Every year the The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network publishes the annual World Happiness Report. The report ranks every country in the world based on life satisfaction and how happy it perceives itself to be. Other factors such as income, life expectancy, freedoms, and trust in the government are also considered. 

Finland took the top spot as the world’s happiest country in 2022, making it the fifth year running it has held the title. Other Scandinavian and European countries dominate the top ten rankings year after year, including Denmark, Iceland, and Switzerland. But what is it about the way these countries operate that sees them topping the happiness charts? 

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Finland: finding light in the darkness 

For many of us, plenty of sunshine and warm weather keeps our happiness meters topped up. In Finland, sunshine is in short supply. Summers are bright, but they’re also short and not always very warm, given the country’s northerly latitude. What’s more, its winters are exceptionally long, cold and dark. In fact, Finland sees around 200 days out of the calendar when it’s blanketed in snow. So, when it comes to keeping its citizens happy, it’s unlikely to be the weather. What else is going on? 

The power of pulling together

A communal belief in the same idealogical concepts is key to Finland’s status as the world’s happiest country. One of these concepts is sisu. It’s all about inner strength and grit, and persevering in the face of adversity. Instead of waiting for the perfect day, Finns make the effort seize the present moment, even if it’s ice cold outside. They also live by the concept of talkoo, which means to work together for the benefit of everyone. It’s all about cooperating and lifting everyone up equally. 

A wealth of natural resources

Research has found that spending just 30 minutes in nature reduces depression and high blood pressure. And the Finns’ are living proof that exposure to nature makes us happier. Finland has the highest proportion of forested land area in Europe – covering 75% of the country. What’s more, the public has a legal right, known as “Everyman’s Right” to wander in natural areas like forests, rivers, meadows and lakes. You don’t have to get permission from landowners, as long as don’t damage or disturb the area. Whether you want to forage for wild berries, kayak down a river, or camp in a lush field, you’re free to enjoy life all over the country. This unrestricted access to nature is a principal reason Finland is ranked as the world’s happiest country. 

The luxury of time  

Above all, Finland may be the world’s happiest country thanks to their high quality standard of living and strong social policies, such as universal healthcare, affordable childcare, free education, plenty of paid vacation time, and a strong sense of civic responsibility and trust in community and government. It’s not surprising to see that a support network, paid holidays, a comfortable lifestyle, and strong community values leads to happiness. Finland teaches us that having ample time to spend how you wish – whether with friends and family or pursuing meaningful pastimes – is the most valuable luxury on earth. 

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The other runners up

Denmark

Denmark was ranked the second-happiest country in the world in the 2022 World Happiness Report. Similar to Finland, the Danes have created a society that lends itself to contentment and life satisfaction. With strong public policies such as extensive social welfare and world-class and free healthcare and education. Citizens also enjoy a healthy work-life balance, a high sense of autonomy and freedom, income equality and low corruption. It’s clear that socioeconomic factors play a huge part in the happiness of a country’s population. 

The Danish concept of hygge has also taken the world by storm when it comes to finding the secret to happiness. Hygge has no English translation, but it generally means taking time out to enjoy the small things that give you that warm feeling of contentment. It can be hyggeligt to enjoy a warm cup of coffee or snuggle up with a good book or TV show. It can also be hyggeligt to play games with your friends by the fire or take a stroll through nature. In essence, the Danish secret to happiness is enjoying the little luxuries in life with the people you love.

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Iceland

In 2022, Iceland ranked third on the World Happiness Report. The reason may lie in the social cohesion of the country. With a population of 350,000, Iceland is small – but very connected. Icelanders report low levels of loneliness, a stark contrast to many countries struggling with a loneliness epidemic. The majority of the population lives within an hour of the capital Reykjavik so they’re never far away from friends and family. The sense of community extends to immigrants as well, with foreigners reporting the same levels of happiness as people born in Iceland.

While the harsh climate may seem unconducive to happiness, it’s a building block for contentment in Iceland. To survive in such an extreme landscape, Icelanders had to rely on each other, forging a resilience and sense of duty for others that is maintained to this day.

