We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

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Dundee is a city that is full of character. Having grown up in this city, I feel very privildeged to be amongst the best people in the world. Dundonians rock! Dundee is home to the three J’s; Jam, Jute and Journalism which we couldn’t live without. Additionally home to the best TK Maxx and Fudge Doughnuts (courtesy of Fischer and Donaldson) in the whole entire world. Dundee, I love you!

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city oozes with history and many stories of discovery and determination
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The diversity ! and in a really good way . The West end is my home and there is so much going on. I work in the digital sector and what I admire about Dundee is that although it strives forward technologically it is still rich in tradition, but what really surprises and delights me is that you find such a variety of craft, design and culture in Dundee without having to look to find it. Its fantastic
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love standing under the rail bridge and looking at the magnificent structure. One of my favorite views has always been on the train, when coming in, from down south, it slows over the bridge and you get a chance to take in the stunning City... this is where I show off to visitors about Dundee, its glorious "Silvery Tay", its sunny aspect, point out the Law (hill), the wind machines and tell the story of the Old bridge that collapsed and show the old stumps that are still visible.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Beautiful ,location on the Tay Estuary surrounded by wonderful countryside and beaches. Fascinating historic buildings like Macmanus and Caird Hall preserving a proud history. People cheerful and friendly despite recent economic difficulties.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Botanic Gardens ...one of my most favourite places in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is the home of comics. Not just The Beano and The Dandy, but has influenced artists, writers and talent, bringing great graphic novels to many.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great communications to all parts of Scotland and UK. Fantastic setting on the Tay and beaches up the coast to Broughty Ferry and Carnoustie.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people are its best asset - witty, genuine and friendly.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The supports of Dundee United are a very well dressed bunch. Kudos! Dundee, more than any city I can think of, deserves this title. A boost is more than due!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What surprises me the most about Dundee is its music and art scenes; for such a small city, there is a huge amount of creativity, from arts and music collectives, to several galleries. The DCA and Hannah Maclure Centre show great exhibitions and bring great people to the city. Its the hidden treasures of the underground gigs and the Generator Projects that are treats and should be recognised, not just by the other people in Dundee, but for everyone who visits.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There are always new people to meet and connect with, there seems to be a continual flow of people coming into Dundee, some stay a month, a year or maybe 4 or more, and the city takes them all in. Though not born and bred in Dundee, I have done a lot of growing here; I moved to Dundee at 18, and 8 years later I am still exploring and discovering new streets, communities and people. As a student and then lecturer, most of my time has been centered at DJCAD, University of Dundee. The university often provides a reason for people to come to Dundee but the communities pre-existing (and yet to form) are the reason people care, contribute and continue talking about Dundee. For me, Dundee's hidden secret is its adaptability in itself and the people it hosts. It is not a perfect city, nor does it pretend to be, therefor people take on the challenge of shaping it, in turn shaping themselves. In this continual movement Dundee has witnessed many a success, and failure, but it (and the people it hosts) keeps on trying because that is the nature of the space and place it inhabits.
<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> Hidden Secrets- Doghouse, Legends, the scientific collections a Dundee Uni.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Close community and group of friends, a smaller city bringing more of us together.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I came to Dundee for a short period and now 14 years later it is my home. I love the size of the city and the village feel. Mrs William's newsagent in the Perth Road has been operating for over 30 years and who better to pop in and visit of a morning than herself. She has become a good friend and we will all sorely miss her when she retires in the near future. It's people like this along with its vibrant art scene and waterfront location that makes Dundee a truly unique place to live.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> New Years Eve at the Balgay Bar: Live folk music and super friendly atmosphere in the only pub in the world where people say hello when you walk in. At the bells its straight into Auld Lang Syne and 200 old men descending on you for a handshake and a kiss! Classic!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Two universities, several college campuses and great schools. Dundee really is the City of Discovery!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is simply a very large village which makes it easy for everyone to feel part of the City. Dundee has throughout its history always welcomed people and visitors and those settling in the area soon feel very much at home. Dundee has a stunning location with the water and the countryside within easy reach. All sports, hobbies and leisure activities are catered for.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Dundee accent is one of the finest sounds in Scotland and always puts a smile on my face. The McManus galleries gives a wonderful of the history and culture of the city which means a great deal to me. Dundee is undoubtedly a city with problems, but these are being addressed and many of the steps which are being taken in that direction, such as the introduction of the V&amp;A and the regeneration of the waterfront, make Dundee an ideal candidate.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a relative newcomer to Dundee, I had no idea there was so much going on here. There are so many creative people, so many exciting new projects, and there's so much to explore. Quite inspiring for a small place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is the only city in the whole of the UK with Red Squirrels within the city boundaries. As an iconic species for Scotland this says a lot for Dundee and shows the depth of commitment from its Ranger Service and Parks Management. Camperdown Wildlife Centre is a very important conservation site for endangered species across Europe and the World, and plays an important role in educating our younger people and serves as a main centre of attraction.
