We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

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Two of the less known gems I know of are Preston Watson from Dundee who pre-dated the Wright brothers with the first motorised flight.

The other story I have heard and cannot confirm is that the sand within the Tay is a perfect consistency for Baseball mounds and running areas, so close to perfection in fact that it is dredged and shipped out to the USA and is exclusively used for MLB matches by it’s official teams. Would love this to be true!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I work with a group of ESOL learners at Dundee International Women's Centre. They never fail to bring a smile to my face when they say what a wonderful place Dundee is to live and how friendly and welcoming the people have been to them. I would like to share the voices of these women, who come from many different countries and many of whom now call Dundee home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundonians never cease to amaze me with their talent and innovation in all fields of art, science and industry. Dundee is the ideal size city - big enough to have a thriving culture, but small enough to have a strong community spirit and identity. The visionary Waterfront proposals are becoming a reality and will begin a new renaissance of the city and surrounding region. Nick Day
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee was not my first choice, but here I found work, love and a city with more than enough facilities and culture and a few unique surprises. Red squirrels, dolphins, beaches, and woods, views, rivers, castles, seals, cycle routes, great bus services, universities, art galleries, theatres, bridges - still finding new stuff. I was lucky, as I could have missed Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Anytime i think i would rather live in a bigger more 'cosmopolitan' place, i visit The Ferry. Changes my mind every time.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The famous Dundee FC.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The diversity of people you meet in one day is both astounding and inspiring. Never have I been to a city where you recognize that, probably due to the intimacy of the place (considering it's a city!). I have vowed to return here to live and work in the future, as some who is not from Dundee that is quite a thing! After three years here I have witnessed first-hand the rapidly developing design and craft community, and how it is far outgrowing its Scottish competitors.

The natural surpise; feeling like you can see the Tay everywhere you go.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I spent 4 years in Dundee at university and discovered what a beautiful city it is. Everyone is welcoming.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There are hidden riches within the University of Dundee - for example the William McTaggart painting in the waiting room at the Dental Hospital. It was gifted by William Boyd, first chairman, a noted art collector who actually sold a Van Gogh to endow our first chair of dental surgery (though at the time he would have got more money if he'd sold the McTaggart!)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's musical community is diverse and ever changing but the scene's soul is, well... soul. Horns and big, big voices. One of my greatest ever nights out was dancing to Mafia in the Angus Thistle hotel at the age of 15 with my cousin Billy. And on a school night too. This wee city on this mighty Scottish river jumping to the best of american soul. God knows how but everyone knows why.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When Dundee chose to bid for Uk City of Culture 2017 nobody held it up for ridicule! We have believed in our city's qualities for a long time and the outside world is beginning to agree.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The College of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee has a worldwide reputation for excellence. It draws scientists from all over the word to enjoy the city of Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has so many "hidden secrets" - people, places organisations that excel and are world-leading in what they do - but we never hear about them. Who would have thought that a Dundee firm most of us have never heard of would have its product in the Clinton Presidential Library in Arkansas!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> location location location - the river provides some of the most sublime light to be found in a British city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The hidden gems of architecture scattered around the city along with the green spaces as your drive into Dundee along the river.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's got to be the view of the city from Newport. Over the impressive tay bridge, looking back on the city as is rests upon the River Tay. The skyline undulates from west to east, gently extending its reach to the hidden beaches beyond.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is full of nice places to visit, rest or enjoy for a walk if you want, but its best asset is the people.  Dundee is full of people from different culture and being French I felt integrated very quickly because this is what this city is about: People with great heart. I am regularly dancing Indian dances at the Bharatiya Ashram and  I am learning painting with a local artist John Stoa and I think that I could not combine so many arts activities elsewhere than In Dundee – Great  city of Culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its a very lively city, with plenty to do and look at. you're never bored in Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The view of the Tay, with the rail bridge and beyond. Every day it's different and every day it is beautiful!

