Why Experience Is The Best Gift + My Speedboat Story

I get nervous when people ‘surprise’ me with gifts, as it’s usually junk I have no space for :/

Some people love gifting, it’s how they express affection, but it’s not my love language.

My love language is quality time, making memories, and feeling connected to the person (or people) I’m with.

I much prefer it when friends surprise me with a thrilling experience like helicopter rides, spa days, speedboat rides, or a theatre outing.

Thames speedboat experience with Thames Rockets

I’ve always wanted to try a speedboat experience on river Thames, so when my friend asked me what do I want for my birthday, I had an answer.

I quickly googled ‘speedboat on Thames’ and found this awesome 50-min sunset boat ride by  Thames Rockets.

Imagine seeing the famous London landmarks whilst shooting down the river at 35mph with the James Bond theme song blasting out at full volume, and the sun is setting on a warm summer’s day. It was that perfect moment you only see in films.

I couldn’t stop smiling.

I loved it so much, I decided I would have yearly speedboat rides to remind myself of what a magical city I live in. You can start taking London for granted after a while, you know.

Next year I want to go on an 80-minute ride to Thames barriers, which WonderDays (the UK’s leading experience gift company) offers too.

Why experiences are the best gifts

In a world overflowing with material possessions, the true value of a gift lies not in its price tag or packaging, but in the memories and emotions it creates.

As minimalism and mindfulness are gaining traction, the idea that experiences are the best gifts is more relevant than ever.

Below are more reasons to gift experiences:

1. The fading allure of materialism

As consumer culture has evolved, so has the perception of what constitutes a valuable gift.

In the past, the focus might have been on lavish items and luxurious accessories.

Millennials and Gen Z are moving away from luxury. Instead, we seek more profound and lasting sources of joy. Experiences offer a chance to create memories that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Material gifts often lose their luster over time. Experiences, on the other hand, appreciate over time, growing more meaningful as memories are revisited and shared.

The joy of recounting an adventurous trip, a heartwarming cooking class, or a mesmerizing concert remains intact long after the event itself has passed.

2. Shared memories and bonding

Experiences have the remarkable ability to bring people together.

When we share an experience with loved ones, we create bonds that can withstand the test of time.

Shared adventures, laughter-filled escapades, and even the occasional mishap become part of the fabric of relationships, providing a source of stories and anecdotes that deepen connections.

The value of quality time spent together far outweighs any material possessions.

3. Reduced environmental footprint

In an era when environmental consciousness is gaining momentum, experiences offer a more sustainable alternative to material gifts.

The production, packaging, and transportation of physical items contribute to the depletion of natural resources and the generation of waste.

Opting for experiences can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with gift-giving, aligning with a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

4. The anticipation factor

Part of what makes experiences such exceptional gifts is the element of anticipation. The excitement leading up to an upcoming concert, vacation, or adventure can be just as enjoyable as the experience itself.

This sense of eager anticipation can create a longer-lasting sense of joy compared to the instant gratification often associated with material gifts.

5. Experiences encourage personal growth and development

Trying new activities, visiting new places, and engaging with diverse cultures can broaden one’s horizons and deepen their understanding of the world.

Additionally, giving the gift of an experience shows that you value the recipient’s personal growth and well-being, reinforcing the idea that investing in oneself and others goes beyond mere objects.

Finally

Choosing experiences over material gifts demonstrates a deep level of understanding and care for the recipient, while also contributing to a more sustainable and mindful approach to gift-giving.

Unlike objects, experiences do not take up space, they recharge our batteries, fill us with memories, and strengthen our bonds.