<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 university enriches life thru llunchtime concerts and free Saturday eve lectures with wide ranging speakers. All free. Mcmanus galleries featuring exhibits from V and A. Broughty Ferry Art society classes. DCA featuring National Theatre and opera from the Met.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is Scotland's sunniest city!! My favourite place in Dundee is Camperdown park which I remember going to regularly as a child and there was so much to do, whether it was exploring in the woods, feeding the ducks, playing in the playpark or visiting the zoo.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The 24-hour bakery - a place full of wonder, magic and mystery!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 'Forgotten' history and potential...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What surprises me most about Dundee is the continual diversity of our City in terms of people, its space and location. Dundee is Scotland's fourth largest City but yet it's small enough to allow for strong community bonds and a shared cultural past and future. No matter how long you live or stay here there is always something hidden away that will one day jump out and surprise you.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Daffoidils every where , beautiful.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is such a variety of things to do in Dundee, numerous Cafes and Bars. Or a trip to the Science centre is a must. The city also has wonderful architecture that shows the rich and varied history of Dundee.
<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> I'm looking forward to visiting later this week, up from Yorkshire. Can't wait to visit the most fantastic cafe, Jessie's Kitchen, a real hidden gem. Wonderful cakes and drinks with a wonderful view over the Tay.
<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> The it has the small town feel while being a city. That feeling welcomed me here back in 2005 while interviewing for university. It made it feel like I belonged.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Astonishing views, warm people, fantastic University! I love Dundee, its my second home town.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> McManus Galleries - a great treasure trove!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amazingly beautiful and varied doors on the old buildings!! I keep finding another and another. This city is full of beautiful and quirky architecture. I also love the 'drawbridges' on many of the houses on the south side of Perth Road.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is filled with the best people. Take some time to speak to the people and you will find amazing story tellers.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has so much going on and it is all within easy reach! Having two Universities, the fabulous DCA (Dundee Contempory Arts) and the McManus Art Gallery to name only a few brilliant cultural resources there is always public lectures, exhibitions, activities and places to meet family and friends to eat and drink. Broughty Ferry has beautiful beaches which are great for walks, sunbathing, water sports and the castle ~ not forgetting New Years Dook!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Born in Dundee nearly 80 years ago. Educated and qualified in Medicine there. Proud of the way Dundee has moved forward over these, quite difficult, years.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's so impressive. Scenery and Science!! What a great place to learn, work and meet incredible people! I've loved my time here and I can't wait to see what the city will look like in 10 years time.....
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the views
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its marvelous setting
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amasing river and extremely friendly people
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The fact you can turn a corner and find an amazing piece of street art, or a medieval building or just meet an interesting character, who's always friendly and willing to share
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Agacan Perth Road been there for years or Zekis as it is know after the colourful artist owner, full of wonderful art, wonderful smells and wonderful food.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is and was a fantastic place to go to university. All four siblings in my family went there with no prior connection to the city. Our son is now there too and loves it. Dundee is still very much a hidden treasure and has some amazing new projects planned in the next few years. For those of us who came from small towns it is a lovely "smaller" city with a lot to offer, especially for students. The riverfront is beautiful and becoming more so as those projects come to fruition.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The wealth of good musicians in the city, the amazing venues to go and listen to well established and fabulous up and coming musicians.....Dundee is very rich with talent
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a group, event or club for just about anything you can imagine.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My strongest memories from growing up in Dundee are tangled in the city's wildlife, and the spaces that allow it to thrive. I loved feeding the ducks, and netting for stickle-backs at Stobsmuir Ponds, watching the annual transformation of tadpoles into frogs in Baxter Park, catching crickets in the long grass at the Den O'Mains, seeing lazy seals basking on the sand banks under the rail bridge over the Tay, watching peaceful herons resting in low branches over the Dighty Burn and visiting the stately swans at Broughty Ferry beach. The many beautiful parks and waterways in the city, and the beaches and walkways along our incredible river, provide spaces for wildlife to thrive and for our communities to come together. I think all Dundonians share a strong connection to the Tay, the Law, Camperdown and the parklands across the city. These places are woven into our group identity. While they aren't always stumbled upon by outsiders, they are an important part of our cultural heritage and yet another reason why Dundee is a brilliant place to live!
