So, since I desperately needed some grounding in the form of a date night for myself, I got into my car and drove about an hour to King Spa in Chantilly, Virginia, on a cold, rainy November Friday.

If you plan a date night with yourself at King Spa, below are my tips to make things go smoothly.

When I first heard about Luray Caverns, I was intrigued. What are these imposing spikes coming from the ceiling? How did they form? How did anyone find this place? I had so many questions and wonders. So, when I was in Shenandoah this past summer, I made a pit stop here.

 I will discuss how the caverns were found, the formations, some of my favorite attractions, and my takeaways!

Over the years, I have explored my fair share of trails in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Since it was my first national park, it holds a special place in my heart. The first time I came here, I hiked Old Rag with an ex and his two friends. Since then, this park has become the one I’ve visited most. Today, I will share some things you need to know about these trails, my favorite ones, and some personal stories about them.

Here, you explore with a boat or small watercraft instead of your feet! The American Canoe Association named Janes Island one of North America's best paddle trails since it offers over 30 miles of water trails that meander throughout the island's salt marsh. The great thing about most of these trails is that they are protected from wind and current, which helps if you are a novice paddler.

It all began with a guy named Captain John Smith. He led two Chesapeake expeditions in the early 17th century from Jamestown to document its geography and native peoples. He found his way to Smith Island in 1608. Then, throughout the 17th century, settlers came from southwestern England and Wales and established farms across the island group.