According to a 2006 study American workers give back 1.6 million years of vacation time to their employer each year.  And also per 2006 findings, about a quarter of workers in America do not receive paid vacation time.

Comparatively, American workers work two weeks longer than those in Japan and two months longer than Germans, who are reported to sometimes get up to 15 weeks of paid vacation a year.

On average, Europeans get about four weeks of vacation each year.  Only workers in Mexico receive less vacation time than Americans. The country with the most vacation time is Denmark, with 31 days of vacation time.

What is it about Americans and the American worker? Well in corporate environments it’s all a matter of competitiveness. If the top companies only offer one to two weeks of paid vacation time, then certainly companies in that same field will offer the same amount for a similar job or position in that field.

Here’s the thing, Americans are complete workaholics and it’s only getting worse. Most Americans simply can’t relax because they are always tied to their work via their cell phone, blackberry, or I phone. Most people can’t let work lie while they are on vacation and especially with technology these days.

It’s about time that Americans reclaimed their vacation time. Take a trip to Hawaii for goodness sake. But studies show that most Americans feel guilty asking for vacation time so they use their sick time to take personal days or if they have personal obligations.

The American mentality is work hard and play hard. And the output of America compared to Europe is staggering. The Gross Domestic Product of Europe has been grown 2.4 percent in the past five years compared with 5 percent in the United States, and European nations have been looking into changing its vacation policies.

But there is no doubt the American worker needs to chill out too every once in awhile. So take that vacation time, book Lanai vacation packages, and rest and relax people!

The Hawaiian island of Maui  is one of the most alluring, with its gorgeous beaches and verdant landscape.  There are so many attractions in Maui that there is never an excuse to be bored.  From the sensuality of lazing on a soft white sandy beach, to snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and sailing, you water lovers will be in heaven.  Whale and dolphin watchers will be satisfied as this island is famous for its schools of both, coming to frolic and enjoy the warm waters as they to have fun people watching.  Horseback riding and helicopter tours are also available for those of you who don’t need to touch the ground, and evenings bring authentic luaus and world-class dining as well as long walks under the stars, or a night of disco dancing.  Take your Hawaii vacation with your family or go with a loved one.  Maui can be fun, exciting, informative, and romantic, satisfying every one’s needs, young and old.

There are wonderful options for staying on this island.  Book a family style Hawaii resort, a hotel room for two, or plan to go camping in one of the lush parks.  You can also rent a condo or a villa to feel like you are home.  Any way you decide to have a Maui vacation, you will have the time of your life, with many exquisite memories to bring home.

With port stops at deliciously sensual beaches such as Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai,  Hawaii cruises is one of the treats not to be missed in life.  There are many cruise packages that will take you to some of the most beautiful islands in the world where you can swim, surf, walk, or just laze the day away.  Romantic names such as Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, or Kailua call out to be enjoyed and there are many excellent cruise lines that will take you on a superb Hawaii vacation.

Cruise ships generally offer some of the most opulent and enjoyable perks on-board such as great dining and lots of exciting entertainment, day and night.  Whether it is a romantic journey or time spent with family and friends, going to Hawaii is one of the best ways to take advantage of time away in one of the least stressful environments in the world.

Picking a cruise line can be overwhelming as there are many that offer exceptional opportunities for enjoying your vacation.  With the right research, you are sure to find one that offers exactly what you are looking for, either by referencing on-line sites or by discussing your needs with your local travel agent.