In these 10 countries, people are the happiest

We are right in the middle of it

Happiness? How do you measure that? Well, you can. Just like there is a gross national product, you can measure a Gross National Happiness (GNH). How do you do that? No, no, no, not by staring at your shoe collection for ten minutes a day. Just make a sum of life expectancy, social support, freedom, corruption (so little) and generosity. Every year, the United Nations makes a list of the countries where people are the happiest. This year, they also included the happiness level of immigrants, and yes, we proudly sit in sixth place.

A striking detail is that the top ten countries are not the most popular tourist destinations (maybe one has to do with the other; are we happier in countries with less tourism?). A second striking detail is that Finland is at the top. Yes, Finland. That country you thought you wouldn't want to be found dead in. And alive, by the way, neither. But it turns out to be very good for your happiness. Anyway, I present to you the entire top 10, because as with many things, here too: nothing is what it seems.

Well, the top 10, you are of course eagerly waiting for.

At 10

(Yes, we are going from top to bottom. To keep the suspense, you know.)

Australia

Why? Golden beaches, nice weather all year round, a lot of space, and a relaxed lifestyle.

At 9

Sweden

Trendy cities alternating with rugged forests and wild nature. Stockholm is recommended, of course, but also visit Malmö, a cute little town that is so close to Denmark.

At 8

New Zealand

A short flight, but then you have something. The most impressive nature and, the best wines for a pittance. Shall we?

At 7

Canada

Why? High life expectancy, small population, stunning landscape. It seems a bit yawning and snoring to me (can one even shop a bit there?), but I apparently have to go there.

At 6

Us!

Why? They (because it's the opinion of the UN) say we are so nice and laissez-faire. And cycling through the tulip fields seems to do wonders for your happiness.

Op 5

Switzerland

Why? Switzerland was at the top of the list in 2015 but had to move down a few places. The tax climate is of course sublime, the school system is perfect, and you live in a postcard.

At 4

Iceland

Why? Low taxes, free healthcare and education, and then the landscape. For me, it's a bit too rural, but the residents think very differently about that.

At 3

Denmark

Why? Denmark always dances in the top 3 of the countries where people are the happiest. What is it due to? Do you have a moment? High life expectancy, great tax system, good schools, free mentality, Danish design.

At 2

Norway

Why? They are doing well, those Norwegians. They were also declared the most beautiful country and now they are again in second place on this list. Social equality, rich people with money that seems well distributed, and then those fjords. Never been there? Go!

At 1

Finland

Why? Ask our colleague Franska, the chairwoman of the Finnish fan club.

Happy day!

Image: Pinterest