Which is to say that our hotel was apparently _the_ hotel in Aberdeen for wedding nights, anniversaries, and less-licit occasions. The wallpaper in the halls is hot pink, with black-lace flocked appliques–it looks like naughty underwear–and the rooms are done in a tasteful mixture of dark tartan and black velour, with a suggestive tray holding two goblets and a bottle of wine (with a label reading “L13.95″ round the neck. (In case this is insufficient stimulus, Reception sends a fresh bottle of champagne upstairs to the rooms every ten minutes or so.) The bar downstairs runs “Superman” on a continuous loop, and people loll in the couches in couples, thumb-wrestling and fondling each other’s thighs (whilst the strait-laced Americans sit primly sipping white wine and watching the debauchery in fascination).
Beyond the entertainment of our accommodations, we had a great time in Aberdeen. Got to have dinner with Mike Gibb (lyricist and playwright for OUTLANDER: The Musical) and his lovely wife, Norma, and take part in Aberdeen’s Tartan Day. I got to walk in the parade with a lot of people dressed up in suits of armor and/or costumed as the Archbishop, carrying a scroll purporting to be the Declaration of Arbroath, whose most famous line I’m sure you’ve all seen:
“For as long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule. It is not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that we are fighting, but for freedom — for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself.”
Also did a book-signing, courtesy of Waterstone’s, who are always hugely gracious and kind to me—so nice to meet so many readers, not only from Scotland, but from Poland, the Netherlands, and even Brazil!
In the interstices of all this frolicking, I also got to watch Mike’s new short play—commissioned for the occasion—“Red Harlaw,” commemorating the 600th anniversary of the Battle of Harlaw, fought in July of 1411.
It was a great piece—very powerful and moving; kudos to Mike, and to the cast: Mark Kydd, Michelle Bruce, and Allan Scott-Douglas (you’ll recognize Michelle and Allan as singers on the OUTLANDER: The Musical CD). That’s them above, in St. Nicholas’s Church, where the show was performed.
In re Mr. Scott-Douglas, I’d promised him that if he could get a new photograph of us together next time we met, I’d replace the infamous one of him as Big Bird in an earlier blog post {g}—and am happy to report that he seized the opportunity (nothing like motivation) at the reception held by the Lord Provost at Aberdeen’s amazing historical Townhouse (aka City Hall, but much posher, with paintings of previous Lord Provosts, red and gold wallpaper, and crystal chandeliers). Many thanks to the Lord Provost, who was entirely charming!
We bade Aberdeen—and the hot-pink wallpaper—adieu day before yesterday, though, and via planes, trains, and automobiles, made our arduous way to London, where we are at present. Spent the day at the City of London Museum, St. Paul’s cathedral, and out having a wonderful dinner with my delightful UK editor and his wife. More about London (and more bits of Scotland) anon—but now it’s the middle of the night, and I need to sleep.
Good night!
Hi Diana,
I always love to read anything you write-you have such a wonderful voice that can bring any event or place to life for me! I just had to make one comment about Mr. Scott-Douglas and his looks as they relate to your myriad descriptions of Jamie’s beauty. I think he matches my visual image of Jamie quite well, except for one thing: the eyes. You always describe Jamie’s eyes as very slanted, and cat-like, and I don’t quite see that in Mr. Scott-Douglas. But he’ll do quite nicely, I’m sure, should there ever be a screen adaptation!
I’m off to continue my annual re-reading of the series (I’m on Voyager right now).
Eagerly awaiting The Scottish Prisoner!
Cheers!
I do so love reading of your travels and exploits. Rest well ^_^
Diana,
Please contact me. We would love an opportunity to discuss a screen play and/or speak with your agent. Christine DeBastiani and Bobby Levin.
Next Level Talent Management, Virginia Beach, VA.
Talent Management & Representation Professional Sports Agency/ Individual & Corporate Consulting Services / Literary/ Television & Film/ Speakers Divisions
113 82nd St., Virginia Beach, Va. 23451
757-663-2389
Christine DeBastiani
757-613-7019
Dear Christine–
I appreciate your interest! The film rights have been optioned, though, and aren’t available at present.
–Diana
Thanks for sharing your adventures, Diana. Mr. Scott-Douglas’ new picture makes him look mighty handsome.
thanks for the visuals Diana. Enjoy!
Lovely picture of you and Allan – so nice to see him with hair and sans sunburn!
The hot pink wallpaper sounds… interesting. I think it would have given me a headache to look at it too long.
Enjoy your time in London, and wishing you safe travels home!
I’m intrigued by the spelling of ‘Capitol’. Are you suggesting that Aberdeen is the equivalent of Capitol Hill for sexual antics [bg]?
