We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

Support Dundee

Over the last couple of decades Dundee has become a hub of creativity, not perhaps something which those not familiar with the city would realise immediately. There are exhibitions and arts events and festivals throughout the year ranging from the DJCAD degree show in May to the Light Night in November.
Dundee being a compact city, everything is accessible

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee went into an industrial nosedive in the 1970s, which I remember well. After many painful years it has emerged as a vibrant university town humming with energy, youth and ideas. It is wonderful to see old jute mills converted to artists' studios, to visit a refurbished McManus, to eat at the DCA and the Rep. The waterfront project is well under way, as is a physic garden being constructed by volunteers at Ninewells. Energy is the word !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> History, warmth, calm and nice
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It has a down to earth attitude, some nice places to see, and is at the cutting edge as regards the technology sector. There is a lack of pretentiousness when you can get with other cities and it is rich place full of history.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a student at the University of Dundee I was really impressed by the strong link the City has with her students. The vibrant and diverse social scene has really provided me with an excellent student experience. From Dundee you are well placed to visit many exciting parts of Scotland but still return to your "home" city in a matter of hours. I am proud to have been a part of the city's expansion over the past 5 years.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The rich heritage of the city represented in its buildings, museums and archival collections and the significant cultural renaissance in Dundee since the 1990s (perhaps best articulated by the creation of the DCA and the development of the city's 'cultural quarter').
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Traditional Music is kept alive by a small group of musicians, not just from Dundee, but from all over. They perform for free to anyone who listens, keeping traditions arrived. The Fishermans Tavern Session on a Thursday night, is just 1 of Dundee's hidden gems.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I like it that the city is always clean and the flower beds are tidy in the winter and blooming in the summer months.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The rich legacy of Scottish traditional music being played every week by local musicians at The Fisherman's Tavern in Broughty Ferry (on Thursdays) and Mennies (The Speedwell Bar) on the Perth Road(on Tuesdays). This community of local musicians also supports the Tayside Young Fiddlers and leaders like fiddler, Karen Hannah, and piper Kyle Howie, teach and organize traditional music concerts at The Dundee Library in the beautiful Wighton Heritage Centre http://www.leisureandculturedundee.com/library/wighton. Scottish traditional music is strong in Dundee and led by young talented pipers, unusual in Scottish session culture which is often led by fiddlers.
<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> Sightseeing from upstairs on the number 73 bus. It runs from Ninewells through Dundee and Broughty Ferry to Arbroath. Amazing views, free wifi and good banter!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As an "immigrant" to Dundee I am continually boosted by its determination to develop and improve what it offers to the community. So small a city but with amazing museums, science centre, galleries, parks, forests, beaches ...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I think Broughty Ferry is one of Dundee's little gems, lovely little seaside village, great little shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How much I miss it. I never thought, when I left 40 years ago that I would care about my home town. I have kept up with it's growth and visual changes and I am very proud of Dundee. The only thing that surprises me is how it is not advertised as something tourists would want to visit. You need to get Dundee out there and noticed by people from other countries.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a great city, with great cultural facilities from the Rep and DCA to the Caird Hall and McManus and many others. There is also a vibrant culture right across the city. Dundee deserves to be the UK City of Culture in 2017 because there is something for everyone.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Watching the wonderfully wild sea life from the waterfront area, birds, seals and even dolphins. Breathing the fresh sea air and observing the weather rolling in.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Well Dundee is my home city and I just love it! The people are fun and friendly. Eh just love the way we speak! Pure teckle!
There are loads of amazing parks to take the bairns - the swannie ponds is fab in Summer and Winter - I grew up with stories of ice skating on the ponds.
Tannadice is hallowed ground - I grew up there with my uncle and cousins, and now my wee boy is United daft too. And what about the brilliant Michael Marra's song about Hamish McAlpine and Grace Kelly!
The Lochee baths - aye freezing, Victorian splendour and full of characters.
St. Mary's Lochee Catholic Church - absolutely beautiful - and funded by Irish immigrants that helped build the population of Dundee from the 1840s.
Juteopolis - a brilliant book about Dundee and its people.
The Cleppie Road - and the imaginary 'secret tunnel' that goes from Aunty Isabel's bin store on the Cleppie, underground to Tannadice. (Ok - so its not real but its in my imagination).
Lawside Academy - my young days of joy roaming the streets of Downfield and Ardler with my pals - days out up the "Seedlees" (Sidlaws) with picnics, swinging over the Dighty Burn on a rope swing.
