UN rates best and worst countries to live in
I couldn’t get into my National Geographic newsletter fast enough this morning. Their headline, UN Rates Best, Worst Countries. I was more curious to see which country they wanted to name as the worst than the best (Iceland).
The study came from a Human Development report 2007/2008 that warned of climate change and the impact of global warming affecting human development. The doom and gloom report summary said quite plainly, “there is now overwhelming scientific evidence that the world is moving towards the point at which irreversible ecological catastrophe becomes unavoidable.” So, taking the hundreds of pages of analyzed statistics into consideration, where can we live (and live the longest at that)?
Unless you want to hunker down by the fire (or start a fire) with this dense report, just go to National Geographic’s photo feature. Ten of the pictures displayed the best places to live while they left the last two pictures to the lowest on the UN’s list. The worst place in the world to live? Sierra Leone.
Discovering the best places to live provides inspiration for travel so that we can get a glimpse of highly ranked quality of life. Here’s the top five:
1. Iceland
2. Norway
3. Australia
4. Canada
5. Ireland
The United States fell to 12th on the list.
— Jen Leo, Los Angeles Times Travel Deal Blogger
[Photo: UNDP]
December 14th, 2007 at 9:03 am
Since when is Scandinavia a country? And how can it be included on a list with Norway which is part of Scandinavia?
December 14th, 2007 at 9:35 am
Indeed Howard, thanks for your note. I believe what Jen was trying to highlight is that Scandinavia, as a region, topped the list, with three nations in the Top 10.
I’ve updated the list above to reflect the countries listed in the UN Human Development Report.
Happy, healthy holidays.
– Andrew
Sr. Editor/Producer, travel.latimes.com
December 14th, 2007 at 11:21 am
I love apples to oranges comparisons. IE Iceland, a country of 300,000 (about the size of Bakersfield) with essentially free energy from geo/hydro power, and situated on one of the richest fisheries in the world surprise comes out on top. Huge natural resources + low population = “human development”
March 17th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Five best countries? Think twice! The four “Northern” countries all come high world-record taxation. Its people are not really friendly, and actually rather haughty. Living aside the cold(est) weather, they all have rather tedious societies.
Australia at least is sunny, its people friendly. However with nearly 30% income/corporate taxation (in exchange of what??) I have many reservations to be one of the best places to live in this planet. Moreover, despite its varied ethnical society, it is still distant from all international happenings and trends.
So my question is: do you have please *other five countries* to propose???
March 22nd, 2008 at 3:34 pm
seriously guys, think about this :
australia,canada and ireland doesnt belong in top 5. at first thing i can say is there is too much poor peoples.what about nature in australia ??? very dangerous country.schools could bee miles away from your home. those countries only rich peoples can live.
im not kidding,top5 SHOULD be
1. sweden
2. iceland
3. norway
4. finland
5. denmark
all those scandinavian countries are good places to live because of very high guality of life, low population so you can live how you want, BEST WATER ON THE EARTH espectually in finland.you can go shower in every day 2 times if you want. land of over 100.000 lakes,in scandinavia you dont have to buy bottle water, you can drink at your home.
and winters are not so bad as you think i quess. about-15 celsius in south and -25-30 celsius in north places of these countries. summers +20 or even +30 some places.
and all of these countries actually really take care of their citizens.
we have best school system of the world. its totally free. and we have best students.
“home of white peoples”
March 23rd, 2008 at 3:42 am
…How is Australia dangerous? And I don’t see how being a few miles away from a school is a major problem, especially if there’s available transportation, even for poor families.
While I agree the Scandinavian countries are for the most part wonderful, I certainly think you’re overlooking the advantages of the other countries on the list, and totally disregarding problems in the Scandinavian countries. For instance, Norway has compulsory military service for men, and its UNICEF ranking could be much better. It barely comes in in the top third of industrial countries! Similarly, Finland could improve on foreign policy issues, and its proximity to the Arctic Circle makes it difficult, if not impossible, to have a successful agriculture in the northern part of the country. Also related, while Finland’s suicide ranking has definitely improved, mental health (especially depression) is still a major issue there. I don’t know if it’s really that much of an accomplishment to no longer be the country with the highest suicide rate for a multi-decade period.
