While the bid to host the 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games continues, we catch up with London 2012 Olympic Gold medalist rower, Katherine Grainger to ask her what she loves about Glasgow:
1. Glasgow is such an incredibly welcoming, friendly city where everyone feels at home, whether you live there or are a visitor.
2. Sport was really important to me when growing up in Glasgow and the sports facilities are now even bigger and better and completely world class.
3. I love the fun and vibrancy of Glasgow: it's a real party city with something going on all the time and things to suit everyone’s taste. I’ve been to countless amazing live concerts here, hearing some fantastic bands.
4. Entertainment need not only be music as there are loads of exciting museums and galleries. I always enjoy trips to Kelvingrove and went there so, so often as a child. It’s all revamped now and even more special. And let’s not forget the spectacular RiversideTransport Museum. Or the wonderful Citizens Theatre. The list could go on and on and on.
5. No need ever to go hungry as there is a huge range of places to eat throughout the whole city. My long standing favourites are Babbity Bowster and Café Gandolfi.
6. I really admire the way the city looks after their young people: whether it’s with sports facilities or helping them in their education, work or training.
7. Glasgow is a bit of a shopping paradise along with lots of great places for essential coffee breaks between shops.
8. The city is a great base from where it’s really easy and quick to get into the beautiful countryside, whether you want mountains and lochs or prefer following the Clyde down to the sea.
9. I love the architectural gems the city has to offer, especially of course those by Rennie Mackintosh or Greek Thomson.
10. But most of all I adore the sheer passion and spirit of the city and its people, which is very distinct and very special.