When people (me included) think of travel, their minds often go to far-off destinations. But sometimes, the most memorable trips are much closer to home. In July 2019, I visited Luray Caverns in Virginia, a trip that stands out not just for its natural beauty but for the personal significance it holds in my heart. This visit reminds me that travel isn’t just about where you go, and although much of my content is about solo trips, travel is also about who you’re with and the memories you create along the way.

A Long-Awaited Trip

Growing up, my brother and I were fortunate to have a mother who valued education and exploration. She was raised by my grandmother—an educator who believed in exposing her children to the world through books, museums, local historical landmarks, and travel. My mom carried on that tradition with us, making sure we spent our childhood learning and exploring.

Luray Caverns, located in the Shenandoah Valley, was a place my mom always intended to take us, and though we took countless other trips, we somehow never made it there as children. It was always sort of unfinished chapter in our family’s travel history that we would bring up from time to time and one that we would finally complete years later.

The Importance of Time

In the spring of 2018, my mom was diagnosed with cancer—leukemia. Although she went into remission, her doctors recommended a bone marrow transplant as a precaution. In the summer of 2019, we decided to visit Luray Caverns, a trip that would unknowingly be our last together. My mom passed away from complications related to the transplant in December of that year.

This trip to Luray Caverns holds a special place in my heart, not because it was grand or exotic, but because it reflects so much of who my mom was. She was someone who cherished family time, was thrilled by simple pleasures, and found joy in learning.

A Unique Natural Wonder

Luray Caverns is truly unbelievable to behold and is considered one of Virginia’s treasures. The caverns feature incredible stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millions of years. Highlights include the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which produces music by tapping on natural formations, and the Dream Lake, a mirror-like pool that so perfectly reflects the formations above.

To me, the caverns are a reminder that you don’t have to travel far to experience something extraordinary. The experience is an opportunity to marvel at a natural wonder and learn a bit about geology.

Lessons in Love and Legacy

Looking back on this trip, I find a valuable lesson: not all travel needs to be extravagant. There is so much to explore in our own backyards, and sometimes the simplest trips can be the most meaningful. Life is unpredictable, and we never know how much time we’ll have, but the moments we share—those are ours to keep.

What Will You Discover