In other words, getting there -- not being there -- is the reason.

I don't understand this. Properly used, an instrument rating will
increase your freedom of flight. An instrument rated pilot is NOT
required to file and fly IFR. An instrument rated pilot can do every
one of your VFR flights and more.

You've misinterpreted what I mean by "getting there". I don't mean
that getting to the destination is the ultimate goal -- I mean that the
journey is the ultimate goal. Often we don't care *where* we fly, as
long as we're flying.

Let me illustrate this attitude further. As I've mentioned here many
times before, when we plan long, multi-day cross-country vacations by
air, we plan three separate journeys. (This is a luxury afforded to us
by living in the exact center of the continent.) On departure day, we
simply choose the destination that matches the best long-range VFR
weather forecast.

This has worked for us for 12 years, on dozens of trips. Best of all,
my kids get to research and plan 3 separate adventures, and no one
knows which one we'll enjoy until we're in the plane. It's a truly fun
way to travel, adds to the excitement for the family, and usually
ensures excellent flying weather.

In fact, even with the instrument rating, now that I think about it, I
don't think I'd change that planning process. It's become an integral
part of who we are, and how we travel.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"