“Smile at the world and the whole world smiles at you”
This is an age old saying that certainly rings true for these top 7 happy holiday destinations. If you’re looking for something to beat those winter blues, a trip to one the happiest places in the world is sure to have you grinning from ear to ear.
Shake off those dreary winter dismals and start dreaming of one (or all) of these happy holiday destinations …
1. Costa Rica
Thanks to a number of factors, including human well-being and environmental impact, Costa Rica has been repeatedly voted as the happiest place to live. We have to add, it’s also one of the happiest places to holiday!
There is an abundance of natural beauty, stunning beaches and even a live volcano. This combined with the Costa Rican ‘pura vida’ appreciation of life, makes the country a blissful place to visit. The warm friendly nature of the locals and the glorious weather conditions are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
2. Andorra
There’s nothing quite like a healthy dose of fresh air, some outdoorsy fun and fresh organic food to put the roses back in your cheeks and a big old grin on your face. In Andorra, a tiny principality located in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, you can get all this and more.
In winter, holidaymakers can blow away the cobwebs as they don a pair of skis and take to the slopes. Alternatively in summer, climb in to the hills armed with a picnic in search of wild flowers. For the thrill seekers among us, why not hire a bike for an afternoon for some off-road cycling.
Dinner will only be even more delicious after you’ve worked up an appetite. Once you’ve eaten, you’ll fall into bed to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. We can’t think of a more satisfying place to visit!
3. Bhutan
If its piece of mind you’re after then Bhutan is the place to soothe your soul. This Buddhist country is serenity incarnate. Bhutan has remained steadfastly isolated from globalization and has only recently begun to open itself up to the western world. As a consequence, a strong focus on family life, ancient traditions and customs still rule the day here. This makes life in Bhutan wonderfully simple.
Clear your mind with a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest. Nestled high in the hills the Monastery is not only a sacred cultural icon but also a true architectural feat. Visit the cave where the Guru Rinpoche meditated for 3 years, 3 months, 3 days and began the nationwide conversion of the Bhutanese to Buddhism.
4. Belize
Planning a disappearing act? Belize is one of the most perfect places on the planet to forget about the rest of the world. Once a pirate’s playground, this little country and its surrounding cayes and islands is a tropical destination lifted straight out of a Treasure Island novel. Marvel at its azure waters, white sand coastline and tropical jungle complete with Mayan ruins.
Belize has never been bothered by political turmoil, its simply far too laid back to bother. Instead it is home to a cheerful mix of ethnicities. This makes it a relatively young nation which is culturally rich and the towns a colourful combination of traditional dress, dishes and customs.
5. Vietnam
This eastern paradise actually tops ‘The Land of Smiles’ Thailand for the happiest place in Asia. Quietly resilient and flourishing year on year, Vietnam is home to a highly satisfied population.
With its stunning beaches perfect for relaxing, booming cities brimming with excitement, and a national cuisine to die for, it’s no wonder both locals and holidaymakers are so in love with this country.
For an experience that will have you grinning from ear to ear, take a cruise along Halong Bay. Admire the breath-taking wonders of the 3000 limestone islands that rise up out of the glittering emerald waters.
6. Denmark
Home to the ‘Happy Capital’ Copenhagen, this Scandinavian country is renowned for being one of the best natured places to visit in the world. Tourists will soon be infected by the Danes joie de vivre and laidback lifestyle which makes almost anything enjoyable.
One of the most noticeable feelings both Danes and visitors enjoy is one of freedom. You can get anywhere by bike. Everything is accessible and hardly anywhere has a dress code, not even in the Christianborg Copenhagen’s parliament building!
7. Vanuatu
In Vanuatu it’s the strong community spirit that makes this South Pacific island such a delight to visit. Extended families regularly gather for all sorts of celebrations, in fact sometimes the reason is simply to get together. Besides a warm welcome you’re also certainly guaranteed knees up.
Once you’ve experienced the unrivalled hospitality, head off to explore the islands natural wonders and marvel at its stunning natural beauty. Everything is bright and fresh and sure to send you home with a new lease of life.
Feeling warm and fuzzy inside? Let us know if you’re planning to jet set to one of these holiday destinations, or if you have any recommendations for other happy places to add to our list! Simply leave a comment below, we love to hear from you.
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Written by Jessica Langlands from Economy Car Hire
