We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

Support Dundee

Dundee is a beautiful and vibrant city, alive with character and history. It has so much to offer visitors to the area and is undergoing a period of significant redevelopment and growth, with national and international interest rising.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The climbing wall in the church-I think it surprises most of the people coming from continental Europe.
But what I like about Dundee the most is the international environment, especially within the College of Life Sciences. We are a bunch of strangers gathered here from all around the world, and we really stick together, we are a family here, far away from home. I lived in Hungary and France before, but nowhere is as easy to find friends as it is in Dundee.
<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> I lived in Dundee as an undergraduate in the 1990s and grew to love the place like a second home. As a historian Dundee has many a fantastic story to to tell in social and maritime history. There is a wonderful walk around some underground chambers, that was conducted by by Professor Charles McKeand in the day, I believe the city flooded in the late 17th Century so they just built on top of it and as the flood receded the old chambers opened up; just one gem of many!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazingly vibrant and creative visual art community, buzzing with talented artists, designers and makers and sustaining an exciting range of creative activities and events. It is home to fantastic arts organisations and institutions including Dundee Contemporary Arts, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art &amp; Design, Generator Projects, Wasps Artists' Studios and McManus Galleries. Dundee also has a wonderful open feeling – you can see views of the sky and the River Tay from all over the city, and there are beautiful beaches and countryside just a hop, skip and a jump away!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of people from outside our city who knock us! I was born and brought up here and yes, we have our problems-what city doesn't, but the strength and inherent decency of the majority of Dundonians makes me proud. Oh yeah, the pubs and restaurants, Discovery Point, Verdant Works, Botanic Gardens, McManus Galleries, the new V&amp;A, I could go on and on. The best thing? The feeling of homecoming when you come over the Rail Bridge - now that's special!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> How cosmopolitan the city centre is. Also the feeling of peace at the top of The Law. Always a place to escape to to refocus your thoughts.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a girl who moved around all my life, from the middle east, to scandinavia, to Africa and only came to Dundee for uni, I am constantly amazed that the 1000th time walking down Perth Road I can fall in love with Dundee over and over again. The sunshine, the buildings, the Uni,the people, the city. I think it's amazing that Dundee can be a home to a girl who come's from nowhere!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A beautiful &amp; peaceful cycle route, with fantastic views across the River Tay.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> that little spot behind the river wall just past the bridge café. on asunny day at low tide.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Great place to live, work and enjoy.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beauty of our coastline, looking onto the Silvery Tay each morning as the sun rises. What a wonderful panoramic view everywhere you look. The hustle and bustle of our small but gregarious town, friendly, neighbourly and people are just generally happy. I think our town is the best town in Scotland and wouldn't want to live anywhere else!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's fascinating history of whaling is still largely untapped. It inspired Mary Shelley when she wrote Frankenstein and led directly to the amazing exploits of Scott, Shackleton etc. Shackleton even once tried to become MP for Dundee! The Tay Whale in the McManus is awesome and there's loads of animals brought back from the Arctic by the whalers in the university's zoology museum.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Duke's Corner Beer Garden, The Blues Bonanza, The Botanic Gardens, The Continental Market on a summer's day, the cycle route, the City Square, the generousity and enthusiasm of people like Charlie Kean, the DCA, the live music scene, the Rep, the warmth of the people!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Always a thrill to drive over the "Silv'ry Tay" on the approach to Dundee-it looks different every time depending on the weather, but "silvery" it always is!  Then there is the "Can Do" attitude which is apparent everywhere in all the building work at the Waterfront, and finally the down to earth friendliness of the people.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The distinctive Dundonian language celebrated in the songs of Michael Marra and the performance poetry of Mark Thompson.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is transforming itself in to a modern bright city for future generations to enjoy.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a city where the river Tay meets the North Sea. This huge tidal river with its spectacular views to Fife has the largest volume of water of any river in the UK.
Dundee also housed the residents of two of the biggest psychiatric (Liff) Hospital and learning disability (Strathmartine) hospital in the East coast of Scotland. Many ex- hospital residents choose to remain in Dundee and have been absorbed into community life. No easy feat in a town of 140,000 population but were accepted with Dundonian’s usual kindness and down to earth attitude.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> quite simply the people, the friendships and the fantastic weather!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The warmth, the colour of the stone, the glimpses to the sea, the irish influence, the wynds, the theatre experience like your extended family's front room at the Rep, the great and obscure films, comfy seats at the DCA &amp; the vibe in the cafe/bar outside, the memory of Michael Marra everywhere, the bridges, the hope of seeing dolphins, the criss-cross bustle of the Ferry, the friendliest hairdresser ever, the cheek, the possibilities, the Discovery, the jute mills, the wide boys, green surprises like Baxter Park, the end of eyesores like Tayside House, the refurb of the Tay Hotel and the best cycle route across any bridge anywhere.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> All Dundonians have time for you, even if, and, maybe, especially if, you are a stranger.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the whale oil an' the stoor

