Today marks International Day of Happiness!
The World Happiness Report was released today, and the latest ranking of the happiest countries in the world has been revealed. Lucky for us Irish we feature in the top 15!
That's excellent news for us, considering the report ranks 155 countries by their happiness levels.
We've come up with a reason as to why the top 15 are as smiley as they are. Take a look!
15. Ireland
Lets be honest, if us Irish were any more laid back we'd be horizontal. People flock to Ireland to sample our 'craic' and scenery and of course the Guinness. Judging by the large number of tourists that were in our country for Paddy's weekend, it's no wonder that we're one of the merriest!
A post shared by Andrea Fichera (@rio_fitz) on
14. United States
We can imagine that the United States are one of the happiest countries due to the food. Oh the food. From doughnuts and milkshakes to burgers and fries - the food is unreal. Even if it does make us feel guilty when we eat too much of it.
A post shared by Amandine Henry (@henry_amandine6) on
13. Austria
It would be hard not to be happy when there is snow everywhere. It's no wonder the Alps are such a popular holiday destination.
A post shared by Ski Weekends (@skiweekends) on
12. Costa Rica
This place may not have got the top spot for happiness, but it certainly does get the award for most chilled. Many know it as the country that has beaches and has a protected jungle which makes up a quarter of the country. As well as this it's one of the most visited international destinations. It's so peaceful, it hasn't had an army since the year 1949.
A post shared by Michal Kopřiva (@mortigam) on
11. Israel
According to reports, Israel has the 14th longest life expectancy in any country on Earth. They also have a really healthy diet. In addition to this, for 8 months of the year, their skies are blue and have very hot temperatures.
A post shared by D M I T R Y (@dmitrymillion) on
10. Sweden
Sweden made headlines over the past couple of years due to their introduction of the 'six hour working day.' Something we can only dream of being brought in here in Ireland. It's all about that work life balance.
9. Australia
Despite the wild snakes and giant spiders, Australia is in the top 10. Can't argue this, as it is home to stunning beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and not to forget the fact that there's tons of Irish people over there bringing their craic!
First scuba diving lessons ✔ï¸ðŸ #stillcantgetenough
A post shared by Lara_Debra (@lara_debra) on
8. New Zealand
Their capital shares the same name as a festival shoe. (Wellington FYI) But all jokes aside, Auckland is one of the most affordable cities to live in, meaning those who live there aren't too worried about rent. Plus, there's no land snakes. Phew! Also, it is extremely picturesque.
A post shared by Max Rive (@maxrivephotography) on
7. Canada
Canadians are well known for being friendly and sound people. It would be hard not to be jolly if those surrounding you were constantly upbeat. Happiness sure is contagious!
A post shared by Megumi Arakaki (@nature_destinations_) on
6. Netherlands
It's no surprise that the Netherlands made the top 10. Situated in the north west of Europe and it's is known for a flat landscape of canals, tulip fields and cycling routes. The scenes!
A post shared by M a r i n a M i s k o v i c🎈 (@architecture.addict) on
5. Finland
Home to Lapland where your Christmas dreams come true. If you're ever lucky enough to travel here, you're in for such a treat. Hey Santa!
A post shared by art_nature_adventure (@art_nature_adventure) on
4. Switzerland
Famous for their chocolate. Enough said.
A post shared by ðŸ‡ãƒ»ðŸ‡ªãƒ»ðŸ‡·ãƒ»ðŸ‡±ãƒ»ðŸ‡®ãƒ» 🇳・🇦 (@kusumaherlina) on
3. Iceland
In third place, Iceland is one of the happiest places on the planet. Anyone who lives in these beautiful surroundings would find it hard to be unhappy. Just look at The Blue Lagoon. It's a gigantic geothermal spa that's located in a lava field in Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The warmth is cheery enough in itself.
A post shared by Sbarta Maria kosan (@sbaarta94) on
2. Denmark
Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish word that is used for acknowledging a moment or a feeling. Whether that be alone or with your best friends, at home or out. It essentially means enjoying the good things in life with good people. The Danes prioritise this, and that is why they're so happy. We love it.
A post shared by ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ D A I G A 💋 (@daigadaiga) on
1. Norway
The Northern Lights would be enough to keep us happy. Experiencing those stunning colours move across the Arctic Sky is on many traveller's bucket lists. *Books flights immediately.*
A post shared by Timo Oksanen (@timoksanen) on