It will comfort and uplift you.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Unassuming. Despite the magnificent setting, the wonderful cultural quarter and being the gateway to some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery.

The courage and vision of the Council which have led to so many changes in recent years, have created confidence but lost none of that lovely unassuming and quietly courteous quality which characterises Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 2 universities each prominent in its expertise draw in students and researchers from all over the world. These visitors bring the rich diversity of so many different cultures to the city and many become long term residents . Living in the West End I am constantly reminded of the cosmopolitan nature of Dundee in 2013 which was largely absent as I was growing up here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has such an interesting history for a relatively small city. There's plenty evidence to see as you walk about. The two universities bring a large student population and a youthful dynamic. Dundee has some beautiful parks and scenery and the silvery Tay is never too far away.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Came for 1 year stayed for 26years  
Dundee is a village really where you can:
Run drum write skate scoot sail and hike.
Or be mindfull, chant and breathe
Or learn and be surprised
Or explore and create something new
 Dundee doesnt limit.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> its friendliness and fun
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a beautiful city with a vibrant student community and friendly, community conscious locals.
Each year the local Jazz Festival bring people from all over the UK and further afield. The city comes to life and the atmosphere is fantastic .
The parks and surrounding beaches are great for children and families - and its free!
Dundee is truly a city where People are the cultural centre.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> We have such a vast amount of interesting places and things to do. My great grandchildren are here for Easter so we intend doing The Rock Garden/Broughty Ferry Castle/Sensation Centre/DCA/Verdant Works etc etc. and their excitement is hard to contain. Also as a family we think Dundee has one of the best music scenes going on as well.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the fact that Dundee is changing so fast, that no place is safe from the scrutinizing look of whether it deserves to stay or make place for the new. Unloveable buildings are demolished and open spaces are created. Dundee is not in any way decadent or settled, nor is it burdened with too much that needs to be preserved or archived or mummified. It is in this way a place that is on the move, and that makes it an exciting and vibrant place to be.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee "law" provides a spectacular view to the whole city center and from which you can enjoy the amazing view of Tay River. The Law itself has a very old history whereby it was used as Iron Age hillfort and prehistoric graves dating to about 1500 BC have been uncovered on its slopes. Roman pottery dating from the 1st century AD has also been discovered (see http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/supportservs/dundeelaw).
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I can't just write about one thing in particular, yet I feel that the University of Dundee and its many different events are vital to the city's culture growth. Talks, shows, films, the list is endless. I have been to many different events that have been planned by the university and/or Dundee Science Centre; Bright Club, Café Science, psychology talks, etc. The public engagement with science is excelsior, many members of the public mention the interest that has been sparked in relation to science.
I personally feel a great amount of pride and excitement knowing that I have been a part of this tremendous cultural growth and being able to contribute to this myself.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I take Dundee for granted, every time I visit another city, even bigger ones, I'm amazed there are more events, talks, gigs and exhibitions going on back home - I've never seen the range of things going on in any other city with the exception of some major metropolitan areas - Dundee really punches above its weight with its cultural events! Also - huge deal - so many of them are free!! Which lets EVERYONE benefit.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I like the village atmosphere of all the computer games companies in Dundee. We're all part of one team and we're all clearly proud of what Dundee has done and continues to do in this field. There's so much more team spirit than competition here and it only gets better when the students and universities get involved.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It sits on the banks of a beautiful river. It has an historic ship the discovery that was used to navigate the seas. It will host the V&amp;A museum and has the vibrancy and artistic temperament to make this a world leading area for arts and culture not just for a year, but for a lifetime.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The breathtaking views from the law, from Newport across the river, when driving along Riverside Drive, the constant surprise of small planes coming in to land or taking off, the DCA, buzzing with life and Magdalen Green with its backdrop of the tay and the rail bridge.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a hidden jewel....it has a special energy and is full of kind and blessed people who radiate love.
Dundee is on the edge of great things........it's only a matter of time!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the art that is around the city. There are the penguin statues outside the overgate (which have santa hats put on them for Christmas); a scary looking dragon on the high street and of course desperate dan standing in the city center. My favourites are the more modern looking metal sculptures like the paper planes which are found across from the airport.
As for a hidden secret I really like the planet trail at the Mills observatory where you can walk across the beautiful park and walk from the sun to pluto. Each planet is represented by a rock with a plaque giving information about the planet. The distances between each planet is a scaled down model of reality so it can be hard to find Neptune!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> ....there's a fabulous zoo with lots of animals including bears, wolves, lemurs and Scottish wildcats. It's called Camperdown Wildlife Centre and, because it's run by Dundee City Council, the entry fee is really low
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The team and young people at Hot Chocolate Trust in Dundee city centre - amazing, top quality youthwork going on. It's like a family. Also the wee garden in the middle of Perth Road, opposite the university, with the miniature bandstand. The flowers are always lovely and the view is brilliant.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is not the city people think it is - it is much more: dynamic, cultured, historical, international and at the forefront of research in areas such as life sciences or digital art (including video games). And all of this, near one of the most beautiful countryside and riverside backdrop!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The friendliness of the people,no matter their circumstances. The diverse types of music available to see and hear at many different venues across the city. The banter between the fans of the two major clubs in the city, always lively never taken to extremes! A city that I am so proud to call home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the Magdalen Yard and its vast green garden. Also the DCA (Dundee Contemporary Arts), its courses, the atmosphere in Jute's cafe, everything!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> From my time studying here, I have found that their are lots of friendly people. Chilling at the law hill with the amazing views. Wondering round an exhibition at DCA/McManus.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The sheer natural beauty of the river views with the vibrant yet friendliness of the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Mills Observatory.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Scotland’s Jute Museum @ Verdant Works

