Connection Through Travel at the YMCA
Denise Murphy had always wanted to visit Savannah. She also wanted to challenge herself by traveling independently, but the idea of going alone came with some uncertainty.
“I wanted to go on something by myself, but I was also nervous about going by myself,” Denise shared.
When Denise received an email about a YMCA trip opportunity, she immediately saw the potential. The trip offered the chance to experience something new while still having the comfort and connection of a trusted organization.
“I didn’t even know there were trips like this through the Y,” Denise said. “I got an email, and I thought, wow, this is pretty neat.”
For Denise, traveling with the YMCA provided a sense of security. She knew she would be surrounded by people with similar interests and an active mindset, while still having the independence of her own room through the single supplement option.
“More importantly, it came from the Y, and I felt a level of safety,” Denise said. “I know this is a good organization.”
From the beginning of the trip, Denise discovered that the experience was about more than visiting new destinations. Each day, trip leaders shared stories about the history and impact of the YMCA, helping participants better understand the organization they were representing.
“I had no idea the Y’s history, internationally and in the United States,” Denise said. “Finding out that some sports we take for granted now originated at the Y was really cool.”
As Denise learned more about the YMCA, she gained a deeper appreciation for the many ways the organization serves communities today.
“I love how all populations are served,” Denise said. “Everything from special needs to seniors to youth — everybody can benefit from the Y.”
The trip itself reflected that same spirit of inclusion, offering participants a variety of experiences that encouraged exploration, movement, and connection. From cultural tours and historical landmarks to nature walks and local attractions, Denise appreciated the balance of planned activities and opportunities to explore independently.
One of the highlights of the trip was the ability to stay active while experiencing new places. Denise connected with another participant who enjoyed walking, and together they made movement part of their daily routine.
“Every morning, I put in four to five miles of walking instead of just sitting on the bus,” Denise said.
Those walks led to some of her favorite memories, including exploring beaches, visiting islands, and climbing a lighthouse. She also enjoyed experiencing nature at places like Cypress Wetlands, where she was able to appreciate the beauty of the area.
Beyond the destinations, Denise found the relationships built throughout the trip to be one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
During one evening dinner, she connected with another traveler over their shared interest in pickleball. Although they had only recognized each other from the community before the trip, their conversation led to a new friendship.
After returning home, Denise and other participants continued those connections by meeting for pickleball and planning future activities together.
“Now I have friends that I met outside of the trip,” Denise said. “We’re going to continue to play pickleball.”
For Denise, the YMCA trip became much more than a vacation. It was an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone, discover new places, and create friendships that continued beyond the journey.
“I wouldn’t have known about all of these things if I hadn’t gone on the trip,” Denise said.
Through YMCA travel opportunities, members can experience new adventures while staying connected to a community that encourages learning, movement, and friendship at every stage of life.