Have you ever dreamed of visiting or moving to a place where supposedly everybody is happy? Is it even possible such places exist? Well, apparently these 7 cities are indeed some of the happiest places on Earth. So read on, find out more, and plan your next trip (or move!) soon.
Melbourne, Australia
Most people already associate Australians with an open, friendly demeanor. But the residents of Melbourne are purportedly some of the happiest in the world. A lot of this has to do with the ease of living which comes with being a resident here. In terms of stability, healthcare, culture, environment, education and infrastructure, Melbourne is considered one of the “most livable” cities around. Tourists love the place as well, and for good reason. Combining fantastic shopping, top-notch restaurants, and a cosmopolitan environment with the city’s friendly spirit, Melbourne is tough to beat. Plus, the city hosts some crucial sporting events; the Australian Open, Melbourne Grand Prix, and 2015 Cricket World Cup all call this place home.
The following happy city in the southern Netherlands enjoys the feel of a laid-back small town.
Utrecht, Netherlands
Amsterdam is not the only city in the Netherlands, and despite the huge popularity the capital enjoys, there is another city famous for being super happy. Travel south to Utrecht, and you will find everything you would ask for in a big city but with that blissful, small-town feel. With friendly, welcoming residents and canals as well, Utrecht has become a favored spot to bike, walk, or just hang around. The central canal is also the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll before popping into one of Utrecht’s many cafés and pubs for a drink or meal.
Turns out you can be happy in the Nordic weather, as the next city proves!
Oslo, Norway
It can be difficult to associate a sunny disposition with the cold Nordic weather, but in fact the people of Oslo are not gray at all. Their warm personalities must get them through those long winters! Another possibility is that being so close to nature and active in it keeps the residents of this city in a healthy and happy state of mind. But Oslo is also famous for a superb nightlife, with an ever-evolving scene of new bars and restaurants to offer some city fun as well. And then there is the fact that Norway enjoys a very stable economy and high standard of living on average. This must also contribute to the residents’ happiness a bit too.
The next city is just breathtaking, no wonder people are happy living there!
Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva may simply boast blissful people due to the sheer beauty of the city and its natural surroundings. Nestled against its famous lake and with the gorgeous Alps behind, just being in Geneva has to make people simply feel a joyful all by itself. Or perhaps it is knowing that the city holds title to being a center for international humanitarian law and is home to dozens of United Nations offices. The idyllic setting make conferences and negotiations a breeze, and its summertime beaches as well as wintertime skiing make it a playground all year long. Add in Switzerland’s famous cheese and chocolate, and of course people here are happy!
The next city is located next to an amazing beach!
Florianopolis, Brazil
Sorry Rio, the readers of Conde Nast Traveler voted Florianopolis the world’s friendliest city. So it’s time to find out more about Brazil’s other cities. Florianopolis (the capital city of Santa Catarina in the south of the country) is known for laid-back, welcoming residents who are eager to help visitors have the perfect vacation or help foreigners settle in. The city sports 42 beaches, world-famous surf, and an outdoor market scene you would expect in such a tropical locale.
The next city is one of Canada’s most beautiful cities!
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is known as one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. It enjoys an ethnic diversity and multicultural population that rivals any other major city, but Vancouver is known as being extremely safe as well. The vibrant city scene of art, food, and culture is accompanied by natural surroundings allowing for some of the best outdoor activities the world has to offer: hiking, surfing, biking, skiing, you name it! From the mountains and rainforest to the beach and ocean and back to the city, Vancouver offers residents the best of all worlds. No wonder it is always on lists for the happiest and most livable cities.
The next city has a very young vibe to it!
Aarhus, Denmark
Another country up north, Denmark has long been known for being one of the happiest countries in the world. And Aarhus has a particular edge as a city with many universities and colleges, allowing for an environment dominated by the young. This obviously gives the spot a happy go lucky vibe for sure! But Aarhus is also the oldest city in Scandinavia which means there is still an element of refinement that comes along with its age. Home to numerous music festivals, a beautiful harbour, and outdoor theatres, this is one city that seems to have it all.
Is your city on this list? If not share it with us, and maybe it will be!
