Planning vacations is often challenging for expatriates, particularly in countries with fewer rest days or stricter leave policies. This article provides practical strategies to help you make the most of your time off, ensuring you enjoy well-deserved breaks, even while far from home.
Learn to juggle public holidays
Doubling your vacation days is entirely possible by aligning your leave with public holidays. Before planning your time off, make sure to thoroughly check when public holidays fall in your host country. If you're residing in the UK or Switzerland, for instance, you might have enjoyed a holiday on January 2 for Saint Berthold. Similarly, if you're in Spain, Greece, or Germany, you would have celebrated Epiphany on January 6. By scheduling your leave around these dates, you can maximize the number of consecutive days off while minimizing the vacation days you use.
Repeat this approach for other public holidays in your host country. For example, if your host country observes public holidays during the end-of-year season (like Christmas and New Year's Day), you can enjoy up to 12 days off by taking just 5 days of leave. Practical case: If your host country recognizes two holidays for Christmas (December 25 and 26, as in Germany, Ireland, Italy, or the UK) and a holiday for New Year's Day, consider taking your leave from December 27 to 31.
Maximize your time off during public holidays
Are you an expatriate in Japan or China? Start planning now to make the most of the Golden Week. This period is well-named for its cluster of public holidays. In Japan, Golden Week 2025 will start on April 29 and continue from May 3 to 5. During this time, many businesses and government offices shut down, while the tourism and hospitality sectors see a surge in activity. It's a popular time for Japanese workers to take vacations and explore their own country. There's also a "Silver Week" in the fall, slightly shorter, traditionally spanning from September 19 to 23, which includes the public holiday known as Respect for the Aged Day (keirô no hi).
In China, the concept of "Golden Week" also spans several public holidays. Should a public holiday fall on a weekend, the government extends the holiday period into the following week. Note, however, that the days off preceding or following a public holiday might need to be compensated for in the subsequent work week. Despite this, Chinese Golden Weeks offer significant time off during the weeks of Chinese New Year in February, Labor Day in May, and National Day in October.
Negotiating your leave in a new job abroad
Arriving at a new job abroad, you might hesitate to discuss vacation time for fear of seeming uncommitted. However, in many places, like the United States, it's actually crucial to negotiate your leave upfront. In the U.S., employers are not legally required to provide paid leave, making it essential for you to secure your vacation terms during contract negotiations. To enhance your negotiation position, familiarize yourself with the company's leave policies by thoroughly reviewing your employment contract. Listen carefully to the employer's perspective and be prepared to discuss your specific needs, such as taking time off during the end-of-year holidays for a family trip. Propose solutions that consider the company's operational peaks—this could involve suggesting alternative times for your leave. Demonstrating flexibility and understanding the company's needs can make a strong impression and show your dedication.
Exploring sabbatical leave for overseas adventures
Interested in living abroad but not ready to move permanently? Consider a sabbatical leave if it's available in your country. Sabbatical leave grants you the flexibility to take an extended break, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a new culture for a prolonged period. However, it's important to note that sabbatical leave isn't suitable for short vacations—it typically requires a commitment of several months. For example, in some countries, the minimum duration is six months, with a maximum of eleven months. Opting for a sabbatical can be an excellent way to experience expatriation while keeping your job security intact. During this period, your employment contract is suspended—not terminated—and you may have the option to work elsewhere, depending on your contract's terms. Keep in mind that sabbaticals are generally unpaid, but you'll be able to return to your current position once your leave ends.
