As much as I hate slow play, (I even started a forum called "Limits on the number of games" about this issue of slow play) especially when the opponent is dead lost, I have to take issue with limiting Vacation time in the ways some of you suggest.  I work weekends, sometimes almost all day, and I sometimes take a day of vacation on Saturday to give me a chance to focus on work.  I think my opponents will confirm that I always resign when I'm "toast" and my delays are always short.  Maybe we should suggest that the site lower or limit the accumulation of vacation time. I have over 2 months right now, and even taking a day EVERY weekend would not lower my accumulated time.  Sometimes it Seems like some people will find ways to stall no matter what.

I have never heard so much crap in all my life. What is a real reason for so many vacations? Unfair tricks against opponent concentration perhaps. I usually do chess for pleasure rather then for pay. Because of time is money, I cannot play one game longer than 10-15 days. I prefere to play 20-30 games at the same time. I really love chess when my opponents play fair, not only for ELO or other great result.

I am playing a game with a guy who was beating me. But I managed to turn it into a very drawish situation. After almost three days with only 37 minutes remaining he went on vacation. And this is his second vacation in the same game!

When I start new games I select 0% for time-outs. Maybe it would be great of chess.com allowed a no vacations rules for those players who wanted it. Clearly the vacations are sometimes necessary - but they are frequently abused by bad sportsmen.

what does it matter, you make the moves when they come back! patience is a vertue isnt it- youre suggesting that no-one is intitled to a holiday or perhaps time to grieve if , in a worse case scenario, a loved one dies. consider the problem from your point of view. if a close member of family died- would you A. carry on playing no problem, or B. take time out to mourn their passing with respect? its a little one sided isnt it! respect and patience is the name of the game, and so we should follow that ideal- dont you think

I have just had a opponent go on vacation when it was his move. I thought that the site doesn't permit this.

I have an opponent in a game where I am a "clean" piece ahead. He has been on vacation for about a month--I've lost track, I would like to know if "the end is in sight"  He has 22 games on hold.

And we should know here they're going. [OK, that's my silly comment.]  But, do you think there could be a little one upmanship here?  Like, sorry, I'm on vacation for a week, AT the Riviera!  Is it only Ed who does that?  [Just kiddin']  I think we should be able to evaluate whether the vacation was 'worth it.'  If not, they've got to play.  It's a little rough, but every group, must have its standards. :)

Agreed, and it would also be nice if people said upfront (those that know of course) before starting or accepting a new game..