Iceland is also a peace-loving nation, having never formed an army. There is a great sense of trust in society and high autonomy and freedom. Children can roam freely and safely without supervision and citizens enjoy world-class education, healthcare, and progressive social policies.

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Iceland since 2010 and the country has the world’s smallest gender pay gap as it’s illegal to pay women less than men for the same job. Men have the same right to parental leave as women, meaning families are free to choose how they share childcare and working responsibilities.

Overall, Icelandic people are more tolerant and open-minded when it comes to forging different paths in life, making for a very happy environment. 

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We’ve experienced a few scenic drives in our time – but there are few places that do it like Ireland. The Emerald Isle takes the humble country drive to the next level. Here, roads weave sinuously through the landscape, passing soaring mountains, windswept beaches, green pastures, and pretty villages. From the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula, we look at two of the most divine drives you’ll experience on our Ultimate Ireland tour. 

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The Ring of Kerry Scenic Drive

Set on the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry scenic drive is one of Ireland’s finest.. In one 193-kilometre loop, you’ll see the best this stunning country, from charming villages and ancient castles, to rolling green hills and rugged coastline. You’ll experience it all on Day 8 of our Ultimate Ireland tour, as we journey from Killarney around the Ring of Kerry. 

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Killarney

We’ll start in the Killarney National Park, famed for its 10,000 acres of mountains, woodlands, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife. There’s also the nearby Ross Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane. Explore the ancient castle while learning about the ancestral home of the Chiefs of the Clan O’Donoghue. Or enjoy a traditional jaunting cart ride through the stunning scenery. 

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Kenmare

We’ll also stop in the picturesque town of Kenmare. Here, you can admire the colourful facades and streets before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the historic Park Hotel. You’ll enjoy fresh, local flavors all with a backdrop of lush gardens stretching to the shores of Kenmare Bay. 

Gap of Dunloe

As we continue our scenic drive, you’ll lock eyes with the MacGillycuddy Reeks. It’s the highest mountain range in Ireland, home to some of the most impressive views in the country. You also can’t miss the Gap of Dunloe, the iconic mountain pass that encapsulates Ireland’s wild beauty. 

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The Dunloe

We’ll end our drive by heading back to our nearby hotel, The Dunloe. This is the most luxurious place stay on the edge of the Ring of Kerry. This sublime hotel is set on a spectacular 64-acre estate with emerald forest and the ruins of a 12th-century castle. A relaxing spa, gorgeous views, and locally-sourced delicacies like Kerry lamb and wild Atlantic fish. The Dunloe is the icing on an unforgettable day.

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Dingle Peninsula Scenic Drive

The Dingle Peninsula Scenic Drive is shorter than its famous Ring of Kerry counterpart. But it’s equally spectacular. This 47-kilometre loop encompasses towering mountains, patchworks of green pastures, traditional villages, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Experience it on Day 9 of our Ultimate Ireland tour, as we journey from Killarney around the Dingle Peninsula and onwards to Adare and Limerick.

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Wild Atlantic Way

We’ll start our adventure by taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way. Marvel at the waves crashing on the sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. On a sunny day, the ocean shines a bright shade of turquoise, while cloudy days contrast beautifully with the emerald mountains and pastures, creating dramatic scenery. You can’t miss setting eyes on Mount Brandon, the second-tallest mountain in Ireland towering almost one kilometre high.

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Dingle

There are only a few tiny towns here, but around 500,000 sheep call the peninsula home. We’ll make stops in some of the whimsical towns like Dingle, loved for its historic streets and colourful buildings. For lunch, make a stop in one of the traditional pubs, for fresh fish and chips and Guinness – quintessential Ireland.

The winding roads and ancient ruins of the Dingle Peninsula are so beautiful they’ve become film stars. You might recognise them from films such as “Ryan’s Daughter” and “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi”.

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Adare

After enjoying the divine Dingle Peninsula, we’ll continue our scenic drive to Adare. This quaint village is heritage listed and famed as the prettiest village in Ireland. Admire the charming thatched-roof cottages and explore historic castles and abbeys before continuing on to legendary Limerick, where you’ll see highlights such as St. Mary’s Cathedral and Limerick’s Treaty Stone.