it's in the blood - way down
in the depth and the darkness of our river
you can feel it coming in
like a distant whispering in the wind
blowing in wi' the haar from the north east

it's in the sweep of the girders that cross the Tay
over the wide expanse of water

it's in the re built bridge that took us forward
to the re discovery

it's deep down
with the feeling of pride
in the building of ships
for the whalers
in the hard grey dockyards along the water's edge

the ships that connected us
with the world beyond
and reached out
to the furthest away places on earth
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I absolutely love that even in South East Asia people know who Dennis the Menace is and are even more impressed when they find out that he comes from Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have lived in Dundee for over 40 years. I recently had a guided tour around the frigate Unicorn at Discovery Quay. A truly hidden gem in Dundee. Steeped in history on 4 decks I could imagine life as a crew member almost 200 years ago.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has so much to offer, with its beautiful views and has endless opportunities. As a young artist I feel at home here, with places like the DCA and the McManus Gallery, which I visit regulary. Also being the home of DC Thomson's 'The Dandy', the worlds third longest running comic, is really exciting, especially with the new digital version, a whole new place for comic books!

I've met so many amazing people since moving to Dundee two years ago, this city has really brought me out of myself and now I'm a completely changed person. Thank you Dundee!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm always inspired by the people in the City running their own businesses and getting involved in promoting the area - we live in a fantastic, innovative and creative place - its a stunning spot...I particularly love the architecture of our buildings!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> art bar, speedwells, parlour, djcad, dca, pheonic, frasers, grouchos.. thats dundee city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Wonderful memories of student life in Dundee in the early 1980s - the intimacy of a small city, the wry humour and endearing local dialect, the rich history (jam, jute and journalism), the creativity and individuality.... Small city with BIG personality!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is vibrant with a historic combination of post-industrial feel coupled with an exciting new and positive outlook. The cultural heritage of the Tay, the UKs largest river by volume, and its gateway to the iconic mountains of scotland give it a unique feel. Being new to Dundee and having fresh eyes, the thing that strikes me most is the friendliness and desire to get things right. This includes ambitious plans for sustainable futures, and a University that is at the heart of ideals for transformation.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> very friendly, diverse city, huge opportunities for amateur musicians.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A friendly city with close links between the academic institutions and the city supporting the arts and and exciting scientific activities, especially in biological and medical sciences. Punching way above its weight!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is full of fabulous friendly people. Lots of small family run business thriving in these difficult times from coffee shops, young fashion retailers and not forgetting cutting edge hair and beauty salons. Lots of these businesses have won many awards which is a great achievement for our city. Great schools and one of the countries best Universities employing lots of people from all over the world. I have always been very passionate about our city and it deserves to win this award.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Botanic Gardens is a hidden treasure of Dundee. Lots to see, do and eat for all the family at any time of year! Dundee people are always positive, happy, friendly people and this is one of the best things about the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has some fantastic volunteers that give a lot of time and energy to running local sports teams!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My husband is from Dundee. His pride in the city is so obvious whenever he talks of it. His passion when he talks about the music and history of the place (from Billy Mackenzie to to Cromwell's troops sacking the town in 1651!) makes me smile. A working class town that has always housed artists and dreamers and punched so far above it's weight when it comes to creativity.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city is teeming with mucicians of all sorts, classical, folk, rock, you name it! Dundonians are passionate about sharing their music and there is always a very healthy scene going on.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is ideally situated it is city but feels like a small knit community. It is situated on the river Tay but is surrounded by countryside making it a beautiful place all year round. Dundee is growing and full of surprises with a buzzing, arts, music, academic and sports scene that is going from strength to strength.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Culture is more than just art, theatre and buildings it is also about history and social morals and I believe Dundee is second to none on these areas.
1777 Dundee Joseph Knight a “Negro” slave won his freedom from his master Wedderburn when he successfully argued that “slavery was not recognised by Scots Law and runaway slaves (or 'perpetual servants') could be protected by the courts, if they wished to leave domestic services or were resisting attempts to return them to slavery in the colonies”. This was in effect abolishing slavery 100 years before the UK Parliament.
Dundee also has Mary Slessor who moved from Aberdeen to Dundee at the age of 11, Lily walker and many many more who stood up against tyranny and injustice to change the political and moral culture of our city and our country to make it more caring and equal for all.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has a thriving music scene with some really good, more intimate venues, like Clarks Bar, Number 57 and Fat Sams. Dundee is big enough to be diverse and full of life, but small enough that its people can enjoy the peace of the countryside as well as the bustle of the city. From anywhere in the city you can be in the countryside within twenty minutes. I love that about Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Spent three years in the city as a student in the 60s and loved it. Now come for cultural events eg at the Dundee rep thatre which we love. Always excited by the changes taking place while preserving some of the old haunts c.f .Hawkhead.
Nostalgia mixed with anticipation would describe my response to Dundee in 2013....well deserves City of Culture 2017. Incidentally 50 years since my graduation in Medicine!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Scouringburn- it can come up from culverts to surprise people when the tide is high. A phalanx of jute mills, bristling with chimney stalks, between Dudhope Park and Hawkhill used that tiny stream again and again for steam engines. Many of the mills are successfully re-used by artists, businesses, students and residents. Industriekultur is alive here like nowhere else in Scotland.
<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> Dundee:

