Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva, the 2020 World Junior Champion, has opened up about the places she dreams of visiting in the future. In a recent interview, the athlete outlined a diverse list of destinations that reflect her love for both cultural experiences and natural wonders.
Valieva expressed a particular fascination with Japan, a country she hopes to explore. Her list also includes the mountainous landscapes of Switzerland, where she envisions enjoying the alpine scenery. Closer to home, she mentioned a desire to travel to the Altai region, highlighting a specific wish to ride quad bikes there and immerse herself in the wilderness.
The skater painted a vivid picture of her ideal Altai getaway, describing a desire to simply set up a tent in a field or forest and spend time appreciating the beautiful natural surroundings. This longing for a rustic, nature-focused retreat stands in contrast to her highly disciplined athletic life.
However, the destination that elicited the most passionate response from Valieva was Lake Baikal. She stated she has always had an intense desire to visit the iconic Siberian lake. Her longing was further intensified during a recent period when she was unable to compete.
During that time, a tournament called the 'Opening of Baikal' was held at the location. Valieva watched the event and felt a pang of regret, humorously questioning why it couldn't have been scheduled just a year later to allow her to attend. She described the location as incredibly beautiful and a place that is best visited in winter.
This presents a significant scheduling conflict for the professional athlete, as the winter season is the peak of the figure skating calendar. Valieva noted that, aside from events like the 'Opening of Baikal,' it is difficult for her to find time to make the trip. She even jokingly suggested the possibility of an 'Opening of Baikal 2.0' to accommodate her wish.
The interview provided a glimpse into the personal aspirations of the champion skater, showcasing her appreciation for diverse environments, from the cultural hubs of Japan to the rugged wilderness of Altai and the frozen majesty of Lake Baikal.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.