International students of SPbPU on New Year’s Eve excursions

Every semester for international students of SPbPU there are introductory bus excursions around the city. Within the framework of cultural, physical education, sports and health-improving activities, excursions to Kronstadt and Yusupov Palace were organized at the request of the students.

Severe snowy weather did not prevent students from getting acquainted with the city of military glory Kronstadt, walking around Anchor Square and the Blue Bridge, seeing the famous St. Nicholas Cathedral, built in Neo-Byzantine style as a monument to fallen sailors, listening to the history of the founding of the Petrovsky Dockyard, designed personally by Peter the Great.

Shi Yue, a student from China, shared his impressions: I visited Kronstadt and it was fascinatingly interesting. We explored the harbor and the Naval Cathedral. The guide told us about the Neva War, the naval battle in Livonia, and trade on the Baltic Sea. We were introduced to the history of the city of Kronstadt, the Naval Cathedral and told about the Miracle Worker Nicholas.

New Year mood managed to catch the guys during another excursion — to the Yusupov Palace. The route of the excursion went through the most beautiful and famous halls of the palace: the Tapestry Drawing Room, the Parade Bedroom, the White Pillar Hall, the Oak Dining Room and, of course, the magnificent Home Theater of the Yusupov Princes.

The tour was simply marvelous! The guide beautifully and accessibly conveyed to us all the interesting facts and stories. I especially remembered the palace’s luxurious chandeliers, brightly colored walls and stunning paintings that created a unique atmosphere. Besides, the tutors delighted us with their performance by singing a wonderful song. It added a special charm to our retreat! said Khodashenas Somayeh, a preparatory faculty student from Iran.

Jalolova Madinakhon, a student from Tajikistan also added: I was lucky enough to be on a tour of the Yusupov Palace, honestly speaking I was simply amazed by the beauty of this palace. It amazed me with its refined luxury and tragic history. Walking through its parade halls, it was as if I was transported to another era. The grandeur of the palace was felt in everything: from the amazing plafonds and mirrors to the skillful moldings and gilding. Silk wallpaper, parquet of precious wood, antique chandeliers — every detail spoke of the refined taste of the owners. The richness of finishing was striking, but it was not vulgar, rather emphasized the nobility and aristocratic taste. Especially impressed by the amazing ‘Green Hall’ and exquisite Home Theater.

Tutors from the TutorForces student organization accompanied the international students on all excursions.

The main priority we give to foreign students at the preparatory faculty. The guys show great interest in the history and culture of the city where they came to study. Excursions allow them to adapt faster and make friends, commented Pavel Nedelko, Assistant to the Vice-Rector.