We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

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Grandad Mo is a hidden gem: only someone who is 83 could sing The Road and the Miles to Dundee with such understanding and tenderness. When he was a wee boy he used to nip across to Newport on the Fifie and walk to Wormit beach with his dog. He would look out over the Tay, through the railway bridge, to the jute factory chimneys and church steeples of Dundee. He joined the Post Office as a telegram boy when he was 14 and worked there for more than 40 years. Dundee is his home, come and see why!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Has kept up with the pace of change, and led it some technology fields
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Scotland's national contemporary dance company is based in Dundee at the Rep.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A small city maybe but it has everything you need - culture (museums and theatre), shops, universities - and all on your doorstep. Plus it has Dundonians - some of the friendliest people one could ever hope to meet. I love it here!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The university is so good
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Spending 4 years with an eclectic group of students, from across the globe, engaged in learning, interaction and growing up. Formative experiences were the foundations for what we have subsequently become.
<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 is a multicultural city with a wonderful, supportive creative community. It is also the sunniest city in Scotland, which makes it a fantastic place to live, discover and grow in.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the inscription of McGonagall's poem about the Tay Bridge Disaster, along the pavement on Riverside Drive. It was a joy to literally stumble upon it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Hoolywood website is great - showcasing Dundee's creative talent and history with a lot of humour thrown in.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its constantly changing and for the better.