Is a big family...
Is the place Dundonians don't want to leave...
Has it's own language of circles and backies...
Is familiar...
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The walk along Riverside Drive: Baxters Park: The Beach at Broughty Ferry but most of all THE PEOPLE OF DUNDEE
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> 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> 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> The ongoing surprises is what surprises the most. Events never end, the town centre frequently gets busy with what's new for the people to be a part of and not just see.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> it's not just one place or one person. what always amazes me about dundee is it's great variety of people from different cultural and national backgrounds, whether at university or in the local community.
and there are so many places my heart grew fond of over the years. for example, the view over the tay from balgay park's cemetary, or having a few pints among the locals in dundee's oldest pub (mennies), or even that there are some coffee places where you can simply sit down with a nice wee cuppa and play chess.
<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> 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> Although its a city, it feels like a town, as a student I felt really welcomed by the locals.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is a lot crammed into this compact city. It doesn't seem to matter what is achieved in Dundee, there is a sense of constantly striving forward. Dundee is vibrant cultural hub with an industrial past, which reflects the positivity of the welcoming people who live here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As an international student I presented a topic by powerpoint in a language class about , " Dundee, the city of innovation and the city of discovery "
My presentation was well but what I would like to let you know is the history I tried to learn about this city from prehistoric era till date are really amazing. Those are with so many discoveries and innovations.
particularly my take home message is Dundee went on through castles and battles in earlier ages, city of discovery (year-1900),jam-jute -journalism—late 18th century, a golden time in 1950s and 1960s- employment vs industrial revolution, city of scholars and researchers(one of the intellectual communities in this planet).
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Sunrise on Broughty Ferry Beach, looking out to sea as the sun breaks cloud cover. Any season, any weather, the start of a new day, accompanied by the breathtaking skies over the Ferry beach, is food for the soul.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The history, the art and the science that hides round every corner. From the Gormley in the hospital to the modern architecture, to the statues and memories of Dundee's greatinventors, scientists and statesmen
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee people are peaceful and loving people
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is a wonderful very early painting hanging in Ninewells Hospital of a Dundee doctor - Dr David Kinloch (1560 - 1617) Written on a document he is holding are the words - "Life is short, Art is long, Opportunity is elusive, Experiment is dangerous, Judgement is difficult." How true!!
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<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> I moved to London a year ago and it surprises me how much I miss Dundee. Although I live in what is, arguably, the cultural capital of the UK, I think Dundee is a really exciting place to be. It may be small but it has such a vibrant and burgeoning cultural scene and is just going to go from strength to strength.
<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> Dundee is often described as the world's biggest village and it's true. Everyone knows nearly everyone and if you don't, the old adage rings true that strangers are friends we've yet to make! I no longer live in Dundee but I miss the place heaps - unlike most people I know who have left their home towns &amp; don't look back. Dundee's community education is revered throughout Scotland and outside of Dundee acknowledge them as leaders at the forefront of this sector. And it's not just education Dundee are leading the way in but science, medicine &amp; also the gaming industry, with even the infamous Banksy paying homage to Lemmings, an icon of an era, invented in Dundee... The city really is one of many discoveries :-)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee it's everything a city should be but with a friendly village atmosphere. No matter where you are in this city you are never more than 20 mins away from great shops , the beach or the countryside ! We have world class education , amazing facilities , art all around us and the best people. Dundonian women are a true inspiration , lets face it even Winston Churchill refused to take them on !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> all the little details - benches in the street which are wiggly rather than standard straight ones, arty bollards, dragon wrapped around a street sign etc etc etc, so many
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has lots of lovely buildings, botanic garden and the best place of all for kids growing up in Dundee and the surrounding area is camperdown park. Dundee is also the sunniest city In Scotland.