A fantastic look back in time to the height of the Industrial Revolution and the social and economic impact that the Jute industry had on Dundee (Jutopolis).

A historical commentary on the social issues that affected Dundee at the time.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everytime I look for help for a project within the creative community, be it volunteers or advice/expertise, I always receive support.
The people's justified optimism and community spirit make me super proud to have made Dundee my home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am surprised by the energy which is currently going into the transformation of Dundee's waterfront
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My aunty may is Dundee born and raised. She was born in the blue mountains and left school at 14 to go to work. She is now 87 and still makes us laugh. What a woman, typical Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> great city for students
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is an undiscovered gem for many people in the UK. Full of creativity, culture, humour and sunshine - it is a vibrant exciting place to be. Straight-talking Dundonians are without a doubt the city's its best asset. I couldn't be prouder to tell anyone in the world that this great place is where I live.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> No place can beat Dundee for green space and places to walk. Just begin to list the parks. Walking through cemetery and up to the observatory gives stunning views across Invergowrie bay and then to the North. Having lived in Glasgow for six years, I am continually reminded of what a great job the City does maintaining the parks and keeping the streets and open areas clean. Everyone I encourage to visit, loves it and can't believe they have never thought of coming to Dundee before.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> This beautiful little city of mine, I have lived here all my 66yrs of life, It never ceases to surprise me it grows better year after year with all our redevelopment of the Waterfront which will be fantastic when finished, to the V&amp;A which will bring in loads of visitors to our city. We have a wealth of great things to do, like the D.C.A, REP, Verdant Works,New swimming baths,Ice Rink, Discovery ship, music venues, loads of restaurants, Our great Universities that bring young people from all over the world. The great singers, song writers and actors that Dundee has produced known world wide. And off course the Dundee people well what can I say none better world over .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Looking out of my office window on a bright spring day makes me so glad to be Dundonian. The calm, still waters of the beautiful River Tay, beyond Seabraes Gardens with flowers in bloom and benches, invites you to sit and contemplate. I am inspired by the serenity of this City, safe and peaceful. There is an open &amp; honest nature to the people of Dundee reflecting it's surroundings. The University campus in the heart of the City is a hive of learning &amp; activity for many cultures and nations with no barriers. I am proud to be a Dundonian.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am three and I love visiting the libraries for storytimes and crafts. I also love spending time at the museum and Camperdown Park. which has fun play areas.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of independent, creative businesses springing up, collaborating and supporting each other - and organisations like Fleet Collective and Tin Roof which help make collaborations possible.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The sense of humour in Dundee is fantastic! We don't take ourselves too seriously but we do appreciate our rich cultural heritage. Strong women play a big part - past and present!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was born and raised in Dundee before moving abroad where I have lived for the past 28 years. It never ceases to amaze me how many lovely memories I have of the city and I have tried to pass these on to my children, one of whom is currently living there. Everywhere you go tells a story, be it the West End or the East End. As youngsters we went everywhere, Balgay Park, Baxter Park, Camperdown Park, Caird Park for the school sports and the cultural events were numerous!! I wish Dundee all the best in their bid. It's a city that never stops trying!!! My Bonnie Dundee!!
<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> Dundee is beautiful and glamorous. The city is small but sentimental, with old and new. There is no place like it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have lived in many cities and the people in Dundee are by far the friendliest I have come across. I think the fact that we have more sunshine here than anywhere else in Scotland does help
<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> The energy in the city through the long term Waterfront development project which will promote us across the world - and as for the V&amp;A in Dundee just can't wait!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Broughty Ferry beach, rock gardens, high street, castle are places worth visiting
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm always surprised by the fantastic range of shops and galleries in the west end/perth road area selling local handcrafted items, many of which have been made or designed by current and former duncan of jordanstone students. Many of these places are very unassuming, however have been there for years- proving how much the local residents value the creations on sale. The lindeen gallery in particular is a highlight.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Rich industrial history with women working in the mills and their male folk staying at home boiling kettles and looking after the bairns