There is always plenty to do throughout the city and surrounding area's whether its entertainment in the city centre and the Caird hall, or taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding countryside at Camperdown park, templeton woods and the sidlaws. Dundee has an amazing back drop which should flourish and be appreciated over the coming years.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the site of a Spring full moon at it rises over Fife. The one on the 25th April was spectacular and reflected majestically in the Tay. Ima gonna get that moon.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a great place to go sailing on the River Tay. You can launch at Broughty Ferry and go to Perth or Norway!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> An amazing hub of creativity for my own field of jewellery and metal art generally. The metalsmiths are the most open and friendly team anywhere in the UK.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I grew up in Dundee in the '30's and through the war years. After graduation as an architect, I subsequently moved to Canada where I spent my professional life. In occasional visits back to Dundee I was saddened with the way the city had declined in those early post-war years. However on more recent visits back I have been greatly impressed with the remarkable transformation that has taken place.with such cultural innovations as the new waterfront development starting with acquiring Scott's antarctic ship and it's attached Museum, The Jute Museum and the current Art Gallery Project..
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its integrated creative scene, Dundee supports its local makers and has a driven attitude towards reaching an international level of success. The work of Vanilla Ink inspires me and makes me proud to be part of the creative Dundee network.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a fantastic cultural depth which has integrated itself into the fabric of the city - the people who work full time in offices and building sites but make music with their friends in studios and pubs and halls at night; those who discover a love and ability for writing and poetry through attending writer's workshops and gaining support from others at literary evenings; and the artists who encourage each other to expose their work to strangers. In Dundee, this is all multigenerational and not bound by class.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It has so much to offer from historic interests right through to creative arts (games design companies) whilst having two internationally recognised universities making the city known far and wide.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> River Tay is amazing on any day with its many facets. Dark and gloomy, foggy and mysterious, bright and sunny, and the occasional seals.
The research ongoing in University of Dundee and Ninewells Hospital aiso punches above its weight internationally.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a fabulously diverse city, with a vibrant arts scene, from great productions at the Rep to outstanding exhibits at DCA, and the newly refurbished McManus galleries. There's always something to entertain, challenge and excite.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The new McManus Galleries are excellent.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee sunsets are its secret, reflecting off the the river, within the sky and within the summer air enjoyed over a glass of wine enjoying friends company after a busy week in the beer garden at DCA or Dukes Corner or in your own garden. Dundee's a beautiful city with so much to offer but so often overlooked. Time to celebrate this wonderful place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is such a friendly city. People will welcome you and help you out in any way they can. I moved here 10 years ago and it's the best thing I ever did - I've made so many wonderful friends. There's such a buzz about Dundee - from great pubs like Clarks and the Phoenix, to the music scene, the university, the literary and creative people - everyone is so proud of what they've got here. Top that with all the sunshine, beautiful Broughty Ferry, the river, beach, parks, views, shops and museums and it's just got everything. I love it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The friendliness of the people and the continuing willingness to embrace what we have and promote it to the World!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I LOVE DUNDEE !!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I was a youth arts worker on the Hilltown I discovered a fantastic hide out called the DPM Park, it is tucked away in the middle of houses at the 'tap o the hull' this space used to be a Dundee Pasturised Milk Dairy. The space has years of history attached to it. The park has a 'free wall' for graffiti artists and the local young people and artists to have 'Graffitti Jams' artists from around the world have created amazing art work at the DPM. France, New York, Austalia and all around the uk from London, Glasgow and Aberdeen and many more, they come here and work with our local talent and inspire the young people of Bonney Dundee. Definitely a wee hidden cultural treasure!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Love watching the skaters in Dudhope Park (lamenting my complete lack of balance)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has contributed so much to the story of Britain. When it has done so it has done so without making a big noise about it. Dundee in its culture is hard-working, entrepreneurial, daring and resilient. Its character of modesty, coupled with its humanitarian and internationalist outlook, means that few outside Dundee appreciate what Dundee has done for Scotland, Britain, Europe and the wider world because Dundee has not boasted about it. Geographically, Dundee has been quite insular giving its culture a very distinct and individual character which, to the outsider can seem quite dark and obtuse, but humorously so!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Development.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a brilliant sense of multiculturalism-there is a Halal shop,a Polish shop, a Russian shop and a traditional Scottish fish and chip shop within walking distance of my flat. I like the fact that each of these cultures brings something unique to Dundee-it feels really special.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is an amazing place with amazing cultural scene- and welcoming friendliness. I arrived in Dundee in 2000 from abroad and immediately felt welcome.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The availblity of the arts for everyone
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee used to be the butt of jokes, but no more!! People from all over the world come to study here and decide not to leave because they can see the potential of the city. There is a great sense of humour here too - I love how if someone gets a bit above their station there is usually some wit armed with a razorsharp comeback to put them firmly back in their place :D
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fantastic food spots on offer! The overall vibe from the city is great!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a city on the up, its regeneration is bringing about a cultural reawakening that is building upon an already proud cultural heritage of music, art, and comics, the home to contemporary museums and one of the UK's finest Art and Design institutions!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The aspiring and positive nature of the city, coupled with the friendliness and incredibly welcoming atmosphere combines to provide a city which nurtures locals, guests and visitors alike, including the many students whom all grow to love their new environment.
There is an extremely vibrant social diversity throughout this city and a genuine excitement surrounding the gradual, yet very noticeable continuing improvements; revitalising OUR Dundee.
City of Culture 2013, 14, 15, 16 AND 2017!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Budding artists used to come to Dundee to study at Duncan of Jordanstone college of Art because its an amazing college but would leave after graduating to live in bigger, more "happening" cities....now they come to DJCAD because it's an amazing college and they stay!
Dundee is now one of the happening cities, overflowing with creative talent with a great vibe.
It IS a city of culture..
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There's a growing swing dance scene spurred on by the Universities swing dance society.
<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> Super Friendly People of Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The seemingly endless stream of talent from the artschool.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Viewing the heavens through the (public) Mills observatory telescope. the sparks of light from the Art College annual show.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its renaissance from the 1908s. A city on its knees has brushed off the accumulated stour of decades of struggle and decline, and has re-invented itself. A global centre for manufacturing has become a global centre for learning - and of discovery, But also of culture, not forgetting the oral and popular cultures of the past but building on these and moving forward through the city's cultural institutions. And surprising and delighting people whose perceptions of Dundee are as dated as the notion of jute, jam and journalism, notwithstanding the incontionuiong importance of the last-named.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Amazing 'hidden' architectural gems, heritage of the 'Jute Barons', many now used as offices, sensitive conversions, etc.
The energy and innovation that underpins the DCA, Sensations, the Rep, and so much more - the city vibrates with art and cultural excitement.
The musical tradition, made manifest in the excellent programme of classes for Dundee's schoolchildren.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Our ability to preserve our past with respect and at the same time our ability to regenerate and modernise with new developments and projects.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> T Ann cake
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Nothing surprises me about Dundee. I was born there, grew up there, was educated there. I have lived my life outside of Dundee in many, many wonderful countries over the last 20 years, and Dundee remains my home. I retain a great, swelling pride when I tell people I am from Dundee. That pride deepens whenever I am lucky enough to go home. Simply a beautiful, wonderful, vibrant City.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> McManus Awards - we award this to a senior pupil in Dundee Secondary Schools for the work they have done to contribute to the ongoing citizenship of Dundee - always amazes us - the extent of our young people's talents is immense.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The music scene is second to none in Dundee. So many versatile and hugely talented bands and individuals who contribute to many artistic streams within the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> In a work capacity, I was asked the other day for details about Dundee as the lady had not visited before, i.e. accommodation with the city centre. I ended up sending a rather long email, about how accessible Dundee is.
We have a great bus and train service in and out the city, there is plenty of great value for money places to stay from hotels to small B&amp;B. For catering, there are fantastic places to eat (think of a food and you'll probably find you can have it somewhere in the city). Great shopping for us ladies within a 1 mile radius. There are free places to visit such as McManus Galleries, Mills Observatory, Broughty Castle, DCA all within walking distance or a short bus journey. If you have have a love of the outdoors and wish to relax, again only a short distance and accessible there is, Camperdown Park, which includes a Wildlife Centre, Baxter Park, Templeton Woods, a lovely sand Beach at Broughty Ferry (cant visit without stopping off for an ice cream at Vissochi's). There are also many acitivities in and around the city, whether it be via sports development, creative learning workshops, easter hunts and of course not forgetting the Dundee Flower and Food Festival (an annual event), if you visiting Dundee, be well assure Dundee Is Worth It!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's beauty is outstanding. The city's position on the Tay estuary is undoubtedly one of its most unique features, coupled with its diverse history. It truly is the city of discovery, not only due to Scott of the Antarctic, but also academically and culturally, always seeking new innovations. Dundee is a city with the motivation to rejuvenate and reinvent itself within the current and ever changing globalising world we now live in. Dundee has the other unique feature of friendliness in abundance, you will never feel a stranger in this city. But to appreciate Dundee fully, you have first to experience it.
<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 is the perfect sized city. Everything is close and you can walk the distances easily or take a bike. The location is also perfect. It's close to the sea and at the same time close to the bigger cities and the Highlands. A walk along the river Tay when the sun sets is always special!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It always has something new to offer.
<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> I have worked in Dundee for the last 17 years and in that time it never ceases to amaze me how much it has really flourished creatively to being the innovative and forward thinking city that it is today.

