The Best Experience Gifts In NYC

Start spreading the news, dear reader: The very best experience gift you can give in the whole of NYC --indeed, the world-- isn't in the Big Apple, but over it. We're talking, of course, about a tandem skydive...which rises to dizzying heights above the rest of the gifting options in this festive season or any other occasion this fair planet has to offer.

Still not convinced? Don't take our word for it. Take it from science.

A study conducted by the Cornell University Department of Psychology found conclusive evidence that experiential purchases--in other words, money spent on doing something--provide "more enduring happiness" than money spent on having something, no matter what that "something" might be.

The study looked past the traditional framing, which focuses on how something feels sensationally (i.e. drinking a bottle of gift wine; hugging a Valentine's Day teddy bear; wearing a watch received in a Christmas stocking). Instead, the study focused on the differences between having and doing that occur before consumption. The study makes a compelling argument that the act of waiting for an experience "tends to be more positive than waiting for possessions." In other words: it's all about anticipation.

The Cornell study investigates the inherent value of anticipation to our giddy little monkey brains--which can not be underestimated, as the process of planning and forecasting is an absolute cognitive delight for us. You've seen evidence of this, no doubt, when you plan a weekend away--or a surprise party--or even a romantic evening at home.

Sure, you say, waiting for a skydive is exciting, and all--but what's the lasting value? I want this to be the best gift ever given, and I need more to go on.

The other side of the story, then, is this: Skydiving has a big payoff after that toe-curling wait. Your giftee will soak in a view of New York City that not many people on the planet have ever witnessed, first of all--a 360-degree, 3D, surround-sound experience of the place we so dearly love to call home. And she won't touch back down with the same old ho-hum, been-there-done-that smile that's standard issued after, say, a roller coaster ride. If she's anything like most of the rest of our customers, in fact, she'll be bouncing around like a ping-pong ball in a room full of mousetraps, with renewed confidence, creativity and joie de vivre.

The infinity-and-beyond emotional slingshot of a tandem skydive twangs the jumper's heart far above our standard 13,500' exit altitude, delivering a hit of inspiration that most new skydivers talk about for years after the fact. So, what you should know is - securing this skydiving gift certificate is the first step in a series of events that will be life changing.

Take this from us, though: Once you get the download of your giftee's experience, we won't be at all surprised if you show up and buy yourself a very merry un-birthday gift. Consider yourself warned. ;)