WILLIAMSBURG, VA. — History surrounds me in this cradle of America. Everywhere I look, the past looks back. Over there is where an Indigenous village thrived 7,000 years ago. A few metres away is where Revolutionary and Civil War battles were fought. On the spot I’m standing next to the James River is where Virginia’s first settlers made landfall and declared, “This is paradise!”

TOPPING, VA. — Travis Croxton sticks out his meaty, calloused hand and welcomes me with an enthusiastic emoji smile. His ruddy, boyish face makes him look much younger than his 40-something years. His attire — untucked pink and grey plaid shirt, faded blue jeans and worn sneakers — is not the usual uniform of a business tycoon. But then again, Travis Croxton is not your usual titan of business.

RICHMOND, VA - The much younger cyclists ahead of me on the lovely Virginia Capital Bike Trail strain to reach the top of a small incline while I ring my bell and pass them with ease. They appear to be impressed with the elderly rider’s stamina, until …

RICHMOND, VA - I join the long lineup waiting to enter the Sub Rosa Bakery as the morning sun spotlights the colourful homes gathered in Richmond’s trendy Church Hill district.

MEADOWS OF DAN, VA - It’s not an exaggeration to say The Lodge at Primland Resort and Spa offers guests an “out of this world” experience.

MOUNT VERNON, VA - On a lukewarm Kentucky evening beneath a full moon, crickets chirp and a trio of musical locals sings bluegrass. The setting is a wrap-around porch. You’re rocking in a chair and sipping fine bourbon.