I was part of the first group. Other departments were enthusiastic about it except for us in programming. Most of us feel overworked and would take any free time to stay in bed and sleep 'till our bodies wake up naturally.
Even though it wasn't a well-planned trip, I was happy to get out of the city for some fresh air. Even though the food and the hotel were horrific, I was glad to leave work behind, not to mention I've watched the most movies this weekend. There were non-stop pirated movies showing on the bus.
It's an opportunity for us to hang out outside of work and a chance to see colleagues in a different setting. When you're traveling with someone, you get to know that person from a different perspective. It might not always work out.
Most people spend their whole lives working and save up their money, hoping for an early retirement. Plans can never catch up to changes. There are too many "what if" in life that can turn your life upside down. If you can find balance between work and play, then you hold the key to the ultimate happiness.
Life is too short. So, you gotta work hard and play hard. That way you won't have regrets when you're too old to have fun.
11 Programming employees plus 3 spouses by Sun Moon Lake