Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: unsplash) Finland stands proudly at the top of the World Happiness Report for 2025, securing its place as the happiest country on Earth. With a happiness score of 7.8, the nation’s strong social support systems play a big role in the well-being of …
Jacqeline Nomora, M.Sc. Biology
Imagine stepping off a plane and feeling the city’s heartbeat right under your feet. Neon lights flicker, aromas swirl from food stalls nearby, and the promise of adventure is just a train ride away. But then—bam—you’re lost in a maze of confusing signs, missed buses, and crowds that sweep you in the wrong direction. There’s …
Picture this: you’re sipping coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, the air smells like blooming jasmine, and the only thing you hear is a distant church bell or maybe the soft crash of ocean waves. For so many, retirement isn’t just about slowing down—it’s about chasing peace, beauty, and maybe a little adventure in a place …
Portugal: Sunshine Paradise of Europe Portugal: Sunshine Paradise of Europe (image credits: wikimedia) Portugal stands out as a sunshine magnet in Europe, especially in the Algarve region, which is famous for its golden beaches and mild winters. The country gets more than 300 days of sunshine each year, offering an average winter temperature of 15°C …
Stepping Into a Dream or a Disaster Stepping Into a Dream or a Disaster (image credits: unsplash) Imagine unlocking the door to your long-awaited vacation rental. You inhale, expecting the scent of fresh linens—but get a whiff of mildew instead. The photos promised sunlight and city views; reality delivers flickering lights and peeling paint. More …
Can you imagine a place where your kids grow up laughing under endless blue skies, making friends from all over the world, and learning lessons that go far beyond the classroom? The world is full of places that feel almost made for families—where playgrounds come alive, streets feel safe, and childhood feels a little more …
Picture yourself watching the morning mist swirl over a turquoise lake, the only sound a distant bird call and your own heartbeat slowing down. Maybe you’re barefoot on a warm beach, feeling the cool rush of the tide, or lost in a fragrant garden where every breath feels like a reset button. Travelers everywhere are …
Ignoring Local Customs and Traditions Ignoring Local Customs and Traditions (image credits: wikimedia) It’s easy to forget that you’re a guest when traveling, but ignoring local customs is one of the biggest sources of resentment for residents. Over 60% of locals in popular tourist destinations said they felt disrespected when visitors disregarded their cultural norms, …
Bhutan: The Pursuit of Happiness Over Tourism Bhutan: The Pursuit of Happiness Over Tourism (image credits: unsplash) Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan has always stood out for its unique approach to tourism. Rather than chasing record visitor numbers, Bhutan chooses to prioritize the happiness and well-being of its own people. The government enforces a “High …
The Global Travel Boom: A Double-Edged Sword The Global Travel Boom: A Double-Edged Sword (image credits: wikimedia) It’s hard to believe, but international travel has surged back to almost pre-pandemic levels. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, 2022 saw a staggering 60% jump in global tourist arrivals compared to the year before. The …