Do you feel like you don’t have enough vacation time? If so, you are definitely not alone. According to a recent study conducted by Expedia, 71% of French people believe that they do not have enough “real holidays”. Despite this, France tops the podium in terms of paid vacation days, with an average of 28.6 days in 2022, 9 days more than Mexico, the United States or Thailand. So how do you explain this feeling of vacation deficit?

Also according to the study conducted by Expedia, the 28.6 days of paid leave granted to the French are actually a gross figure, as only 25.4 days were actually taken. Moreover, of these 25.4 days, 4 are used for personal obligations such as childcare or medical appointments. Thus, once these deductions have been made, there are only 21.4 days of “true net vacation” left. The report also highlights a multitude of other factors that prevent the French from going on a getaway. Unsurprisingly, the current unfavorable economic climate makes the list. Expedia indicates that more than half of French people believe they are directly affected by inflation. Among the constraining factors mentioned in the study are the pressure felt at work, guilt and involuntary cancellations due to social movements or unforeseen events.

However, despite these constraints, it is always possible to find solutions to enjoy a “real clean vacation”. With this in mind, we bring you 5 affordable destinations that will allow you to escape the high temperatures and enjoy rewarding experiences, even on a limited budget.