Denmark: the Happiest Country to Live
Every country has its own walking rhythm, it’s own choreographed set of steps that let you get from point A to point B without obstructing traffic, or getting mashed by your fellower. Denmark is not an exception. And every single person visiting Denmark has his own perceptions of that rhythm. It’s important that visitors are able to adjust and cope with the “Culture Shock” or have more insight before visiting it.
In Copenhagen, as you stroll down the streets, you at first sight you can’t figure out why one after another the graceful Danes (because really, as the Paris of Scandinavia, how could they be anything but) are not smiling and laughing much. They must have been happy. And then you come to a sudden screaming realization: they have always taken that happiness for granted.
In 2008, Danmark (as it is written in Danish) was officially voted the “Happiest Place” to live and work. For many years, this small country has ranked in the top 10 for living standards, economic growth and overall quality of life.
The population of Denmark is 5.6 million and growing now when they have open borders with EU. The taxation system is one the highest in the world in order to keep such a high standard of living. You pay close to 40% of your income to the government in order to have “free” access to health care, education and a “safety net” not afforded in most countries. It is a “brand” that many don’t like, but it is a fact of life in Denmark.
So, Denmark is on the top level of living quality. The one who have lived in several other countries, can totally understand the basis of this claim. Denmark has a lot to offer, but in return you have to give a lot back. Not all Danes will agree with the above statement, but most of them have never lived out of Denmark and take many things they have for granted. “The pasture is always greener on the other side“…
