Saint Petersburg. Airport.
On June 23, 2024, at 4:45 PM, my dad and I arrived at Pulkovo Airport. On the way to the airport, we stopped by St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral. I loved its baroque architecture.
Initially, the airport appeared to be a typical one, nothing particularly remarkable about it. Even the airport in Rostov seemed more cheerful in comparison. Contrasted with the vibrant and unique city of Saint Petersburg, where every stone holds a precious story, the atmosphere at the airport seemed dull. The upside was that the airport was empty, peaceful, and devoid of crowds. I was feeling hungry.
After completing the registration process, we decided to stop by the local McDonald’s for a burger and a milkshake. Once we were full, my dad and I took a stroll around. The first captivating sight I noticed was the figure of a Soviet pilot next to an airplane; it had a charming appeal.
We then headed to the second floor. There, found a waiting room and the airport's hostel, both of which were well-maintained. Following that, we admired the elegant clocks displaying the local time in various world capitals.
Observing the planes lining up for arrival, my dad and I made our way to the local food stands. I was taken aback by the price of a half-liter bottle of water for four euros. It seemed excessive for still water without carbonation. Interestingly, at the airport, you have the choice of how to spend your five euros. You can opt for a meal at McDonald's, including burgers, coffee, and fries, or you can use it to purchase a bottle of water.
Story of Pulkovo airport.
The airport's story began in the 1930s when it was initially constructed as Shosseynaya Airport. It was a period of rapid industrialization under Soviet rule, and the airport was a symbol of the modernizing nation. During World War II, the airport played a crucial role in the war effort, particularly during the Siege of Leningrad. It became a critical link for delivering essential supplies to the beleaguered city and evacuating civilians.
Nestled in the charming Pulkovo district, the eponymous Pulkovo Airport stands as a gateway to the enchanting city of St. Petersburg. The moniker 'Pulkovo' is believed to be a nod to the Finnish heritage of the region, with 'pulku' translating to 'sledge' and 'vuori' to 'hill', a tribute to the rolling slopes once popular for sleigh rides. As the airport rose to prominence, its name became an emblem of its pivotal role, mirroring the area's unique topography and its rich cultural tapestry. Today, Pulkovo Airport is not just a point of arrival but a landmark that echoes the historical significance of its scenic locale.
21:45 My dad and I are in Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
A little bit of history of the airport.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is a gateway to Turkey's vibrant culture and aviation heritage. Nestled on Istanbul's Asian side, this airport is not just a travel hub—it's a tribute to Sabiha Gökçen, the world's pioneering female fighter pilot and cherished daughter of Turkey's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Step into a world where history takes flight, and experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality at every turn.
The inception of Sabiha Gökçen International Airport dates back to the 1990s, initiated by an extensive strategy to accommodate Istanbul's burgeoning air travel needs. It serves as a counterpart to Atatürk International Airport, located on the European side of the metropolis. The grand opening of Sabiha Gökçen International Airport was celebrated on the 8th of January, 2001, marking a significant milestone in the city's aviation landscape.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport stands as an inviting crossroads for travellers from around the globe. Known for its bustling terminals that cater to budget-friendly and charter flights, it's a cornerstone for those seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Perfectly positioned, it bridges Istanbul with the far corners of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it an essential stop for explorers charting their course through these rich and diverse regions. Whether you're jetting off on a grand voyage or touching down for a taste of Turkish delight, Sabiha Gökçen is your launchpad to discovery.
Sabiha Gökçen
Sabiha Gökçen's story is one of courage and pioneering spirit in the early days of aviation. Born on March 22, 1913, in Bursa, Ottoman Empire, she was adopted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, who gave her the surname Gökçen, meaning "belonging to the sky."
Gökçen developed a passion for flying at an early age and became the first Turkish female aviator. She trained at the Turkish Aeronautical Association and quickly distinguished herself as a skilled pilot. In 1936, she became the world's first female fighter pilot after participating in military aviation training at Eskişehir Air Base.
Her most notable achievement came in 1937 when she took part in a military operation in the Dersim region, flying bomber and reconnaissance missions. This operation cemented her status as a national hero and a symbol of the modern Turkish woman.
Sabiha Gökçen passed away on March 22, 2001, but her pioneering spirit and the barriers she broke continue to inspire generations of aviators and individuals around the world. Her story is a remarkable chapter in the history of aviation and women's rights.
Welcome to Turkey.
The registration process was exceptionally swift. Modern airports excel in this regard. With about an hour to spare before our next flight, we strolled through the airport. In contrast to Saint Petersburg's semi-crowded spaces, this airport was bustling with activity. My father and I casually walked down the airport corridor, flanked by fast-food outlets. We browsed the "Duty Free" section, pausing to glance at the whiskey selection. Incidentally, my father abstains from alcohol; it was merely curiosity that led us there. Afterwards, we ventured into the confectionery section and discovered Chupa Chups priced at ten euros. It's amusing to think that in Petersburg, one might choose a bottle of water for five euros, but here, a single lollipop costs twice as much. Despite the steep prices, I admired the overall layout of the shop.
We then visited the local supermarket, which was filled with an array of Turkish sweets—quite popular back in Rostov. The presence of many Russian speakers added to the familiarity; for a moment, I felt as though we had returned to Rostov, only to be reminded by the overhead announcements in Turkish that we were not in Russia.
The supermarket offered a variety of items: crockery, vases, textiles, Turkish painted bowls, figurines of cats, bags, clothing, and Turkish spices. It was reminiscent of the markets in Rostov, arranged in a similar fashion.
The next aisle looked like following:
Beneath a canopy of woven tales, the carpets and rugs sprawled, a tapestry of the Orient's vibrant soul. Each knot, a whisper from the past, each hue, a testament to timeless artistry. Above, the chandelier, a constellation of crafted crystals, held court, its light cascading like a waterfall of diamonds, commanding the gaze of all who entered.
The bed linen, a sea of silken threads, billowed softly, reminiscent of a Turkish sultan's inner sanctum. It promised a slumber wrapped in the whispers of a thousand and one nights.
What I liked most about the Turkish airport was that, along with the typical shops and fast food, it was decorated with beautifully arranged greenery. My dad and I arrived at the rest zone, but we didn't have much time to rest because our plane had finally arrived, and we had to go to the boarding section.
