Vanilla-who says it's plain?

I was reading this post on Slate about vanilla. I will take a serving of vanilla icecream over any other flavor any day. It is the simplicity of its flavor that makes it so elegant, I think. I have only used the vanilla extract as it is the more affordable option. My parents have a few vanilla plants growing in their yard, so I might be able to bring some real vanilla pods during my next visit to India...