail outlets, including a variety of arts and
crafts studios and galleries. Look out for pieces
crafted from the famous green Portsoy Marble,
ROAD TRIP
37
> BOYNDIE BEACH> ICE CREAM AT PORTSOY
> MACDUFF MARINE AQUARIUM> DOLPHINS ON THE COAST
ROAD TRIP
38
which graces grand mansions and castles the world
over, including the Palace of Versailles.
FESTIVALSMay is the month for the colourful arts and culture
COAST Festival (22nd - 24th) and the HAAL Festival
of folk music (29th - 31st). The globally-renowned
Scottish Traditional Boat Festival casts off on 4th -
5th July, followed by the Cornhill Highland Games
(6th June), and the historic Turriff Agricultural Show
(2nd - 3rd August).
FOOD AND DRINKThis year’s festivals are joining with local retailers,
hotels, cafés, bars, restaurants and producers to
celebrate Scotland’s Year of Food & Drink. Among
the culinary delights the Banffshire Coast is famous
for are: Hamlyns Porridge Oats; Gourmets Choice
smoked salmon; Downies of Whitehills’ seafood;
Portsoy ice cream; Glenglassaugh Distillery’s whisky
(one of the ‘Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire’), and
Cullen Skink - a traditional seafood soup with
its own annual competition which attracts chefs
from far and wide. Follow the Food & Drink Trail
and treat your taste buds to some truly superb
local delicacies!
There’s lots more to see and do along the Banffshire
Coast - for more ideas and to download the range of
trails mentioned, visit: www.banffshirecoast.com
“OUR COASTLINE HAS A VERY WIDE VARIETY
OF OFFERINGS, AND IN TERMS OF ITS
NATURAL BEAUTY, IT HAS BEEN RATED
BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
MAGAZINE AS ONE OF THE TOP COASTLINES
IN THE WORLD”
> CULLEN > GARDENSTOWN
Images: Banffshire Coast
Tourism Partnership
54 King’s Gate, Aberdeen AB15 4YN | 01224 323505www.atholl-aberdeen.co.uk
THE MODERN ART OF TRADITIONAL A privately owned, four star Visit Scotland Hotel.
Our recent restaurant and lounge refurbishment along with the installation of a passenger lift to the first floor,
function rooms and bedrooms is now complete.
OUTBOUND
39
t’s a great year to visit, as the Channel Islands celebrate
the 70th anniversary of their liberation after the Second
World War, and the Island Games take place during late
June and early July.
Simply arriving in Jersey is a treat, whether you travel by air and
experience stunning views of ragged cliffs, golden beaches
and lush countryside - or whether you cruise into the south coast
harbour by ferry, spotting hidden coves and dolphins on the
way. On arrival, you’ll find an island of only 45 square miles,
but with more than enough sights, walks, attractions, beaches
and restaurants to easily fill a week’s holiday.
Jersey’s heritage plays an important role in island life and there’s
a wealth of historic sites and museums. A highlight is a visit to the
Jersey War Tunnels, originally an underground hospital, built by
the occupying German forces during the Second World War, and
now a fascinating insight into five years of occupation in which
Jersey was completely cut off from Britain and the rest of Europe.
A Jersey break isn’t complete without a visit to the world-famous
Durrell Wildlife Park, home of the Durrell Wildlife Conservation
Trust. Founded by Gerald Durrell in 1963, the Trust protects
endangered species across the world, offering a home to many of
the animals at its Jersey countryside park.
ONLY 14 MILES FROM FRANCE, YET ALSO LAYING CLAIM TO THE TITLE OF ‘SOUTHERNMOST POINT IN THE BRITISH ISLES’, JERSEY IS A UNIQUE ISLAND FULL
OF BRITISH AND CONTINENTAL INFLUENCES.
After filling your days with
the island’s outdoors and
attractions, the evenings must
be spent sampling some of
the best food in the world…
really! The Channel Islands
are home to some of the finest
freshly-caught and prepared
seafood, and Jersey offers a
fabulous selection of places
to eat, including beach cafés,
friendly country pubs, modern
brasseries and four Michelin-
starred establishments.
When it comes to choosing
accommodation, Jersey offers
a bed for everyone, from
five-star luxury to great-value
family hotels close to the town
centre. For a special treat, try
the award-winning spa and
contemporary rooms of the
Grand Jersey, which overlooks
the island’s south coast.
