Travel
The Enviable European Work Tradition Of Valuing Relaxation & Leisure
As I strolled across the storybook streets of Tallinn, Estonia, earlier this month, I took a purposeful exhale, relishing in a uncommon second of being indifferent from my laptop computer, and at last freed from that hamster wheel of countless deadlines that I had been on for numerous months. However then my eye caught a glimpse of the time, jerking me out of my momentary journey bliss: it was 4 p.m. right here, so 9 a.m. again residence and I needed to signal again on to crank out important work emails.
Even being away from residence, a trip model of the Sunday Scaries was plaguing me. I had informed all my shoppers I’d be away, but at the back of my head, I used to be overwhelmed. I knew I’d return residence to a fall overbooked with nonstop tasks, and I used to be grateful in fact, however with a way of built-in exhaustion. Because it seems, it’s not unusual for these emotions to spike this month in what’s change into dubbed August Anxiety, spurred by the anticipation of actuality setting in once more come September.
Escaping to Europe in August had appeared like essentially the most sensible resolution to tackling these emotions. In any case, the one large takeaway I had realized from my French ex was that the continent just about goes on trip for the month of August. Now that I used to be there, the logical facet of my mind understood that this was the time to show off the work swap, but the pesky antsy facet saved scolding myself for not getting forward now. Sure, I used to be pressured about the opportunity of being pressured.
After virtually placing in a whole workday that night time in Estonia, the irony dawned on me. Right here I used to be in a rustic the place 28 days of paid annual leave — together with two weeks of consecutive break day — is legally mandated and I couldn’t even let go of my skilled obligations for a single day.
Estonia is only one instance of the European nations that federally requires staff to have paid break day. France famously leads the pack, requiring 30 days a year and the United Kingdom also grants 28 days, whereas Austria, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Spain, and Sweden all have set a standard of 25 paid days off.
And what number of paid days off does the U.S. mandate by regulation? Zero.
That gaping gap in our legal guidelines permits our already poisonous hustle tradition to maintain on mushrooming. In an period of hybrid and distant work, the place we will do the whole lot in every single place unexpectedly, we’ve chosen to take that reward and redeem much more work hours. Enjoyable and recharging? Nah. We’re loyal to toil.
The European work fashion isn’t nearly taking days off; there’s additionally a set of checks and balances constructed into the on a regular basis sample. Take, for instance, that want I felt to pause my trip button and ship an e-mail. Had I lived in France, which may truly be unlawful. Again in 2017, the nation set into place a “right to disconnect” law, permitting staff to disregard emails outdoors of labor hours. That’s proper, not simply whereas on trip, however any off hours, which implies these 6:01 p.m. emails legally needs to be marked unread till enterprise hours begin up once more.
Since then Belgium, Eire, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, have additionally implemented similar rules, with the latter even implementing fines. The European Fee even has a European Union Working Time Directive, a algorithm of how the workdays and weeks ought to look. Over a seven-day interval, staff aren’t allowed to place in additional than 48 hours and a relaxation break is required each six hours. Not simply that, in each 24 hour interval, there have to be 11 hours of consecutive relaxation, and in each seven-day interval, there have to be an extra 24 consecutive hours off.
The American reply to that? The Fair Labor Standards Act, which “doesn’t require meal or break durations.” And if lunch breaks are given, they’re “not compensable work time.” It’s no marvel that 62 % of Individuals choose to eat at our desks, according to Scripps News.
Including to our skilled masochism, these of us fortunate sufficient to be granted paid days off don’t even take them. Yep, free paid break day dangling in entrance of our noses, and we choose to place stated noses to the grindstone. In reality, 46 % of Individuals don’t take on a regular basis off they’re provided, according to Pew Research, leaving 768 million trip days unused again in 2019, US. Travel Association, Oxford Economics, and Ipsos data showed.
The attainable motive: The Pew Research survey says it’s as a result of 52 % don’t really feel the necessity to take extra break day and 49 % fear they’ll fall behind in the event that they do, with 43 % saying there’s a guilt think about having coworkers cowl for them.
Admittedly, I do know that feeling. The primary 12 months I had a job with Summer season Fridays, I didn’t take a single one, even spending a few them within the workplace previous midnight, after I might have left 10 hours prior! My reward: Discovering out I used to be solely making lower than half of what my staff who left proper at 2 p.m. these days did. (I had been informed I used to be employed just for range, however we’ll save that story for an additional time.)
It’s baffling certainly. In so some ways, Individuals earn our popularity for being self-centered and goal-oriented. However then relating to overworking ourselves, we abruptly use the excuse of worrying about inconveniencing our colleagues and impressing our corporations? Let’s be sincere, it simply doesn’t make sense.
On the very least, our work ethic ought to imply we’re extra environment friendly, it might appear. Nope. A past study truly confirmed that 4 European nations — Luxembourg, Eire, Norway, and Belgium — topped the U.S. in productiveness. So perhaps there may be some reality to our overstimulated work fashion resulting in overexhaustion and everybody’s favourite phrase today: burnout.
Right here’s the factor: We all know the answer, and we all know it’s easy. Energy down our telephones and our minds. Equalizing our priorities might probably enhance our lives at work and at play.
But it surely’s not that straightforward. It’s constructed into the American life-style that work comes first. At any time when I journey in Europe, I’m all the time stunned by the colourful conversations I can have with locals with out them each asking me instantly, “What do you do?” — as is often one of many first issues requested right here. For many people, it even goes so far as feeling a way of disgrace when requesting days off from our supervisors. At a earlier job, I needed to race to beat my coworkers to take days off Thanksgiving week — and was so pressured that I teared up when it was authorised. That sort of logistical hurdle constructed into our skilled tradition is simply such a “pity” as a brand new good friend I met in Estonia stated.
But we stock on, heads dug deep into the very factor we love complaining about. We sip our Italian espresso, we put on our Parisian trend, and we purchase our Swedish furnishings, but we will’t steal the simplest European import that will truly higher our lives.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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