Google error transforms Bishopbriggs into tropical paradise

A Scottish suburb has been transformed into a tropical paradise - according to Google Maps.

The tropical island paradise masquerading as Bishopbriggs. Picture: Contributed

Bishopbriggs in East Dunbartonshire is a middle-class commuter town boasting a large shopping centre and three golf courses.

But Google Maps’ online picture of the community actually shows a £1,200-a-head resort in the Indian Ocean paradise of Mauritius.

The snap, which shows white sand, turquoise waters and luxuriant tropical vegitation, has resulted in the area being re-named “Bahamabriggs” by wags who spotted the mistake online.

Bishopbriggs as its residents may recognise it. Picture: Wiki Commons

The photograph, which claims to have been taken in the city centre near Morrisons, shows lines of sun loungers set out in a row along a pristine beach.

A large swimming pool, which appears to belong to a hotel, glitters a short distance away, and there is even lush rainforest seen in the distance.

Online research reveals that the picture actually shows the Belle Mare Plage Resort in Mauritius, a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean.

Mauritius enjoys annual average temperatures of around 26 degrees C and roughly 6.5 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. Bishopbriggs “basks” in an average annual temperature of six degrees C and about 3.4 hours of daily sunshine.

Oh, Google. Picture: Contributed

Unfortunately for Bishopbriggs residents, the closest they have to taking a dip in a sparkling blue sea is diving into a chlorine-filled local swimming pool.

Those wanting to relax on a sun lounger to catch some rays will have to make do with a local tanning salon.

And anyone wanting lush green forests will have to venture to the Seven Lochs Wetland Park in Glasgow, which boasts typical Scottish woodlands.

A picture of the mistake has been shared online by amused Scots, who were quick to point out the obvious differences in climate.

Bishopbriggs as its residents may recognise it. Picture: Wiki Commons

One person joked: “Bishopbriggs de la mar, just along the coast from costa del Saltcoats.”

Another said: “That bit of Bishopbriggs is down the back of the retail park, just by Low Moss prison. It’s why you never hear of anyone escaping from there - they’re all too busy sunbathing.”

Yet another lamented: “Pretty sure that’s not what I see when I look out my window.”

Two years ago, Google Maps managed to “lose” the Scottish island of Jura from its online service for several days.

• H/T to WOW247