Ha ha, I love that so many people have thoughts and experiences in this area, I thought I might not be the only one.
Rich M that is a good analogy about exchange rates and Kenoryn has the appropriate follow-up about whether everything there is equally more expensive. The thing about Plastic Jungle though is the exchange rate issue again in that I'd lose the same percentage of value.
The hilarious thing, Rich M, is that it's an REI gift certificate. I probably should have said that so it wouldn't sound too splurgy. My dad gave it to me after I'd spent a bunch kitting myself out for a trip two years ago. But, of course, that meant I already had everything I needed. I'm about to buy (sorry fellas) a diva cup and REI has them, but it's probable that I'll want some camping stuff in the future. But I can't guarantee that REI will carry it or that it won't be something I can make DIY or made by a small independent company (like a lot of the ultralight tents right now) or available cheaper on amazon or ebay.
They do have plenty of practical stuff like shoes and bike parts, etc. Or stuff I could give as gifts like nice socks. Or larger upgrade/replacement items like sleeping bags that my dad would be pleased to learn I had gotten with the money. I was just excited that after two years they had something I unequivocally wanted.