Most people think that ahappy landwill be associated with the image of sunny, windy, poetic beaches... However, according to the 2022 Happiness Report, thosethe happiest person in the worldlive in cold climates, lots of ice and snow and even have to... pay high taxes.
Let's review with Travellive10 happiest countries in the world, to see how the epidemic has affected people's lives and living standards in recent times.
1. Finland
This is the second year in a row that Finland has won the title of the happiest country in the world. Even though this Nordic country has been hit by an economic recession due to the impact of Covid-19, more than 5.5 million people here still feel optimistic about the Government and their lives. ReviewshappyFinland's ranking is based on factors such as GDP per capita, social support, high life expectancy, and generosity.
With natural resources such as forests, seas, lakes and archipelagos, Finland always keeps its people at a high standard of living, while also attracting millions of tourists who want to come here to experience the happy, joyful atmosphere.
Finnish people are often attached and close to nature - Photo: Internet
2. Denmark
What keeps Denmark at the top of the rankings is its stable government, free education and health care systems, and especially its respect for human rights.
Another small factor is that Danes don’t have to travel far to see the country’s wonders and sights. The country is dotted with white sandy beaches, windy islands, and plenty of other places to relax.
On the streets of Denmark - Photo: Internet
3. Iceland
Iceland is an island nation approximately the size of the US state of Kentucky, with over 366,000 residents, most of whom are concentrated in the capital city of Reykjavik. This country is rated as having low crime rates, a high standard of living, and access to high-quality, free education - with 99% of the population literate. At the same time, the current unemployment rate in Iceland has dropped significantly, returning to pre-pandemic levels; this also makes the people here extremely optimistic.
In addition, Iceland's natural beauty also has a profound impact on human life, from volcanoes, glaciers, moss fields to majestic waterfalls, fjords and many beautiful hot springs.
Photo: Getty Images/Harald Nachtmann
4. Switzerland
A familiar name in the annual rankings, Switzerland has a high GDP per capita and social support, while the level of corruption is extremely low, creating a sense of trust for the people.
Switzerland is only known as a country with a dense banking system, famous for chocolate and is the "home" of luxury watch brands. This country also has many beautiful landscapes, the most prominent of which is probably the majestic Alps mountain range, covering about 60% of the country's area along with more than 1,500 lakes, becoming a must-see destination for tourists every time they visit Switzerland.
Jungfrau train line specializes in serving tourists in the Alps - Photo: Internet
5. Netherlands
Dutch people value their quality of life highly because they all benefit from high-quality education, have good incomes, and have low crime rates. In particular, the Dutch are said to have the best work-life balance in the world. With a rich and fascinating history, the Netherlands is also famous for its vibrant art scene and beautiful tulip fields.
6. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a debut entry in this year's rankings. While not the most populous country in Europe, Luxembourg is the most diverse, with 50% of its population being foreign nationals and over 170 nationalities represented. Furthermore, the country welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors a day from neighboring countries.
Multiculturalism is one of the most prominent features of Luxembourg society, combined with a high GDP, high life expectancy, stable social support and a wide range of outdoor recreation activities. So it's no surprise that Luxembourg is featured in the rankings.10 happiest countriesyear 2022.
A Sunday in Luxembourg - Photo: Internet
7. Sweden
According to the World Happiness Report, Sweden has so far recorded the highest number of Covid-19 deaths among the Nordic countries - which has partly affected the trust of its people in the government. However, thanks to its high ratings for social support, life expectancy, freedom of choice and abundance of natural resources, Sweden has retained its place in the top 10.
Photo: Getty Images/Petr Kahanek
8. Norway
Famous for its stunning coastline, fjords, and magical Northern Lights, the Kingdom of Norway held the number one spot on this list in 2017. Now, with a high GDP per capita, universal healthcare, and excellent educational opportunities (public education is tuition-free for all students regardless of nationality), Norwegians have little to complain about.
Photo: Getty Images
9. Israel
Last year, Israel ranked 12th on the list, but thanks to its people's strong sense of community, along with their freedom to choose their own lives and a high life expectancy, the country has risen to join the top 10.
Israel's rich cultural and culinary heritage, along with its numerous natural attractions, make for an increasingly better quality of life for its people, and the country is expected to rank higher in the coming years.
Photo: Getty Images
10. New Zealand
New Zealand's advantages include breathtaking natural attractions, easy accessibility and a high quality of life. At the same time, the work-life balance and pleasant year-round climate allow people to spend more time outdoors, enjoy life on their own terms and live a relaxed lifestyle.
This is also one of the countries with the lowest Covid-19 infection and death rates in the world in 2021, strengthening people's trust in the Government.
