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3.21.2008

Another Reason Why I'm Going to Vienna

England's University of Leicester has released a study on the top 10 happiest countries on the planet. It's highly subjective, of course, but it makes sense to me.





Austria came in at #3.
Population: 8.2 million
Life Expectancy: 79 years
GDP Per Capita: $32,700
"Another Alpine hotbed of happiness, Austria also boasts beautiful scenery and a surprisingly rich cultural scene. Like many of the world's happiest countries, it boasts a strong health-care system, as evidenced by the long average life expectancy of its citizens. Strict environmental regulations are starting to pay dividends," says Oskar Hinteregger, of the Austrian National Tourist Office. He credits the country's happy mood to its relaxed atmosphere, efficient public transport system, and general cleanliness. Austria does have some poverty, though: nearly 6%.
  1. Denmark
  2. Switzerland
  3. Austria
  4. Iceland
  5. Bahamas
  6. Finland
  7. Sweden
  8. Bhutan
  9. Brunei
  10. Canada
The United States came in at #23.
"The frustrations of modern life, and the anxieties of the age, seem to be much less significant compared to the health, financial, and educational needs in other parts of the world."

5 comments :

  1. I'm surprised the U.S. even made 23rd place. I expected it to rank lower.

    I completely understand about the idea of living in the wrong place. I truly believe that's been my main problem all along: this area is so at odds with my values and my interests. That will change, hopefully, in a few more years when I can move to the place I believe fits me best: Portland, Oregon.

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  2. Yep, I am also surprised that the United States came in so high. Right now my area has the highest unemployment rate in the country and it doesn�t look like things are getting any better. Your post really got me thinking about where I would like to call home. I would say Newfoundland, except I don�t like the idea of not being able to drive at night.

    I really like what you have done here with your blog Steph. I think that the grey background makes for much easier reading. Well done!

    Outis

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  3. Thanks so much. It's appreciated!

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  4. Oh Steph, the old Europe is good for holidays. Good art, good food... But if you knew the number of problems that are in Europe... Europe is like an old tortoise that takes decisions sloooooowly.
    If you want to start in Europe with Spain, I change you the house and the country. I live in front of the Mediterranean: beach, sun, castles...LOL

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  5. Who in the world is talking about the "surprisingly rich cultural scene" here? *rofl*

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