<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> It's amazing the number of creative people who live and work in Dundee. I'm very proud to be one of them! Being able to have my design studio within a lovely bright converted Jute Mill is brilliant.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Howff - a secret store of history, stories, beauty and death. It really is an amazing place.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Cofaidh 's Ceilidh (Coffee and a blether) This is a group of gaelic speaking people, both learners and fluent, who meet fortnightly in the Dundee Repertory Theatre on a Saturday afternoon. It is an opportunity for fluent/native speakers to keep their language alive and to help learners use the language which they feel is part of their heritage. It also attracts those in the surrounding area who have an interest in the gaelic language.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The ever changing waterfront
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The mix of the place - professions and creatives mixing to give something greater than the sum of the parts
<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> Culture is not only between the walls of rooms and museums, but also in the streets ! You can walk around and admire the beauty of the buildings, the statutes, etc. Dundee Uni is also doing agreat job with its art show ! Dundee deserves to be recognised as a real city of culture !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The people are the hidden secrets - the creative juices that flow from Dundee are many and immense. And you also had the inimitable Michael Marra. A jewel in Scotland's crown.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has been a thriving cultural hub for decades if not centuries. With the refurbishment of the McManus Galleries the Dundee story has been well expressed and both reflected and built upon. The creation of the V&amp;A and the building of a new railway station by 2017 will allow Dundee to be more easily shared with the rest of the UK and the city of culture status would further evidence that we as a city have an exciting future ahead.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I am amazed at the number and variety of public lectures available in Dundee in the course of a year. DundeeAtrs Cafe, Cafe Science, Saturday Evening Lecture Series - in its 89th year, Armistead Lectures - over 120 series, to name but a few. All are well and enthusiastically attended.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee band REVOLVER is the best Beatles tribute band in the world
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a teenager Dundee Contemporary Arts was my first experience of seeing a contemporary art exhibition. I still remember first setting foot in the wonderful galleries and how intrigued I was. A few years later I was excepted into art college. I vividly remember nattering on about several of DCA's exhibitions in my interview. A few years later I was lucky enough to work at DCA. From here I discovered an organisation always striving to bring the best of the visual arts to the city while continuing to welcome as diverse an audience as possible. Every year it introduces many more young people to the possibilities of the visual arts through its excellent education, cinema and gallery programmes. DCA is there for you from the beginning. Its brilliant.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a strong musical heritage, encompassing a variety of styles and tastes. From musical societies and choirs, to singer song-writers and bands; from theatre concerts to open mic nights, there is rarely an evening in Dundee when lovers of good music will fail to be entertained. There is a vibrant live acoustic scene, showcasing Dundee's talent and banishing the karaoke culture of many other towns and cities. We have much to celebrate; not least Dundee's very own multi-instrumental 'Anderson, McGinty, Webster, Ward and Fisher' who last month were named 'Best New Scottish Band' at the Scottish Variety Awards.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The hidden gem of our city is the attitude of the staff at the university. They are a family; they are colleagues; they are accepting and inspiring. University can be hard for students, as it was for me on occasion; the staff at my school made life easy and academia enjoyable. We have one-on-one with lecturers and support staff, and even the Dean over coffee, wine, and stand-up comedy- this is not a closed community. The secret to Dundee is that it is realises that to be great you need to integrate and evolve, and that is what I have done here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The quality of higher education on offer in Dundee is exceptional, as attested by warm and enthusiastic student reports. World class research in a range of academic fields is recognised in the wider academic community and places Dundee University (including of course Duncan of Jordanstone College) among the very best available.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Jute, jam and journalism made Dundee, so they said in school. The real hidden secret though is the people, they make it! And, the Highland cows on the way in, the DCA, the University, the Beano, the Tay, McGonagall's poems &amp; the V&amp;A one day! It's a hidden hub of creativity. Go Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What surprises me is the reaction people have when i say that from italy, I moved to Dundee, and LOVE it here! The city is modeled around students, there is always something to do for everyone and the music venues are fantastic! The 24h Bakery is a real hidden gem, but of course so are all the kind people that make living here a pleasure :-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It actually is a surprisingly sunny city with sunny people and sometimes sunny, but always brilliant, inner-city walks.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is a surprisingly large African community in Dundee. And with that brings a whole new culture, especially food, clothing and genre of music which I love - Afrobeats, dancehall, soca, hip hop and rnb. The good thing is that everyone has an open mind and are willing to try anything.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee just does things. No messing around. If they want something to happen they just make it so.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How friendly the people are.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> there is a great vibe from up and coming designer makers in the city which is wonderful to see. i love the little independent shops that have managed to survive the recession and the new ones opening up recently - keep up the good work of reclaiming the high street !
