Vacation Deprived?

Over 460 million vacation days will go unused this year in the U.S.

Are you one of the Vacation Deprived?
According to two recent studies, Americans are not taking the vacation time they need to rejuvenate and the results are affecting job performance, stress levels and overall wellness.

One survey, conducted by Expedia, found that an estimated 47.5 million Americans will not use all of their vacation days. On average, Americans receive approximately 14 paid vacation days through their employers. Further, employed U.S. adults will leave an average of three vacation days on the table, in other words, they will be giving back more than 460 million vacation days in 2008.

The second survey conducted by Take Back Your Time, a U.S./Canadian initiative to challenge the epidemic of overwork, over-scheduling and time famine that now threatens health, families, relationships, communities and environment, asked respondents how many weeks of vacation are best needed to prevent “burnout.” Of those questioned, 52% said they need three weeks or more and 82% said two weeks are necessary. Startlingly, 28% of those surveyed took no vacation time at all last year; 52% took one week or less; and, two-thirds received less than two weeks off.

A growing body of evidence suggests that burnout is just one of the negative consequences of too little vacation time. Studies have firmly established that men who don’t take vacations are 32% more likely to die of heart attacks and women are 50% more likely. Lack of vacation time doubles the rate of depression for women. Whereas after vacations, workers gain an hour per night of quality sleep and their reaction times are 30 to 40% faster, improvements that last for several months.

What Can You Do If You’re Vacation Deprived?
Step 1: It’s ok to admit that you, and those around you, would benefit from much needed time off. Realize that you need to set aside time to step away from the daily routine, spend time with your family and reenergize for the rest of the year.

Step 2: Plan ahead of time to allow for work coverage, family schedules and travel savings.

Step 3: Look for accommodations that fit your lifestyle and those you’re traveling with – is there enough space for everyone to feel like they can relax?

Step 4: Prioritize what’s important in a vacation to you – destination, proximity to town, remoteness, amenities, activities, short plane ride.

Step 5: Commit to a vacation and enjoy. Bask in the memories and plan your next one!

How does timeshare provide for a better vacation?
When you travel with timeshare, there are no surprises – you know the room, view and amenities ahead of time. It takes the stress out of planning a vacation while ensuring that every traveler’s vacation desires are met. Vacationing with timeshare provides for better family time because everyone has a place to unwind and activities to participate in.

Whether reserving a favorite vacation spot to return to every year or looking to trade for a new experience, vacationing with timeshare ensures that you’ll vacation every year. From romantic to rejuvenating to action-packed, vacation ownership products are about investing in a vacation lifestyle that best suits your needs.

With more than 5,000 resorts in 100 countries, the possibilities with timeshare are endless. Your destination, your choice, your vacation.