You always seem to have the most enjoyable holidays. I’d love to travel like that. Your shared tales of adventure are most appreciated. So with that enjoy the rest of your time in England and safe trip home.
OK, now in THAT photo he really could be my Jamie!!!!!!!!!!
It’s great you are having a nice time, Diana.
Judie
NOW – Alan does look like Jamie – with his hair longer> Nice pic of you too
Always interested in your travels.
Your wit is wonderful! I’m still laughing over the image of that prim couple ;0 Happy trails!
Dear Barbara–
That prim couple would be us. {g}
–Diana
Snap!! Sitting here at work in the city of London, with the Museum of London and St Pauls both within a 5 minute walk from the office!! I’m super sad there is no London book reading / signing but super happy you are having a fab time and glad the famous London weather is behaving for you and not raining (for once…..!!!). x
Oh my…naked men…and now the hotbed of sex in Scotland…Aberdeen, your right…who knew?
Nice picture of both you and Allan, beef that boy up and you have Jamie! But you know that all ready don’t you?
Another interesting place to put on my list of places to stay. I can so see Jamie and Claire having a similar experience somewhere along their travels, naughty undearwear and all.
I agree with Judie above, I can see a bit of Jamie in Allen.
Safe travels!
Lisa
That sounds like a most interesting hotel… I once got stranded in Aberdeen (long story) and had to spend the night in the casino, the amount of sexual goings-on in that place was quite entertaining, too.
Have a great time in London!
Ha! No one can sit as primly as Americans.
Thanks for this – your travels are good entertainment.
Love reading about your travels and happy that you are rested and ready to dive back into Book 8.
I get the wall paper and alcohol, I’m just not sure I get the Superman on a continuous loop. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen it, but I don’t remember it being particularly….um….sexy. Sure, he wears a tight spandex suit and all, but…is there something I’m missing? Do the Scots love Superman? I would think 9 1/2 weeks or something would be more appropriate.
jenn
Thank you for sharing! Always love reading your posts.
I’m the girl from Twitter that reads your novels on my Kindle during class. 
Must be working, I am reading Fiery Cross right now in my Organizaitonal Leadership class and I was the only person to make an A on the midterm! (Have to add for the younger folks, I am much better at absorbing information my reading, so yes I’m the geek that reads the class book cover to cover.)
Diana, I would have loved to see Red Harlaw! For the most awesome musical rendition of the Battle of Harlaw, check out the ‘Old Blinds Dogs play live’ album, with Jim Malcolm singing the lead. It’s a foot-stomping, fiddle-bagpipe-fest with great lyrics! Very entertaining, and a wonderful history lesson, as well.
Dear Valerie–
Well, Mike actually videotaped the whole performance of “Red Harlaw”, and it will shortly be available on DVD. When it is, I’ll post a link as to where you can get it.
–Diana
Oh – you are at nearly the same time zone! And again I have no chance to take part at a book-signing!Too bad!
You look so wonderful – something red! Very unusual – most time you wear blue….
Hope you have a perfect time in London – Wendy
What a wonderful excursion! Did Doug wear a kilt?
Dear Lynne–
Indeed he did. {g}
–Diana
Perhaps I’m naive, but what does “L13.95″ mean on the wine bottle?
Hi Linda–
I believe that the lable on the bottle reading “L13.95″ is meant to be the cost/price tag (£13.95 ) which is roughly $23. At least, that’s what I got from it.
Ahh, Aberdeen…
Dear Rachel–
Yes, that’s right; couldn’t make a pounds sign on my little netbook. {g}
–Diana
Vividly picturing what those pink and black walls must look like while consuming never ending champagne…
Doesn’t Allan Scott-Douglas have lovely kind eyes. What a perfect Jamie he would be.
It is such a fabulous photograph of both Allan and Diana.
Have any of you noticed how beautiful Diana always looks and how she simply does not age? I expect that she has a circle of standing stones that she flits through from time to time to remain ageless.
Much much better than yellow!
That picture of Allan Scott Douglas is unbeleivable. He is a little thinner and his hair is longer than last picutes, or maybe it is just the shot, but he is now “my Jamie”. I vote for him in a HBO or Starz type mini series! The hotel sounds wonderful!
So, **that** is your Jamie? Oh my, he’s gorgeous. I’m with Diane, from now on, that will be the face I see. If only he was single…
Dear Jesse–
If you mean Mr. Scott-Douglas, he is indeed single. If you know any available pretty blondes…
–Diana
Is that a Fraser Plaid that your wearing?
