We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

Support Dundee

The quirky city centre public art embedded in the street furniture and hidden in open view in buildings + Active cultural calendar and venues + People as chatty and open as Glaswegians + what’s round the corner …

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That despite people's perception of Dundee it has an incredibly vibrant creative culture which is only growing. It is very exciting!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dudhope Park is a sometimes forgotten gem in the centre of Dundee! Dudhope Park has been improved with lighting in the skatepark and nearby paths, improvements to the tennis courts and - very soon - a brand new play park! Being the main green space in the centre of Dundee it's a great place to enjoy the sunshine!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee, for me, has always been a source of inspiration in terms of culture and creativity.
It always surprises me that; no matter where you are in the world, you'll always meet someone who been to, or knows someone from here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Having recently started living here (moved from London) I have been struck by the warmth and very welcoming attitude from all those I have met - at work, the bus drivers, shop assistants, various tradesmen to name a few. The compact city has a great history with hidden gems around many corners. The old city walls to the west, a medieval house in the city centre now the Backpackers hostel, the incomparable moodiness of the Tay, RSS Discovery and of course the Unicorn. So understated, so much to shout about.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is home to The Scottish Dance Theatre, The Rep. Theatre, The Gardyne Theatre, The Whitehall Theatre, The McManus Art Gallery and will soon be home to The V&amp;A museum. We have staggeringly beautiful views and incidentally, the only city in Britain where you can still see Red Squirrels. Dundee has nurtured world class medical research, top notch software companies and two universities whose reputations are second to none. We have The Sensation Science Centre, Captain Scott's ship RRS Discovery and The only full-time public observatory in the UK. For a population of 140,000 that's surprising.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How great the view is from the top of the Law
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The cultural quarter of the DMCA, the rep and all the events happening!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The laid-back attitude and warmth of the city is my favourite aspect of Dundee. The city is going through an amazing change and with it brings an excitement, sense of opportunity &amp; open-mindedness that is really refreshing when national and global economic depression can result in an often depressive outlook. Here you find an unusual resilience.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That I would want to live In Dundee forever!...
It is a city that feels like a "vibrant village" full of friendly and inspiring people from all around the world. A magical place that keeps re-inventing itself. The V&amp;A at Dundee will be the icing on what is already a very rich cultural cake!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the way the sun sets over the bridges, particularly during winter evenings - makes me feel like I am home every time.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The new McManus Galleries are excellent.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's a city in the country. See deer and squirrels while playing golf at Camperdown, a sparrowhawk in the City Square, seals at Riverside, dolphins in the Tay at the Stannergate, and of course the whale at the MacManus!
And - it's a city with a thirst for learning. Public lectures and exhibitions from a variety of providers draw curious and interested crowds eager to have something more than the football to talk about!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The castle in Broughty Ferry. It houses a surprisingly strong collection of Scottish art - not what you'd expect from a pretty random tower by the beach!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The views are superb from everywhere especially from the top of Ninewells Avenue !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundonian's really have a great banter, our sense of humour is second to none, and we are unique in that OUR 'village' follows the 'one degree of separation' rule - everyone knows someone, who knows someone. Also, regardless of where anyone stays or works in the city, you're only ever 10 minutes distance away!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I visited Dundee this past January-February for the first time, and was amazed by its rejuvenation. I stayed at the Alberta Guesthouse, which was run by a lovely and very homey-artistic duo of John and Hazel. There's something very different about it. I was there for my bday, and hazel made me handmade cuff links without knowing me very well. An amazing and artistic bed and breakfast. Truly outstanding.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Whenever I travel back to Dundee I am always surprised at the beauty I see. Travelling over the water on the train I never fail to remember how lucky I am to be able to see our landscapes and treasures in architecture, history, creativity and community... That and a good pub!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is alive and in great spirits with song, dance and drama round every corner, music is in the air, the City is bulging with culture be it Traditional, Classical or Ethnic, and listen to the Youth music makers, schools orchestras, brass and pipe bands, folk groups and we are dancing in the street with Funky Feet and Urban Moves.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Even the small communities such as Lochee are getting extensive work done on them to improve the place overall.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The cherry blossom 'avenue' in full bloom at Dawson Park. Its beauty surprises me every year and it is a reminder that spring has finally arrived!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The rich cultural history of dundee and its people.This year we celebrate the centenary of the death of Lily walker and acknowledge her contribution to social reform. There is a strong community spirit with many local events and festivals held across Dundee, which showcase the diversity of the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Progressing to a Major Cultural City