And of the issues ‘nordic’ pointed out as benefits for Scandinavian countries, I think it goes without saying that most of them apply to many other places (including some he/she discounted right above!), such as not having to buy bottled water, being able to take multiple showers, fair climates (and I definitely disagree the winters aren’t so bad!), and countries that take care of citizens, as well as good school systems and students. And of course, it can’t be discounted that students from all over the world flock to the UK and the US in droves for higher education.
And I seriously question the claim that you can pinpoint the “best students in the world” to any one country or region. Students are individuals, and the best and the brightest come from all over the place. If I had to name a country with the ‘best students,’ Japan would certainly come before Finland, regardless of which country has better school systems.
March 23rd, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Home of white peoples? Mercy!
March 24th, 2008 at 8:28 am
[...] UN rates best and worst countries to live in The study came from a Human Development report 2007/2008 that warned of climate change and the impact of global warming affecting human development. The doom and gloom report summary said quite plainly, “there is now overwhelming scientific evidence that the world is moving towards the point at which irreversible ecological catastrophe becomes unavoidable.” So, taking the hundreds of pages of analyzed statistics into consideration, where can we live (and live the longest at that)? Unless you want to hunker down by the fire (or start a fire) with this dense report, just go to National Geographic’s photo feature. Ten of the pictures displayed the best places to live while they left the last two pictures to the lowest on the UN’s list. The worst place in the world to live? Sierra Leone. Discovering the best places to live provides inspiration for travel so that we can get a glimpse of highly ranked quality of life. Here’s the top five: 1. Iceland 2. Norway 3. Australia 4. Canada 5. Ireland The United States fell to 12th on the list. UK is 16th. UN rates best and worst countries to live in - Travel - LATimes.com __________________ Abort abort abort! flush it down the pan! Bring me a knitting needle! - WitchCurlGirl channeling Patsy Stone [...]
March 27th, 2008 at 6:45 am
summer. seriosly do you have something against scandinavia ? all the facts are true.
and by the way scandinavia incudes iceland and finland only sometimes.
if we talk about vikings and language, those countries are not included. but sometimes yes bcause of close history and same culture.
and yes i forgot to say bad things: high taxes,cold weather but thats cool to me.Finland’s suicide ranking yes. its because of some peoples have problems with family or problems in the worklife and some mans killes themselvs because of divorse.some times kills whole family…sad,
and the army thing, every 18-19 man must go to army,but thats good because of our low population. we are strong peoples but there is too fuel warriors to protect our lands. every single man have to go in war like ww2 in finland. still 1 finn vs 10 russians and in suomussalmi 1 vs 30. russia used only forces of st.petersburg region.
tell me what is so good in australia,IRELAND and canada ? okay i can maybe count canada in top5.
ireland , too much poors, religion problems,water and air sucks, hard to get job i”ve heard. their school system ? i think every kid cant go in schools.
australia ? you are happy ,there is warm weather ? i quess its hottt. you drink bottled water. comes from finland ?? okay there is some places where is much lakes and drinking water but mostly there is sand, dust and sun,snakes and all kind of animals.
April 4th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
i know that the top ten countries are
norway
iccland
australia
ireland
sweden
canada
japan
usa
switerland
netherland
April 10th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
While I agree to some extent that the countries listed are great, there should be other considerations as well. What about corruptions and sexual abuse and crimes in those countries? I wonder why a country that has 1% corruption rate and wide ethnic background with one of the highest living and health service standard was not considered. New Zealand it is. Does this poll and statistics only look at how rich a country is? New Zealand is the best if we look in general terms of morallity, corruption, education, health, multi-culturalism and self sufficiency.
April 11th, 2008 at 12:48 am
i live in Australia, and Australia isnt all deserty and kangaroos jumping in our backyards
and whoever said that schools can be miles away from home, well theres like 6 or more schools in every suburb
also Australia isnt THAT dangerous. You dont see snakes and crocodiles everyday. Theyre all in zoos! Did you know, australia is listed as one of the most safest countries.
