We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

2791

PEOPLE AND GROWING

Support Dundee

I’m not Dundee born but live here now and will continue to. Not sure how exactly to put it into words, but I feel there is a feeling in Dundee of ‘we’re all in this together’. With that attitude, a lot could be achieved.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Although living half way round the world in New Zealand every time I come back to catch up with family and friends I find that there is improvement from the devastation that prior city governance carried out in in 60s and 70s in the sake of modernisation. I applaud the improvements that are currently being carried out on the river front.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Having recently retired to Dundee from London I have been amazed at the diversity of cultural activities on offer here. The wealth of films shown at the DCA for every type of audience; the excellent repertory company and the brilliant Scottish Dance Company based in Dundee and now gaining an international reputation; the Discovery Centre, the Verdant Works Museum, and the Caird Hall hosting visits from international ballet companies and orchestras,and the V&amp;A coming soon. Dundee is already a city of 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> set on the Firth of Tay to the south, country side within 5 minutes drive to north and a beach to the east. How diverse scenery can you get? Are we mad? You bet judging by this picture of The Broughty New year Dook.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The public art. The monkeys, the squirrel, car, penguins, dragon, dan and minnie, and now the lemmings, its all great.

Design the dundee public street art trail. Perth rd to nethergate, to grassmarket to high st to murraygate . . .
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's no surprise to me but it is a welcome suprise to film and TV projects that they find intriguing locations, a can-do approach and sunshine even when it's snowing fifty miles away. TayScreen, the screen office for Dundee City Council happily supports Dundee's bid.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love United!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee International Women's Centre is the only multi-ethnic centre for women of its kind in Scotland. They bring people from many cultures together with classes and activities, provide education, training, social oportunities and information to women who would otherwise not be able to access them. It has to be one of the happiest places in the city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Hailing from Aberdeenshire I'd always had a less than positive idea of how Dundee was. But having visited the city many times over the past 5 years or so, I can say that it has a great music scene with a fantastic arts centre in Dundee Contemporary Arts -it's a little gem. I can't wait for the V&amp;A to open and with the regeneration of the docks area the city will be an even better cultural centre. I'd certainly vote for Dundee over Aberdeen.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The warmth and friendliness of the Dundonians always makes me smile. I love the sense of history, the hidden gems, the cafe culture and the great selection of shops. Everyone you meet has a tale to tell, or a joke to share. I love walking down the Perth Road either past the university into the bustle of the town or out towards the Botanical Gardens, a special place of peace and tranquillity. I love to walk in Dudhope Park, especially when the leaves are changing in the Autumn or sit looking out over the Tay in the evening when the light is changing. There is hope and potential in it's people and it's places.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Discovery Film Festival. I get invited every year and I love going to see films from around the world. Last year the film I saw was in French but I thought it was brilliant. Ava (aged 6)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I arrived in Dundee in 1966 as a student I was bowled over by the generous spirit of the working class people of the city. There was such an air of optimism then. Going back to Dundee as I do every year I'm shocked at the reversal of fortunes of those same people. The social housing stock being demolished, lack of jobs for young people. Showcase developments like the New Overgate are just a sticking plaster. Good luck with the Waterfront Project but I don't think it will improve the lives of Dundee's working class. The city's hidden secret are the city's poor and downtrodden.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The views across the estuary, the beeches, the parks with pavilions, ponds and castles in them, the architecture, the friendly people, the restaurants and pubs, museums and the sunniness!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The innovation and culture that are driving forward a more welcoming, diverse and creative Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee, it's no secret, some love it whilst loathing it but it's always home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Born and educated in Dundee from 1946 -1972 I have been astounded by the transformation of the city over the last 40 years. As the transformation continues returning to the city and the University are always a revelation. Dundee continues to be a vibrant visionary city and shall always have a place in my heart.
