Why do Europeans get so much vacation time?
Why do Europeans get so much vacation time? Things began to change in 1919, when some French printers and bakers won a week's paid vacation. By 1925, laws in six eastern and central European countries mandated paid vacations. In contrast to workers' demands for a forty-hour work week, their desire for time off was relatively acceptable to employers.
How long is summer break in Italy?
Astronomically speaking, Italian summers start on June 21st and end on September 23rd. But, if we consider school summer holidays, the only period to go on vacation for most families, summer begins at the beginning of June and lasts till the first days of September (each school is different).
Do Europeans take all of August off?
Don't discount July and August. In much of Europe (especially Italy and France), cities are partially shut down in July and August, when local urbanites take their beach breaks. You'll hear that these are terrible times to travel, but it's really no big deal.
What month does Italy shut down for vacation?
August is typically Italy's hottest month, and that's coupled with high humidity in many parts of the country. This is one of the main reasons August is the vacation month for most Italians (and many other Europeans) – they hang “closed” signs on their city storefronts and make a beeline for the nearest beach.
Why do Europeans have more vacation time?
The United States is the only advanced economy that does not guarantee paid time off. The European Union Working Time Directive, which was passed in the early 1990s, requires at least 20 working days of paid vacation in all EU countries.