This article is on vacation as time off. For the movie, see National Lampoon's Vacation. For the Go Go's album/song see Vacation (album)

Vacation is a term used in North America to describe time away from work or school, a trip abroad, or simply a pleasure trip away from home. In the rest of the English-speaking world the word "holiday" is used. In Canada both terms are widely used. The French term is similar to the American English: "Les Vacances". The term derives from the fact that, in the past, upper-class families would literally move to a summer home for part of the year, leaving their usual family home vacant.

Most countries around the world have labour laws mandating a certain number of days of time off per year to be given to a worker. In Canada the legal minimum is two weeks, in most of Europe the limit is significantly higher. Many American companies give only one week, and then frequently only after completion of a year of employment.

In modern employment practice, vacation days are usually coupled with sick time , official holidays, and sometimes personal days.

Vacation Destinations

Vacation Destinations can vary from something as simple as staying at a local hotel to sailing around the world. The destinations also will vary by country. Some type of destinations include:

• Theme Parks
• Islands
• Resorts
• Scenic areas
• National Parks
• Beaches
• Ski areas
• Cruises

Minimal vacation time around the world

See also

• Tourism

External Links

• Family Vacation Site