If you’re more adventurous,
the fantastic Les Ormes
Holiday Resort is close to the
west coast and features an
unrivalled collection of
self-catering lodges,
cottages and apartments.
Whether you’re visiting for
a romantic getaway or long
weekend, a family holiday or
a relaxing break, Jersey offers
an experience that is unique,
accessible and, above all,
truly memorable.
Non-stop direct flights from
Aberdeen Airport to Jersey
depart every Saturday
between 9 May and 12
September 2015. Return
flights and holiday packages
can be booked at
www.jerseytravel.com
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or long weekend, a family holiday or a relaxing break, Jersey offers an experience that is unique, accessible and, above all, truly memorable...
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41
WHAT’S ON
42
FAMILY FUN Awful Ancestors
Braemar Castle, Braemar, Royal Deeside
MUSIC Solid Silver 60s Show
Music Hall, Aberdeen
ABERDEEN CIVIC SOCIETY AGM
9 Albyn Place, AberdeenA
PR
ILM
AY
BUSINESS VisitScotland expo
Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre
TILLY ELLIOT Aberdeen Student Show
His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen
FESTIVAL Koningsdag (King’s Day)
Amsterdam, The Netherlands*
ABERDEEN BACH CHOIR St John
Passion, St Machar’s Cathedral, Aberdeen
BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL Old Town, Edinburgh
192022
22-23
22-25
272630
ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast
Aberdeen Marriot Hotel
FESTIVAL California Roots Music & Art
Festival, Monterey, California, USA*
BUSINESS Decom Offshore 2015
Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre
MAY FESTIVAL 2015 University of
Aberdeen King’s College Campus,
Old Aberdeen
OFFSHORE TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE (OTC) Houston, USA*
WORLD WHISKY DAY Various events
throughout the North-East
www.worldwhiskyday.com
SALTIRE SOCIETY TALK ‘Scots in the
Subarctic: musical exchanges with the
James Bay Cree’ Rubislaw Church
Centre, Aberdeen
4-7
16
19
22
22-24
2729-31
*International
WHAT’S ON
43
GRAMPIAN BEER FESTIVAL Richard
Donald Stand, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen
ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast
Village Urban Resort Aberdeen
FESTIVAL Chicago Blues Festival
Chicago, USA*
30 APRIL - 4 MAYSPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVALHeld annually during the first long weekend in May,
the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival invites visitors
to celebrate Scotland’s national drink through an
inventive and wide-ranging programme of whisky-
inspired events - some educational, all of them fun.
www.spiritofspeyside.com
6 JUNETASTE OF GRAMPIAN Thainstone Centre, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire Discover and sample the wide range of high-quality
food and drink products from the North-East of
Scotland, including smoked salmon, shortbread,
ice-cream, prime roast beef, creamy fudge and maybe
a dram or two of the best Scottish whiskies from local
distilleries. www.tasteofgrampian.co.uk
4-5 JULYSCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVALPortsoy, AberdeenshireAn annual extravaganza combining maritime and
rural heritage, crafts, music, art, sailing - and the best
of the region’s food and drink, all in the superb natural
setting of Portsoy Harbour. www.stbfportsoy.com
JUN
E /JU
LY4-6
11
12-14
PITMEDDEN MUSIC & BEER FESTIVAL Pitmedden Garden, Pitmedden,
Ellon, Aberdeenshire
BUSINESS The Oil and Gas Industry
Conference, Aberdeen Exhibition &
Conference Centre
THE MIDSUMMER BEER HAPPENING IN STONEHAVENBaird Park, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
ART & DESIGN 130th Anniversary
Degree Show, Gray’s School of Art, Aberdeen
ABERDEEN HIGHLAND GAMESHazlehead Park, Aberdeen
ABERDEEN COUNTRY FAIRBelmont Street, Aberdeen
12-13
17-18
18-20
19-27
2127
ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business Breakfast
Thistle Hotel Aberdeen Airport
MUSIC Festival d’Eté de Québec
Québec City, Canada*
3
9-19
OUTDOOR FUN
44
COASTEERINGGet up close and personal with the stunning local
seascape with this exciting and unique activity,
which involves scrambling over rocks, exploring
gullies and caves, and jumping into the sea!
