We have a choice to make. Our kids are ages 11 and 6. We can buy a 24 foot, 52 inch deep above ground pool or we can take the kids to DisneyWorld this Fall.
Lots of pros and cons here. I am pretty sure we're all on board with buying the pool. It's also possible we can still swing the Disney vacation this Fall or take a vacation someplace closer to us (so we don't have to fly).
I'm just wondering what all you myLotters think about it. Did you ever have to choose between the two? If so, which one did you choose? Were you satisfied with your choice or did you regret it later?
[question posted by rowantree]
responses and comments:
Personally I would go for the pool, that way you have it for a few years more and beings as they are getting to the age when a pool can and will make a big difference, I would go for the pool, The trip while exciting now is a one shot deal, and it is entirely possible that you may be able to do the trip in the not to far distant future, Also I believe you would be devastated if some thing were to go awry with the trip, lost luggage, canceled flights, bad weather, all out of your control, but happen none the less. [RobinJ]
Yikes, great point about the lost luggage and bad weather! [rowantree]
That's a very hard one! On one hand, the Disney vacation would be fun. It's something that every kid needs to do at least once in their childhood. We were lucky enough when my husband came home from Iraq to get to take my son to all 4 theme parks at Disney World plus Universal Studios and Sea World. That was a vacation I will never forget. On the other hand, a pool would be nice. We bought a house that has an above ground pool and we are so glad. Now we don't ever have to go to a public pool anymore. And we can go swimming whenever we feel like it and have pool parties whenever we want. [jnallen_487]
I've been twice and while it's ok it's really not my thing...not to say it wouldn't be my kids' thing. The kids and I all want the pool parties though! Definitely our "thing"! LOL [rowantree]
Above ground pool, esp if you are planning to go to disney this time of year. It is swealtering hot and would be most unenjoyable. While disney is great you only go once your pool you will enjoy for many years to come [melissaruth1]
You are choosing between a one time vacation and something that will be many years of fun. I would definitely go with the pool! Just think, year after year your kids will be enjoying the pool for the summer months. You can always save and take the Disney vacation another time. [sunshine4]
My opinion is DISNEYWORLD!!!! lol. No really what are they going to remember more?? Disney world or a pool?? I wish my parents would have taken us there as kids. Now I have two of my own and im going to make a point to get there when there older. The memories will be worth it!!! And you can get a pool anytime!! [copperkitten]
yeah I'm starting to think holding off getting the pool until next year... [rowantree]
As much fun as Disney is, I'd go with the pool. The pool has so many other benefits. It will keep your kids occupied (and their friends) for hours during the hot summer day, add to that all the exersize they will get, and it looks like a better option. you can always go to disney next year, or see if you can rent an rv and take a drive there (an added bonus, you can stay on the campgrounds for much cheaper than a hotel) Yes, Disney is fun, but a pool will last MUCH longer. [wmaharper]
I would think the pool would be better this year. If I had the choice, I would be afraid that my 6 year old may not be able to ride all the rides than they wanted to. I've never been faced with such a decision, but then again, we are normally finacially unable to take vacations... but given the choice I woudl go for the pool. Mooch [oneandonemakesix]
last time we took a vacation, it was over 4 yrs ago. we are trying to save for this disney vacation but that's so unstable...if we are faced with any financial problems, the money will have to come out of the disney fund...if we don't get the pool we might end up with nothing at all. [rowantree]
in the long run you all will have more fun with the pool [marshall_blake2000]
I would go for the pool because of the ability to use it continually, but make sure you do what your kids want. [arkstfan]
oh yeah! you said it! definitely making sure to do what the kids want, no doubt about it. I don't want to hear the whining later...LOL! [rowantree]
I think as the kids are still in their growing age Pool wld b a better option than a vacation. [rups02]
It wouldn't be a hard choice for me; I would choose the vacation. I never wanted a pool and I'm glad we never got one. They are a lot of work and cost money long after the initial purchase. I've had a hot tub and that was an expense. On the other hand, even though vacations are short-lived, the memories last forever. [wachit14]
Have you asked the children which one they would rather have? Personally I'd go with Disney world. Disney World is a life experience and something they can remember and I totally would rather have an experience of going to Disney at least once than never going at all. I think all parents should take their kids there...I find it amazing when I find someone who never went to Disney World. As a kid, we had an above ground pool. It's a lot of work and maintenance. When my brother and I were young we got in the pool, but when we got around 11/12 + ... we rarely got in the pool. So my dad hardly ever opened the pool up because it was money and work and what was the point if we weren't going to pay attention to it. So that's something you should factor in. A pool does cost a little money even after you've gotten it (pool toys, chlorine, cleaning, etc.) and just the overall maintenance of it. If the kids aren't going to want it after a while, why waste money on it? I'd ask the kids. See what they would rather have... but I'd personally choose Disney over everything. [raychill]
Well that is a tough choice for you guys to make for the kids. I was wondering tho have you asked the kids which one they would prefer? I know a pool Will last longer and they will be able to use it in years to come. But a Disney vacation and the memories will last a lifetime also. Good luck with your choice and I hope the whole family will be happy will your decision. [Lifez2short]
hey there.. i would go with the pool.. it's something that the kids will enjoy constantly. Although, the maintenance of the pool in the long run will be pretty steep, isn't it. But then again, when i asked my husband this question, he said that if it were up to him, he'd bring the kids for a Disney vacation. They'll enjoy it immensely, it won't ever wear out for them, they'll always remember and be grateful to you for it.. and it's not something that can be done ALL the time. And he says the novelty of having a pool will soon wear off.. I don't know.. go for what your instincts say.. :) Hope you reach a decision soon.. and please let us know how it turns out.. :) [shemah]
Easy- Buy the pool and save the money for the Diney trip for a later date- the kids and you will get much more use out of the pool- much more enjoyment- We are in the same predictament- My daughter wants to go to Disney and she wants a permanent pool - we have an 18 foot take down one- I'm going for the pool and alot of small vacations- we just went to Niagara Falls this past week and camping also! [KrisNY]