<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> How much is in the vicinity, culture and golf.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Blues Bonanza is almost the highlight of my year.........every year !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is home to the Camperdownii Elm or Ulmus Glabra, of which I have two in my garden. This rare tree was first discovered as a mutant hybrid in Dundee's Camperdown Park around 1840. Every Camperdownii Elm in the world is descended from cuttings from that original tree, since the tree does not seed. I have never seen another tree quite like it. Their twisted, spiraling branches and umbrella of weeping leaves are truly unique and every one who visits my home comments on how amazing they look and are always surprised to learn Dundee has its own tree.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Hidden away and oft underrated Dundee is a really beautiful city with a huge amount going on for its size. The Tin Roof which from the outside looks like an abandoned warehouse is actually a studio which holds some awesome galleries and exhibitions, with live music, food, drink and bonfires which give it a vibrant festival atmosphere in the middle of the city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee rep have been at the leading edge of regional theatre for as long as I can remember. I grew up with so many great productions that I didn't realise how special they were and how lucky I was until I moved away from the city. It's not so much a hidden secret as a treasure hidden in plain sight, so much a part if the Dundee landscape that its easy to forget what a truly amazing resource it is.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> broughty ferry beach
<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> Its a brilliant place full of artistic people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is the place I associate with vibrancy. The art college and university are places of excellence, and both have produced pioneers in their fields.
The artistic community has a similar buzz which Glasgow had in the 1980s!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The first time I went to Stage 2000 I was amazed at how such a vibrant place could be hidden away in such an unpromising building. It definitely needs funding and a spruce up but as it caters for a massive age range from primary school beginners to seasoned old codgers with attitude, it deserves a higher profile and recognition. You can book on-line and the costs are very reasonable.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city is very diverse but has so much to offer visitors from great architecture to sporting centres of excellence. There are fantastic places to eat and so much to do from ice-skating, theatres and cinemas. Dundee really is the place for everyone
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people more than anything else. It's a thriving cultural place, people all lovely, helpful and so much going on. A small city with a real buzz
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a great little city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's west end on a summer evening has the feel of a vibrant area in a larger city. Magdalene green is so sunny and sociable it can be like being in any other european park of a sunny afternoon with people siesta-ing, walking their dogs, socialising, playing sports having barbeques. And theres hardly any traffic. Theres loads of events on related to the university whatever your interests are!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What surprises me about Dundee is that the people here stand up for their city. They wont hear a bad thing about it. Like any city it has it's good and bad points but dundonian's are very protective and loyal.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundonian people have a very friendly which has often led to the most interesting conversations on the bus!
It never fails to surprise me how helpful people can be when you need a hand.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everyone is treated equally here with no pretensions. People come before money in Dundee.
Dundee men are less likely to patronise women than other places. For example, Dundee men are comfortable to take and collect their kids to school if their wives work.
If I would change anything it would be to get Dundee folk to eat more fresh food (and that doesn't mean cakes), I should say Dundee bakeries are really fine.
Dundee would warmly welcome visitors who came to this event and they themselves would blossom from the experience.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The daffodils in springtime! The first year I moved to Dundee they were a joy to behold after my first Scottish winter.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is the sunniest city in Scotland with the sunniest personality. We have great nightlife, with sociable friendly inhabitants.Theatres &amp; music. The Blues festival - biggest in Europe! Great walks - over the Sidlaws, or by the silvery Tay, or through one of the many parks. So many activities - some for the young - some for the old - and some for the rest in-between. Football ...with friendly rivalry! etc etc etc
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The most amazing thing about Dundee is the scenery. It is absolutely spectacular. Especially on a beautiful summers day!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee for me will always be the place where I found love as my future husband hails from is glorious shores!

As an American who moved to Scotland 6 years ago, choosing to live in Dundee will always be one of my greatest decisions! Loved the university experience I got while there and the city will always have a place in my heart. It is a place that has seen so many changes over the years and is constantly working to improve and rejuvenate itself.

Little city with a big personality!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Every time I leave Dundee, I think I'm done with it. I return grudgingly, only to realise that Dundee is not done with me. I rediscover lost pockets of memories. I discover hidden gems. I reconnect with old friends. I engage with new communities. Music, film, photography, games, animation, journalism, fine art... A city full of potential the world has yet to appreciate. It's time.
