Aberdeen is a delightful blend of well-preserved history, beautiful granite architecture, street markets, modern shopping centres, state-of -the-art nightclubs, and flower filled streets and parks.
Known as "The Granite City" wonderful granite buildings including Marischal College dominate the city centre. Regardless if it might seem among the chilliest spots in the UK, you could stop off for a hot "buttery" (the famous north-east breakfast) to put some coal inside you. And a stroll along Union Street, the main thoroughfare, is strenuous enough to put roses in anyone's cheeks.
There a variety of amusements too - Codona's, down at the beach, provides a playground for games-machine addicts, together with rides and a rollercoaster. The beach front development, which includes a fantastic ice-rink, swimming pool, cinema, nightclub and restaurants, enhances the emerging continental atmosphere, and you can spend Sunday mornings at Café Continental reading the papers, with coffee on tap.
Wander back to the town centre, though, and you sometimes think you are in one of the more austere European cities; such is the city's stern, cold beauty.
The city's rich heritage is exhibited in its museums and art galleries and there are enough pubs, bars and restaurants to accommodate everyone's taste and pocket.
Entertainment isn't short, whether it be theatre at His Majesty's Theatre, the cinema or even late night jazz at The Lemon Tree.
Aberdeen boasts many quality shops, with the Bon-Accord Centre housing some of them - although there are plenty of craftier outlets to be uncovered elsewhere. It's a grand, spacious city with an atmosphere of tranquillity, regardless of the bustling industry and well-known nightlife. Balaclavas advised in winter, though!
Ljao/jan/1v21