<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> the amazing academics here within the city, that come from all over the world.
<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> 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> Dundee is a small city...and yet full of surprises! It is a city of culture with culture hidden in every nook and cranny of the city. A hidden secret is the Dudhope Centre, Bharatiya Ashram which holds cultural events from around the world. They have the only Indian classical and Bollywood music and dance classes in the city and the group have performances all around the UK, particularly in Dundee. There are also Chinese and Indian lunch clubs, Bellydance and Martial arts classes which transform the Centre into a place where the creative buds are constantly buzzing!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Always busy in Dundee--family events all year round, theatre, outdoor, sport...if only there were more days in the week. So many shows to see, exhibitions to visit, alone, with children or groups...Dundee offers it all on my doorstep! I wake up to the vista that is the beautiful Tay, flanked by unique bridges and city architecture..a joy to cross that river into the heart of a city, minutes away for miles of pleasure.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Where we start? Frigate Unicorn, five or is it six castles, the Rep, the Botanic gardens, Tannadice park, DCA, Discovery, the Tay bridge, Camperdown House and park, two Universities, Geddes quad, the Space, McManus galleries, St Mary's tower, Balgay park, Observatory, Maggies centre, Ninewells, this list goes on.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an incredible selection of events, plays, music, exhibitions and talks, especially for a city of this size. I moved here from Sweden, and find it so much easier and fulfilling to live in Dundee. I live down by the Tay and have a magnificent view of Fife, the River and the sea. Hidden secrets? Well, Jazz nights on the Unicorn are quite an experience and the city is full of small cobbled alleyways such as Candle Lane, which is my way home. Last not least, the people must be considered a cultural treasure, friendly and with a very dry sense of humour. Go for it Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a Dundonian I'm not surprised, just proud, of what Dundee has to offer in terms of culture in the broadest sense. A prime example was the late lamented Michael Marra, whose genius lay in delivering the people's culture with dry Dundonian humour (listen to If Dundee Was Africa, Muggie Shaw, Hamish) as well as universal observations (try Happed In Mist, Hermless). See also how he inspired other local artists such as Vincent Rattray and the many groups he collaborated with at Dundee Rep.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has created amazing musicians, scholars and passionate people who have shaped the world.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Gardyne Theatre is a gem of a place to watch and listen to live theatre and music performances.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> THE FOLK
THE VIBRANCE OF THE PEOPLE
THE SELF BELIEF OF THE PEOPLE
THE VIEWS OF THE CITY FAE THE LAW HILL
TWA BRA FOOTBALL TEAMS
BEST EVER MUSIC LIVE
BEST ART SCHOOL
BEST UNVIERSITY WITH MULTI CULTURES
BEST PIES IN THE PLANET
BEST JAM , BERRIES,
BEST COMICS IN THE WORLD THE BEANO ,THE DANDY AND OUUUR WULLIE
BEST OF ALL YOU ARRIVE WITH NO FRIENDS YOU LEAVE WITH MANY !!!!!!!! THATS THE SURPRISE !!!!!!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is: spring walks in Camperdown park, summer trips to Broughty Ferry, a malt whisky in an old pub on an autumn evening, in winter a frosty night walk up Balgay Hill to look at the stars.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a vibrant business community and this can only grow in light of recent developments eg V&amp;A Dundee, Malmaison etc. The people are warm, humorous, friendly... And I LOVE Dundee United FC.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> So many wonderful Victorian buildings and 9 times out of 10 the sun is shining
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I took part in Dundee's 48 hour film competition in 2012, which was an amazing opportunity to meet new people from different creative industries
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a very friendly and happy city with many multi-cultural aspects and people. From shopping to food you can normally find what you want somewhere close.

