Moving with a Smile – The Five Happiest Cities in the World to Live in
There is nothing quite like a global pandemic to shake up your lifestyle. Many people are moving as a result of COVID-19 as they cannot bear to look at the same four walls any longer. For some, even more drastic action is required. Much like John Denver, many are leaving on a jet plane and looking overseas for a new abode.
Choosing which country to base yourself in can be challenging, especially in a post-Brexit world. France, Spain and Germany are all popular choices, for a variety of reasons. This is a great time to think outside the box, though. 2020 has been a rough year. Maybe pick your new home based on the happiness of its current citizens?
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the five happiest cities in the world to live in. Personally we would have placed York at #1, but sadly we are not in charge of the World Happiness Report.
Helsinki, Finland
The capital city of Finland has held the title of world’s happiest city for several years now. Clearly it’s doing something right. With a population of almost 650,000, that’s a lot of joy to spread around.
Dubbed, “the land of a thousand lakes”, Helsinki is a great location for anybody that looks the tranquil life. It’s small for a capital city, and the air is always fresh. It’s not a place for sun worshippers, though. Finland has a cool, often wet, climate, especially during winter. Being so close to Lapland will do that for the ambient temperature.
Aarhus, Denmark
Aarhus is the second-largest city in Denmark. It’s not quite as famous as Copenhagen (more on that locale shorty), but it’s considered an even greater place to live. This nation is clearly a magnet for contentment – even the plug sockets in Denmark look happy and jolly.
Aarhus is a hipster’s paradise, packed with fascinating architecture that will appeal to any historian and retro lifestyle options. The city also boasts a hugely reputable university, so it you’re considering studying abroad you could do far worse. Aarhus is also a very small city, so you won’t need to invest in a vehicle to make your way around.
It’s a little more steeped in Danish culture than other cities, so you should probably learn the language – and make sure you pronounced the name of the place correctly. Aarhus is pronounced, “Or-hoose.” Using a hard R will mark you out as an infiltrator to locals in no time.
Wellington, New Zealand
The only non-European city in the Top Five of the happiness survey, Wellington has been making news for a variety of positive reasons recently. New Zealand’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis has been held up as a benchmark of excellence, and the country’s capital is often regarded as a hugely liveable city.
Wellington is praised for balancing the friendliness and easy accessibility of a small town with the resources and excitement of a major city. There’s plenty for residents of all ages to do, and it’s also a hugely eco-friendly city. If you try to live a sustainable or ethical lifestyle, it’s easy to do so in Wellington.
Moving to the city is the biggest stumbling block you’ll face. Your chosen career path will need to fall into the Skilled Migrant Category to ensure you get a worker’s Visa and can remain in New Zealand. If you do, however, you’ll enjoy a famously celebrated quality of life.
Zurich, Switzerland
The largest city in Switzerland is another city that ranks highly in the happiness stakes. Nobody moves to Zurich for a fascinating and exciting range of activities. If you are looking for efficiency, calm, business opportunities and quality of life, though, Zurich is worthy of your consideration.
Zurich is best considered by anybody with a high-powered corporate role. Zurich is a major business hub in Europe, and as a result, many residents enjoy successful and lucrative careers. The surroundings are tranquil and glorious though, which makes the work-life balance easier to achieve. You’ll be able to enjoy beautiful scenery and a welcoming environment when not toiling in the office.
The Swiss healthcare model is considered to be a template that countless other countries should follow, and anybody with political interests will be well catered for – Switzerland welcomes input from civilians on national policies, making it a true democracy. Plus, let’s not forget, the Swiss flag is a big plus (sorry, not sorry.)
Copenhagen, Denmark
We return to Denmark to round out our list with a trip to the capital city. Often considered the greatest city in Scandinavia, Copenhagen is a hugely popular destination with tourists and migrants alike. It’s not hard to see why when you spend any time in the place.
Copenhagen is a major city that is hugely easy to negotiate on foot. There is plenty to see and do, with countless smaller territories located around the vicinity. Whether you’re looking for a night of culture, a trip to the beach or a moment of calm and tranquillity in a green space, Copenhagen has you covered.
Pretty much everybody in Copenhagen speaks English, though attempts at communicating in basic Danish will be appreciated. It may not be the cheapest city in the world to live, but if you can afford to make the most of it, Copenhagen offers a superb quality of life.
Don’t forget that Van Mark York doesn’t just operate within the confines of YO1. If you’re ready to make the transition to a new nation, we can handle your overseas moving requirements. As always, all you need to do is ask.
