March 16, 2017Read time - 3 minutesHappiness – all important and all too often elusive, it plays such a crucial role in our mental and physical wellbeing. But where holds the secret to true happiness? We’re spilling the beans on some of the happiest places on Earth and what you might get from visiting these cheerful countries.Happiest Places to VisitCosta RicaCosta Rica landscapeCosta Rica is Number 1 on the Happy Planet Index. Life expectancy is high, the surroundings remain staggeringly beautiful because of the forward-thinking approach to environmentalism, and it is one of the few countries in the world with no armed forces. It doesn’t get happier than this, folks.Take me there: Costa Rica HolidaysIcelandIceland waterfallAs well as being Number 1 on the global peace index, even an economic recession couldn’t keep Iceland out of the top 10 happiest countries in the world! It’s not hard to see why, with glaciers and hot springs covering the place!Take me there: Iceland HolidaysNew ZealandNew Zealand mountain viewFew countries on Earth can offer the kind of diverse and striking natural beauty that New Zealand does. Low levels of pollution and high levels of biodiversity combine with low levels of inequality and long life expectancies to create the perfect conditions for happiness.Take me there: New Zealand HolidaysNorwayTrolltungaThe highest-ranking European nation on the Happy Planet Index, Norway is a wildly beautiful land of mountains and fjords. Free education, healthcare, pensions and short working hours all contribute to a comfortable, happy population!Take me there: Norway HolidaysVietnamBackwatersFifth on the Happy Plane Index and second in all of Asia, Vietnam is a remarkable country, not just because of its well-being, poverty reduction or life expectancy scores, but due to the absolutely staggeringly low ecological footprint. It’s a beautiful place to boot!Take me there: Vietnam HolidaysSwedenCross-country skiing in SwedenSweden consistently appears near the top of the happiness report. Quality of life is high (along with consumption of coffee) and the environment is well protected – just one look at the serene arctic beauty of the far north will tell you all you need to know.Take me there: Sweden HolidaysAustraliaGreat Barrier ReefThough its environmental record leaves much to be desired, Australiais among the world’s best when it comes to happiness. It boasts so much natural wonder to take in, as well as the best BBQs in the world!CanadaWhales in CanadaA peaceful land of towering forests and mountains inhabited by astonishing wildlife, Canada has a reputation worldwide for its happy and polite citizens. And who can blame them when they live in a place with national parks like this?Take me there: Canada HolidaysFinlandDogsledding in FinlandLow population, immense wildernesses and inundation of hot tubs – Finland’s appearance on this list speaks for itself! For the optimal experience head to Basecamp Oulanka, an ecologically friendly resort and a hub for Finnish adventure.Take me there: Finland HolidaysSwitzerlandSwiss mountainsNumber 1 for well-being, Switzerland is a mountainous paradise. When you look at the local delicacies - huge gooey fondues and world-famous chocolate - it's no surprise this Alpine paradise ranks as highly as it does.Take me there: Switzerland HolidaysIf you'd like to visit one of the happiest places on earth, take a look at our holidays below.
Costa Rica Adventure 2 reviews Natural highlights of Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific Coast Culture Activity level: Leisurely / Moderate Ages: 16+ 15 Days from $4,579 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Trails of New Zealand 21 reviews An active adventure exploring the Land of the Long White Cloud Culture Activity level: Moderate Ages: 18+ 18 Days from $8,979 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Iceland Explorer 4 reviews Discover Iceland's star attractions and wild side with vast glaciers, picturesque fjords and rugged coastline. Culture Activity level: Leisurely / Moderate Ages: 16+ 10 Days from $4,649 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Walking the Fjords 21 reviews Hike in the heart of Norway's unique fjord landscape Walking & Trekking Activity level: Moderate Ages: 16+ 8 Days from $4,399 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Highlights of Vietnam 12 reviews Rural and cultural highlights of Vietnam Culture Activity level: Leisurely / Moderate Ages: 16+ 10 Days from $2,079 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Canadian Family Discovery 1 review The perfect family outdoor adventure set within the most amazing scenery that Canada has to offer. Family Activity level: Moderate Ages: 9+ 12 Days from $3,449 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details
Finnish Wilderness Week 159 reviews Mixed activity week in a remote part of Finland Winter Activity level: Moderate Ages: 16+ 8 Days from $3,199 USD Guided (Incl. Taxes) View More Details