Eurovacations

Longer and cheaper

Kevin Luke, 16, of London, was hired as a British postal clerk only eight months ago. But like most of his countrymen, he is nevertheless now looking forward to a nearly four-week paid vacation, including a summer holiday he plans to spend in Italy.

Almost a month off after only eight months on the job seems like the vacation deal of all time to most Americans, who on average must complete one full year of service to be eligible for a mere nine paid vacation days. But lengthy vacations are generally the norm throughout Europe for labor and management alike.

When...