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is defined by its people. Although many don't have much, they are rich in character, spirit and friendship. For me Dundee is a great place to live and grow up and truly has something for everyone.
Although the streets are ever changing, Dundee has kept its own character due to its people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a visitor to the city over the last two years I have been delighted by how friendly and helpful everyone is and how vibrant the city is in it's atmosphere. I love it so much I am trying to move my family near to Dundee from the south coast. You have so much to offer!
<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 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 Howff surprised me.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> MENZIESHILL
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the friendliness and humour in good times and bad, and managing to be cutting edge modern (esp in arts) while retaining all that's best about traditional Scottish urban life
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Driving to Broughty Ferry on a Winter evening and parking the car facing the Tay. One red, and one white pudding supper takeaway and back to the car. Sitting in the warmth watching the lights of Newport and Tayport reflected in the calm black water. Looking at the cars on either side and the same ritual is taking place, A line of parked Dundonians chomping on their suppers looking out across the river ... fine dining and romance Dundee style.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> On my first visit to Dundee, back in 2005, i felt like anything was possible. I still find Dundee creatively inspiring, welcoming and open to new ideas.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Camperdown park is a great area for the kids and for a lovely walk just as a couple. my favourite place to walk in dundee is right along riverside drive and along to city quay it is a beautiful walk seeing both the tay road bridge and the tay rail bridge in the evening all lit up. the caird hall is fantastic the square outside is a lovely setting for a cuppy at the cafe and just to relax in the square.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One of Dundee's cultural hidden secrets - The Samuel Chorus, a friendly choir, rehearses on Wednesdays in Baptist Church Hall, Bright Street, Lochee, performs quality music twice yearly. Our concerts are on Sat. 27 April 2013 at 7pm in St Hary Magdalene's Episc, Church, Dundee and Sun. 28 April, in St John's Episc.Church, Forfar
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The university and industry events, the community of creative people, the museums, the richness of the city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a charity worker in Dundee I am constantly amazed at the number of people who approach me to join as a volunteer to support the people with disabilities our project works with. They are always willing to go that extra mile!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> did you know the original voice of micky mouse was born in dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great international exhibitions
Beautiful Location
Small enough to get to know people
Fantastic university which develops new medical breakthroughs
Has great musians
Berths the 6th oldest boat in the world "The unicorn "
Berths Sir Captain Scotts Ship "The Discovery "
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fact you can turn a corner and find an amazing piece of street art, or a medieval building or just meet an interesting character, who's always friendly and willing to share
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> it is the best city in the world and where I was born and most of my family live. Best schools and football team in DUFC.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> This is such an amazing place to bring up children with so many interesting museums including the science centre and Discovery and a fantastic number of parks with fabulous play equipment across the city including Camperdown Park with its wonderful wildlife centre and brilliant Ranger services.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I come from Christchurch, New Zealand though I have lived in Dundee for nearly 15 years now. On its journey to Antarctica the RRS Discovery stopped at Lyttleton, New Zealand which is just over the hill from Christchurch. I think there are few places in the world that I could choose to live in that would take me so far away from home however even here there are strong ties. Dundee has such rich cultural diversity which is not what most people expect - my daughter’s nursery school has children from over 26 nationalities!! One Dundee, Many Cultures.
<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> Well for such a small city, I personally think it is a great and fun place to live. I love the city centre, it might be minute compared to other cities but it is continuing to grow and develop into a place that could possibly rival the bigger cities centres. I think that the water front project, once it is finished, will look great and will bring more people down to Dundee. Also, the seating area outside the caird hall is being changed around, which will also make the town centre look better. There are some great looking buildings in Dundee right now and more on their way, such as the new olympia. There is no denying that Dundee has a lot to offer.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> underwater harbour
