My wife and I both work in oil and gas in the U.K. get 35 days a year holiday, good pay and busy/slow periods make it quite easy.

Our busiest period by far is April to August so long holidays in this period aren’t really sensible. It can be done, and we sometimes take the odd week, but really try not to. Outside that window we can easily take whatever trips we like.

It works well for me anyway. I’m not a massive fan of the heat and a lot of Europe can be unbearable in the middle of summer. Plus, in the slightly off season (September/October say) you normally get cheaper deals, the places are quieter and the weather is actually more enjoyable for me.

We save long haul trips for between October and April.