<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> As an outsider who moved to Dundee approximately 2 years ago, what surprised me was how friendly people are!! Even when u go to Asda they offer u a basket and are genuinely warm! Love this place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Old buildings
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Amazing ancient archaeology under our feet, just waiting to be discovered: the medieval burial grounds under the Auld Steeple; the mystery of the Bronze Age Balgarthno Stone Circle, and the McManus Galleries with their unique collection of Pictish monuments inspiring us to gaze into the past and wonder who? what? and why?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Housed inside an old public library, The Reading Rooms is a small, intimate, underground music venue that has played host to many local &amp; international musicians &amp; DJ's.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is not the same as its reputation dictates! In spite of being a sizable city it has a welcoming, homely and village-ish feel. You don't feel crowded or far from greenery at any point yet all the amenities that city life provides are right at your fingertips!
<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> A stunning location and city full of hidden gems that can surprise and delight you.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Douglas Sports Centre gives the local community access to excellent facilities on their doorstep providing opportunities to be active in their community.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is ‘Culture-tastic’. For Art lovers there is the award winning McManus Galleries or the DCA to visit. For music lovers, there are several vibrant pubs offering a diverse selection of music including the annual Blues Bonanza which attracts musicians from all over the world and bring people out in their thousands. Dundee is also steeped in History and provides great attractions like the Discovery and Unicorn ships or the Verdant Works highlighting Dundee’s past involvement as one of the world’s leading cities in the production of jute. Regular markets in the city square also provide a great selection of local and European foods.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee! Great sized city, lots of green space and good people. Love the music scene, magdalene green, cultural opportunities and the amazing scenery.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wealth of musical talent Dundee has to offer as well. The beautiful beach at Broughty Ferry. But most of all the friendliness and humour of the people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Urban realm architecture to modern design from Frank Gehry,
World cuisine dining throughout the city,
Entertainment from theatre to dancefloor,
Many activities from golf, walks, botanic gardens, parks, wildlife zoo, indoor karting, ice skating, cinemas, bingo, swimming centre and much more.
The Caird hall which hosts big concerts and live performances from the world of entertainment.
Welcome to Dundee , have fun we do !!!!!!!!!!!!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A friendly city with close links between the academic institutions and the city supporting the arts and and exciting scientific activities, especially in biological and medical sciences. Punching way above its weight!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The view eastwards down the ancient Nethergate, with the spire of St Paul's Cathedral in the distance, is one of the country's most dramatic and under-rated street vistas.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The location is amazing - surrounded by both inland coastal delights
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> University of Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Voices in Harmony is a choir operating out of Whitfield Community Centre. Membership is around thirty plus and growing. The choir sings acappella and is led by Sarah Harrop who is very enthusiastic and inspirational.
Gigs are performed across the city including Marryatt Hall. Recently the choir worked in collaboration with Dundee Rep to perform "This Town" in Verdant Works.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The great art collection in the McManus Gallery. And the great mixture of Architecture in the city such as the grand old houses.
<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> There is a busker who frequents the Murraygate and High Street, who plays the harmonica better than anyone I've ever heard. He plays blues and the experience is even better when someone, a stranger, joins in to accompany on vocals, which happens quite often.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people never cease to amaze me, like my late father Denis Naulty, who had such a passion for for the city, its history and civic wellbeing.....
