Exploring St. Petersburg’s Views

Last weekend I finally got to see our beautifully charming St. Petersburg from the top of the roof. The weather was undoubtedly perfect and seeing the sunset in this environment was truly an unforgettable experience.

This roof excursion was organized with the help of our buddy Alina, whose friend has been exploring different roof locations of our city for a couple of years. Usually you can find people who can guide you on this kind of tour on the internet (Instagram, for example). We visited the roof of a building located near Petrogradskaya metro station. We had to climb up the ladder to get to the attic, there was an access to the roof.

I would not say it is dangerous and that you could fall of the edge, however when you first get up there and you realize that you are actually standing on a roof surface, it gives you the feeling of both fear and excitement. In other words, it is exciting and terrifying at the same time!

Standing at the edge, you feel how all your little worries and anxieties drift away. You get to think how life is insanely beautiful for those who are willing to open their eyes and capture the beauty. Those precious moments of pure happiness teach you to appreciate the time you’re in now, the people you’re surrounded by.

I shared this emotional adventure with our international exchange students, who have already become so dear to my heart. All together we were climbing the roof, overcoming the fear of height, to observe breathtaking panoramic views, take lots of pictures and listen to the sound of the city.

Being a buddy for our exchange students and spending my time around them for the second time, I keep realizing how different our worlds are and yet how similar we all can be. Daily routine life in Russia has never seemed to be easy, especially when it comes to some unpredictable circumstances. Which is why I always read this silent question in their eyes: "Why doesn’t anything seem to be working properly?" Well, I guess we just have a different definition of the word "proper", guys :) Although, having my own experience of being an exchange student, I do realize how different the daily problems that we face are, and that’s why I am always looking for ways to help fix any of their current issues. All the buddies and I want this experience to be unique and memorable for them, so every time we’re thinking of how to make the best of their stay here. Like climbing the roof and seeing the beauty of this city, culture and people.

With lots of love,
Your buddy Daria xxx