With summer just around the corner, many InAxtion employees start thinking about taking time off, visiting family back home, or enjoying summer in the Netherlands. Whether you’re planning a trip or staying local, here are five useful tips to make the most of your summer as an international technical worker.
Tip 1 – Know your vacation days
If you work full-time through InAxtion, you’re entitled to a minimum of 20 statutory vacation days per year. You earn these days gradually as you work more hours. Some contracts even include extra (non-statutory) vacation days, which may be paid depending on your agreement.
If you’ve recently started working for us, you’ll be paid for the vacation hours you’ve earned so far. Not sure how many days you’ve built up? Ask your consultant or check your payslip, so there are no surprises.
Tip 2 – Request vacation in advance
Summer is a busy time for you, your colleagues, and the companies we work with. Some companies have a fixed summer break; others continue working year-round. Either way, letting us know in time helps avoid any disruptions or misunderstandings.
If you’re planning time off, inform both your supervisor and your InAxtion consultant as early as possible. This helps us coordinate staffing, accommodation, and payments, especially in July and August when housing and projects need extra planning.
Tip 3 – Going on a road trip? Be prepared!
The Netherlands is a great starting point to explore other countries like Germany, Belgium, France, and the UK. Planning a drive through Europe? Keep these things in mind:
- Toll roads: Some countries charge tolls, payable in cash or electronically
- Low-emission zones: Some towns and cities require an environmental sticker
- Documents: Carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance papers
- Safety items: A warning triangle, reflective vest, and first aid kit are often mandatory
Tip 4 – Avoid ‘Black Saturdays’
Summer traffic in Europe can get intense. So-called ‘Black Saturdays’ are the busiest travel days. The phenomenon usually occurs on Saturdays throughout July and August, particularly at the end of July and beginning of August, as thousands of people travel for their summer vacation. If you’re hitting the road, try to travel on quieter days to avoid long delays and traffic jams.
Tip 5 – Enjoy local summer fun
Not everyone travels during the summer. You can also enjoy public holidays or long weekends for short local getaways. If you’re staying in the Netherlands, there’s plenty to enjoy:
- Visit the beaches like Zandvoort or Scheveningen
- Not interested in beach clubs? Maasvlaktestrand is a good option
- Take a bike ride through the Dutch countryside and see the windmills
- Board a train and explore cities like Utrecht and Delft; even take a day trip to Belgium
Making the most of the summer
Summer is a great time to recharge, whether you’re travelling home or relaxing here in the Netherlands. Just remember: plan ahead, communicate clearly with your InAxtion consultant, and enjoy some well-earned time off.
At the same time, if you plan to keep working over the summer months, InAxtion has technical vacancies available across the Netherlands. Keep your career moving this summer. Apply now!
