National Plan for Vacation Day Jan. 25
National Plan for Vacation Day is Jan. 25, and now is the time to take the first step toward your next adventure – by planning where to travel.
National Plan for Vacation Day encourages Americans to plan their vacation days for the entire year at the start of the year. After nearly two years of pandemic stress and fatigue, the day is an opportunity for Americans to look ahead and make plans for getaways or vacations.
“The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism is joining thousands of organizations across the country to celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day,” said Stacy Hurst, secretary of the department. “By committing to planning on Jan. 25, Americans can all enjoy the many benefits of taking a break while giving themselves something to look forward to. And what better place to give yourself that break than The Natural State?”
Planning is the key to taking time off and traveling. A new study from Destination Analysts and commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association reveals that Americans who plan out their paid time off take more time to travel, but one-quarter (24 percent) of American households don’t take this simple step.
“There are so many incredible vacation opportunities here in Arkansas,” said Travis Napper, director of Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “If you’re planning a family trip, a friends’ weekend or even a solo vacation, The Natural State is the perfect getaway. From our 52 state parks to top-rated cultural attractions to great dining, Arkansas truly offers something for everyone. Find trip ideas and inspiration at Arkansas.com.”
National Plan for Vacation Day comes at a time when American workers report feeling extreme levels of burnout. According to Destination Analysts, more than two-thirds (68 percent) of American workers feel at least moderately burned out and 13 percent are extremely burned out.
Data also shows that while vacation is essential to Americans’ mental health and well-being, it is also a crucial benefit for American workers. Nearly 70 percent of U.S. workers agree that their ability to take vacations is an important factor in keeping them in the workforce. In fact, paid time off is the second most important employee benefit an employer can offer after health insurance benefits, according to the U.S. Travel Association.
National Plan for Vacation Day takes place during the last Tuesday each January as a day to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the entire year at the beginning of the year.
About Arkansas Tourism
Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com.