Long and short of taking a break

When it comes to time off, which country offers academics the best deal?

Holidays are a vital part of university life - an opportunity to recharge intellectual batteries, escape from the treadmill of teaching and research commitments and reflect on academic interests and career options.

But entitlements and practices differ internationally, with some countries benefiting from above-average numbers of public holidays. These sometimes add to an already generous leave entitlement - or help to compensate for low levels of paid leave.

Here, Times Higher correspondents report on the variations across Europe and in the US.