Bonding in a Tiny Home Cabin: A Mother-Daughter Getaway Experience

Getaway House’s Eastern Catskills location was the perfect one-night escape from New York City for this mother-daughter vacation.

I have always cherished traveling with my mom, whether trying out a new restaurant in a neighboring town or venturing across the globe. Since my childhood, we have treasured our Girls’ Nights and Girls’ Days, which have cultivated a deep bond over the years. Given that it has been about 10 years since I lived at home, every opportunity for one-on-one time with my parents is incredibly valuable. Therefore, when my mom and I decided to enjoy a trip to the Getaway House Cabins in the Eastern Catskills of New York, I was certain we would create unforgettable memories.

Nestled just outside Catskill, this collection of Getaway House cabins offers just enough seclusion to feel like a genuine escape. The cabins, ranging from 140 to 200 square feet, provide an intimate setting. Our cabin featured two queen-size bunk beds, although a single queen bed option is also available, along with a table, chairs, kitchenette, and bathroom with just enough space for comfort. Navigating the cabin was effortless, particularly due to the familiarity we share, which greatly enhanced our experience.

Interestingly, if I were to share this tiny living space with a stranger, it might feel confining; however, the coziness contributed to a unique adventure.

My mother is one of my closest emotional confidants. Experiencing an unprecedented level of physical closeness reignited our connection, which has been scarce in recent years.

During our overnight stay, we collaborated on a writing project over glasses of wine while seated at the table, enjoyed cozy chats from our bunk beds, and savored morning coffee from Adirondack chairs before we hit the road. With the cabin being our only space, we were free to delve into meaningful conversations, laugh, and tell stories without distractions. Moreover, Getaway provides a cell phone lockbox to eliminate the temptation of digital distractions, ensuring we stayed fully engaged in each other’s company.

Would a longer stay test our patience with one another? I believe we would have been fine, yet, one night proved to be just right (and mom, if you’re reading this, I know you agree).

For the remainder of our trip, I felt much more attuned to my surroundings than I might have had we chosen a traditional hotel. Our visit to Opus 40, a breathtaking sculpture park in Saugerties, New York, showcased sprawling meadows and magnificent stone structures that enhanced our adventure. The beauty of the natural surroundings on our return drive to New York City reminded me of the home I had in Brooklyn, amplifying my appreciation for both spaces.

While I don’t foresee a future filled solely with tiny homes or remote cabins, the opportunity to reconnect with my mom in such an intimate setting was an unexpectedly beautiful experience. For that, I am genuinely grateful.