Historic Charm of Old Aberdeen

• HelloFit like
  [fit laik]
• GoodbyeCheerio
  [chee-ree-oo]
• YesAye
  [aye]
• NoNae
  [nae]
• Please/You're welcomeGie's peace
  [gie's pees]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sorry]
• How are you?Fit like?
  [fit laik]
• Fine. And you?A'm fine, fit aboot yersel?
  [a'm fine, fit aboot yer-sel]
• Do you speak English?Div ye spik English?
  [div ye speek Ing-lish]
• I don't understandA dinnae ken
  [a din-ee ken]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA wid like tae see the menu, please
  [a wid like tae see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatA dinnae eat meat
  [a din-ee eat meat]
• Cheers!Slaìnte!
  [slahn-cha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseA wid like tae pay, please
  [a wid like tae pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Gae awa!
  [gae a-wa]
• Call the Police!Foon the Polis!
  [foon the po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Foon a doctor!
  [foon a doc-tor]
• I'm lostA'm tint
  [a'm tint]
• I'm illA'm no weel
  [a'm no weel]

• I'd like to buy...A wid like tae buy...
  [a wid like tae buy]
• I'm just lookingA'm juist leukin
  [a'm just look-in]
• How much is it?Hoo muckle is it?
  [hoo muck-le is it]
• That's too expensiveThon's ower dear
  [thon's o-wer deer]
• Can you lower the price?Cud ye pit the price doon?
  [cood ye pit the price doon]

• What time is it?Fit time is it?
  [fit time is it]
• It's one o'clockIt's yin o'clock
  [it's yin o-clock]
• Half past (10)Hauf past ten
  [hauf past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mor-nin]
• AfternoonEfternuin
  [ef-ter-nuin]
• EveningE'enin
  [ee-nin]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayThe day
  [the day]
• TomorrowMorn
  [morn]
• 1Yin
  [yin]
• 2Twa
  [twa]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Fower
  [fow-er]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Sax
  [sax]
• 7Seiven
  [siv-en]
• 8Acht
  [acht]
• 9Nyne
  [nyne]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Far's the...?
  [far's the]
• What's the address?Fit's the address?
  [fit's the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Cud ye shaw me (on the map)?
  [cood ye shaw me (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Whan's the neist (bus)?
  [whan's the nist (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (tae ....)
  [a ticket (tae)]

Old Aberdeen's history dates back to the 12th century when it was established as a separate burgh by the Aberdeen Cathedral. The settlement's strategic location along the banks of the River Don contributed to its growth, and it quickly became an important religious and cultural center in the region.

Founded in 1495, the University of Aberdeen is one of the oldest universities in Scotland and has been a major influence on the development of Old Aberdeen. Its establishment marked the area as a hub of learning, attracting scholars and students, which significantly impacted the local economy and culture.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought significant changes to Old Aberdeen. The dissolution of monasteries and changes in religious practices led to the transformation of the area’s ecclesiastical landscape, impacting the social and cultural life of the community.

The 19th century saw significant industrial growth in Aberdeen, which extended to Old Aberdeen. The establishment of the railway and the expansion of industries contributed to a shift in population and the urban landscape, with many traditional buildings repurposed for industrial use.

In recent decades, Old Aberdeen has seen efforts to preserve its historical character amidst urban development. The area is now recognized for its rich architectural heritage, including medieval and Georgian buildings, and it attracts tourists interested in its history and culture. Initiatives have been implemented to maintain its historical sites, such as the University and St. Machar's Cathedral.

Old Aberdeen is conveniently located within the city of Aberdeen. You can reach it by taking a local bus or taxi from the city center. Buses such as the 1, 2, and 3 regularly serve the area, with stops close to key attractions. If you're arriving by train, Aberdeen Railway Station is approximately 2 miles away, and you can take a taxi or bus from there. For those driving, the A96 road connects the area to the wider Aberdeenshire region.

Old Aberdeen is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets. However, bicycles can also be rented from local shops for those who prefer cycling. Local buses are available for longer trips, and taxis can be hailed easily in the area. Note that parking can be limited in some parts of Old Aberdeen, so public transport or walking is often more convenient.

Old Aberdeen is generally a safe neighbourhood for tourists. However, as in any city, it's important to stay vigilant. Be cautious in poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded spaces. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it’s advisable to avoid isolated spots after dark and remain aware of your surroundings.

In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, is located nearby for urgent medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter remedies.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting historical sites and churches. Avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, including covering your head in churches. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly and disabled passengers. Don't consume food or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and a handshake. Avoid overly informal greetings with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try traditional Scottish dishes and accept food offers. Don't waste food or refuse invitations to share meals.

To experience Old Aberdeen like a local, visit the historic pubs and cafes that serve traditional fare and local brews. Explore the university grounds, which often host events and exhibitions open to the public. Engage with local residents, who are usually friendly and eager to share stories about the area’s rich history. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along the picturesque River Don and visit the beautiful St. Machar's Cathedral, which offers a glimpse into the area’s architectural heritage.