If you're thinking about moving, this list may help you narrow down your options or finalize your decision.
The Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), which is a United Nations initiative, has released the World Happiness Report for the year 2013 -- this list ranks the happiest countries around the globe.
Most of the nations in which ranked high on this list are reportedly from Scandinavia, which makes us wonder: what is it about these countries that make them the "happiest" places on earth?
The nations which topped the list "have a robust combination of higher life expectancy, gross domestic product per capita, social support, generosity, freedom to make life choices and lower perceptions of corruption," CNN explained. "By analyzing happiness data, officials hope to improve the world's social, economic and environmental well-being."
With that, here are the top ten happiest countries in the world:
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Denmark
It's been speculated that the Danish "hygge" aspect may have a lot to do with their country being among the happiest. This term stands for a sense of community, intimacy, and contentment usually felt with family and friends. Visit the Tivoli Gardens or the Rosenberg Castle in Copenhagen when in town.
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Norway
Perhaps fjords have magical happiness-inducing qualities. Or maybe it's the country's economy, security, good work life balance, and clean air and water could be the culprits. To know for sure, check out the Dovrefjell National Park or dine at one of the Michelin-star restaurants in Oslo.
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Switzerland
The Swiss are said to enjoy the best health rankings in the world. Safety, environment, and community are at excellent levels, as well. Aside from these, there are many scenic, breathtaking natural attractions here that makes this country a viable holiday destination.
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Netherlands
Tulips - come here for the tulips. Perhaps these iconic Dutch flower can tell you the secret to happiness, seeing that it thrives in a country considered among the happiest in the world. Spring season is great for admiring the various types of tulips blooming in this country.
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Sweden
Paddle through a marine national park or check out the Gamla Stan in Stockholm to get a taste of the nation's medieval past. And maybe learn why the Swedish are some of the happiest citizens in the globe.
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Canada
Get a taste of Canadian happiness by going to Banff National Park or the Haida Gwaii.
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Finland
Don't miss the Northern Lights or the Santa Claus Village (even in summer) so you know exactly what you're missing that the Finnish aren't.
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Austria
Music soothes the senses and calms the soul - so why not go to the Golden Hall at Musikverein in Vienna?
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Iceland
Check out the Blue Lagoon or visit an active volcano when you're here. Adventure has a way of putting a smile on our faces.
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Australia
This is probably the only country with a climate not as freezing as those of the rest of this top ten list. It's easy to see why the Land Down Under a happy place - it's teeming with exotic wildlife and natural wonders, plus a viable economic situation.
Have you been to any of these countries? Which ones do you think deserve to be on this list?
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