<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> How proud people are to be from dundee. Its a city in need of a facelift but the people of dundee love it unconditionally.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Sitting in Mennies bar and looking down on the beautiful curves of the Tay Bridge, nice.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I moved back to Dundee three years ago after spending 10 years away and am finally appreciating how artistically, culturally and musically vibrant the city is. In a relatively small city local talent is on display everywhere- the DCA, The Rep, McManus Galleries, Clarks, The Art Bar, Dukes Corner, Duncan of Jordanstone, Westfest, Literary Dundee, the Gardyne Theatre, etc, etc.The buzz around the V&amp;A is amazing in the city, and makes me proud to be Dundonian!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Some of the best assets of Dundee is it's small bars and cafe's. They are very inviting and have a great atmosphere. Due to Dundee's landscape there is many hills which give you tremendous views over the city centre and the Tay. Dundee also has many fabulous parks such as Baxter park. The best thing of all though is that everything is very central, so it's easy to get everywhere.
<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> I'm not a Dundonian, but moved here some 28 years ago from the "West Coast" - and would never contemplate moving back.
This city has everything, and the ability to evolve with the times. It constantly improves - just as you think it couldn't get much better. There might be bigger cities in Scotland - but none has anything Dundee can't match or indeed - better.
Sometimes thought of as the biggest village in the world - it has everything whilst retaining the special feeling of a small and friendly town. That is the magic of this city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The well in the Botanic Garden that never runs dry!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Law - one of the finest view points in Scotland. Inspirational.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee FC and Dundee United FC. Two senior football clubs situated only a couple of hundred yards apart. A rare football derby where supporters of both football clubs can meet in the pub both before and after the match without any trouble.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That we have the best variety and good quality eateries of any city in Europe . Lots of places to go on a night out whatever your income and the Caird hall
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I came to Dundee to work I was surprised by how much research and innovation happens here. From leading the way in computer games to science-defying developments in medical science it's amazing the talent and skill that is based here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> love all the green open spaces - there is so much to do!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Camperdown parkrun started 15 months ago, and since then has built a community from accross the city, of people who show up every week to run or volunteer, and enjoy being in the great outdoors of Camperdown park. The generosity and welcoming atmosphere created every week is the highlight of my week in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> something for every age group
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Well Dundee is my home city and I just love it! The people are fun and friendly. Eh just love the way we speak! Pure teckle!
There are loads of amazing parks to take the bairns - the swannie ponds is fab in Summer and Winter - I grew up with stories of ice skating on the ponds.
Tannadice is hallowed ground - I grew up there with my uncle and cousins, and now my wee boy is United daft too. And what about the brilliant Michael Marra's song about Hamish McAlpine and Grace Kelly!
The Lochee baths - aye freezing, Victorian splendour and full of characters.
St. Mary's Lochee Catholic Church - absolutely beautiful - and funded by Irish immigrants that helped build the population of Dundee from the 1840s.
Juteopolis - a brilliant book about Dundee and its people.
The Cleppie Road - and the imaginary 'secret tunnel' that goes from Aunty Isabel's bin store on the Cleppie, underground to Tannadice. (Ok - so its not real but its in my imagination).
Lawside Academy - my young days of joy roaming the streets of Downfield and Ardler with my pals - days out up the "Seedlees" (Sidlaws) with picnics, swinging over the Dighty Burn on a rope swing.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Despite the double recession Dundee is building for the future. Great things are happening to our city and it will be great to share them with people beyond Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Sunbathing on magdalen green when the sun is shining!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, as part of the University of Dundee, is ranked among the top art colleges in the UK for research, and led the country in student satisfaction surveys. As a testament to the quality of Education provided at DJCAD, its students have won more awards at the London New Designers exhibition than students from any other institution in the UK for two consecutive years.
<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> Dundee is a friendly city, and everything is easy to reach, as it is a small city. the Kingsway is a lovely road with all the flowers and plants. Dundee also has a lot of open park areas, and lots of trees.
<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> Im always proud to say Im from Dundee and it almost always gets a positive reaction when meeting new people and if it doesnt its really easy to get people to think again about their views when sharing some facts about our history, music, culture, football team (DUFC) etc etc
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is a city which feels fresh and vibrant.
