29 reasons why you visit Costa Rica, the world's happiest country
1. It's the world's happiest country: According to the most recent Happy Planet Index, published last month, which aims to measure human well-being and environmental impact, Costa Rica is the most satisfying place in which to live. It has an HPI score of 44.7, putting it just above Mexico and Colombia. Britain, on the other hand, languishes in 34th.
2. Perhaps because it's got no army: The constitution of this peace-loving nation has forbidden a standing army since 1949 and it is now the home of the United Nations University for Peace.
3. And an impressively high life expectancy: Life expectancy in Costa Rica is an impressive 79 years, higher than all of its Central American neighbours. One region in particular, the Nicoya Peninsula, is known for longevity. Its residents frequently live beyond 100 years of age, with the simple lifestyle - Nicoyans usually make a living farming or on cattle ranches - is said to be responsible.
