Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: unsplash) Finland stands tall at the top of the World Happiness Report for the seventh year in a row, boasting a remarkable happiness score of 7.8 out of 10 in 2023. Residents praise the nation’s social safety net, which includes universal healthcare, extensive …
Jan Nowatschin
The Ghats: Life and Death Along the Ganges The Ghats: Life and Death Along the Ganges (image credits: unsplash) Varanasi is home to more than 80 ghats lining the banks of the Ganges River, each with its own rituals and history. The most famous, Manikarnika Ghat, is often called the “burning ghat” and sees over …
Finland: Unwavering at the Top Finland: Unwavering at the Top (image credits: unsplash) For the seventh consecutive year, Finland has clinched the title of the world’s happiest country according to the 2024 World Happiness Report. The Finnish score of 7.8 out of 10 is rooted in social trust, generous public services, and a sense of …
Japan: Overtourism Triggers Tighter Restrictions Japan: Overtourism Triggers Tighter Restrictions (image credits: unsplash) Japan has seen unprecedented tourist numbers since reopening post-pandemic, with a record 3.08 million visitors in March 2024 alone, surpassing pre-COVID figures. In response, authorities have implemented strict crowd-control measures in hotspots like Kyoto and Mount Fuji. For instance, Kyoto’s Gion district …
Venice, Italy Venice, Italy (image credits: unsplash) Venice has become a symbol of overtourism, with local residents growing increasingly vocal about their frustrations. In 2024, the city implemented a €5 entry fee for day-trippers to control the massive crowds that often exceed 80,000 people per day in peak season, compared to just 50,000 residents. According …
China China (image credits: unsplash) China has become increasingly cautious about permitting international visitors, especially in the wake of the recent health crises and ongoing global tensions. Since the pandemic, China has maintained some of the world’s strictest entry policies, including mandatory quarantines, health monitoring, and regular surveillance at all points of entry. By 2025, …
Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: unsplash) Finland stands at the top of the World Happiness Report for the seventh consecutive year in 2025, earning a striking score of 7.8 out of 10. Finnish people enjoy a society built on mutual trust, equality, and a reliable government that invests …
Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: unsplash) Finland continues to stand out as the world’s happiest country, scoring a remarkable 7.8 in the latest World Happiness Report. The Finnish people benefit from a comprehensive social safety net that ensures healthcare, education, and welfare for all. There is a profound …
Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: pixabay) Finland has maintained its reputation as the happiest country in the world, according to the 2024 World Happiness Report, with an impressive score of 7.8 out of 10. Finnish society is built on a foundation of strong social support, transparent governance, and …
Switzerland: The Land of Renters Switzerland: The Land of Renters (image credits: unsplash) Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes, but for many, buying a home here is simply out of reach. Around 60% of Swiss people rent instead of owning, and the reason is crystal clear: property prices in cities like Zurich and Geneva …