“Cocktails taste better under a palm tree” so said the waitress on holiday, helping me to justify my order of another. It’s scientifically not correct, obvs, but it got me thinking – what do you do in your business to make the products you sell or services you offer more experiential and irresistible to a repeat purchase / follow on / up sell?
And if you’re really interested, here’s what the wonder-web suggested about why cocktails taste better under a palm tree =
The idea that cocktails taste better under a palm tree is largely due to the psychological association and sensory experience of being in a tropical setting, rather than a change in the drink itself. Factors like warm weather, relaxing atmosphere, and visual cues (like palm trees) can enhance the perception of flavour and enjoyment.
Psychological Factors:
Association: Cocktails, especially those associated with tropical destinations (like a Piña Colada), are linked to vacations and relaxation. The sight of a palm tree immediately evokes these positive feelings, making the drink taste better by association.
Mood: Being in a warm, sunny environment puts people in a better mood, and a positive mood can significantly influence how one perceives taste. According to a study by Sandals Resorts, the vibrant atmosphere of the Caribbean, with its beaches and palm trees, enhances the experience of enjoying a cocktail.
Relaxation: The relaxed state of mind fostered by a tropical setting can make one more open to sensory experiences, including the nuances of a cocktail’s flavor profile.
Sensory Input:
Visual: The sight of a palm tree, with its swaying fronds, is a strong visual cue that reinforces the tropical vacation vibe, further enhancing the overall experience.
Auditory: The sounds of the ocean and rustling palm leaves can be incredibly soothing, contributing to the overall sense of relaxation and enjoyment.
Flavour Perception:
Citrus and Sweetness: Many tropical cocktails feature citrus and sweet flavours, which are often perceived as more refreshing and enjoyable in warm weather.
In essence, the experience of drinking a cocktail under a palm tree is a holistic one, where the environment, mood, and sensory input all work together to create a more pleasurable and memorable experience, making the drink taste “better”.
