Originally Posted by steve tapper:
....There is no way you can justify the cost of travel, food and lodging in an attempt to save money on buying trains....
Steve Tapper
In fact, it's always the opposite for me. I'll often see an item I like for a few dollars more than I was hoping to spend on it. But, I'll say to myself, "What the heck, I've spend so many $$$ on hotels etc. why not a few extra for this item." -- and then buy it anyway!
It's the whole experience and seeing friends as well as trains that keeps me coming back.
Jim