A great deal of commitment, effort and time has been given by the people and employers within the city to create this vibrancy and it certainly deserves to be credited as a City of Culture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is set in the most beautiful setting, students, gaming, history beyond belief, Jute, Jam, Journalism!! What more could I say. Beautiful beaches, Winston Churchill Lived here!! William Wallace went to school here and we have Olympic champions too
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Walk up the steps into St Paul's Cathedral and discover an interior which blazes with light and colour, lifting the spirit and inspiring the mind.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's in the air, Dundee is the perfect size and setting for people to get together and do great things. It's the friendly atmosphere that it creates that leads you to meet people from all walks of life. The result is a meeting of minds and creativity.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The diversity of cultures and people in the city. For a small city there are lots of different peoples here. This is reflected in the shops and the langauges you hear on the street, shows that Dundee people embrace equality and diversity
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beautiful people, the attitude &amp; way of life.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazing heart. The beat can be heard in the music, the talent that grows beside the Tay. The beat can felt in clubs like the Reading Rooms showing casing great local DJs and acts from around the world. The beat is the soul of City, the beat that runs through all us Dundonians with humour, creativity, compassion and joie de vivre. Dundee is a vibrant City with a massive beating cultural heart.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Growing up in Dundee in the 80's most of my school friends uprooted and left for the likes of Glasgow, Edinburgh or the bright lights south of the border. Dundee's renaissance over the past 30 years however is changing peoples view of the City supported by a World class University, World class Tourist Attractions, World class people...

Big Difference? Dundee is now a City to be proud of.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I never seem to see Dundee as a city but rather one big cultural community where everyone is linked through the many events that take place. The art school, theatres and the DCA create a friendly and creative atmosphere in Dundee that has welcomed me so much that I don't mind being away from my big hometown, Glasgow (in fact I prefer staying here during my uni time)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a place of great opportunity. It is easy to get in touch with folk about an idea you have and to see it brought to life without too much red-tape. The support from The McManus, in launching Nomas* Projects has been invaluable and helped build a new platform for contemporary art, here in the heart of the city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the fact it's a small city with big ideas.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was born and raised in Dundee but had to leave at the age of 17 for work. I have travelled all over the world and been to some amazing places but there's no place like home. I know that I will return I love Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Broughty Ferry has to be Dundee's best kept secret. Great beaches, great restaurants. It has a castle for christ's sake! ;)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great little place with a little bit of everything.
<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> The hugely supportive and inclusive student culture. The West End of Dundee is a hub for all sorts of student activity and promotes a truly welcoming vibe. The number of independent traders and retailers along places such as the Perth Road makes Dundee thrive and elude individuality. It is great to see residents supporting local business and hailing from Derry, the current city of culture, I can see how winning this bid could only boost Dundee's already growing culture sector.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My family! Dundee is where my mother and father grew up and where many of my family still are today! I remember the first time I visited in 1989 and coming from Connecticut in the US I thought it was so beautiful! I remember the green hills and cobble stone and instantly fell in love. I remember the look on my father's face when it was time to leave and I cried and told him I wanted to stay in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I think of Dundee primarily as A Town By A River. Its location made it important and now it's the source of its identity.