Love the quality of the light and the sense of space beside the Tay.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> When I told people I was moving to dundee everyone back home was under the impression that it was a nasty city - dirty and full of trouble.
I've lived here 2 years now and loved every second.
This bid could help change people's opinions and could help show them all that dundee has to offer.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Barnhill Rock Garden is my family's favourite place: tadpoles, dens, beasties, birds and beautiful scenery!
<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> Dundee has so much to offer. I love the Agacan on the Perth Road. Simple, uncomplicated Turkish food with the bonus of massive portions. It's like a little section of Turkey tucked away on the bohemian Perth Road.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amount of green spaces available. All on bus routes. For a city this size there are a lot of cultural things on offer as well as varied cost of housing to suit most budgets. Edinburgh and Glasgow are expensive but not tooo far away
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The music scene is amazing-something for everyone !!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Not sure about a hidden secret, the secret seems to be the combination of contrasts that enrich each (besides the emerging strengths of "real" culture):
The Tay, different from all heights and angles (foregrounds of beautiful parks (Balgay Hill, Magdalen Green) or industrial heritage or multis or Meggie's Centre);
Buildings old and new of different uses (the Mecca Bingo beside the church, the mosque among the old jute mills, the new university buildings beside old houses, the medieval arches under the pub back exit);
And then the "real" culture as it spreads throughout the city: Scottish Dance Theatre and Dundee Schools Musical Theatre, Community Theatre in the Rep, small scale viewings in the DCA and Hannah Mclure Centre, school competitions (art and music).
Not sure this helps (sorry)
<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> Dundee's journey: from jam to jammin', by way of weaving wonderful art, theatre and music through the lives of its citizens.
<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> After one year in Dundee, my life has been changed. I discovered myself and the world in new ways. This is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. I learned how to communicate across cultures and had chances to see historic monuments and famous arts. Due to my immature thinking, I might have caused some misunderstandings, but the lecturers had a sympathy, they forgave mistakes of mine. I studied on ​​a topic that I love and received invaluable advices from Professor. I believe these experiences would translate into benefits throughout my life &amp; ... I miss the city :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I always love seeing the McManus galleries especially following all of the restoration that's taken place. My Mum regularly took my sister and I there when we were growing up and we loved seeing the model of old Dundee, a great talking point, and the display about the Tay bridge disaster. I'm glad that we were able to experience some of the history of Dundee as it has connected me to where I'm from and I'm grateful to my Mum for ensuring we had that. Thanks Mum.
<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> Fantastic place to be right now. Great Art, Great Music, Great Design and Great Talent everywhere you look. Something for everyone here and much more. Happy vibes indeed. A warm welcome awaits all.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The arts scene in Dundee is not simply a matter of excellent facilities, strong grass-root commitment, and the way the size and mix of the city encourages participation: it regularly features artists and performers of international importance: see the history of performances for Dundee Chamber Music and shows at DCA. We have seen the same work featured in DCA and in the Venice Biennale; we have heard the same performers in the Caird Hall and in Alice Tully Hall, NYC. Also, Caird Hall is a major recording venue for classical record companies, such as Philips and Chandos.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Since starting to work in Dundee in 2011, the changes have been phenomenal. I think a hidden secret is the area stretching along to City Quay from the city centre. City Quay is an incredible asset for the city and one which I hope will really flourish with the continued development of the Waterfront.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Grants the butcher does the best mince.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazing ability to reinvent itself, grow and thrive. Our georgraphy means that we have to make an effort to connect with others and make things happen. You can see that in our history with Jute from Pakistan; Marmalade and oranges from Seville; and today we reach out with our imagination and creativity; Stem Cell research and the V &amp; A @ Dundee. What we create - shapes us! Dundee continues to transform - our city and our culture!
<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> 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> The changes in the last 15 years... The skate factory becoming DCA, Generatorprojects from its inception to its Mid Wynd gallery, WASPS studios, McManus... The change from scary Perth Rd pubs like the Royal Piper and the Global Beer Company (under the Angus Hotel) to pleasant bars and cafes like the Parlour and the Art Bar.

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