The UK Equivalent

Richmond = Glasgow?

9/2/10 8:54 AM

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The UK Equivalent

Like Richmond, Glasgow is gritty but still possesses its pockets of “high-end” art. While Richmond has the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Glasgow has the Kelvingrove Museum and Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art. Instead of the Byrd Theatre, there's the Glasgow Film Theatre.

Don't get me wrong—these two cities are not twins. You'll probably experience a few culture shocks while in Glasgow. Their overwhelming fondness of spirits and soccer both bewildered and captivated me. When I volunteered at a local theatre, the other prop designers were startled that I hadn’t watched a soccer match all week. Shops, including supermarkets and convenience stores, generally close at 5 or 6 p.m. On several late night occasions, I found myself in the unfortunate position of craving ice cream but having no place to buy a big ol’ tub of it. If you don't know what haggis is yet, well, you'll soon find out, like I did during lunch one day with my sister. (For the sake of posterity and blackmail, she had to photograph the expression on my face after my first bite.)

More than anything, Glasgow's vibe conjures up Richmond's. And when you’re miles away from home, like I was, that can be a big comfort.

Tag Topics: Christine Stoddard

Richmond = Glasgow?

by Christine Stoddard

9/2/10 8:54 AM

Latest Comments

A different perspective...

After living in Richmond for 2 and a half years and then Glasgow for 3, I have to disagree. Glaswegians are much more down to earth, and far less concerned with status than the Richmond crowd. Both groups can be friendly, but the Scots will take you at face value from the moment they meet you, while you will be instantly judged for your background, job, wealth, and current living location by the majority of those in Richmond. Yes, Richmond houses a wealth of US/Virginia History, and for that will, the capital will always have a place in my heart. When you consider that the University of Glasgow was founded in 1452, a full 50 years before Columbus discovered the West Indies, it's a little difficult to compare the histories of these two cities. Since I'm not an artist, I cannot speak to the artist's vibe of either city, so I will refrain. The night life and music scene in Glasgow is beyond reproach. There are multiple clubs and bars for every type of music fan, open 7 nights a week until the wee hours. Constant live music is offered, and so frequently so that on several occasions decisions had to be made on which live act to see on a given night. I agree, the shops in Glasgow are amazing, given that it is the 2nd biggest commercial center in UK, with London being the first. And yes, Ice cream can indeed be found at 3 am, all you have to do is go into the numerous 24 hr shops and chippies and ask.

I agree that I'm biased, and I make no bones about it. When I moved to Richmond, I was always treated like an outsider, which I was. When I moved to Glasgow, I was welcomed with open arms by every Scot, and non-Scot alike. I am traveling back to visit my home away from home in November, and cannot wait. I also have a meeting in Richmond next week, so I'm at least looking forward to the BBQ.

Posted by Aden September 02, 2010 10:41:10