The Happiest Places on Earth to Travel (and Learn) With Evolve

When you travel with Evolve Tours, you’re not just crossing borders — you’re exploring what makes people thrive. Around the world, happiness isn’t measured by wealth or status, but by community, balance, and connection to the planet.

The World Happiness Index looks at how people feel about their lives — measuring health, social support, generosity, and freedom. But what if we took those ideas off the page and experienced them firsthand?
Here are five of the world’s happiest destinations — and why traveling there with Evolve might just shift how you see the world (and yourself).

Costa Rica: Pura Vida in Action

Costa Rica doesn’t just top the charts for happiness — it lives it. Here, “Pura Vida” isn’t just a phrase; it’s a lifestyle that celebrates gratitude, simplicity, and connection.

In this Central American paradise, students hike through cloud forests, learn about cacao and coffee production from local farmers, and study biodiversity in one of the world’s most sustainable countries. Costa Rica runs on over 98% renewable energy, has no standing army, and invests heavily in education and conservation.

You can feel that spirit everywhere — in the smiles of the farmers, the laughter echoing from the hot springs, and the calm of a sunrise over Arenal Volcano.

Happiness takeaway: Joy thrives where nature and community come first.

Denmark: The Art of Balance

Denmark’s secret to happiness? Balance.
From cycling to work to embracing hygge — that cozy, content feeling of being right where you’re meant to be — the Danes have mastered a lifestyle that blends work, play, and purpose.

When students explore Copenhagen with Evolve, they see it in action: locals chatting in candle-lit cafés, city streets lined with bikes instead of cars, and young people who care deeply about equality and environmental design.

Happiness takeaway: A good life is one lived simply, together.

Japan: Mindfulness in Motion

Japan’s happiness comes from something deeply rooted — a cultural respect for mindfulness, precision, and purpose. Whether you’re tasting matcha in Kyoto, soaking in an onsen in Hakone, or visiting a mountain temple, there’s a rhythm here that feels almost meditative.

Evolve’s Japan programs immerse students in that balance between ancient tradition and modern innovation — from robotics workshops in Tokyo to sushi-making and forest walks with local artisans.

Happiness takeaway: Harmony between tradition and progress creates peace.

Switzerland: Clean Air, Clear Minds

Snow-capped peaks, mirror-like lakes, and punctual trains — Switzerland is as serene as it is stunning. But its happiness comes from something deeper: trust.

Swiss citizens have one of the highest levels of trust in their government and communities in the world. Their focus on neutrality, fairness, and environmental care has built a culture where people genuinely feel safe and respected.

With Evolve, students hike through the Alps, visit local farms, and explore how sustainability is woven into daily life.

Happiness takeaway: Stability, fairness, and clean air go hand in hand.

Australia: The Open-Air Classroom

There’s something contagious about Australia’s laid-back energy. Maybe it’s the ocean breeze, maybe it’s the sunshine — or maybe it’s that Aussies really do make time for what matters: friends, family, and the outdoors.

When students travel with Evolve down under, they discover that happiness can be loud and full of laughter — surfing, hiking, and connecting with local Indigenous guides who share stories thousands of years old.

Happiness takeaway: Freedom and connection to nature make life feel limitless.

The Evolve Perspective

What these countries have in common isn’t luck — it’s intention. Each of them values education, equity, sustainability, and kindness. And those are the same values that shape every Evolve Tour.

Because happiness isn’t found in things — it’s found in people, places, and the moments in between.

Evolve Tours: People. Places. Environment. Tours.
Travel that moves you — and makes you smile.

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