Dear Cat–
It _might_ be Fraser of Lovat. Then again… Actually, I don’t know for sure; some kind person gave it to me, but there are at least eighteen different Fraser tartans. I think this is one of ‘em, though.
–Diana
Hi Diana,
It was great to meet you in person in Aberdeen, that’s one dream fulfilled. The members of your French forum were delighted with your message and we are now all awaiting your visit to France. Take care!
Diana – love to hear of your travels in Scotland. Went to Culloden last year and it was even more moving to know you had been there, too. As I went through the exhibit, I was amazed at how much history I already knew from reading your books. Was thrilled to find signed copies of almost all of your books in the gift shop. My luggage was so overweight!!
Taking a chick trip with two other Outlander fans to see you in Fergus next week. Can’t wait to meet you!!
Good Morning… (well where i am)
I had a dream about your 8th book last night… it had a pale blue cover, and the word SEAL in the title, and it was being released on the 20th June 2012.
Just thought i would let you know that there are crazy people (me lol) that are actually starting to dream about your next book
Wierd huh!
your crazy fan Amy from Australia
LOL! I am way past the dreaming stage and into heavy panting!
I am wondering with all your interesting travels when you have time to write!
Hi Diana,
I am happy that I could meet you, it was a wonderful experience for me – I could talk to my favorite writer:))
All the best for you:)
Diana – sorry about the post earlier. I just wanted to let you know that I was not a big reader and read maybe 3 or 4 books a year. I discovered your Outlander series 6 weeks ago and read one after the other on my smart phone – with headaches and strained eyes I read non-stop day & night. I even purchased the graphic novel and almost had a heart attack with the way the 7th book ended. I am now re-reading the books and marking my favorite spots. You are an amazing writer and I absolutely appreciate your talent. You have woken up my desire to read and now find myself reading one book after another i even purchased a Kindle for myself. I’ll soon start reading the Lord John books – by the way I love him!
Thank you so much!!
Letty
P.S.
Don’t take too long on the 8th book.
In response to Diana’s heading, can I say that I most certainly didn’t know! And I have lived here for a very, very long time.
Really appreciative of Diana’s support on Tartan Day. It was a delight to have Diana and Doug in Aberdeen and for Norma and I to be able to spend time with them both.
And as Diana says, we did have “Red Harlaw” professionally filmed and hope to have the DVD/ CD package out by the end of the month.
Mike
Hi Diana,
I follow your blog now as I anxiously wait for book 8. I only discovered the Outlander series this year and am into my second reading of all the books. I can’t adequately express how much I love them. Everyone is in love with Jaime. I can see Allan in a kilt……….. perhaps in another picture some day?
Happy writing !
Jennie
Check the photo section under the About Diana tab…
Thanks, Andrea. See my reply to Michelle. : )
You can see some really great updated photographs of Allan with his longer hair if you follow him on Facebook. A bunch just got loaded the past week.
Cheers, MichelleKCanada
Thanks, Michelle. Loved the photos. If the hair was even a bit longer- along with a braid on one side – he could be “my” Jamie.
Hi Diana
It was lovely to say hi in person last week in Aberdeen and you even got the sunshine. Really enjoyed Red Harlaw. Much amused by the hotel description!
Hi Diana
I started reading the series about 2 months ago and I’m already half way through the 7th book. I’m hooked!
Can’t wait to see what’s next..
Best
Janet
Love hearing your stories and can’t wait for you to come to Canada soon. My daughter and I will be going to see you in Fegus, Ontario. We live in London, Ontario. The Fegus festival should be a blast. Looking forward to meeting you. Safe Trip Marg
Just bought a copy of the new edition of “Outlander”. The dust jacket on my current copy has gotten somewhat ragged. Have all the books in hardcopy, as well as the Lord John books. Did manage to get a signed copy of book 7. I was living in Phoenix at the time and called The Poisoned Pen and ordered it. I got impatient about a week after it was released so drove to Scottsdale and picked it up. They had it on a shelf with my name on it but hadn’t mailed it yet. I have been buying the books just as soon as they were released. Am almost through reading a biography of John Hunter, “The Knife Man” by Wendy Moore. It was published in 2005. Did you read it before writing “The Custom of the Army” and “An Echo in the Bone”? I have loved all of your books and reread them several times. Can’t wait for “the Scottish Prisoner”
Man…I clearly didn’t do my research when I stayed in Aberdeen, or perhaps I would have enjoyed that leg of my trip more!
Oh and as far as available pretty blondes for the single Mr Scott-Douglas…….
Diana, this week can’t end fast enough. I will be one of the many waiting in line at Fergus, Ontario at the Highland Games.
