How well did AI do planning a vacation? Freelance writer Victoria Turk had mixed experiences using AI agents such as Anthropic's Computer Use and OpenAI's Operator to plan a last-minute trip to Bruges, Belgium. Although the AI agents effectively handled tasks such as booking transportation and accommodation, they "struggled to string tasks together and lacked an element of common sense, such as when it tried to book the earliest train home," Turk writes. "But it was refreshing to outsource decision-making to an assistant that could present a few select options, rather than having to scroll through endless listings." Full Story: Wired (tiered subscription model) (6/29)
Overscheduled, inflexible vacation itineraries are a recipe for coming back to work more wrung out than you were when you left, experts say. If you want to return refreshed and ready to take on whatever work throws your way, be sure you don't skip meals or otherwise skimp on self-care, schedule buffer time after your adventure so you can settle in at home before you head back to work, and resist the urge to check work email while you're away. It's impossible to fully shift out of work mode when you dip back into the inbox on a regular basis. Full Story: MSN (7/1)
How to combat "vacation guilt" Many American workers experience "vacation guilt" -- and over 60% feel anxious about not checking work messages during vacations, according to a 2024 survey. While increased awareness of burnout and the popularity of trends like "loud vacationing" offer hope, therapist Dennis Dearie advises practicing "micro-unplugging" -- gradually taking short breaks from work-- to train the brain to tolerate being away. Full Story: Yahoo/Business Insider (6/21)
The Landscape
Fewer employees unplug entirely while on vacation A survey by Dayforce shows that fewer employees are completely disconnecting from work while on vacation, with only 37% doing so compared with 47% three years ago. The report highlights the pressures employees face to maintain productivity during the summer, with 79% feeling this from their employers. The trend of "quiet vacationing" -- working in secret or using time off for personal needs -- underscores the ongoing struggle to maintain boundaries between work and personal life. Full Story: HR Dive (6/2)
From sister publication Kiplinger: Edd and Cynthia Staton moved from Las Vegas to Cuenca, Ecuador, in 2010, driven by the need for a lower cost of living after the 2008 recession. They share their experience and advice for retirees considering relocating abroad, highlighting the importance of planning for health care, understanding tax implications and securing residency. They also recommend a scouting trip before making the move and maintaining Medicare coverage. Full Story: Kiplinger (6/29)
The Czech Republic is employing "beer diplomacy" to elevate the international profile of its lagers. The initiative, which involves inviting brewers from countries including the US, Canada and Australia to showcase the richness of Czech beer culture and experience it firsthand. The efforts not only promote Czech-style lagers but also foster a deeper appreciation for the country's brewing traditions. And, it's had an effect on the bottom line: The initiative has boosted sales of specialty beer taps abroad. Full Story: BBC (6/29)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
The USA is one of 30 countries whose flag is red, white and blue. On the opposite spectrum is the color purple, which appears on the flags of Dominica and which other country?
I created a special newsletter today that focuses on getting away from your job this summer. I hope you enjoyed the Water Cooler, I mean Beer Cooler, story about Pilsner Urquell, which I sipped many times while I visited the Czech Republic a few years back. It was good to get away. Cheers! -- Janet Connor Kahler
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