We love to look back at our history but also keep an eye on the future with new technologies.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The strength of its creative community. Supportive practitioners are working together to promote the cities design talent. Building a stronger creative identity for Dundee collectively.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Getting 300+ people routinely turning up to the University Saturday Evening Lectures. Topics range wide from Leonardo da Vinci to Cecil Beeton, Climbing Everest to Child Abuse. This wouldn't happen in London, nor (dare I say) Edinburgh!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A great city - first class university in design, art and ground-breaking medical research. One of the few theatre repertory companies still active in UK. Braithwaites coffee and tea emporium which is one of Dundee's cultural centres. Superb location on the river Tay. Verdant Works and the McManus first rate exhibitions and museum. Well deserved location for the V &amp; A
<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> For me, Dundee has presented the best music scene that Scotland has seen in recent years and hosted the best in art, computer art, animation and computer gaming.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everything is on our doorstep here - great countryside, lovely parks, theatres and museums. But the best thing is the people, who are genuinely interested in me, and why I'm here, and what I do. Perhaps this most sunny of the Scottish cities has given its residents a naturally sunny disposition.
<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> I have lived in Dundee for over 20 years now and have watched it grown into an exciting cultural city. The city has some fantastic events including Dundee Women's Festival, Community and various music festivals. Hidden secrets ...The strong women from Dundee who have helped shape the wonderful City ;)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How we've grown up to be a city once again capable of inspiring, educating and encouraging our own, and those who become our own; proud of our past and confident about our future.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beautiful Magdalen Green as it pans down on to the banks of the River Tay. A very special place to me as I have had many romantic walks here, a summer BBQ proposal and then my wedding photos in the bandstand. What a peaceful and inspiring space and view!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> An inspiring creative community. Great people. Countless art events and festivals.. Stunning river location. A blue flag beach. An extinct volcano. Historic ships. Britain's only full time public observatory. Castles. The UK's only Frank Gehry building. World leading research centers. Digital hub city. Great entertainment and cultural venues. It's time to share Dundee's secrets with everyone in 2017.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's a city with a creative spirit, and a many promising, developing creative industry. But I think that the most important 'hidden secret'of this city is the V&amp;A museum and the configuration of the waterftont
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love many things about Dundee, from the Theatre's with something for all ages, the Science centre, the Discovery and Verdant Works to trips to Broughty Ferry and a "donder" down the Perth Road. There is so much variety, you're never stuck for a park, a scenic walk, or a place to eat
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The historical nuggets that are under our noses every day are amazing we just dont recognise them.. Dundee is steeped in history which is not only important to the local area but Scotland, Uk and internationally. It is about time the City was recognised for its cultural diversity and its potential as an international focus for artistic and industrial development.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is going through a massive cultural shift and it is amazing how much fellow Dundonians are behind this. The people of the City want Dundee to be the best it possibly can be.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Looking towards Dundee and over to Fife from waterfront at Broughty Ferry, really pretty.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The vast cosmopolitanism for one. The combination of Vibrant university atmosphere and a sprawling city combine to make Dundee a pretty special place. Everything from looking at the Tay whilst on Magdalen Green or the sight of The Discovery ship as you get of the train. Awesome
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Ive been around the world and yet the view entering Dundee from Fife across the Tay Road Bridge still gives me goosebumps.Simply astounding...
<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> 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> 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 has a vibrant music culture, there is a lot of support for local bands that play regularly around the city at various venues. I like the fact that you can go to different bars and coffee shops and there will be open mic nights on where you can sit and listen, get up and play or ask for requests. The jazz and blues festival is a great asset to the city. In addition the botanical gardens is beautiful, I like to go have a coffee and wander through the gardens.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I first moved hear 12 years ago and was warned about Dundee's reputation. I have been constantly surprised and delighted by Dundee, it's setting, the buzz, whats available to do but for me the hidden gem of Dundee is the Dundonians - friendly and with a quick wit. I love this city for so many reasons but mainly for the people.
<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> My wife and I have lived in Dundee since 1968. The transformation of the city since then has been amazing! Dundee has moved on beyond expectation in many areas of its life, including, education, medicine, research, the arts and culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How beautiful it is in November
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Compared to other cities Dundee is very clean and litter free. The crocuses that come up in the middle of the roundabouts as well as all the daffodils on Magdalen Green and the Marie Curie Field of Hope (among other places) mean that Dundee always looks nice and well cared for. The fact that the people are friendly as well means that Dundee is a great place to visit.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The observatory on Balgay Hill- its a gem and free to visit!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That the "green circular" cycling route is just 27 miles around the city, but in that relatively short boundary you can cycle along the banks of the beautiful river Tay, find yourself at Broughty Ferry Beach, cycle through two large parks (Caird Park &amp; Camperdown) and a number of smaller parks, pass a few local nature reserves, explore Templeton Woods and ride around the base of the Sidlaw Hills. It's great to live in a city that offers such diversity of green spaces on its doorstop and is easily accessible by bike.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Take a walk through Balgay Park on a frosty winter night. Wind your way up through the trees till the heavens open up above you. The observatory is there but you won't need it; the stars are close enough to touch.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great tourist attractions, museums, parks. Ideal for river walks and views. Interesting places to dine and ideal place to live plus it is easy to get to other Scottish cities from here. Great for shopping and lovely Botanic garden.
<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> 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> The people are so friendly. I get lots of foreign visitors at work and they all say this.
<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> Despite enduring economic hardship in Dundee throughout the ages, Dundonians have been remarkably resilient in their stoic defence of human right and civil liberties. When then rally call has gone out, we have banded together, worked as a social and culture team to withstand and survive adversities. We are now in the process of, once more, evolving into the 21st Century as a major, global, technological player.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a wonderful city to visit with its parks and high street. The city is rustic and full of character, yet modern. The Dundee football grounds and high street were among our favourite places to see. The view from the law is breathtaking on a bright summer's day. Nothing would make us happier than seeing Dundee named the UK's city of culture.

