The world is watching, therefore let us build a more appealing picture of Aberdeen.

What do Barcelona, Cannes, Rome, and Aberdeen have in Common? They all have an epicentre of construction activity in the heart of their cities.

I know this because I just returned from a week-long Mediterranean cruise (yeah, check me) that included stops in all of the following European towns.

Barcelona’s world-famous La Rambla is currently under construction. How about Cannes’ magnificent oceanfront promenade, which has been blessed by Hollywood legends? Building site.

What about the Colosseum in Rome? Building site. (Yes, I know it’s an ancient ruin, but they were excavating the streets around this historic arena).

I never once looked at it and thought, “Jings, this place is a spit hole” (curse my clumsy fingers).

Nope, I just assumed they were in the process of making adjustments, and I’m sure everything will be fine when they’re finished.

Moaning about Aberdeen is a common pastime for locals

Meanwhile, in the Granite City, people are screaming from every corner of social media about how bad Aberdeen is because Union Street is a disgrace due to all of the traffic and construction work.

And at every opportunity, the Abermoaners make the odd remark about why visitors would want to come here on a cruise liner.

They are unaware of the impact that this hatred and bile has on Aberdeen’s reputation as a destination for people from all over the world looking for somewhere to visit. Let me give you an example.

Before embarking on our trip, we opted to spend a few nights in Barcelona. However, our research revealed several warnings about the dangers of pickpockets and unscrupulous guys waiting to mug unsuspecting travellers.

We were hesitant to spend any more time than required in Barcelona, but ultimately decided to go for it – with special anti-theft crossover bags just in case.

Of course, criticism can be justified

Barcelona turned out to be one of the most beautiful, energetic, and interesting cities I’ve ever visited. And we rambled down La Rambla without ever feeling frightened or threatened.

It was a case of ‘wits aboot’ at times, as with any huge city. Of course, criticism is often justified when Aberdeen undergoes a shift, and people have every right to express their emotions.

However, kids should keep in mind that the words they type on their phone or tablet have an influence in the real world, especially now that those words reach a global audience.

As a result, it is critical that when discussing the disadvantages of Aberdeen, we avoid panic and hyperbole.

And while people are eager to point out what they don’t like, they should be equally ready to highlight what is good and lovely about the city we all love.

The world is watching, therefore let us build a more appealing picture of Aberdeen. To do differently is a form of self-harm at a time when tourism must grow and develop for everyone’s sake.

And while people are eager to point out what they don’t like, they should be equally ready to highlight what is good and lovely about the city we all love.

The world is watching, therefore let us build a more appealing picture of Aberdeen.

To do differently is a form of self-harm at a time when tourism must grow and develop for everyone’s sake.

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