Well, all participants in the contest have similar account popularity, so we're all in the same boat and there are only a hand full that can win. It's always unfair, because everyone deserves recognition. And hey, really, this is just one contest of many. Not even counting the ones which will come up until November. There is so much time left and so much opportunity. Even if not winning a contest, being dedicated at Steemit should give the payout to afford the trip. It's an investement well worth I guess. And the votes from @msp-lovebot can be worth a lot over time. That is a great price as well and much more than initially promised - as there was no price at all for runner ups. So, here you have some recognition that really is worth something. Don't underestimate that.