After conquering two of the most dazzling Irish drives in two days, you’ll be left with unforgettable memories, stories and photos of one of the most heavenly regions on earth.

You may have had a Michelin-starred meal – but have you had one in the sky? Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific is taking luxury gourmet dining to new heights by delivering Michelin star dining on flights out of Hong Kong. 

A Michelin star home base

Cathay Pacific’s home city of Hong Kong is one of the hottest culinary spots in the world. It may be a tiny country, but it boasts an impressive array of Michelin star restaurants, with 71 restaurants receiving Michelin stars in 2022 alone. You’ll find a delicious blend of Cantonese and South East Asian flavors from the bustling streets to the tops of skyscrapers. But now Cathay Pacific is turning Michelin star dining all the way up – to 30,000 feet. 

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A gastronomic partnership

Cathay Pacific wanted to create an exquisite gourmet in-flight meal that captures the essence of the Hong Kong culinary scene. They partnered with Michelin star Hong Kong-based restaurant Duddell’s to bring the vision to life. The collaboration produced an exclusive menu of traditional flavors that celebrates Hong Kong’s bubbling culinary scene. Duddell’s is renowned for their stunning Cantonese cuisine and handcrafted dim sums, so excitement is brewing over its newly curated, sky-high menu. 

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How can I experience Michelin star dining in the air?

The Duddell’s x Cathay Pacific menu is now available to First class and Business class passengers on long-haul Cathay Pacific flights departing from Hong Kong to all destinations (excluding Tel Aviv and Dubai). It will be available throughout the year. If you’d like to experience this one-of-a-kind culinary affair, be sure to secure your seats soon.  

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What’s on the Michelin star menu?

Guests will be served three luxurious courses during the flight: appetizer, main and dessert. First Class passengers have a choice of chilled abalone and cucumber with black vinegar, or lettuce-wrapped minced pork with vegetables, sweet pomelo and prawn crackers. For mains, First Class guests make the mouthwatering choice between premium Iberico pork belly in a sweet, sticky soy glaze or wok-fried lobster seasoned in ginger with white pepper sauce and fluffy rice. The meal is topped off with chrysanthemum and longan jelly, a spin on two traditional elements in Chinese medicine. 

Business Class passengers have a tantalizing choice of drunken prawns in aged Huadiao wine or chicken and jellyfish salad with sesame dressing. The main course delivers steamed halibut with cordycep flowers, aged mandarin peel, and preserved black olives, served with a sour rice noodle soup with barramundi and pickled mustard greens. For dessert, guests can indulge in either a Beijing-style strawberry yogurt pudding or a spiced ginger milk pudding, a twist on a classic Cantonese dessert.

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The challenge of Michelin star dining at 30,000 feet

Delivering true Michelin star meals in an aircraft is no easy feat, however Cathay Pacific and Duddell’s rose to the challenge. 

High altitude reduces humidity and air pressure which impedes your sense of smell and tastebud sensitivity. If you’ve ever recoiled at bland airplane food, it’s likely because high altitude impairs your ability to detect flavor. The team worked to overcome this by designing the meals to be slightly spicier, saltier and sweeter than they would be in a restaurant on the ground.  

You can also forget those square aluminum boxes that airline meals often come in. Michelin star meals must be identically plated with no room for error. With more than 40 meals served each flight through the First class and Business class cabins, the crew are well-versed in beautifully arranging the dishes before serving them to passengers.  

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A  meticulous process

Designing and cooking the dishes was another challenge. Since a full-size kitchen is impossible on a plane, Cathay Pacific mostly prepares the dishes in their kitchens near Hong Kong International Airport. They heat the dishes within about 20 minutes on the aircraft.

The ingredients also had to be fresh with broad appeal and represent the best of Hong Kong cuisine and heritage. With plenty of constraints around the meal design, the menus were tested rigorously. The expert team tasted and revised each dish at least three times before being cleared for takeoff. 

With innovative dishes that retain authentic flavors, the Cathay Pacific x Duddell’s partnership has undoubtedly raised the bar for airline fine dining. But does it compare to regular Michelin star dining on the ground? The only way to find out is a First class or Business seat out of Hong Kong. 

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