Is it worth it?

I continue to snicker at this question, “Is it worth it?” Fill in the blanks. We see this question every day, on almost every travel related on-line social media forum/blog. The question can quickly degrade into a long string of those who agree vs those who disagree and person asking the question ends up just aligning to opinions that self affirm.

IMO its an individual choice and taste to whether something is "worth it". Most of us can’t guess what makes an on-line stranger happiest using their hard earned vacation budget.

An answer - “it depends”. What is yes its worth it to some is not worth it to others. First what does "worth" mean to the poser of the question? “Worth” can be viewed as having economic advantage (a good price), or provide value as an enjoyment or indulgence (is it a tasty meal). And even if its a good price - does the purchaser believe it provide value to their vacation experience? Who knows - but the person posing the question (after they've actually experienced the event or whatever.)

The economic advantage of “worth it” could be objectively answered in relative terms. Purchase individual dining experiences for $50 individually, or purchases a package of 4 for $160. Clearly the economic value of the package is evident - a monetary savings is objectively observed. But are the premium meals better quality, better tasting than the included meals - how can a stranger answer that?

Drink packages are always an interesting debate, people develop spreadsheets to calculate whether anticipated use covers the al la carte path to purchasing beverages Doing the math can objectivity affirm a financial decision. A lump sum (fixed price) can be shown to be less than a weeks' worth beverage purchase steam. And that lump sum could vary from $50 - $80 pp/pd - lower is viewed as better, because the return on investment is seen sooner. Can everyone agree a lower priced drink package carries higher value? More drinks for less $$.

The other value proposition is related to a “subjective” enjoyment factor against the item being reviewed for purchase (like an excursion). For example, a hiking excursions carries a cost element coupled with and experience element. No one can judge if you’ll enjoy trotting up and down hills in a rain forest. Or paddling around with snorkeling masks with 20 other people bumping into you. While I might enjoy fly boarding just off shore, you might prefer lounging at a private beach club experience. I’m pretty active and don’t like sitting around, so value more active offerings, my wife is happy just sitting on a beach.

So before asking a bunch of total strangers, “Is it worth it”, ask the question, “Do you want someone to affirm the financial aspect of the activity, or are you asking someone else if you’ll enjoy that activity? If the later, no one can answer that but YOU. Big Smile

Tags: drinks excursions dinner

12 Answers

So,, since most internet blogs and groups like this are made up of mostly strangers, whats the point? Well...that depends on the question...I agree completely with your answer to the usual "is it worth it?" question...I guess most folks who ask it would probably take the advice of a friend, relative or neighbor before strangers in cyber...I know I would, but then thats not fair...I'd do stuff out of curiosity...since wife and me are the best judges of "is it worth it"?, and willing to spend our $$ to find out......but then again, not necessarily...so i guess its asked fishing for more info from folks who don't have to necessarily post koombaya stuff....I use the internet for information retrieval, and shopping...if you want an answer to a subjective question, you came to the wrong medium....In cyber, I can definitely positively prove that dirt is UP and the sky is down.....no problem at all.....

Your post was definitely worth my time to read in its entirety. Well written and absolutely true!Happy

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