Coasteering can be tailored to different abilities
and tastes for adventure, and is a favourite with
families, schools and organisations seeking fun,
team-building activities, as well as stag and hen
parties out to make a splash!
CANOEING & KAYAKINGScotland boasts some of the best canoeing and
kayaking locations in the world, and the North-East
is no exception! There’s an abundance of coastline
(Stonehaven’s caves and inlets are a particular favourite
for sea-kayaking), as well as a variety of lochs and
rivers suitable for every grade, with opportunities
ranging from calm, sheltered water, to exhilarating
white water rapids.
WHITE WATER RAFTINGHang on for the ultimate white-knuckle ride! White
water rafting on the Rivers Dee, Don and Spey is
another fantastic team activity - and it doesn’t need
any training or experience. The rushing rapids are
interspersed with plenty of calm waters, which offer
excellent opportunities to catch your breath, enjoy the
scenic views, and spot the riverbank flora and fauna.
GORGE-WALKINGLike coasteering, gorge-walking is an ideal group
activity, with an emphasis on teamwork. Participants
journey up or down a river’s course, swimming,
wading, sliding down natural flumes and rapids,
and jumping into deep pools - as well as swimming
behind waterfalls and scrambling along the banks and
gorge sides. There are several small but challenging
gorges close to Aberdeen, with deeper and wider
gorges to explore at Royal Deeside and Speyside.
A number of local organisations offer safe and
professional instruction in all these activities, and
they’ll also provide all the equipment you’ll require.
One such is Adventure Aberdeen - a not-for-profit
Aberdeen City Council service supporting vital outdoor
learning experiences for education, social care and
community establishments across the city. Adventure
Aberdeen also welcomes private and corporate groups.
Fairley Road, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8PZ
Tel: +44 (0) 1224 270990
www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/adventureaberdeen
North-East Scotland is blessed with miles of beautiful coastline, from sandy beaches, coves and caves, to craggy cliffs screaming with seabird activity. Inland, rushing rivers are bordered by breathtaking scenery, from native woodland to granite gorges. If you thrive on adrenaline-filled adventure, you’ll love these
fantastic, fun ways of exploring the natural environment.
OUTDOOR FUN
45
01 02 03
01. Coasteering
02. Gorge-Walking
03. Kayaking
Images - Adventure Aberdeen
BEHIND THE SCENES
46
behind the scenes with...THE AIRPORT FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE
Martin Stubbs, Head of the Fire & Rescue Service at Aberdeen International Airport, welcomes upBEAT to the Fire Station, for an unforgettable familiarisation session!
BEHIND THE SCENES
47
WHAT’S YOUR CAREER BACKGROUND?I started out in 1993 as a recruit firefighter
at Edinburgh Airport and moved to
Aberdeen, first as a Sub-officer and then
on to Station Manager, and I took up my
current role two-and-a-half years ago.
Twenty-two years on, I’m still passionate
about the job, which is challenging,
but very enjoyable. It’s an interesting
environment to work in and no two days
are the same.
WHAT ARE YOUR TEAM’S RESPONSIBILITIES?Aberdeen International Airport Fire &
Rescue Service operates within many
fields. Our primary role is to save life and
render assistance at the scene of an aircraft
accident or incident occurring on or near
the immediate vicinity of the airfield
throughout the published operating
periods of the aerodrome.
AIA FRS is fully-equipped and trained to
deliver a compliant and professional Fire
& Rescue Service at all times in accordance
with all regulatory standards. The Service
is integral to many areas of the business,
providing a high standard of customer
focus. This includes the provision of first
aid support and fire prevention advice,
along with supporting the business to
deliver a safe working environment. We
are regularly audited by the Civil Aviation
Authority and governed by European
Aviation Regulatory Standards, operating
around the clock, seven days a week,
365 days a year.
There are 51 of us in the team and our
Red, Blue, White and Green Watches
work 12-hour shifts. The guys here are
very professional and dedicated to what
they do. We’re a close-knit team and see
ourselves as an essential part of the overall
Airport safety and operational structure.
WHAT ARE YOUR PARTICULAR CHALLENGES AS AN AIRPORT FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE?Aircraft contain a relatively large amount
of people within a confined space, and
there are large quantities of fuel in the
vicinity. This means we need to be on
the scene, and have the ability to knock
down any fire situation, as quickly as
possible, so that we can carry out rescue
operations. As a result, we have a different
operating model from that of the local
authority: performance-wise, our vehicles
are fundamentally different, due to the
very tight timescales within which we need
to be in position and fighting a fire, and
we also carry a lot more media (foam and
water) on our appliances.