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Even as a native I am constantly surprised by how many people conceal tremendous creative talent behind their 'ordinary', self-effacing external appearance. I know folk who are exceptionally artistic, literate, musical - you name it - but, being Dundonians, they wouldn't let you realise it until you get to know them. Get to know Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's such a big small place. A magicalwarm place that is such a wonderfully well kept secret. Dundee knows its roots, it isn't afraid to be proud of them, but it won't pretend to be something that it isn't. It is quintessentially Scottish.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I loved the museums. Dundee was the home of my ancestors and I found it an amazing place to visit
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> People's pride in the history of the City
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its student friendliness and sunshine. I enjoy how many simple activities there are as well including walks and sites to see. The university is filled with nationalities and is a centre for culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee eagles rugby club, which encourages team work and life skills to children from Primary 1 right through to secondary whilst being active and learning to play rugby.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The thing that surprised me most when i moved here was the number of independent shops and restaurants, there are some hidden gems like Dukes corner for music and food. Just walking down Perth road there is hardly a chain store on show, with numerous independent coffee shops and small art stores. Its not all bad in Dundee at all.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The glorious setting, the spectacular river Tay, the rolling hills of Fife, the blend of old-new build in the city, and the relentless cheerfulness of its citizens
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The hidden asset of Dundee is the fact that It is easily accessed from all other major cities in Scotland, therefore an ideal place for being the City of Culture 2017. A beautiful setting as you approach the river, miles of beach, countryside within 10 minutes and people from all walks of life.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Fireworks night fireworks! An amazing display and a great place for people to come together. They always mark the start of a special time in the year and I look forward to seeing them again this year.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fantastic variety of theatre and music events, not only by 'professional' performers, but also talented 'amateurs'. I lived in several cities in Europe and have never come across so many musical and drama groups and societies in a city. You can not only be a spectator, but also participate! Personally, I love Opera and in Dundee I have had the opportunity to sing in Verdi and Mozart operas - a fantastic experience. And then go and see professional companies perform music you have got to know well yourself gives your everyday life and work a fresh perspective. Lovely people, beautiful place, great opportunities.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> can't think of a better place to live and work
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Groucho's. The shop itself ain't squirreled away, but unless you look for them, the treasures inside will elude you. A proper visit takes time, patience, an open mind and a well-honed record-rifling technique. Never mind Dundee - it's the only shop in Scotland a man can enter with no agenda and strut out like a champion, having bought an original, mint condition pressing of Bill Withers' seminal 1972 album "Still Bill", totally by accident.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> With the V&amp;A, the DCA, the Rep, the Whitehall Theatre, our indoor and outdoor sports teams, our shops, music venues, our pubs, our cafes and bustling city centre with a rich heritage of history - why not Dundee for City of Culture 2017.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Howff - a secret store of history, stories, beauty and death. It really is an amazing place.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Each scheme has their own sense of community, of closeness and of belonging. Schools in less privileged areas are improving, moving forward and an increasing number of youngsters from these areas are showcasing their talents through various mediums such as acedemia, dance, drama, art or music etc
Im a proud Dundonian , raised in Whitfield and have taken the strength and determination instilled in me whilst growing up and have used this to my advantage to strive to be successful in my adult career. It is no longer the case that 'scheme' kids are being left behind.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have lived out of this great City for 25 years, visit as often as I can, and now I'm heading home.

