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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Aberdeen 2024
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The Essential Guide to Aberdeen

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Living it Up in Aberdeen: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Aberdeen! If you're planning to move to Aberdeen, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Aberdeen has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Aberdeen.

Aberdeen, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the most iconic sites is the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which offers a deep dive into the city's long relationship with the North Sea. Visitors can explore exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and oil drilling. Another must-visit is the Aberdeen Art Gallery, home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and costumes. The gallery recently underwent a major renovation, making it more accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.

For history buffs, the King's College Chapel in Old Aberdeen is a stunning example of late medieval architecture. The chapel is part of the University of Aberdeen, which is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. The city is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens. Duthie Park, with its Winter Gardens, is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll. The David Welch Winter Gardens houses one of the largest collections of cacti and succulents in the UK.

As for the restaurant and nightlife scene, Aberdeen has a lot to offer. Moonfish Cafe is a popular spot for modern British cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and extensive gin menu. Another top dining destination is The Silver Darling. Located in the old customs house at the entrance to Aberdeen harbour, the restaurant offers stunning views and a menu focused on fresh, local seafood.

For a night out, Krakatoa is a lively tiki bar known for its exotic cocktails and live music. The bar also hosts regular beer festivals featuring local and international brews. Another popular spot is The Tippling House, a subterranean late-night tavern serving boutique spirits, cocktails, and craft beers. For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, The Illicit Still offers a cozy setting with a wide selection of whiskies and traditional Scottish fare.

Recreational activities in Aberdeen are as diverse as the city itself. Golf is a popular pastime, with the city boasting several top-notch courses. The Royal Aberdeen Golf Club is one of the oldest in the world and offers a challenging links course with stunning sea views. For those who prefer indoor activities, the Aberdeen Science Centre provides interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the city's many parks and gardens. Seaton Park, with its beautiful flower beds and walking paths, is a local favorite. The park also offers sports facilities, including football pitches and a cricket square. For a more adventurous outing, the Cairngorms National Park is just a short drive from the city. Here, visitors can hike, bike, or even ski in the winter months.

Finally, Aberdeen's beach offers a range of activities, from leisurely strolls along the promenade to thrilling watersports. The Beach Leisure Centre features a large swimming pool, a gym, and an ice rink, making it a popular spot for families.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Aberdeen: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation
Connect

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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