<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> The hidden secret is Dundee itself. Before moving to Dundee for work, one of my former colleagues expressed candid surprise at my decision to move from Southeast England. She said she had been to Dundee, and that it was not a very nice place. After having spent almost a year here, I can say she was utterly wrong. The city is one of emergent wealth, thriving because of several factors -- lively students, vibrant arts, beautiful outdoors, surprisingly sunny weather . . . The city is well connected by bus, rail and air.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city's culture is about diversity. We have an award winning professional theatre company who also involve the people of the city through their outreach programmes, and provide the opportunity for amateurs to perform on the professional stage. The city's pubs also provide many local and touring groups the opportunity to play every weekend - the choice and the quality is excellent, especially during Dundee Blues Bonanza.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> i like the view of coming in on the bridge or looking down from the law, the hidden history........all the hidden nooks for street artistry!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have seen dundee change from being a grim depressing place to grow up in the 80s to the vibrant, exciting and optomistic place it is today. if anyone had told me when i was a teenager that i would be back here living in my 30s and 40s I wouldnt have believed it! Yet here i am and here i want to stay. i I am proud to see the place i call home thriving through the innovative and creative nature of its inhabitants. Dundee has really pulled itself up by its bootstraps and I'm glad to be part of it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The view from The Law, the hub of the City. Each view is like the spokes on a bike with different cultural experiences awaiting in every direction. The South to the city centre the bridges and beyond the Tay to Fife. The South East to the grassy beach and the delights of the Ferry, and the bombs and biodiversity of Buddon ness. The East to Arbroath the birthplace of Scotland and the great beaches and cliffs of the east coast. The North East to the invention of the Bridie ,the Angus Glens and wild adventures, the North to Golden Eagles and the heart of the Highlands, and the North West to Birnham and Macbeth country. Finally the fantastic view to the West of the Tay Estuary of the Tay winding its way to the heart of Scotland.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> AMBITION and LOYALTY i LOVE that the people of Dundee have HUGE ambitions and are very loyal to the city. I strive to meet my ambitions everyday and for five years have seen a MASSIVE amount of my customers share and live theirs too!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Anyone lucky enough to see Gardyne's Land before it was turned into a Youth Hostel will know that Dundee was, once upon a time, a very influential city, not only in Scotland but Britain.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's long history.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I came to Dundee for University, not knowing anyone and living by myself for the very first time. It was scary to say the least. But, Dundee is one of the most friendliest places I've ever been and straight away I felt welcomed. I've grown to love this little city and can't ever imagine leaving so much so I'm staying another year to study my Masters. As well as this the city offers so much for creatives, in Summer 2012 I got the chance to intern for 'Vanilla Ink', it is businesses like this that make Dundee, and it should be recongised, we may be a small city but we have A LOT of talent!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The diversity of people in Dundee make the city what it is - vibrant, fun, ever-changing. We have much more to give than some realize.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee feels like home. I grew up in the US and have lived here for nearly nine years. We are a diverse City with everyone pulling together. My friends include English, Spanish, Nigerian, Turkish, the list goes on. We are of all faiths. We also all like coffee and meeting up with the children to chat and play. It is normal in Dundee to be different!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I moved to Dundee from Ireland and fell in love with the city. The Art Bar on the perth road is a hidden gem of culture and people, the waterfront park hosts a variety of people-watching activities, the dragon statue on high street with some of the most amazing buskers surrounding it that Iv ever seen, the nilupal buddhist centre for a calming meditation session and cup of herbal tea, and so much more. DUNDEE I LOVE YOU!!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Finding a little piece of history right under your nose from the Howff, the walks about the Women of Dundee, and the plaques that are displayed throughout the City which tell you about its history. My kids love the Dare ProPlay event which takes place each year, .You cant beat the feeling of pride when you return from your travels and see the City of Dundee laid out before you - you know your home.
