joyfulFinland retains top spot as world's happiest nation; explore the wonders of this Nordic paradise
Finland, the happiest country in the world for the past eight years, offers a unique blend of societal trust, welfare, economic security, environmental beauty, and cultural strengths that contribute to its residents' well-being.
The UN World Happiness Report, released annually in March, ranks countries based on factors such as access to nature, strong social support, and the philosophy of 'sisu' (grit, determination, or resilience). Finland consistently tops the list due to these key elements.
Trust and low corruption are fundamental aspects of Finnish society. Finns have exceptional trust in their government, public institutions, and each other, with low corruption and crime rates, which strengthens social cohesion and reduces anxiety.
Finland's comprehensive social welfare system is another significant factor. The country offers universal healthcare, excellent education, unemployment support, and generous parental leave, helping reduce stress and promote personal growth.
The Finnish Working Time Act limits work hours and emphasises annual leave, encouraging time with family and nature, improving mental health. This focus on work-life balance contributes to Finland's high quality of life.
Economic stability and equality also play a crucial role. Finland enjoys a high average salary and relatively small income inequality, contributing to safety, stability, and overall happiness.
Connection to nature is another essential aspect of Finnish life. The country's extensive forests, numerous lakes, and natural phenomena like the aurora borealis provide a serene environment that supports relaxation and mental well-being.
The Finnish mindset of sisu—a combination of resilience, determination, and stoicism—helps individuals cope with adversity quietly and purposefully. This cultural resilience underpins Finland's top spot in happiness rankings year after year.
Exploring Finland's innovative hospitality industry, you'll find design-led hotels like the Panorama Landscape Hotel in Tahko, eastern Finland. The hotel's spa, Lähde Forest Spa, boasts three saunas, five hot and cold pools, and views over Lake Syväri.
In Helsinki, Solo Sokos Pier 4, constructed entirely from timber and situated within the city's harbour's Katajanokan Laituri, offers a soothing ambience with a pine scent and views of the Finnish seascape.
The Sara Hildén Art Museum, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Näsijärvi, houses more than 5,000 works, including pieces by Joan Miró, Francis Bacon, Paul Klee, and Alberto Giacometti.
For those seeking a taste of Finnish gastronomic craftsmanship, Finlandia Hall Bistro, which recently opened in Helsinki, offers dining in surroundings that pay tribute to Finnish modernist icon Alvar Aalto. The food emphasises local ingredients and flavours.
Finally, Jackie, a bar in Helsinki, offers a design inspired by the 1960s and 1970s. Jackie bar features pizza until 11pm and serves drinks until 3am on weekends with DJs playing vintage-inspired music.
Whether you're seeking culture, nature, or innovative hospitality, Finland offers a unique and unforgettable experience that contributes to its status as the happiest country in the world.
[1] UN World Happiness Report 2021 [2] World Economic Forum [3] OECD Better Life Index [4] World Bank [5] Gallup World Poll
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts would find tranquility within the heart of Helsinki, as Solo Sokos Pier 4, built entirely from timber and evidently designed with nature in mind, offers a serene ambience on the city's harbourside.
- For lifestyle enthusiasts, a travel adventure to Finland might involve unwinding at design-led hotels like the Panorama Landscape Hotel in Tahko, experiencing Finnish culture immersed in natural beauty, sauna relaxation, local cuisine, and a recreational environment unique to the country's happiness-topping ranking.