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One of the unique things about Dundee is that, from the middle of this city, you can nearly always enjoy lovely views of the river and open countryside. So you get the benefits of living in a city plus the views you'd get living in a rural environment. To give a couple of my favourite examples, looking north to the Sidlaws from the Brackens Estate, or looking eastwards towards the Ferry and Tentsmuir from Blackness Road.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Born and bred here.Moved away for a few years but decided it was the only place I wanted to raise a family. Family members have attended the 'academies' - Harris Morgan Lawside and more recently Grove. Graduates of both universities have entered teaching and 3 generations have made our contributions to education. Am surprised at how moving I have found these comments and contributions and it's wonderful to see such support for 2017 in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm surprised there is not more opportunity taken by the council to have cultural events throughout the year. It is good to see the city developiong though and with the V&amp;A, the new City Square, etc., there is an opportunity to continue to develop a different side of the city. The City of Culture tag has done well for other cities it has attached itself to and would be a real boost for Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am constantly amazed by the wealth of talent in the city. From music to art and beyond, I think the people of Dundee should be recognised for their famous cultural past and the amazing work that is happening right now.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am always surprised by how beautiful and vibrant this city is and i have lived here all my life so far. I also studied in Duncan of Jordanstone a really breeding ground for creative thinking. I now teach in a local High school, and have observed over the last few years how the pupils attitudes to their city have changed for the better. The whole atmosphere is becoming more confident and ambitious and hopefully greater things are still to come! Go Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Renowned theatre, innovative youth theatre, spectacular dance events, poetry readings, talented local bands, lively music scene, book signings, new writing seminars, unexpected architecture round surprising corners, Hundreds (if not more) of artists in residence. new and original Film makers, comedy nights and comedy acts. Creativity run amok! And beautiful location!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a distinctive culture and tradition and is big enough to have at least one of everything, that makes a city worth living in and visiting - and of course there is more to come. It also a view from the top of the Law that takes your breath away - while also looking like a child's picture book of a city. Where else can you watch - all at the same time - a train crossing a bridge, a plane about to land, ships leaving harbour, and a cityscape set in the most beautiful natural surroundings.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> its not so much a 'secret' but the views from the law hill are stunning - i will never get tired of looking at those views that you get from the top.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The ongoing surprises is what surprises the most. Events never end, the town centre frequently gets busy with what's new for the people to be a part of and not just see.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a fabulous city in the most stunning location in Europe. That's no surprise to those of us who have grown up here and still live here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> In face of many negative social &amp; economic factors and compared to all other urban centres in the region, Dundee has a vibrancy and energy about arts and culture that can be felt. It's the pride people have, in themselves and their city that, despite adversity, creates this exciting environment.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That I always want to go back. Having had the intention of going to Dundee and getting out as soon as possible, but the combination of arts, design and regeneration leaves me seeking a return every time I leave.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The annual 'Dundee Blues Bonanza' is a great event for meeting people from all over the UK and Europe. Lots of bands, large and small, play in cafes and bars all over the City and also do music workshops, for young and old!! It's the biggest 'free' Blues Bonanza in Europe and this year is it's19th anniversary!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has the ability to re-invent itself
exciting to see the city connecting with the river again
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love it when me &amp; my Mum go into town after school, we walk all the way down the brae behind The Wellgate and I can see right over the water, then we go to The Pancake Place, then I get to throw pennies in the water fountains, see the penguins at the Overgate and sometimes the cherry blossoms at the church. Sometimes we go to Broughty Ferry to the beach and the big park then I get an ice cream at Visocchi's. My school's project is Dundee and we did the poem "Eh like baffies, tartan baffies, eh like baffies on meh feet" it was so funny. I love Dundee :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee - sunniest city in Scotland, fact!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is ideally situated it is city but feels like a small knit community. It is situated on the river Tay but is surrounded by countryside making it a beautiful place all year round. Dundee is growing and full of surprises with a buzzing, arts, music, academic and sports scene that is going from strength to strength.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My mother is a from Dundee, most of mine and my brother's school holidays were spent there as children staying with our much adored Grandpa in the West end of the city. Much time was spent playing on Magdalene Green beside the Railway and the Tay (something we were never allowed to do growing up in London) which gave us a great sense of freedom. A treasured memory is happening to be staying up there when the Discovery was brought back to Dundee and the excitement and pride that people took in that event .It is a wonderful city with a rich and varied past that the city's very friendly and kind people are so much making the best of as regeneration continues very pleasingly to expand throughout it. With so much going on from the Discovery to the fantastic DCA I would recommend it to anyone as somewhere well worth a visit and a stay. I could not be more proud to say this place is where some of my family are from!
<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> Dundee is an amazing city, the location is like no other. The fact that you can be in the city centre one minute and 'in the country' the next is unique. The people are warm and friendly and there is a great sense of community wherever you are in the city!
