Now that you have overcome the “January blues,” it is time to look forward to the rest of the year in earnest. If you’re planning your summer vacation with family or friends, there is no better way to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life than to visit the world’s happiest travel destinations.
Every year, The World Happiness Report publishes, ranking nations and cities based on six factors: generosity, freedom, life expectancy, gross domestic product (GDP), social support and corruption.
We’ve used their 2019 report, along with our knowledge of fun, vibrant places to let your hair down, to create our list of vacation destinations guaranteed to keep you smiling.
Helsinki, Finland
The country of Finland retained its title as the “World’s Happiest Country,” according to the 2019 World Happiness Report. That’s based upon its high quality of life and the fact that it is one of the most peaceful nations on our planet, according to the Global Peace Index. The capital city of Helsinki is a fascinating place to explore, with a young, cosmopolitan vibe and plenty of history to savor.
If you’re thinking of a different way to celebrate Christmas this year, Helsinki is also known as “The Christmas City,” with the city usually draped in snow and its Christmas Market exuding a cheering warmth. A trip to Finland would also not be complete without a visit to the world’s biggest smoke sauna in the modest lakeside town of Kuopio.
Las Vegas, USA
There are many reasons why they call Las Vegas “Disneyland for adults.” It is a place where almost anything goes: a chance to well and truly let your hair down and enjoy all the entertainment opportunities that “Sin City” has to offer. However, there is no doubt that Vegas has changed significantly in recent decades.
Most recently, the 60-year-old Riviera Hotel & Casino demolished, as the city’s Strip skyline evolves, but its fun-filled personality remains the same. If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve party, there is no better place to see in the new year than Vegas.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Previously named the “World’s Happiest Nation” in 2016, it is in second place in the 2019 World Happiness Report. Here, an impressive average life expectancy (80), free or tax-financed health care and high minimum wages have created a thriving nation.
Copenhagen’s cultural and arts scenes enrich all the capital’s visitors, along with its impressive fine dining sector.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The way of life in Iceland is a joy for those seeking genuine tranquility. It was named the most peaceful country on Earth, and the number of overseas visitors to Reykjavik has quadrupled in recent years. Reykjavik is also on the bucket list of many wishing to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Plus, the Blue Lagoon, a natural spring with water temperatures averaging 37–39 degrees Celsius, is also rich in minerals and has rejuvenating benefits for your skin.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Netherlands ranked sixth on the 2019 World Happiness Report. Amsterdam is one of the happiest places in Holland due to its liberal way of life, quaint aesthetics and a chance to explore the entire city on two wheels (bicycle) — what’s not to like?