D and R from Ottawa Canada.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I look back on my youth in Dundee having been brought up and played in the "auld tenements" I only visualize my very early past in grey, black and white. It was a typical city with factories and smoke. Now - what a change - its colourful. The new buildings, the green park areas, the Tay and the City Quay. Cannot wait for the completion of all the work that is being carried out whcih is bring a breath of fresh air to what can be called again Bonnie Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> This is an exciting time for Dundee and I look forward to the completion of the waterfront development and of course the V&amp;A. I actually live across in Fife but look upon Dundee every morning as I come over the bridge and have always said 'Dundee looks beautiful from across the water'
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That it continues to keep discovering good (and great) things about itself - it continues to grow.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the seals hauled out on the sandbanks during low-tide in the Tay.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I came here over 30 years ago to go to University and loved it so much I stayed. I am now proud to call this my city and my home. So much has changed, so many amazing things to learn about - who knew the reverse gear was invented by a Dundee man and that Dundee woman once owned a huge tract of Texas?!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee, one of the oldest cities in scotland has such rich heritage, and a fascinating history from back when it was just a small settlement between two hills. So many museums, fantastic art college, theatres, parks, the list is endless. Dundee deserves a bit of respect for the way it has been revitalised over the past 20 years amid the shutdown of industries and the emergence of new industries. People need to be encouraged to look again at Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There's such a lot happening in Dundee.
You'd be surprised at the wide range of events taking place throughout the year.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am not from Dundee and have travelled all my life living all over the UK and abroad. Dundee is rich because of its people and how they are loyal to their history, everyone in Dundee and anything past and present that is produced in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is home to an international world-class scientific community including universities, research institutes and companies. Scientists from over 60 countries participate in cutting edge research and also take part in workshops in local schools, festivals in the Dundee Science Centre, and public lectures in local coffee shops.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is amazingly clean when compared to other cities.
My wife is from Liverpool and her first comment on visiting Dundee for the first time was how well presented it is.
There are hidden gems everywhere like the nature walk between the Esplanade and railway in Broughty Ferry, and Duntrune Garden in Dawson Park.
And there are few things better than watching the dolphins in the Tay on a glorious summers morning.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a wonderful city that is thriving with the ongoing development work at the Central Waterfront and other associated building works. The railway station is receiving a major overhaul and new hotels are sprouting up across the city. with the V&amp;A museum soon to be built alongside our flagship The Discovery people will be flocking in their thousands to see our city and whats on offer. The time is right for the Dundee to be the City of Culture 2017.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The big sky over Fairmuir Park on a summer's evening, walking back home from The Plough.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Amanda Lowson at Dundee Reps community division. I remember her excitement on the day of her interview; 20 years on she is still a bundle of enthusiasm and excitement which never fails to inspire every adult and child she has contact with. Folk grow taller around her! Definitely one of Dundee's best kept secrets :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Everyday, and throughout each day, the river Tay looks different. Whether the sun is sparkling, the moon is shining or the sand banks are exposed for the seals to relax on, it is a thing of beauty. Dundee's best asset.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Beano Comics! Knowing they are published by D. C. Thomson, a Dundee publishing company makes each and every annual/comic given to me by my grandparents that little bit more special!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> dundee is real, people from dundee are all real, raw and honest. there is no pretentiousness here. what you see is what you get.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The endless talent and enthusiasm of Dundee's young people never fails to amaze me. As an educator who has been resident in the city for almost 30 years, I am constantly encouraged and often overwhelmed by the talents displayed by our young musicians, dancers, actors and performers through a variety of events ranging from school/local concerts and shows (such as the fantastic DSMT productions and McIntosh Patrick Awards) to representing the city in national events such as the Edinburgh Festival and Rock Challenge - they are a credit to the city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Nothing positive 'surprises' me about Dundee, but one of my favourite aspects of the city is its welcoming community. No matter what your background, nationality, class or accent, the city accepts new comers like family. It is so easy to make Dundee home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee. Where to start?
A welcoming city, where you can have a joke with anyone. Arts mix with Sciences and there is always something happening - Talks; Hands-on Activities; Events; Music; Visits - enough to suit every taste.
