You know when it’s time to take a vacation. There’s the constant nagging feeling of stress, like being wound just a little too tightly. The criticisms from your boss are no longer feeling constructive. And every day seems like an unnecessary grind, plodding along with no end in sight.
According to the Center for Economic and Policy Research, one in four Americans does not receive paid time off. This contrasts greatly with other countries, particularly European countries, such as France who allocates 31 days of paid time off for workers. And the statistics become grimmer with an even closer look: 75% of employees who received paid time off in 2013 did not take the full amount.
For those with a family, planning the vacation itself can be stressful. A survey showed that 57% of respondents reported getting to and from the airport was very stressful and 50% said choosing a location for the family location was also stressful. Finding a location or activities where both adults and kids can receive some fun and relaxation can be difficult. But one option is becoming better known in America: the adventure park.
An adventure park may be seen as the choice for those in their 20s or those without kids but parks often consider themselves “family adventure” parks with activities for all ages. Exciting family attractions at these parks include a laser room, rock climbing, tree houses, zip lines, and a climbing wall.
There may be even giant slides for children.
Exciting family attractions may also include a parkour park. Parkour is an activity that involves interacting with a landscape to perform moves that increase agility, balance, and muscular strength. While many are impressed by how ‘cool’ those performing the activity look, it is an activity that increases numerous physical health characteristics. Like any cardiovascular activity, it can reduce cholesterol and risk of heart disease.
While it may seem difficult to take time off work even if you have paid time off saved up, 37% of families say that vacations make them happy, which is at the top of the list for all activities. Choosing an activity that makes everyone happy but reduces the stress of planning for the vacation is one option that may be fruitful.
However, it is important to remember the traps a vacation may bring–or perhaps how work can intrude even during strictly fun, family time.
- For a survey, 25% of respondents said they had heard from a colleague during a vacation.
- 20% said they had heard from their boss.
- 61% said they continue to work while on vacation.
For many, it is difficult if not impossible to sever the connection to work while on vacation. That can produce more stress. 1 in 10 Americans say that cannot relax while on vacation. Exciting family attractions may demand more attention than just lounging at the beach.