It is nicer. Maintenance is simpler and the cost over the lifetime of the bike is lower. The extra less than one pound for rohloff versus derailleur components is insignificant on a touring bike. After touring 150,000 miles on a derailleur bike and 20,000 miles on rohloff bike, I prefer a rohloff. Both work fine, it comes down to your needs and preferences.

Ragbrai! I have toured through the entire wonderful state of Iowa twice, but not with 50,000 people.