After a busy weekend filled working on my "Food Ecosystem" project, movies, and some much-needed downtime, I found myself facing a classic traveler's dilemma: how to spend my last day in Orlando. With options ranging from the enchanting paths of Disney's Epcot to the serene ambiance of the Ritz Carlton Spa, the choice was anything but simple. Luckily, I wasn't alone in this; I turned to ChatGPT for a bit of modern decision-making assistance. What followed was a thoughtful exchange of questions and answers that not only guided my decision but also shed light on what I truly wanted from my final day in the city. Take a look at the chat thread that led to a delightful day at Epcot, complete with the reasoning behind my choice. (photos below)
You
I need you to help me with a decision. Ask me questions that will help me make the final decision. Here's the situation. Today is Sunday. On Friday, I flew to Orlando, FL to work on my phoenix district food ecosystem project. I wanted to visit the world food truck park, and a few other food hub places. I also wanted to see the dune 2 movie at an Imax theater, and I wanted to relax and get some rest. Saturday I went to the World Food truck park, and the East End Market, I came back to the room and spent 3 hours in the hotel whirlpool. The water was ok. Not too hot so I could spend more time there. Today, Sunday I went to the movie and then off to find a couple of vegan food spots. I also went back to the East end market as some of the places were closed when I went yesterday. I did a bunch of driving through communities to see just what the food ecosystems were away from the theme parks. it is now 8:16 on Sunday, I'm back in my room. My flight leave tomorrow (Monday) at 7:38 pm. Checkout time is 11am so I'll need to find something to do. Here's my question. Do I go to Disney's Epcot to experience since I've not been in decades. or do I go to the Ritz Carlton spa. You can use the full facility with any treatment. Ticket to Epcot is $185 + parking and the cheapest massage is $230 which is more than I'd pay at home. Which one should I do? more details. I have a rental car
ChatGPT
To help guide you towards a decision that aligns best with your priorities and current state of mind, I'll ask a series of questions. Your answers will clarify your preferences, how you value experiences, and your current mood.
Energy and Interest Levels: How are you feeling right now in terms of energy? Are you looking for more adventure and exploration at Epcot, or does the idea of relaxation and being pampered at the spa appeal more to your current state?
Memories and Experiences: When thinking about past experiences, do you cherish the thrill and exploration of new places, or do you find greater value in moments of relaxation and self-care?
Financial Considerations: Considering the costs, which option feels like a better investment to you? Does the unique experience of Epcot justify the expense compared to a spa treatment that's more expensive than what you would pay at home?
Time Management: Given your flight time, which option fits best within your available timeframe without feeling rushed or potentially stressed about making it to the airport on time?
Social or Solo Preference: Do you prefer spending the day in a potentially crowded park, engaging with various attractions and possibly meeting new people, or does the idea of a more solitary, peaceful day at the spa appeal to you more?
Recent Activities: Considering the activities you've engaged in this weekend, which option do you think would complement your experiences so far? Would Epcot add a nice variety to your food and movie explorations, or would the spa offer a soothing end to a busy weekend?
Future Opportunities: Is there a chance you might return to Orlando anytime soon, potentially making one option easier to defer until a later date?
Reflecting on these questions can help pinpoint what you're truly in the mood for and what would make your last day in Orlando feel most fulfilling.
You
1. I feel ok. I have comfortable shoes and I plan to get back in the hot tub tonight if its warm. My lower back was strained today, but I think I'll be ok to walk for 2-3 hours tomorrow and still be ok to fly. 2. I have good memories of Epcot when I last went. the last time was in the 1990s so it has been a long time and I'm sure most has completely changed. 3. It seem like Epcot would be the more affordable option, but I also think Epcot would give me some fun memories. 4. I think I can plan the day either way to make sure I have time to make my flight. My plan is to be finished no later than 4 to give me time to get to the airport, return the car and still make it 1.5 to 2 hours before my flight. I am also Clear and pre check and first class, which should save me some time. 6. Both would fit. 7. Considering the cost of the flight and hotel, I probably wont be back to Orlando in the near future
ChatGPT
Given your responses, it seems like visiting Epcot might align more closely with your current state and preferences for several reasons:
Physical Condition and Enjoyment: You feel okay and anticipate enjoying the hot tub tonight, which could help with your lower back strain. Your comfort in walking for a few hours suggests Epcot is manageable, especially since you have positive memories of it and expect the changes since the 1990s to offer a fresh experience.
Memories and Experiences: Your good memories of Epcot and the anticipation of seeing how it has changed could enrich your experience, offering new sights and activities that differ from your last visit. The potential for fun memories seems to weigh in favor of Epcot, especially considering the uniqueness of the experiences it offers compared to a spa day.
Financial Considerations: Epcot presents a more affordable option when comparing the ticket cost to the spa treatment. Coupled with your anticipation of fun memories, it seems to offer greater value for your money.
Time Management: You have a solid plan for managing your time, ensuring that you can enjoy Epcot without feeling rushed before heading to the airport. Your status with Clear, PreCheck, and flying first class further alleviate concerns about airport logistics.
Future Opportunities: Given that a return trip to Orlando may not happen in the near future, choosing the more unique and less frequently accessible experience at Epcot could make your current trip more memorable and distinct from your routine or experiences you can easily access elsewhere.
Considering all these factors, opting for Epcot seems to provide a balance of adventure, nostalgia, and value that aligns with your current situation and preferences. It offers a unique opportunity to create new memories in a place you have fond memories of, with the practical aspects of your visit (like time management and physical condition) well accounted for.
You
Thank you. I agree
ChatGPT
You're welcome! I'm glad to hear that you feel confident in your decision. Epcot promises a day filled with discovery, nostalgia, and the joy of experiencing something new yet familiar. Enjoy revisiting the wonders of Epcot, soaking in all the changes, and making those fun memories. If there's anything else you need help with or any more advice you need before your trip tomorrow, feel free to ask. Have a fantastic day at Epcot and a safe journey back home!
I had a blast!
Had some delicious food in China and took photos with some of my favorite Disney Characters. While I was pretty worn out after walking through Epcot, I was able to make it to the airport in time to change clothes, get a pedicure (Thanks Orlando Airport). It was a good trip and a great day in Orlando.