It's Dundee's time and I for one don't want to miss it. If any City deserves it's place in the world and recognition for it's contribution, for all manner of wonderful reasons, then here's my vote.

'Dundee is like a light across my heart' - Michael Marra.

This covers it for me.

Good luck Dundee. You deserve it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> magdalene yard road gardens, on a sunny day, with friends, bubbles and laughter x
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> ..the blues bonanza...biggest free blues event in europe...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Charles McKean - his lectures about Dundee are always an inspiration.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm always impressed by the wealth of creativity shown by the ordinary person in Dundee - from Amateur stage shows to local bands to individual aspiring artists creating interest around the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The mix of old and new, the energy of the place, the huge student population, there are so many hidden surprises here!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The distinctive Dundonian language celebrated in the songs of Michael Marra and the performance poetry of Mark Thompson.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the commitment of Dundee's volunteers.....most hours of the day and night there are a band of volunteers helping out those who need support. I am involved with the Dundee branch of Samaritans which has been on the go for over 50 years. There are many of us out there doing all sorts of things in our own time to lend a hand or an ear to another human being....so don't forget about them!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The welcoming and 'can-do' attitude that supports a culture of great art and science here, demonstrated by the fact that even the taxi drivers are proud of the achievements of the University of Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's the generosity, I help organise the community festival Dundee WestFest and despite having no real budget, the lengths people go to to help us make it a great week of events. Musicians, Performers, Walks and Talks Organisers, Poets, Stall holders, Venue Providers and all the business that help with in kind support and the audience for all the events, all so very generous, a real community effort. Thank you for being Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A lovely city located over the bank of a l river, rich in history and Mecca of learning.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is one of the most beautiful locations in Britain with the banks of the Tay on one side and the sidllaws on the other to capture the four seasons of the year. The people make the city and Dundee has the charactors and people to make any city proud. The very roots of Scotland are based here and the city today is as commercially successful as ever to be City of Culture 2017. Dundee maybe has no oil revenue but historical and cultural we are as good if not better to carry the flag.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city is beautiful with a rich history. Amongst the lovely sights to see are the ship "Discovery" and the Jute museum. The River Tay is a beautiful sight to see from the Tay bridge especially at night. The people are warm and always offer you the nice scottish hospitality and you often get to see many of the men in traditional Scottish kilt. The University Of Dundee offers a diverse mix of cultures from across the globe which blend with the eclectic mix of the old and the new that is The City Of Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fact that Dundee's law hill is actually a dormant volcano! And that it's got a secret tunnel through it! And that you can walk to the top for breathtaking views :-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Getting to know Dundees creative scene is a rich journey of discovery. It's not a city to wear its cultural heart on its sleeve but once you start to squirrel in on what's keeping the artistic pulse beating it turns out the heartbeat is strong, varied, hard hitting and rich. And most of all friendly and welcoming. Come investigate under the skin of the city too...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The view from The Law, the hub of the City. Each view is like the spokes on a bike with different cultural experiences awaiting in every direction. The South to the city centre the bridges and beyond the Tay to Fife. The South East to the grassy beach and the delights of the Ferry, and the bombs and biodiversity of Buddon ness. The East to Arbroath the birthplace of Scotland and the great beaches and cliffs of the east coast. The North East to the invention of the Bridie ,the Angus Glens and wild adventures, the North to Golden Eagles and the heart of the Highlands, and the North West to Birnham and Macbeth country. Finally the fantastic view to the West of the Tay Estuary of the Tay winding its way to the heart of Scotland.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> All the brilliant and creative people that live here!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundonians are immensely proud of their city and the know how to celebrate its achievements. When Dundee United clinched the Premier League title back in '83 by beating their local rivals, Dundee FC, it was no surprise that both sets of fans celebrated into the small hours.