You must be so tired with all the travel and that you probably just want to sit down and write but I just want to say that your fans very much appreciate the opportunity to see you and attend a book signing. My little fan girl heart is hoping for a picture too. LOL
Scotland sounds lovely and I love the new updated picture of Allan and yourself.
Take care and I love your daily lines on Twitter.
Cheers, MichelleKCanada
@AnotherLookBook
Hello Diana,
I live in Hamilton, On. and I am hoping to get to the highland games this weekend to hear you speak and hopefully get my book signed. Seeing as how you are a repeat guest at the the festival, I was wondering if you could give me a heads up on how big the seating usually is for one of your talks, I would hate to get there and not be able to get in.( I know it will be first come first serve but didn’t know how early I should come ) I was also wondering if you will be reading any excerpts from your books.
Looking forward to hearing you ,
Kathleen
Hi Diana,
I was in London in July. I was wondering, since your characters are sensitive to changes in the socio/political climate and so must their author, if you felt any tensions in London? We certainly did. My NYC daughter commented on the frenetic pace in the city, even much more so than NY. At night, there were loads of young people out in the streets rushing about and being loud. The city had a strange aura about it. I wonder why things exploded as they did.
Dear Mrs. Gabaldon,
My name is Andrea and I suppose I’m not your typical reader. I am 20 years old and African american to boot, but I love your stories and I even convinced my boyfriend to buy me your whole series and the 20 anniversary addition as well. I can’t wait to read more! I love reading your blog, just like your writing, I feel like I”m right there with you. I love your character Claire, and I feel like there has never been a better and sweeter man than Jamie. Thanks so much for inspiring me to continue writing, one day I hope to be as good as you.
Sincerely, Andrea W.
Hi Diana,
I just wanted to say congrats on coming in as # 89 in NPR’s top 100 Science fiction/fantasy list. Yay!
Hi Diana
It was such a pleasure spending time with you at Tartan Day and at the civic reception with the cast of Red Harlaw. I will see you at the Fergus Highland Games this Saturday and I will be accompanied by 7 hard cover books for you to please sign for me. I didn’t bring them to Scotland with me because the weight of them would not allow me to bring anything else! I wish I had gone in to the hotel when we dropped you off so I could experience for myself the special decor and unique entertainment. Of all the places you could have stayed in Aberdeen, you managed to get probably the one hotel that gave you a chance to write something sensational for your site. I wish I had been aware of Aberdeen being the sex capital of Scotland but alas I didn’t know. Looking forward to seeing you again and I have printed off some pictures for you that I took that day. Your books have given me great pleasure and have led to some very special friendships in Scotland.
Heather
Is Outlander to be made a movie? What about Kevin McKidd to play Jamie? Red hair, very easy to look at and Scottish to boot!
Oh look at me go. I just now read your comments in Other Projects. Duh! I guess McKidd would have a hard time playing a 20 year old virgin. Hmmm…….I’m just about as in the dark as you when it comes to Actors and it’s been so long since I first read Outlander, that I forgot how young Jamie was in it.
Ah, Hah!
Rupert Grint
Diana,
Hi from New Zealand, I have been an avid reader all my life, and would like to compliment you on a series that has become an all time favourite of mine, have all 7 of the main series and they are much loved to the extent that they are getting tatty , but, they are no use just sitting on the shelf. Books should be read. Missed your last trip to the Dunedin library, so maybe next time. As an aside my fathers name was Allen John, but he was known to everyone as Joe,
Regards to you and yours,
Graeme Abernathy
Hi Diana
It was such a pleasure spending time with you at Tartan Day and at the civic reception with the cast of Red Harlaw. I will see you at the Fergus Highland Games this Saturday and I will be accompanied by 7 hard cover books for you to please sign for me. I didn’t bring them to Scotland with me because the weight of them would not allow me to bring anything else! I wish I had gone in to the hotel when we dropped you off so I could experience for myself the special decor and unique entertainment. Of all the places you could have stayed in Aberdeen, you managed to get probably the one hotel that gave you a chance to write something sensational for your site. I wish I had been aware of Aberdeen being the sex capital of Scotland but alas I didn’t know. Looking forward to seeing you again and I have printed off some pictures for you that I took that day. Your books have given me great pleasure and have led to some very special friendships in Scotland.
Heather
Diana,
Now this picture of Mr. Scott-Douglas is great! I can see him as Jamie now.
Earlier photos of him did not satisfied the description of him in the books. But, this one certainly does!! Thanks for the post!
Thanks,
Cindi
This is so cool.
Anyone else think that the guy who plays Thor is like Jamie? Check him out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77I-SKeBkQE&feature=related