From The Unicorn and The Discovery ships to Claypotts and Broughty Ferry castles; from Verdant Works jute museum to the stars of the Mills Observatory; from the Dundee Rep Theatre to the MacManus Museum; from the Botanic Gardens to Camperdown Wildlife Centre and Park; from the music of the Wighton Heritage Centre to The Beano; from the Desperate Dan statue to the Dundee Dragon and Penguin sculptures loose in the city centre; from real Red Squirrels roaming the city to Seals on the sandbanks; Dundee has it all.
Together with a strong Community spirit and set in a wonderful location, running from high hills to sandy beaches, on the banks of the magnificent and ever-changing, tidal Tay, the longest river in Scotland. What's not to like?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people - having spent over half my life in Scotland and been in Dundee since 2000 I have to say that the folk of Dundee are a constant source of surprise and cheeriness. They are the most down to earth and genuine folk you could meet. Everyone smiles at one another and Dundee is the most welcoming of places. Folk are engaged and love where they live and where they are from. Dundonians are a truly passionate bunch and make the city what it is.....one of the most dynamic and extraordinary cities I have ever been.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wonderful situation on the banks of the Tay River. Still some lovely old architecturaly pleasing buildings. Upgraded macmanus gallery with excellent exhibitions. Dramatic site of The Ship Discovery with excellent exhibition and attractive visitor centre.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The talent and prowess the city has in the technology and digital media sectors never fails to blow me away.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> In Dundee, there's something for everyone. We're not local to Dundee but come here for the shopping, the indoor skatepark, the observatory, the leisure pool and more besides.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has gone through an incredible creative regeneration. With the imminent arrival of V&amp;A, the refurbishment of McManus and a flourishing dance community, the city has an abundance of creativity. It's already a City of Discovery. A city ready and well poised to further discover it's creative future. Bring on the City of Culture!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the biotech lab researchers really do their best to find cures for many of our worst diseases
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a delightful place to live and work. We have some beautiful sights to see; my favourite is the Howff cemetery in the city centre. No matter how busy the city is the Howff is always quiet and peaceful; it is quite surreal. Dundee Law is also a wonderful place to be. I will never tire of living in Dundee, and I am a very proud Dundonian.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city it's self is very diverse. There are people from all over the world. The surprising thing is the amount of art's and culture events which are going on, there is world class art at the McManus gallery's, soon there will be a V&amp;A too. There is a live music scene all over the city, and also a media scene from Comic books to photography. These areas are all influenced by the different nationalities within.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a student I was struck by the friendliness of the people of Dundee and that while it has had its deprived past, the city is definitely changing for the better and is on its way up
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The observatory: it's a trully remarkable place near the city centre. Also, the city should probably include St. Andrews and the rest of the region, since that would certainly help get more attention.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee surprises you with unexpected opportunities, events, people and places. A fantastic, creative and inspirational city with heaps of personality that makes it stand out from the crowd.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is so much history to be proud of, and so many positives to look forward to. I love the views across the River Tay, the ability to see the whole City from The Law and the abundance of green space The vast changes that have taken place in the past 100 years from the 3 J's to manufacturing to biomedical and gaming hub is astounding! Dundee is just big enough to keep you excited, but small enough to retain a sense of community and you 'cannae walk aboot toon withoot bumpin intae somebody ye ken!'
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Even after 10 years of living in the city I seem to stumble onto new things in and around the area of Dundee. :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Tin Roof studios and others like it are a little known asset to the city. It is an example of one of the many collectives to be found in Dundee which exist because like-minded people want to get together and share their interests.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> friendly
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is full of secrets - a walk around the town shows so many hidden things we miss when driving around. The Dundee women's trail, for example and the Time Gun at Dudhope Park. Our parks are glorious!

I also believe we are responsible for the culinary innovation of 'The Mince Roll'. We deserve credit for that.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The burgeoning independent film scene (Closure, Location Scouting among others), the home of Yuck'n'Yum,lots of local bands, Ickle Film Fest, the Dundee Comics Day, the creativity of Dundonians clearly attracts more creativity.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That it produces music of such diverse style, colour and excellence.

The Annual Dundee Blues Festival, brings acts from all over the world, giving the locals of Dundee a chance to experience the richness and culture of world class Blues music.
<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.

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