<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> The city has undergone so many changes over the years and is now finally heading in the right direction,the people are very proud of they,re city,and rightly so,
Dundee has many firsts,the first radio broadcast,the first place in the world to abolish slavery 55 years before any other city or town,many firsts in medicine,i could go on,take a bow Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The bridge club, housed in its own stunning premises on Perth Road, owned by the club since 1956. I have played in many bridge clubs throughout the UK, but never in such a spacious, comfortable building, with stunning views over the Tay estuary, it's own bar, catering facilities and friendly staff and members.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Since returning to Dundee after an absence of 30 years I have been truly amazed at the can do attitude of the people here and the extraordinary determination to transform the city, which despite all the challenges, is bearing fruit. What is being achieved by Dundee is an example for all to follow and if awarded UK City of Culture status will fully merit the honour and Dundee will do justice to it benefiting not just Dundee and its surrounds but all of the UK. I've worked in cities round the world but none have the spirit of Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Since leaving Dundee 12 years ago I am consistently surprised at how it is constantly evolving. New festivals, events and infrastructure - always something new to offer.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Discovery, McManus Galleries, Caird Hall, Law Hill, The Waterfront and so many more things is what makes Dundee such a wonderful place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is often described as the world's biggest village and it's true. Everyone knows nearly everyone and if you don't, the old adage rings true that strangers are friends we've yet to make! I no longer live in Dundee but I miss the place heaps - unlike most people I know who have left their home towns &amp; don't look back. Dundee's community education is revered throughout Scotland and outside of Dundee acknowledge them as leaders at the forefront of this sector. And it's not just education Dundee are leading the way in but science, medicine &amp; also the gaming industry, with even the infamous Banksy paying homage to Lemmings, an icon of an era, invented in Dundee... The city really is one of many discoveries :-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Sometimes you have to look a little closer or a look at a city from a different angle to discover the hidden gems of arcitecture or urban archeology that may be there but never seen. Dundee is a facinating plave for this. The grand gateway to the Howfe that has never been opened for decades, The 1/4 mile long aquaduct over the Dichty burn at Fintry ....
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Design houses in Dundee produce world leading technology, recognised throughout the world.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is hugely respected outside of Scotland and even outside the United Kingdom for the strength of our scientists. We are on the map for our intellectual contributions of the world and this will continue and grow our the coming years!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee Backpackers' Hostel, Gardyne's Land, is a medieval building situated in the heart of the city centre, and operates as a youth hostel to date. Dundee is often underrated for its architecture and it is not just a Victorian city: the subtle incorporation of the city's past is there for all to see.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Why Oor Wullie hasnae got a statue!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's WONDERFUL!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am constantly surprised by the city's cultural camaraderie. A visitor is as likely to see an impromptu street performance by a Lochee bard from the "schemes" as they are a zydeko gig put on by Perth Road students. Everything is accepted and there is no snobbery, only curiosity!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What makes Dundee special to me aside from it being home, is its people, its unique history, its diversity, creativity, our resilience and our pride. That to me is what makes our culture, the richness and depth of experience those things bring never fails.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's like Glasgow's wee bruv!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The walk along Riverside Drive: Baxters Park: The Beach at Broughty Ferry but most of all THE PEOPLE OF DUNDEE
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is an amazing city, over 800 years old it has a rich historic past and plenty of hidden 'secrets'. We have historic streets and buildings, beautiful parks, the Law, the Tay... the list goes on. There is something for everyone , fantastic restaurants and bars, the McManus,a brilliant arts and music scene. The most important thing about Dundee though, is the people, they are friendly, funny and welcoming, so people new to the city quickly begin to feel at home!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Too long the hidden gem, it is fantastic to witness Dundee shed its undeserved downtrodden image and become the vibrant, confident, culturally diverse and welcoming city it has always had the potential to be. If ever a city deserved the City of Culture title it is Dundee.
<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> It appears to be a small city. That it is but it is filled with friendly people and has scenic treasures everywhere. Not many cities have the beauty of Dundee, the buzz of the university and kind people on every corner. Definite selling point is the sunset over the Tay; beautiful!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am originally from Switzerland and made Dundee my home 9 years ago. Many friends who have come to visit agree that Dundee is like an insider tip for travellers. Often ignored by the usual tourist trail its hidden treasures stay unseen. We need to put Dundee back on the map! It deserves to be known again, for its sights, its great location and most of all its unique and creative people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great deals for students
Huge amounts of diversity across all sectors of the city
brilliant cafes and restaurants
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Gardyne Theatre is a joy! Have been to The agony and ecstasy of Steve Jobs and an Audience with Jenni Murray in the past two weeks, both marvellous and so different.
It's a jewel of a place and more people need to find out about it .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I grew up in Perth and did not like Dundee. Now i am older I know this was clever spin, the term 'hidden secrets' sums up The Jewel on the Tay.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has so much to offer. It's diversity of people, places, landscape, events. its research and innovation. It's true community engagement.

The best thing- the spirit of its people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> First of all Dundee has a wonderful location as it is located on the River Tay estuary, close to the North Sea. Secondly the people are very friendly and co-operative with whom we never felt that we were foreigners. It has several worthwhile places in its vicinity like St Andrews and the Scottish Highlands. You can also very conveniently go to Edinburgh and south to England.

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