How Much is the Newness Factor Worth to You?

Lately, when I’ve been pricing out future vacations, I’ve become more keenly aware of the price differences between newer vs. older hotels and cruise ships. Why is there such a big price difference? And, how much extra are you willing to pay for the newness factor?

Examples of the Newness Upcharge

This week, Disney’s Riviera Resort opened at Disney World. I’ve looked at videos of the hotel and have seen photos of the pool area. It’s nice, but to me it doesn’t look especially unique or themed compared to other Disney resorts.

However, according to the price calculator on David’s Vacation Club Rentals, there is a big price difference between this resort and other DVC resorts. For example, a 1-bedroom at Disney’s Riviera Resort on a Saturday in June costs almost $200 a night more than a 1-bedroom at Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

Similarly, on Royal Caribbean, the newest ships in the same class command more money. For an early March 2021 cruise on Oasis of the Seas, prices start at $850 per person.

For the same week on the newer Symphony of the Seas, prices start at $1082 per person.

Considering that Oasis of the Seas just got a $165 million amplification to add all the bells and whistles that Symphony of the Seas has, that’s a significant price difference.

Why the Big Price Difference?

It all goes back to supply and demand. People are willing to pay more for the newest, latest and greatest product. So, companies will charge more for it.

Folks who visit Disney World year after year may have already stayed at every Disney resort. Disney’s Riviera Resort appeals not only to those visitors, but also to a barrage of social media influencers who want to get the first photos and reviews online.

Royal Caribbean has repeat guests who cruise several times a year. Those cruisers have likely sailed on Oasis of the Seas several times and are hungry for the newer ships. Even with a significant amplification, Oasis of the Seas is not going to feel new on every part of the ship. Leana discovered that on her recent cruise on Mariner of the Seas, which also had a large makeover. Her stateroom did not appear to be updated at all.

When Newer is Cheaper

Sometimes, a newer resort is cheaper. I saw this when I booked Now Natura, the new AMResorts all-inclusive resort opening next month in Cancun. With the pre-opening specials combined with an AAA discount, the price was cheaper than the existing resorts in the area. I expect that once the resort opens and the word gets out, prices will increase.

My Tolerance for the Newness Upcharge

I like to save money on travel whenever possible. I don’t buy into the newness factor hype in most cases. I’m fine with booking one of the “older” Disney resorts. There are still several we have not yet stayed in. And, since my family has not sailed on any Oasis-class ship, I’m fine with booking the older one (which isn’t really that old).

However, my Achilles tendon is Disney Cruise Line. We have sailed on all of the ships multiple times, and we love the experience. When the new Disney Wish comes out in early 2022, I may just be forking over the big bucks.

Do you like to experience the newest hotels and cruise ships? How much more are you willing to pay for the latest and greatest?

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Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.