No-Vacation Nation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Working for approximately 260 days a year without going on vacation once a year could lead to burnout. Hence, taking days or weeks off work to relax is definitely a must for employees. However, not everyone has the privilege to go on vacation.

Read this article to learn about the no-vacation nation.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20141106-the-no-vacation-nation

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the expression “to run thin” mean? “I can definitely feel it when I need a vacation because my patience and tolerance for our guests runs thin,” said the career bartender.” Use this word in a sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “buck” here, “”While some companies in the US do buck the no-vacation nation trend, offering more generous time off to employees, or even requiring staff to take days off, congressmen are among the few Americans granted a number of days off on par with virtually every other advanced economy.”? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to take (on) the mantle” mean? “Every now and then, a legislator in the US will champion the cause of guaranteed paid time off. Florida Congressman Alan Grayson has taken that mantle several times.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of this certain work culture?
  2. Why are some workers becoming vacation-phobic?
  3. Do you agree that American workers should have as much vacation time as Europeans? Express your thoughts.
  4. How much vacation do you have each year from work? Do you think it’s a fair amount?
  5. What would you do if your boss asked you to take more (or less) vacation time?
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