The Tay has never been tainted by industrial pollution in the same way as other rivers that run through cities. A reflective moment by the river takes you a journey of the mind, and the memory of it ultimately drew me back here.

Economically, the river made Dundee big enough to be cosmopolitan but its economic history has dictated that the city remains small enough to feel like a home town.

Culturally, Dundee has a strong sense of itself and an appreciation of the world beyond. I think the river is Dundee's "open secret" for it is a place for thinking, reflecting and imagining. Few things are more cultured than that.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My son Don Nicolson and daughter Cindy Nicolson were both born in the city. Don is a singer songwriter who won Dougie McCleans songwriter of the year award a few years back, and plays solo gigs all over the place. Cindy is also a singer songwriter who sings solo and is a vocalist/guitarist/songwriter with the group Mamasbaby which plays all over Perth and dundee, the highlands and toured europe as did Don. They are very talented people and come from a long line of musicians. My father who died at the age of 37 from cancer was a singer song writer too and he was the trainer for the under 21s Osborne team in Dundee back in the 40`s.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee thoroughly deserves to be considered as UK City of Culture for 2017 to help enhance our status for excellent cultural provision and to help widen the levels of participation.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What has surprised me recently about Dundee and makes me proud to be a Dundee boy, is our ability to realize and act upon our ever growing potential as one of Britain's main culture hub's.

With things like the West Fest charitable community culture festival that kicks off on the 18th of May aboard HM Frigate Unicorn. The festival harnesses and celebrates our many unique talents and attributes as a tight nit society!

