Embracing simplicity for your next family vacation

As someone who loves to travel, I was a little hesitant when my parents suggested we spend a week at a remote riverfront cabin in West Virginia. I’m used to spending my vacations exploring the museums, cafes, and architecture of European cities. But looking back, I can say that this was one of the best vacations I’ve ever had. And despite not being in Europe, it was still luxurious in its own way.

The cabin itself was a luxury retreat. It was nestled in a picturesque location, surrounded by trees and right on the riverfront. The cabin was beautifully decorated with stylish furnishings, plush bedding, and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. It had a fully-equipped kitchen, so we could prepare all our meals, and a large dining table where we could all eat together. The hot tub was an added luxury, and we loved spending time soaking in it and taking in the stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.

But what made this vacation truly luxurious was the quality time we spent together as a family. We hiked, fished, and explored the countryside during the day. We took long walks by the river, went on hikes through the woods, and tried our hand at fishing. The kids were thrilled to learn how to fish from their grandparents, and we all enjoyed the peacefulness of being by the river. In the evenings, we would sit on the porch, watching the fireflies dance around us, telling stories, and reminiscing about old times.

It was a refreshing alternative to vacationing in Europe, where the emphasis is often on seeing and doing as much as possible in a short amount of time. This vacation allowed us to slow down and really savor our time together. We didn’t have to worry about catching a train or finding the right restaurant. Instead, we focused on connecting with each other and with nature. We left our laptops, tablets, and phones at home, and instead, we talked, laughed, and enjoyed the beauty of the world around us. It was a chance for us to truly disconnect and recharge.

Making s’mores was another highlight of our stay. It’s a classic camping tradition, but there’s something so special about making s’mores with loved ones. We had brought all the necessary ingredients with us and enjoyed creating unique combinations, from classic s’mores to ones with peanut butter cups or caramel sauce. The s’mores were delicious, but what made them even better was the company we shared them with.

We also had plenty of fun and games. We played board games, watched movies, and had a talent show, where each of us got up and performed a song, a dance, or a silly skit. It was a chance for us to bond and create memories that we’ll cherish for years to come.

It’s easy to forget the importance of slowing down and spending time with loved ones, especially in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. But this vacation reminded me that sometimes the most luxurious thing we can do is to disconnect and focus on what truly matters – the people we love. We didn’t need the latest gadgets, fancy restaurants, or Instagram-worthy sights to have a great time. All we needed was each other and the beauty of nature.

In fact, this vacation was so enjoyable that I’m considering making it an annual tradition. While I still love traveling to new places and experiencing different cultures, there’s something special about the simplicity and beauty of a vacation spent in the company of loved ones. And if it can be done in a luxurious cabin by a river in West Virginia, then all the better.