In what other city would this have happenned?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One of the best places to go and have your lunch in the city centre in summer time is actually... cemetery. Howff Burial Ground. It's just across the street from the post office on Meadowside. It's surprisingly quiet and calm. You got to try it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The view from the 'top of the Tower" - Dundee University's Tower Building has to be seen to be appreciated. There is a cafe on the Tenth Floor of the building, offering spectacular views across the Tay. On a nice day the stillness of the waters really does bring a feeling of inner calm.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dylan Drummond is surely one of Dundee's greatest assets. The passion and enthusiasm he displays for his city (and the similarly talented locals he chooses to freely showcases) displays a vigour and vibrancy which I think is unique and truly infectious. See for yourself.
www.sonofthesea.co.uk
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> So many unique features, but can't fail to be impressed by the view approaching the city over the river. Especially at night.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The first thing that surprised and delighted me about Dundee was that it still has many of its old buildings and cobbled streets. It has a strong sense of history, but not in a way that holds it back. The historic city is cherished and involved, without sacrificing the space the new city needs to flourish.
Besides that, the support for the arts is obvious all over. This is most obvious in the city centre, and makes the space one that people care about - it's rare to find bollards, lamp-posts, benches and notice-boards that are all designed to be “nicer than they have to be" (to quote a friend).
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The City of Dundee nurtures the talents of their young and old to be the best they can be in the ever evolving world of industry and creative arts. Great singers, musicians, dancers, artists, actors, designers have been created &amp; inspired by the people and history of this town. Not to mention the amazing universities and teaching hospitals we also have for medical and dentistry work. The City of Dundee is not only full of lovely, friendly, talented, inspiring people but it is also a beautiful city to look at, with an extinct volcano right in the middle of the city allowing us to admire it's greatness :o)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is a very historic place with many nooks and crannies to be sought out.
Great walks - I particularly like the walks around the old streets down to Magdalen Green and back into the City centre on a good day.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A place - Dundee Rep
An event - Rotary Young Musician of the Year
Person- David Robertson SOLAS and St Peter's Free Church
They all share Dundee's attitude -Hidden Quality, intellect. humour, aspiration and never above oneself.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people are its best asset - witty, genuine and friendly.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I moved to Dundee 14 years ago. I love the vibrancy, the events scene, the bars, the people, the overall creativity of this fantastic city. It has brought me life, family, friends and love.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How it changes so much but never really changes at all. I was born in Dundee but now live in Essex. The city changes with various buildings being demolished and new ventures being completed every time I visit. But as you walk through the crowds, you notice that the people don't change and there is a tremendous amount of loyalty that stretches back through generations. Dundonians are proud to be just that and that is something that will never change!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Lively city minutes from sea, sand, hills and glens.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Such a small city - can feel like a village, in social terms, but with everything a city should have.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm here today because of the wonderful work being done in the Scottish Bowel Screening Unit which is here in Dundee. Screening was piloted here and is now saving lives of Scots all over the country. The work on cancer research done here in Dundee is exceptional and the skill of our medical staff at Ninewells hospital is second to none.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The independent development of resources, supported by local people. Support given to theatre, - professional and amateur {music and drama}. Scots music, song and poetry is endemic - popular,widespread and developing. A strong centre for Art and the Arts and prominent in the sciences (medicine, biology, biotechnology, bioinformatics, IT skills,computing and traditional sciences. Dundee is a cultural centre for East and Central Scotland, Britain and the World, with many foreign students and visitors.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's Dundee's long standing culture of ideas which prompts an unpretentious and stimulating art scene that continues to produce and be produced by imaginative and clear thinking individuals from all walks of life - a situation I've found to be inspiring and supportive since moving here in the 1990s and have seen gaining pace ever since.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a Dundonian I love this place , spectacular setting on a river visited by dolphins and seals , small enough to feel like a community, close enough to bigger cities if you want then, filled and surrounded by parks and a host of activities, monikie is my hidden treasure , drive for half and hour and you are in the countryside where you can walk till your hearts content , 40 mins more and you are in glenshee, where you can ski for hours without the queues.... What more can you ask for?