NEW YORK — Where you go on vacation may say a lot about your personality and lifestyle. A new study finds that cold-weather people tend to be introverted, yet more adventurous, and earn higher salaries than those who always yearn for a beach getaway.
For the study, 2,000 adult Americans were surveyed on their vacation habits and lifestyle preferences to see how people who preferred vacation in summer-like spots differed from those who’d rather ski. Results showed that warm-weather participants earned an average of about $51,000 compared to $55,000 for their chillier peers.
Beachgoers were also more likely to describe themselves as outgoing and confident, while snow-lovers tended to be more shy, quiet, and sarcastic. Opting for a balmier climate also means you prefer dogs to cats. The survey was commissioned by the online travel agency Vayama.
Cold-weather people also prefer to be indoors more frequently, enjoy sci-fi flicks, tend to seek out more adventurous activities on their vacations, and would rather be the “little spoon” when cuddling with a partner. Conversely, warm-weather lovers like going visiting museums on their getaways, would rather spend the day relaxing by the pool, take on the role of the “big spoon” during cuddles, and turn to vacations as a way to get some quality time with family.
There’s also a big difference when it comes to musical tastes. Vacationing in colder climates means you’re more like to listen to classical, folk, jazz, or heavy metal music. On the other hand, hanging out by the pool means you’re more into hip-hop, R&B, country, or pop music.
As for general vacationing habits shown by both segments of travelers, the study found that Americans clearly enjoy plain old R&R while getting away. The average vacationer spends seven hours and 42 minutes watching TV while away, and another five hours and 12 minutes napping.
That’s not the only thing going on in the bedroom — the average traveler also logs more than six hours of “romantic time” with their partner. It’s not that surprising, actually, considering that 87 percent of respondents say they’re more romantic on vacation. It’s clear that finding a like-minded traveler is also important when choosing a partner: just 6 percent of respondents say they prefer opposite climates from their significant other when it comes to vacationing.
“Traveling with a partner can be an interesting dynamic. Even if you don’t like the same types of climates, there are always things you can do together that bring you closer as a couple,” says Stephanie Gunnink, Online Marketing Manager Vayama.com. “Spending quality time with one another, no matter where you choose to go can really heighten the romance factor and make the trip even more memorable. No matter where you are, as long you feel you got a good deal there is no way you can’t enjoy your vacation.”
The survey was conducted by OnePoll in August and September 2018.