#50, Vacation
summer vacation 2010, in the Jaisalmer Desert (India)
On July 1, PEAI will shut down for its annual one week break. The days of vacation are precious...a brief window of opportunity to explore the world, invigorate the spirit, and rest. I can remember each of my vacations the past five years with distinct clarity, as that time carries such heavy significance.
In South Korea , the government is rather stingy with time off. This is not true of most other developed nations. According to the International Monetary Fund, in 2011, the vacation time for the countries with the highest GDP was,
- United States- 0 days required (usually 15 given) /// 10 national holidays
- China- 0 days required /// 11 national holidays
- Japan- 18 days required /// 19 national holidays
- Germany- 24 days required /// 12 national holidays
- France- 35 days required /// 10 national holidays (and, one the most productive countries in the world)
- Brazil- 30 days required /// 15 national holidays
- United Kingdom- 20 days required /// 10 national holidays
- Italy- 30 days required /// 12 national holidays
*12. South Korea- 10 days required :( 15 national holidays
These numbers apply to working citizens, but students are given a much different deal. Most schools begin in the autumn and end in the beginning of summer. Some schools, however, run year round. Instead of one long break during the summer time, students receive several two or three week breaks during the year. Given the option, which type of school would you choose?
Optional: Respond to your classmates with @. Describe one of your most memorable vacations.
-Brenden Lee Teacher
the tranquil waters of fours