The power of love spares no one and nothing, including travel budgets. A recent study by J.D. Power found travelers spend more money in cities they love. The 2016 Destination Experience Satisfaction Study revealed when visitors enjoy their experience, they spend significantly more money during their stay than the average traveler, and especially more than travelers unhappy with their experience.

The study measured overall satisfaction among travelers to the top 50 U.S. travel destinations for business and leisure, taking into consideration food and drink, infrastructure, lodging and travel. Now, let’s talk numbers. On average, visitors spend $1,169 on a trip, or $301 per day. However, visitors who are particularly satisfied with their experience in the categories listed above spend an average $1,446 — 24 percent more than average. Those who are not overly impressed with their destination or are disappointed spend nearly $250 less per trip.

The study goes beyond money. A significant number of visitors reported the destinations they visit are more than just simply places to go. They’re developing strong emotional connections with the cities, most notably Austin, Oahu Island, Orlando, Miami and San Diego. Another interesting finding was that despite volatile weather, the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic region has the highest proportion of visitors who are most likely to return (73 percent). The study also discovered business travelers enjoy their trip slightly more than those who travel for leisure, which likely has to do with a difference in cost and the ability to adapt more easily to the travel process than non-frequent travelers.

From coast to coast and cities in between, travelers open their wallets a little wider for cities they feel an emotional connection to, whether it be for great food, quality entertainment, ease of travel or nice weather.

Are there certain cities you feel particularly connected to? Do you find your budget stretches farther in those cities? Email us and let us know. Please include your full name and location with your email.