WHAT SPECIAL QUALITIES DOES IT TAKE TO BE A FIREFIGHTER?When we’re recruiting, we look for
enthusiastic people who are adaptable
to a changing environment and have the
determination and ability to cope in very
difficult and often unexpected situations
that are demanding both physically and
mentally. We have recruited staff from
many walks of life, some having previously
worked for local authority fire services.
Some of us are also on the Scottish Fire &
Rescue Retained Service rota when we’re
not on Airport duty.
WHAT TRAINING DO YOU UNDERGO?All our personnel are trained to
CAP699 requirements - a nationally-
recognised Civil Aviation Authority
standard. Predominantly, we train
continuously for an event we hope will
never happen. The Airport has a very good
safety record and many of the incidents
we attend are precautionary; however,
we can never underestimate that any
minor event could escalate into a
significant one at any time.
“...WE LOOK FOR ENTHUSIASTIC PEOPLE WHO ARE ADAPTABLE TO A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT AND HAVE THE DETERMINATION AND ABILITY TO COPE IN VERY DIFFICULT AND OFTEN UNEXPECTED SITUATIONS THAT ARE DEMANDING BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY”
BEHIND THE SCENES
48
As well as daily airfield training exercises,
we have regular classroom-based training
to keep us abreast of aviation industry
changes and developments in
firefighting procedures.
We also hold mutual training events
with the local Scottish Fire & Rescue
team, who, along with Police Scotland
and the Scottish Ambulance Service,
would support us in the event of a major
incident. Every two years, we hold major
practical emergency exercises involving
all the agencies including volunteers from
organisations such as the British Red Cross
and Police Scotland Youth Volunteers, who
role-play as casualties to add a further
element of realism to the event.
An essential part of being a Firefighter is
keeping fit, as we need to comply with the
regulatory minimum fitness requirements.
We have a very well-equipped - and well-
used - gym at the Fire Station, and each
watch has at least one physical training
instructor (PTI) to support individuals in
their personal fitness programmes. We
also encourage staff from other Airport
departments to use our gym: our PTIs
are always available for Airport staff to
provide support for anyone looking to
generally get fitter, or recuperate following
an injury or operation.
TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR VEHICLES & EQUIPMENTThe Airport has made a significant
investment in the Fire & Rescue Service
fleet and our main fire-fighting vehicles
are two state-of-the -art Rosenbauer
Panthers - a model famous for appearing
in the Transformer movie! Each £700,000
vehicle weighs 37 tonnes, but, with
700bhp, can go from zero to 50mph
in just 30 seconds. We also have two
Carmichael Cobra appliances. The
Panthers are equipped with a main
monitor and bumper turret, controlled
by joystick from the cab, and can pump
around 5000 litres of water/foam per
minute. Each can carry up to 11,000
litres of media (far more than we are
legally required to carry) and we have
an airfield-wide hydrant system and
rapid replenishment tanks where the
vehicles can refill. The cabs can carry
three Firefighters in full fire-fighting kit,
and the vehicles also carry the very
latest firefighting and hydraulic rescue
equipment. Our fleet also includes a
number of command and control and
hose-laying vehicles.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHANGES IN THE SERVICE OVER THE YEARS?There has been a Fire & Rescue Service on
site ever since Aberdeen became a civilian
airport, and it has grown and developed
along with the Airport. Our training and
other compliance requirements have
changed over the years, but the most
significant developments have been in
vehicle and equipment technology. When
I first started, everything was very heavy
and manual; we’ve now moved towards
joystick technology and if you can use
a PlayStation, you have an advantage!
Equipment has also become a lot
lighter, more efficient, and requiring
less maintenance.
DO YOU HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?Very much so: we do a great deal
of community engagement, actively
encouraging local schools, nurseries,
youth groups, etc, to visit the Station.
Last year we welcomed more than 400
visitors and received a community award
from the Airport. We also attend a variety
of open days and other events throughout
the year. We very much enjoy our
community activities.