It is things like this that makes me and many others love my home city!
<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> The people, the University and the views.
The huge variety of friendly, helpful people though out dundee, from all across the UK and Europe with a huge sense of community. The Internationally acclaimed university, ranking high in league tables from sciences and medicine to the arts at Duncan of Jordanstone. Finally the views over the Tay with the twin rail and road bridges, from Riverside or from the top of the Law hill, breathtaking and constantly changing.
<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> 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> In some of the industrial port areas you will just sit for hours on, enjoying the old industrial, maybe a bit rotty looking sites with having the view on the see. As a student, I love this place for just relaxing and writing with the industrial 'landscape' aside. It just gives me goosebumps every time, thinking back to when this was one of the ports to the world. Strange, but stunning feeling!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love when I travel along in Perth road with a double decker and I can see the beautiful river Tay with the clouds and the sun. My original hometown is a big,busy city so I could hardly experience the nature like this. Also I love the green grass.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Many organisers and conference delegates visiting the city have been wowed by the friendliness of the people and how much Dundee has to offer outwith key cities such as Edinburgh or Glasgow. Dundee is becoming a vibrant and exciting cultural destination and I am delighted to be a part of it!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I think we have great potential to visitors and locals in that there are great closie tours of Victorian and medeaval histories. Stuart Walker does these tours and could speak for ages on the history of Dundee but we don't do enough of these tours and promote our own town. We could do more and shout about our town from the rooftops but tend to hide and don't push ourselves enough.
Dundee folk don't shout about their town and what it has, like the Macmanus Galleries, The Unicorn, The Discovery. Up wi the bonnets of Bonnie Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> We Dundee... A city brimming over with design, creativity and optimism; warm and welcoming people with resilience and determination to succeed; fantastic jewellers, artists and designers (young talent: Scarlett Erskine, Leanne Evans, Hayley Scanlon); creative entrepreneurs like Vanilla Ink and the Fleet Collective where collaboration and talent ignite; the Parlour Cafe and Jessie's Kitchen; so many shows, exhibitions, festivals and events from the universities, the Rep, the DCA, the theatres, the galleries &amp; museums; and a stunning location to live, work and enjoy. My Dundee is fabulous!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The history of Dundee speaks for itself. Since those illustrious days, it's had its fair share of critics but deep down I believe the nay-sayers are envious of Dundee's determination to strive forwards and fulfil its undoubted potential. Viva la Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I recently moved here as an intern in the University of Dundee Museum Services. I am delighted to be part of a city with so much culture, and I was surprised at the amount of history and culture Dundee has. Knowing hardly anything about the city, I look forward to learning all there is to know (if that's even possible!)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The negative attitude of some Dundonians about the aspirations of this great city. Wake up, smell the coffee and see all the great things happening here.
<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 old tunnel under The Law would be worth opening up for public access and use in some social venture.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Miley Nature Reserve runs between Lawside and Lochee on the former site of north Scotland's first railway line, the Dundee and Newtyle railway. It is a secret sanctuary, hidden away amid the bustle of the city. It gives a new lease of life to the disused railway line, providing a new home for trees and songbirds.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The more I travel away from Dundee the more I appreciate it. It has everything. It is big enough to be busy and small enough to be easily accessible. You really appreciate the scenery, the mix of hills, the Tay, urban areas with a lot of green parks and trees very nearby. You really appreciate that when you travel to flat, landlocked towns in England for example. Dundee has everything.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> We are a world centre for life sciences as well as a world centre for the games industry and animation. We have two top class universities, an excellent college and one of the highest students per head of population ratios in the UK. Dundee has been through hard times but the regeneration that's happening in the city has to be seen to be believed.Without entirely losing sight of its past, the city is thrusting its way into the future. It's an exciting time particularly with the waterfront regeneration to include the V&amp;A as well as the city's first 5*Hotel.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was born and grew up in Broughty Ferry- a beautiful wee town in the most idyllic of situations- a suburb of dundee. However I spent my teens exploring and adventuring around the streets and meandering cobbles of Dundee's city centre- I had a relatively sheltered childhood but Dundee's surprisingly vibrant fashion and music scene opened my eyes to a world of culture and diversity. I loved sitting outside st Mary's in the sunshine soaking up the rays, atmosphere and architecture and taking in art and cocktails at the DCA in the evening (the terrace is a godsend) and catching an abstract array of DJ's at the Reading Rooms until the wee hours...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> While it has its fair share of High Street stores, Dundee is also home to some lovely independent shops; Groucho's Record Store is a firm favourite, while BECO and Missy La La's offer the finest attire for the fashion forward. Additionally there are many lovely cafes and restaurants to choose from in the city centre and along the Perth Road, and you can't walk down the street without meeting someone you know; its like living in a huge village!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people (Dundonians) are very friendly,the city is very good and ideal for academic studies.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the Tay, the Tay that goes to Perth and back each day
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the fact it doesn't take too long to get anywhere by car or public transport (£3.40 for unlimited bus travel). From ' the Ferry' to the West end gorgeous beach, excellent play park and if your a 'bit wabbit' Jessie's Kitchen tea shop, more independent shops than 'yi can shake a stick at', if your out on the rip or having a chilled out family day Dundee has plenty options. I have moved back here with my family after 13 years away. Its the best move we could have made!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I say the Dundee museum of transport will be a be good for the city hopeful in 2017 Dundee will get city of culture i love my Dundee as a city becuse the past what that city got.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fact that when you walk into any pub, you are guaranteed to find somebody you know or somebody that is worth knowing!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Love the DCA
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Dundee North West Community Sports Club is a newly established Community Club. It consists of 4 local sports clubs
and is in the process of becoming a registered charity.
Dundee West have also created strong School to Club Links within the area. The club delivered a Family Fun Day at Charlotte Street in May 2012 which was a fantastic event attracting over 2000 visitors throughout the day.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is situated beside the seaside and the Sidlaw Hills. Take the children to Broughty Ferry, build sandcastles, paddle, spot the dolphins, watch the busy Sand Martins, take a stroll through Barnhill Rock Garden. Take them into the city to sample the wonderful parks, Camperdown with its children's zoo and play area. Dudhope Park with its Castle and Skateboard Park, Baxter Park, Victoria Park, Caird Park the list goes on. Climb the Law and see the magnificent bridges and the views of the Kingdom of Fife. Head into the Sidlaw Hills for rambling. There's plenty to see and do in and around Dundee. Come visit and see for yourself.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Since moving here in 2000 to start University I haven't looked back. It's the perfect mix between City and large town - big enough to be anonymous and small enough to feel friendly. It has some really good small eateries too.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My allotment up the law is a little haven of tranquility in a busy city. It has excellent views over the city and I can see the bridges and Discovery. I watch the weather changing. It is fab! I love Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of diversity and talent within Dundee's creative industries never ceases to amaze.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The most exciting thing for me recently was discovering all about the law tunnel! It would be amazing to be able to see it and walk through a piece of history that had been shut away for so long.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The red squirrels of Camperdown Park
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazing live music scene. There is something to suit all tastes at a number of great venues. The Blues Bonanza is an event Dundonians can be proud of.

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