It's that time of year again! Airlines and railways have kicked off their marketing campaigns, offering attractive rates for end-of-year vacations. To secure the best prices and ensure availability, now is the ideal time to book your travel. Many expats choose this period to return to their home countries for the end-of-year holidays, while others explore new destinations within their host country or venture abroad. Being organized and prepared is key whether you're working or have some free time. Here is a practical guide to help you efficiently plan your end-of-year holidays.
Can you take leave?
If you're an expatriate employee, this should be your first question. Leave policies vary significantly by country. For instance, the United States has a very liberal system with no federal mandate for paid leave, meaning you may need to negotiate to secure time off. In contrast, countries like Germany, Switzerland, Australia, and the UAE have well-established paid leave laws. Germany guarantees a minimum of 20 working days of paid leave, while Australians generally receive four weeks per year, and Emiratis are entitled to 30 calendar days annually.
How does your company handle end-of-year leave requests?
In France, taking a break over the Christmas period is a common desire among employees. According to the French Directorate for Research, Studies, and Statistics, nearly 50% of employees choose to take their holidays during the end-of-year festivities. While paid leave is certainly permitted by law, its organization falls to the employer's discretion. In some sectors, the end-of-year period is not a time for rest but rather a peak of activity. Other sectors, like healthcare, are under pressure throughout the year.
To maximize your chances of enjoying your holidays, it's crucial to negotiate with your employer well in advance. Be aware that you might not always secure your preferred dates, especially if your company's activities ramp up towards year-end. Many companies implement rotation systems, allowing teams to take end-of-year holidays alternating annually.
Expat entrepreneurs: How do you take your holidays?
Contrary to the myth that expat entrepreneurs are perpetually on holiday, many actually work relentlessly throughout the year. The hesitation to take a break is common among independents, driven by fears of losing clients or revenue or facing fluctuations in business. However, rest is crucial for everyone, regardless of their profession.
To ensure you take your needed holidays, approach the planning of your break with the same rigor as you would for a huge contract. Consider how your holidays can be structured around your business activities. If the end of the year is a peak period for your business, consider delaying your break to enjoy off-season promotions. Conversely, if business slows down during the end of the year, it might be the perfect time to take a break. For those whose business requires constant attention or find themselves in a middle ground, consider opting for "semi-holidays" — working a few hours or days per week, with the remainder dedicated to rest.
Planning well in advance is essential to manage your workload and inform your clients effectively. If you work with international clients, consider time zones and their potential needs during the end-of-year season. Remember, everything is negotiable. Inform your clients about your reduced availability, set an out-of-office message on your voicemail and email, and if you have an online presence, schedule your articles, blog posts, and social media updates in advance. Utilize tools that allow you to maintain an online presence without needing to be constantly active on your devices.
Plan total or partial disconnection
Both employed expats and entrepreneurs often struggle with truly disconnecting during holidays. Despite setting up digital boundaries like out-of-office messages and scheduled posts, many find themselves still responding to emails or conducting urgent tasks for colleagues or clients. What begins as a quick task can quickly evolve into several unplanned hours of work.
Exploring the legislation regarding the right to disconnect in your host country is advisable. Countries such as Spain, Belgium, Italy, and recently Australia have incorporated this right into their legal frameworks, recognizing the importance of work-life balance. However, in countries like the United States and Switzerland, there is concern that such legislation might impede workplace flexibility. In such environments, establishing good practices within the company becomes essential.
Consider the following: Has your host country legislated on the right to disconnect? What are your company's practices regarding after-hours communication? Do your superiors and colleagues respect your personal time? Your answers to these questions and your role within the company can guide you toward planning either a total or partial disconnection.
If you are self-employed, the dynamics might shift to negotiations between you and your clients, depending on the nature of your work. Establishing clear boundaries and communicating them effectively is key to ensuring your holiday remains a break from work, not an extension of it.
Budgeting your end-of-year holidays
Now that you've secured your end-of-year holidays and organized your work affairs for your absence, it's time to plan the details of your holiday. While some may think that expatriates don't need a getaway since they're already living abroad, it's important to remember that your host country has become your new home, not a perpetual vacation spot.
Begin by creating a detailed "holiday plan" tailored to your budget. Consider whether you'll be traveling alone, with family, or friends. Decide if you'll explore regions within your host country, travel domestically, or venture to another country. Factor in your mode of transport—bus, car, train, or airplane—and type of accommodation, which could range from budget hotels and youth hostels to luxury hotels or staying with family or in a shared apartment.
Finalize your holiday plans as soon as your leave dates are confirmed. This is crucial, especially if you intend to travel by train, fly, or book accommodations during the busy end-of-year period when prices soar and availability is scarce. While last-minute deals can be tempting, booking in advance is generally safer and more economical.
For those on a tighter budget, consider "mini urban road trips" or excursions in rural areas. These can be day trips or weekend adventures in your city or a neighboring region, allowing you to return home to sleep. This approach offers a budget-friendly way to explore your area of expatriation. Another cost-effective option is home swapping, which remains popular and allows you to stay with a local for free while enjoying your holiday. This can provide a unique and immersive experience in your host country.