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am excited by the work of Literary Dundee - the literary festival and book prize, their monthly salons and sundry projects and publications. Literary Dundee celebrates the bright creative talents of writers in the city, and brings exciting literary figures to Dundonian audiences.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is vibrant with a historic combination of post-industrial feel coupled with an exciting new and positive outlook. The cultural heritage of the Tay, the UKs largest river by volume, and its gateway to the iconic mountains of scotland give it a unique feel. Being new to Dundee and having fresh eyes, the thing that strikes me most is the friendliness and desire to get things right. This includes ambitious plans for sustainable futures, and a University that is at the heart of ideals for transformation.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people are very caring and friendly. I was so overwhelmed by the caring of neighbours when my mother developed Vasular Dementia. They were so good at looking out for her before she eventually had to go into care. I nominated one of her neighbours (and she won) a Wave 102 neighbour of the year award a few years back.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's people are it's greatest asset. The vast majority are helpful and honest. It's been said that if you're lost in Edinburgh and ask for help, you'll be giving directions, in Glasgow they'll draw you a map, in Dundee they'll get in the car and take you there!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the increasing amount of arts within the city! The home of a growing dance scene comparable with international cities. Scottish Dance Theatre, SPK, SSCD, DDP. This city is throwing above its weight in terms of modern dance. How many other art forms? Duncan and Jordanstone, DCA, McManus, V&amp;A, WASPS... need I say more?!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Ease of travel. The DCA, handy city center and a great university city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Mary shelly plaque and her famous book Frankenstein
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was born and bred in Dundee and no matter where I have gone in the world I have always been pulled back. Dundee has a magical quality which my father kept alive for us through tales of glass staircases and worthies! As a nurse in Dundee I have had the privilege to have met and looked after a diverse and colourful cast of characters! I love our city and the people in it!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 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> One of the best waterfronts in Europe, which is about to be renewed and enhanced - Dundee is on the brink of reinventing itself - from rich industrial history to creative, scientific and cultural future! More than 800 years in the making... Exciting times that I'm proud to be a part of!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Climbing the monkey puzzle tree in Camperdown, 40 years ago and now watching my children do the same
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> For such a small city Dundee punches well above it's weight when it comes to musical talent. Dundonains were involved in bands such as The Average White Band in the 1970's to to The View in the 2000's. I was also surprised to learn that the Blues Festival held in Dundee is the biggest free blues music festival in Europe.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Westport to Perth Road area has a range of different pubs, cafes, shops that has something different for everyone but easily walked round.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee university enriches life thru llunchtime concerts and free Saturday eve lectures with wide ranging speakers. All free. Mcmanus galleries featuring exhibits from V and A. Broughty Ferry Art society classes. DCA featuring National Theatre and opera from the Met.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I like Dens Road Market, it's a real treasure trove.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It seems like the city continues to grow and I've discovered more places and more people in the past year. There are so many creative opportunities for students and friends, and the international variety of people makes it multicultural and incredible.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One of Dundee's hidden secrets is the wonderful night sky which can be seen above and around it - as most Dundonians sleep there can often be see the Northern Lights and rare Noctilucent clouds giving a wonderful backdrop to the city. Dundee is a photographers paradise - from the at times quirky architecture, its stunning location on the Tay, its bridges, its surrounding countryside, and its people - always varied, always individual, always Dundonian :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Twenty odd years ago I was first acquainted with Dundee as a part of the design team for the Discovery project and I now have a home just outside of the city. My main responsibility was the design of things on-board the ship itself which included the flock of sheep (not as big as it could have been) on the shore, etc. It was a period of great energy and creativity, but was grounded in solid research.
At that time there was a lot of talk about how good things in the city could be, and most of it has happened plus a lot more. The later things such as the V&amp;A are an extension of that vision for culture whilst not loosing sight of the past. This is the core of Dundee.
The whole place has a 'life' to it and all of its attractions are not only for visitors, but are of relevance to all who live there.
I am thinking in particular of the McManus, the DCA &amp; the Rep'. It has a dynamic student population and a world class Art &amp; Design School in The Duncan of Jordanstone.

