Take Me To My Happy Place: 10 Travel Destinations To Make You Smile From Head To Toe
Look, breathe, smile
Happiness is, of course, a state of mind. But Vitamin D makes us feel better, meaning sunshine is important to our wellbeing. And tranquil spaces to make us calm and clear-headed are also going to be better for mind, body and soul. So with that in our thoughts, head to one of these travel destinations - you'll feel happier almost immediately.
Valparaiso Chile
The colourful town of Valparaiso, Chile cannot be missed. The sea on one side, brightly painted houses on the other and a thriving art scene - it's sure to put a smile on the face of even the most surly.
Photo courtesy of Lejza / Flickr
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Head to Port Opua, in the Bay of Islands and charter yourself a wee boat. Drifting among the 140 sub-tropical islands in the area, you're bound to feel calmer and calmer by the second.
Pacific Rim Highway, Canada
It is a truth, universally acknowledged, that Canadians are basically the nicest people ever. So in troubling times, why wouldn't you want to surround yourself with people like that? Take a drive down the Pacific Rim Highway in British Columbia, taking in Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Cameron Lake and Kennedy river, for some epic Instagramming.
Wayanad, Kerala, India
Kerala is one of India's most delightful states. Frantic still, in certain parts of Cochin, but less so than any of India's bigger metropolises. And there are so many secret delights to be discovered by the slightly wiser traveller, such as The Tranquil Resort, in Wayanad, a 400 acre coffee and spices plantation in the rain forest. Go for long walks through the grounds and stay in the tree villa for maximum delight.
Beachy Head, UK
Some think of the UK's biggest chalk cliff as a rather melancholy landmark, but we think it's one of the most beautiful sights that Britain has to offer. Nestled in East Sussex, on a bright Spring day, the cliffs glow brilliantly and so a walk with a friend is sure to lift your mood.
Fjärdlång, Sweden
As we've been told a thousand times, Sweden has one of the happiest populations in the world. So, head over to watch the sunset at Fjärdlång and soak up some of their good vibes.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Some think happiness comes bottled. Some attribute it to fame and fortune. For others , though, it's all about peace of mind. Sort out the internal workings of your brain with a 'wellness programme' at the Kamalaya Resort in Thailand. They've got a course for detoxing and even a course for treating 'stress and burnout.' Come back a happier version of yourself.
Leiden, Netherlands
The Netherlands are also in the top ten for countries with the happiest inhabitants. But forget marijuana cafes and cycles paths in Amsterdam and instead head out to somewhere a little more tranquil, like the pretty village of Leiden.
Tipperary, Ireland
It might not be an obvious choice, but it's a good one, especially if you're saving your pennies this year. Tipperary is something of a rural idyll, with moutains to climb, lakes to look across and the Rock of Cashel to ponder. If it's quiet contemplation you're after, this might not be a bad shout.
Oahu, Hawaii
Sun, sea, sand, wreaths made of flowers, what's not to love. Head to Waikiki beach and in revel in paradise for a week. Happiness incarnate.
Natasha Bird is the Former Executive Editor (Digital) of ELLE.
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