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has so much going on and it is all within easy reach! Having two Universities, the fabulous DCA (Dundee Contempory Arts) and the McManus Art Gallery to name only a few brilliant cultural resources there is always public lectures, exhibitions, activities and places to meet family and friends to eat and drink. Broughty Ferry has beautiful beaches which are great for walks, sunbathing, water sports and the castle ~ not forgetting New Years Dook!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Dundee Contemporary Arts should be the "Centre of Culture" in the UK! Due to its quaint nature, the workshops and events it runs are very heavily community-oriented, attendants to these events feel the cultural message a lot more personally.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the belief that Dundee people have in Dundee as a place to live. Our city sometimes gets bad press for some socially undesireable statistics but we defend our city's pride with great belief. Belief that our city can provide us with a place of enjoyment, nurture and development for our families to strive in. Dundee has a fantastic array of culture to be involved in and i am glad to be an active citizen with a young family in this thriving city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The main surprise to an outsider is the vibrancy and richness of the cultural life, which reflects the enthusiasm of the people who live and work in Dundee. They have a real pride in the history and achievements of the city; these attitudes are found right across the spectrum of the population.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I don't think this is classed as a "hidden secret" but it's something I hope will be highlighted as part of Dundee's cultural activity - the annual blues bonanza held at the end of June each year - purported to be the biggest free blues festival in Europe, and hugely popular with the artists and audiences alike.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As someone who has lived in and visited many great cities, I have to say that for such a small city Dundee has such a vibrant cultural community driven in large part by the universities and the multicultural students it attracts. The Reading Rooms can rival any club/music venue I've ever visited and I have tried desperately to find somewhere which satisfies in the way it does. The music is varied and never rests on its laurels. The arts, design and fashion communities are so innovative and willing to take chances. The city is steeped in history but refuses to let it define its future.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is lovely city, I was impressed by the cleanliness in the city and the commitment that people have in their jobs. I attended the epidemiology classes and it was amazing. the reception on arrival was fantastic, the organization was lovely. we had wonderful lecturers who were knowledgeable. The rooms where we were putting up were lovely and we also had a wonderful kitchen where we prepared our meals. I also admired your public relations. keep up the lovely culture. bravo and have a lovely time during your Bid. I would love to visit Dundee again and enjoy their hospitality
I'm just checking in, come back soon!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The BLUE BLUE sky, the WHITE WHITE cloud, and the KIND KIND people here! I made lots of friends here, and most of them like badminton as I do. Also the UNION is the second best place here, while the ISE is the best for me I think. I got a wonderful riding along the Tay bridge, with the sunny sunshine and the best "family" I have.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I recently worked with elderly pensioners in the city on a food project entitled 'Food as a Trigger for Memory'. The narratives of Dundee described by the people of Dundee was a very humbling experience. What was most striking for me was the sense of community that existed in Dundee. One woman explained that in her family on a Saturday if you worked you were given a Wallace's Bridie and if you didn't you were given a pie. Another pensioner could tell the time of day by the smells coming from Nicol's Bakery.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people, the city, its only 1hour away form the mountains, glens etc
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The plentiful times I have walked from the bustle of the city, along the waterfront, and spotted a little seal pup sunbathing near the Discovery in the coldest winter weather, have always warmed my heart. I love the contrast of the bustle and buildings with the tranquil nature, the city centre with the waterfront, the observatory and parks with the technology park.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's a great city to write about because it has so many different faces; such a wealth of cultures and locations and sounds and languages. Dundee is a novelist's city with many novels written in, written about, being written in and yet-to-be-written here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beautiful views, the wealth of culture, and the warmth of its people. Dundee truly is a Historic City and the V &amp; A is coming to a prestigious location in Scotland.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> City of nature. Lush green, fantastic landscapes, stunning views of Tay from every corner of city. A city for nature lovers.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What a situation Dundee finds itself in, surrounded by some of the best scenery in the UK. Whether crossing the Tay by road or rail from Fife the view of Dundee is stunning, or approaching from Perth along by the river when the bridges come into view takes my breath away.
Travel just a few miles to the north and the Sidlaws are a Mecca for walkers and Dundee's own hills.