<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> 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> 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 people of Dundee are the most generous and friendly people any where, and for all the bad press it gets there are hundreds of good people who get no press who do fab work ,the diversity of culture and creed never ceases to amaze me either,and the ability for other cultures to not only be welcomed in Dundee ,but to flourish should be recognised ,Oh not forgetting the Dandy and the Beano ...Oor Willie and the Broons fae Glebe street ...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That it makes me want to stay and get creative! Having previously lived in a number of bigger cities, including Paris &amp; Glasgow, I moved to Dundee by chance a few years ago. I think what Dundee may lack in quantity when comparing to larger cities, it more than makes up for in quality, accessibility and community. I am inspired by the amount of creative collectives that I have seen develop within the few years I have lived here (Tin Roof Arts Collective, The Vanilla Ink Jewellery Studios, Skillshare Dundee, Fleet Collective and Creative Dundee). I also love the range of creative learning opportunities and events that more established venues such as The McManus and The DCA offer. Ultimately, it is people that make a place and craft a culture and the people I have met since moving here have shown me there is a wealth of forward thinking, creative people in the city that are working hard to make exciting things happen.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> What has struck me is the entrepreneurial culture - from life sciences to art, it can be seen all over the city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There are hidden riches within the University of Dundee - for example the William McTaggart painting in the waiting room at the Dental Hospital. It was gifted by William Boyd, first chairman, a noted art collector who actually sold a Van Gogh to endow our first chair of dental surgery (though at the time he would have got more money if he'd sold the McTaggart!)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Read a book called "The Big Picture - Cinemas of Dundee" recently. What struck me was the amount of cinemas sprang up in the really early days of cinema. Dundee really embraced the new culture of the time - we can spot a worthwhile trend! Glad to see the DCA continues this tradition today - there is always something to learn in that building.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I just love the rich history! :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The spirit of creative collaboration; people are interested, helpful and open to working together on new ideas.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The magnificent concert organ in the Caird Hall built in 1923. this was the first concert organ built by Harrison &amp; Harrison, Durham and designed by the blind organist and composer, Alfred Hollins. It is today considered one of the finest concert organs in the world and the Friends of the Caird Hall Organ (FOCHO) was formed in 2010 to help preserve it for the culture of Dundee and the heritage for tomorrow as well as encourage the introduction of the instrument and its music to young people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I was a kid all I wanted to do was get away from Dundee, there was nothing here I thought we could be proud of. Now, upon my return after having lived away for many years there's nothing I'm not proud of. The city is changing beyond recognition, but its sense of history and identity remains. It took me years to see the light, but all I want now is the best for Dundee and its people and to show the world what a great place this is.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of good people in the city but we are humble. We very rarely blow our own trumpet but should do it more. Our location is ideal to for visitors too. Stay in Dundee and use it as a base to see our beautiful country. You are within 90 minutes of 95% of the population. Surrounded by countryside, heritage and natural beauty.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee annual half marathon - great value and great race! Bridgeview Restaurant and T Ann Cake - definitely hidden gems. Cycling along riverside drive - invigorating and wonderful views Dundee Law - what a view! Dundee parkrun - almost a year old and a Saturday morning challenge at Camperdown
<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> 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 team and young people at Hot Chocolate Trust in Dundee city centre - amazing, top quality youthwork going on. It's like a family. Also the wee garden in the middle of Perth Road, opposite the university, with the miniature bandstand. The flowers are always lovely and the view is brilliant.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 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> One of Dundee's cultural hidden secrets - The Samuel Chorus, a friendly choir, rehearses on Wednesdays in Baptist Church Hall, Bright Street, Lochee, performs quality music twice yearly. Our concerts are on Sat. 27 April 2013 at 7pm in St Hary Magdalene's Episc, Church, Dundee and Sun. 28 April, in St John's Episc.Church, Forfar
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the friendliness and humour in good times and bad, and managing to be cutting edge modern (esp in arts) while retaining all that's best about traditional Scottish urban life
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A wealth of characters who can get along with anyone.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is no better place to find culture than in Lochee with its diverse range of people for a whole host of different backgrounds. Walking down the high street you will find a strong community built up on local cafes and independent shops. It has been such a privilege to represent that community and an honour to know the community activists within Lochee and wider Dundee who through a shared Dundee heritage and culture strive to make a real difference.

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