Spring has arrived in Bukovel.
It comes with its own character: the snow has almost melted, though you still find it in quiet corners. The air carries a trace of late-winter freshness, so the hat stays close by.
It is +5 outside. I sip my cocoa slowly, eyeing the majestic Dovbushanka mountain. I lift my eyes – clear blue sky, a soft breeze. There are few people around, which means there is space to enjoy the promenade as I head towards the Lake of Youth.
There, I take a few photos to remember this April. I go up to the Ferris wheel and once again look at the wide stretch of water, home to grass carp, pike and trout. Then I head to “Hutsul Land” folk park – I know a very special place there, where time seems to pause.
It sits at the very top of the hill, opening a view over the wheel and the spruce trees.
Two months until summer – and my birthday. I know I will spend it here, in Bukovel. I cannot wait for the summer season to begin and to swim in the Lake of Youth. Though my favourite spot is the third lake, where our wakepark is set up. It is located at the final stop of the free Bukovel Bus.
On the way back to the lower residence, I stop by the reception, grab a muffin, chat a bit with the barista, then head to the outdoor gym – a place where you can listen to the river and think about something timeless.
Spring. The season when everything blooms. My soul blooms too.
Slow tourism is about enjoying the moment. No rush. No deadlines. Just being present, even when the world keeps reminding you about everything you need to do. You switch your phone to airplane mode and let your thoughts wander.
Slow life is about awareness, calm and living here and now.
Thank you for reading this to the end. It was written sincerely and slowly – the only way I know how.
Bohdan Krasavtsev, Head of the Sustainable Development Office at Bukovel.