Mustn't forget the Tay,walk in either direction and be rewarded with superb views. Can it get any better?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's main post office is just like any other - except James Chalmers, the inventor of the stamp, sleeps in the howff cemetry across the road.
Dundee was, and is, seat of innovation in printing, journalism, international adventure (although, as the Discovery shows, one way travel is considered a success!)
Posting or sailing you onwards, Dundee lead the way.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I adore lochee library. Beautiful building and a great atmosphere .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The creativity and diversity. It's wonderful to see different backgrounds all come together to create a positive vibe around the city, not to mention the effect this has on the growing arts scene here. There's a real positive attitude here amongst the people that makes Dundee an attractive city to be in.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wealth and diversity of Dundee's green spaces. Stand on the Law in summer and see how green the city is. Balgay Hill. Botanic Gardens, Baxter Park, Templeton and Middleton Woods, Barnhill Rock Garden to name but a few, and Dundee's hidden gem, the Miley Urban Wildlife Site in Lochee. There are many many more, some of them used for education purposes as well as leisure. On practically every corner there
are Trees, bushes, planters and hanging baskets. On most roundabouts and roadside edges there is some planting even if it is only the bulbs in spring. I love Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's passion, drive and dedication towards creativity and culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love that Dundee is striving to improve and has so much to offer from Football at Junior &amp; Senior level,the Science Centre, Art at McManus &amp; DCA and a brilliant rep theatre. We're on the river, near beautiful beaches and countryside and a thriving city! Beautiful buildings in The Caird Hall, Morgan Academy, McManus Gallery &amp; Custom House
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Not only is Dundee full of culture (museums, eateries, art galleries etc) but it has a great music scene. It boasts 2 fantastic Universities a teaching hospital, dental hospital and a College delivering a vast array of courses. The gem for me is the Castle and beach of Broughty Ferry and our proximity to the Glens.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wooden cobbles in Whitehall crescent.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is given a bad name. Really the city is vibrant, bouncing and full of lots of little surprises. From the quaint coffee shops and boutiques to the busy night life of the city centre. The grandeur of the Caird Hall to the spectacular views from the top of the Law.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a village within a city. Everything is accessible, landmarks are visible and social connections are easily made. The stunning geography of a city south facing to the river makes navigation easy and provides for some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. You'll not find these assets in any other Scottish city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Always a thrill to drive over the "Silv'ry Tay" on the approach to Dundee-it looks different every time depending on the weather, but "silvery" it always is!  Then there is the "Can Do" attitude which is apparent everywhere in all the building work at the Waterfront, and finally the down to earth friendliness of the people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a huge amount of creative talent within the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The diversity of animals at Camperdown Zoo suprised me. I had no idea there was such an extensive zoo in the middle of Camperdown Park! And the diversity and uniqueness of shops in Broughty Ferry is lovely, such a change from the high street. I lived in Dundee for 10 years and visit at least once a month, and it always feels like coming home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The warmth of the people. Dundee is a city which has a fantastic story to tell! Its time that the city was allowed to shine and enabled in this instead of being so often over-looked in favour of Scotland's bigger cities.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One Cultural event that I really enjoyed taking part in was the city wide production of "Witches Blood 2". ( This was community theatre at it's best! ).

There is many more current examples of community theatre in Dundee, the production of "This Town" at the Verdant works being a another good example.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> McManus Art Gallery is a hidden gem. The history and culture of Dundee all one one place. Very interesting.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Magdalene Green on a sunny day is a complete delight; the whole community gathers and basks in the sun, having BBQ's and playing sport. Is a delight to join or just to watch.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Community spirit is really coming back.  Great groups/sessions in Finmill Community  Centre and Whitfield Community Centre.  Also Skillshare.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Every day I'm pleasantly surprised and enthralled by the breadth, depth and richness of the cultural activities and endeavours of the people of Dundee. Not just the large, and growing, artistic, musical, theatrical and literary community but the ordinary people as well.

:)

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