The proposed long term plan for the waterfront looks as though it should work well, and take advantage of the truly wonderful river aspect. But whilst I am glad to see the back of the Council Tower, various blocks of flats &amp; the Olympia pool, the Railway station &amp; the ex Stakis/Hilton might be a loss in terms of architectural progression - not all '70ies was bad.

The Unicorn needs to be integrated much more into the scheme of things, it is a gem, and perhaps a museum of transport and the docks, should be considered, in particular as unlike at a lot of other places, the docks still work.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The quite and calm streets, diversity and cultural richness of Dundee are the most spectacular part of my memories; so much that I would love to come again and again. Discovery and Verdant Works take us back in history when courage was the only saviour of mankind. The mini gardens around the Dundee Law, all grown by citizens, is another experience I would like to recommend and replicate in Pakistan. And of course, best of all, the University of Dundee...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Cycling to work by a river (the Dighty burn) on a path beginning between a haulier's yard and the wind turbines of Michelin tyre plant, I pass herons, have seen kestrels and deer - and pass and occasionally stop at a mosaic decorated bench.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am instantly 'home' when I see the first glimpse of Dundee from the Perth dual carriage way, and despite having lived in some of the most exciting and stunning locations in the world, the Tay bridges, the coastline and beaches and the 360 from the Law never fail to impress. 
Its 16years since I left but Dundee will always be home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Despite being stuck in between oil rich Aberdeen and tourist attraction Edinburgh the people of Dundee continue to forge ahead in transforming the city from an old industrial one to one of high-tech business, excellent education and an arts, and culture scene that is becoming more tourist and citizen friendly every day, regardless of boom and bust economics.
While proud of our heritage, the people of Dundee continue to focus on their future, making it a better and brighter place for tomorrow.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazingly vibrant and creative visual art community, buzzing with talented artists, designers and makers and sustaining an exciting range of creative activities and events. It is home to fantastic arts organisations and institutions including Dundee Contemporary Arts, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art &amp; Design, Generator Projects, Wasps Artists' Studios and McManus Galleries. Dundee also has a wonderful open feeling – you can see views of the sky and the River Tay from all over the city, and there are beautiful beaches and countryside just a hop, skip and a jump away!

:)

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