New Holland Island Saint Petersburg
City centre playground
Ben from Saint Petersburg
New Holland Island is, as the name suggests, an island. It is also one of the oldest parts of the city, and started life as a shipyard. In more recent times it was shrouded in mystery, but that all that has changed with the inception of a major renovation project.
Now it is a focus for all kinds of activity, attracting young and old alike. I like to relax on a beanbag no the lawn in summer or play table-tennis, and there are a couple of playgrounds (including a life-size replica of Peter the Great's ship). The garden is well-tended and an army of staff ensure it is spotless.
The round building near the entrance (Bottle House) - a former naval prison - has a floor of restaurants (smaller versions of other city establishments), while the upper floors host trendy boutique shops and fitness studios. It also frequently stages concerts. There is also a school (the Lighthouse) which offers courses in creative arts and professions of the future. My daughter attended an excellent animation course there in the state-of-the art studio.
High-brow lectures on a broad range of topics are held in the Pavilion.
In winter (from November to March) the large lawn area is transformed into an open-air ice-rink. Weekend nights are disco on ice, as skaters display their skills (or if you're anything like me - lack of!!!).
New Holland is an interesting cultural and social place which transports you into a different world.
Saint Petersburg Spotter Ben
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