The average working European earns 25 to 30 vacation days
annually and usually takes them all. In 2011, the typical American employee
earned 14 days off, but took only 12.
That's according to a survey out today commissioned by the
online travel agency Expedia.com. The wide-ranging 2011 Vacation Deprivation
study queried 7,803 adults in 20 countries about how much vacation they earn –
and actually take – and also about their attitudes regarding time off.
The results differ from another recent survey on the topic
by Hotwire.com, which reported that the average American leaves 6.2 days of
vacation unused each year. (That survey was based on online responses from
2,000 workers.)
Other highlights from the Expedia.com survey:
Asians get – and take – fewer days than residents of other
parts of the world. Japanese reported taking just five days out of 11 earned.
South Korean respondents, who earned 10 days off, took seven. Brazilians outpace even holiday-hungry Europeans in using
time off. They typically earn 30 vacation days and use them all.
Lack of money was the most frequently cited reason for not
taking a vacation. Lack of planning was No. 2.
More Americans than other nationalities cite money worries
as the reason for foregoing a getaway. However, 50% characterized their
financial situation as "solid" or "good," reinforcing the
idea that Americans regard vacations as a luxury. Brazilians, on the other
hand, were least likely (6%) to cite money issues.
The Danish find it easiest to disconnect from work mode.
Only 1 in 7 respondents said they check email while away and half said they
never check it. Only 25% of Americans said they check email regularly on
vacation; 75% said they check in sporadically or not at all.
How about you? Will you be leaving vacation time unspent
this year? And if so, why?
