Traveling. That's what many Chinese would say when asked how they would spend their holidays. But for most people in a nine-to-five job traveling during holidays doesn't come easy. Their weekdays before a holiday are extra busy because they have to plan their travels as well as prepare for post-holiday work. For example, before the Qingming (Tomb Sweeping) Festival and Labor Day holidays this year, most people had to work for seven days in a row because of the arrangement made by the authorities.

During holidays, Chinese tend to travel in groups, for it is both convenient and easy on the pocket. So a typical Chinese-style tour is usually crowded and noisy, with people rushing from one spot to another and racing against time to click photographs to prove that they had been there.

Post-holiday life is no better, for most people feel tired and disoriented, which many call the "post-holiday syndrome". Interestingly, although the strongest feeling for many people about holidays is not one of relaxation but tiredness, people are still ready to wear themselves out again before and during the next holiday.