“The best memories are made when we're not rushing anywhere”

During the summer, Jönköping University (JU) offers inspiration! Every week, employees from different parts of JU share their best summer tips - ranging from hotspots and excursions to personal favorites for relaxation and holiday spirit. This week's inspiration comes from Yuliya Khvatsik, Assistant Professor of Law at Jönköping International Business School (JIBS) at JU.

What are you doing this summer?

– This summer promises a mix of adventure, professional development, and relaxation. Just after Midsummer, we left Sweden for almost a month. In June and early July, we took a scenic road trip by car from Sweden to Spain—partly for economic reasons but also driven by a spirit of adventure. Since we’re traveling with children (ages 11 and 3), we planned a three-day stop in Germany to visit my sister. After that, we enjoyed our longest stay ever in Spain, spending time in the beautiful north, in the Girona area (Empuriabrava, Roses, Figueres). We visited many local beaches and lagoons, took a tour of the fabulous Perelada winery, and dined at charming family-run restaurants—one of our favourites being in Castelló d’Empúries.

One unforgettable day, we fulfilled a dream of mine by visiting the nearest French town, the stunning medieval village of Collioure—a recommendation from my JIBS colleague, Maria Arango Kure. It’s a place I now warmly recommend to anyone seeking the true spirit of France.
Later in July, I’ll attend the Global Alliance for Justice Education (GAJE) conference in Warsaw. I first attended GAJE in 2011, and it had a lasting impact on my professional path—so I’m thrilled to return.

Do you have any favorite summer activities in Sweden during summer?

– Absolutely! Swedish summers are truly magical. At our home in Bankeryd, we love inviting friends and colleagues to our garden. The whole family enjoys foraging chanterelles in the forest, blueberries in Axamo, and strawberries at Gigerydsgård. For me, it's also a meditative experience. A cherished family tradition is cycling on Visingsö on sunny days, followed by a swim in the refreshing northern waters of Lake Vättern. As everyone in our family is interested in Swedish history, we like to visit local castles. This summer, we also plan to visit some of Sweden’s historic castles - Vadstena and Kalmar. Another highlight is visiting the picturesque town of Hjo for what we believe is the best ice cream in Sweden!

Top summer tip?

– Take time to slow down and truly savour the moment. It’s not always easy for me—but I’m learning to calm down and be present. It’s important to enjoy time with family, free from stress and urgency. Whether it's a trip to Halmstad for the beach atmosphere or a quiet day outdoors with loved ones, the best memories are made when we’re not rushing anywhere.

So, my sincere advice: do all the things you usually don’t allow yourself during the work year—sleep in, cook gourmet meals, eat more ice cream, explore remote trails, read fiction (not just academic books!), and above all, do what you truly love.

With my best summer wishes,

Yuliya Khvatsik, Assistant Professor of Law, JIBS.