“THE GUYS HERE ARE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND DEDICATED TO WHAT THEY DO. WE’RE A CLOSE-KNIT TEAM AND SEE OURSELVES AS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE OVERALL AIRPORT SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE”
BEHIND THE SCENES
49
I visit the Fire Station on a sunny, spring day, a little nervous about
what lies ahead. I needn’t have worried - Martin and his team make
me very welcome and I’m whisked off to get kitted-up for some
equipment familiarisation.
On the way, I have a quick look around the Station, which is well-
equipped with a comfortable leisure room, kitchen, offices,
a training room, and an amazing gym.
The team are friendly and there’s a lot of light-hearted banter as
they put me through my paces. The uniform is very heavy and
hot, particularly when I’m climbing up a ladder, and holding the
firehose and hydraulic cutting equipment, which are a real strain
on the arms. I realise how much strength it must take to do the job,
particularly wearing breathing apparatus on top of everything else.
I have nothing but admiration for the team’s sole female member,
Jan Maryan, who, being petite, says she needs to take her fitness
regime particularly seriously.
The highlight of my visit is a ride in the Rosenbauer Panther, when
I see first-hand the sheer power of the water-deluge from its main
monitor and bumper turret. It’s an incredible experience that I’ll
never forget!
STAFF FROM OTHER
AIRPORT TEAMS ARE
ENCOURAGED TO VISIT
THE FIRE STATION FOR
FAMILIARISATION
SESSIONS. HERE, NEW
MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR
ANISHA PATEL MEETS
THE MEMBERS OF BLUE
WATCH AND GETS TO GRIPS
WITH SOME SPECIALIST
FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT
Virgin Atlantic is giving away two free flights to any of
the airline’s US destinations, flying Economy Class.
Here’s a fabulous travel treat for one lucky upBEAT reader and their guest!
Enter online at www.aberdeenairport.com/competitions*Terms & Conditions apply. See online for details.
Win two Virgin Atlantic flights to anywhere in the USA with Aberdeen International Airport
> NEW YORK CITY > SAN FRANCISCO> MIAMI
51
ADVERTISEMENTS
52
DIARY
EASTER BUNNY The bunny made a visit to Aberdeen International Airport, and hopped behind the scenes!
01.
02.
03. 04.
LET’S CELEBRATEThe Airport’s Let’s Celebrate Awards, held in January at the Thistle Aberdeen Airport Hotel, were a sparkling success!
01. Kevin Elrick, Iain MacDonald, Carol Benzie, Gary Annand & Brian Robertson 02. Stuart Beattie, Carol Benzie & Jemma Forrest 03. Hope Eley, Stuart Beattie, Jemma
Forrest, Martin Stubbs, Craig Dow, Iain MacDonald, Craig Ross, Gary Annand, Mandy Shanks, Brian Robertson & Kevin Elrick 04. Martin Stubbs, Dan Peck & Craig Dow
53
DIARY
VIRGIN MACMILLANThe Virgin Little Red team enlist the help of ‘Superman’ to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
LEFT TO RIGHT: Don Wells, Martin Kennedy, Holly Bernie, Sandra Dinnie, Tracey
Hutchinson, Yasmin Rosie, Tom Golswerthy, Laura Smith, Emma Salt, Helen Yates.
FRONT CENTRE: Rebecca Hill (left) and Christine Burt.
BRITISH AIRWAYS COMIC RELIEFBritish Airways hosted Comic Relief at Aberdeen International Airport, with X Factor Finalist Nicholas McDonald.
BACK ROW: Taufiq Qazi, Gordon Martin, Taiwo Salami, Debbie Clark, Ann-Marie
McPake, Carl Elwood FRONT ROW: Phyllis Stuart, Nicholas McDonald, Shirley Watson
THE BEAT GOES ON
54
Win a £100 VOUCHER to spend at World Duty Free, at Aberdeen International Airport!
See how far and wide you can take your copy of upBEAT -
go on, be creative! Send your photo to [email protected]
Please submit high resolution images, at least 1MB in size at 300dpi print resolution.
See the winning picture in the Summer 2015 upBEAT - it could be yours! (Deadline: 12th June 2015)
IAIN SHEPHERD, MOUNT EVEREST
ALEX MITCHELL, HALONG BAY, VIETNAM
SAMANTHA GLASGOW, FRENCH ALPS
JODIE NEAL, PALMA NOVA, MAJORCAMOIRA GASH, HAWAIIPIOTR BOGUSZEWSKI, HOI AN, VIETNAM
HEADER
56
