and Miami, and Orlando in the late 90's and early 2000's....and after many disappointments, I quickly learned that, as a Hokie fan, you had to go on these trips for the destination...not expecting to win. We returned to New Orleans for every Sugar Bowl, not because we expect to win or hope for a good game...but because it was a fun place. One trip to Miami (vs. Nebraska) was enough for me.
There is no way in heck we were (are) spending money over the holidays to go out west....or even to Orlando. I know there are cheap flights...but by the time you factor in food, lodging, and entertainment...a "cheap" destination turns into a lot of money for a family. After going to 6 straight between 94-99 I've only been to 2 since (Sugar '04 and CFA '06). It's sort of a "been there, done that, got the t-shirt" deal for my family. It used to be exciting...and perhaps it will be again as we win more often (when we're not playing the Tulsa's and Rutgers' of the world).
The only chance we will go back to a bowl game is if it's somewhat local (Tenn, North Carolina), it's not at a ridiculous time (like the day after Christmas), and/or it's a playoff/championship game.