 |
A short film by Alexandra Ludorf about a peace trip to Saint Petersburg, Russia, in October 2025, with a travel report. Based on an idea by Heinz Grill for so-called peace trips, five Swiss and two Germans set off for Saint Petersburg in October 2025. Peace trips primarily mean that travelers make an effort in advance to learn enough about the country and ask themselves what an ideal situation for the country or for a friendly relationship between two countries might look like.
|
Each of us also had a personal interest in the trip. We deliberately made contact with people, visited schools and a farm near Novgorod, observed closely how the people of St. Petersburg live their lives, and enjoyed cultural highlights such as a visit to the Mariinsky Ballet.
Despite the city having more than 5 million inhabitants, we were amazed at how calm, friendly, and alert people were on the crowded streets. Their eyes were alert, their posture upright, even in the very fast metro, where it was difficult for us to stand freely—and we always received a warm welcome, even though we spoke very little Russian.
There is a big difference between taking everything with you on vacation, as they say, and showing little interest in life and people, or showing attention, friendship, and appreciation for foreign cultures. People everywhere want to be noticed, and how joyful reactions and encounters are sparked when you approach people with interest, kindness, and consideration. Perception seems to be the first essential point of a peace journey. The question of what you leave behind in terms of interest and relationship skills when you travel is an essential one.
We also studied the lighting conditions and nature almost every day. The trees there appear tall and healthy, and almost every leaf could be clearly seen. We also noticed the upright posture in nature.
The yoga exercises, even when practiced in uncomfortable temperatures in the park, were sometimes a challenge. They are graceful postures that you don't have to hide, and children in particular looked over at us curiously. These exercises always helped us to find peace and inner order.
In retrospect, this trip had a much longer lasting effect than ordinary vacations and gave rise to interesting thoughts. Encounters took place; to use Heinz Grill's words, not only did people meet, but souls also met, and the realm beyond also encountered us.
Further trips to Russia and other countries, such as the USA, are planned.
Anyone interested is welcome to contact the author of this page:
Clip: Saint Petersburg, October 2025