And australia isnt always as hot as you think. The average temperature is in the 20s (celcius) and in winter it can get below 10 degrees celcius.
i agree with the top five
April 12th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Ha
It seem that the UN tends to make it’s assertions from political stances rather than factual bases.
Iceland is voted #1 because of it’s high taxation for so called renewable energy makes it more desirable to UN politics.
Iceland has the worst coldest weather in the world. The rudeness of it’s people is so extreme, they make French seem pleasant.
As a visitor, the prices of food and basic ammenities sent me for a loop.
I’ll never go back to that H@ ll whole.
April 22nd, 2008 at 5:25 am
Dear oh dear!Nordic,you seem to have a bee in your bonnet,especially about Ireland.I feel I need to put you right on a few things here.Er..Ireland,no water?Thats like saying theres no sand in the Sahara desert you pleb!.I wonder if you were possibly confusing Ireland with a third world African country?!You do know that Robert Mugabe is not the leader of Ireland dont you?lol..Next education.We have the worlds highest level of pupils leaving full time education with the most qualifications.I am including Northern Ireland in this..forget politics.Education here is free and is available to all!Poor?Have you been hitting the hard stuff or what!?Check out house prices here,check out all the brand new BMWs,Mercs,etc etc then tell me we’re poor.I dont mean to brag but I own acres of ground,have 2 houses,3 cars and holiday 3 times a year!I do believe that you got your information about Ireland from the time of the great potatoe famine.I would suggest that if you have nothing sensible to say,then say nothing!Try not to stereotype people my friend.Visit the country first before you comment on something.Good luck from Andy deep in the Dublin Desert!!
April 22nd, 2008 at 5:29 am
If the USA is such a bad place to live, as Nordic says, then why do so many folks seem willing to risk life and limb to come here. The USA is a great land.The greatest country in the world. We are the only superpower left. A man can immigrate (legally hopefully) here with nothing but the shirt on his back, and in 20 year, all if his children could be Doctors.
Those who expect the government to take care of their every need are the real poor of the world. We will all ways beat the pants off of you economically. We still believe, for the moment @ lest, that self determination is more important than cradle to grave nanny governments.
That will be all.
I can understand that their are advantages to living in a Scandinavian country, but taken as a whole, the USA is the place to be.
Oh…and what “poor” country pays the most in UN dues.
April 27th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
King Creole my friend…I will answer your questions for you. “People risk life and limb” to go there because #1 It’s the closest place to go.. eg: Mexico and Cuba. #2 most refugees are coming from impoverished countries so anywhere is better than where they came from. #3 They don’t know what they are getting into. #4 If you do your research you will find that immigration to the U.S. has also fallen in the past 8 years since 9/11 …people are not willing to come to a country on so many hit lists. Canada too is on the Iraq hit list but near the bottom, not number 1 like the U.S.A.
On your comment “We are the only superpower left”…. it is that “we are better and stringer than you” attitude that makes america one of the most hated counties and a major reason for 9/11. Trust me on this I am very good friends with many muslims from the Sudan, Iran and Syria…The US attitude is the primary reason.
On your “Those who expect the government to take care of their every need are the real poor of the world.” comment. Being Canadian I can have everything the US offers as well as free healthcare. Our healthcare system being “FREE” is the main reason for our higher taxes. In Canada I know that I will get the emergency care I need weather I am wealthy or not. In the US if you are homeless or don’t have insurance you can die because the hospitals need to be paid first..then they will treat you unless you are fortunate enough to be near a Mercy Hospital. Just watch the Micheal Moore documentary “Sicko”…it explains everything.
Taken on a whole the U.S.A. should be below Canada (which it usually is in most polls). Hey, I love the American people and it is a great country but it’s impression on the world is not a good one in general.
May 15th, 2008 at 1:28 am
the best to places to live are definitly south africa and australia, but youve got to be kidding!JAPAN of all countries
June 1st, 2008 at 8:22 am
first second… you know, the best place to live is the place where you feel that your heart is. If you visit India, you’d be shocked dude with the “level” of living they have there, still it wasnt a reason for many of people i met there who said that meaningfull live isnt just about having heath care system free or else(although i believe that it is)but to feel peace and happiness inside of you. Also not being able to see the difference between good or bad life, will not make you enjoy much: long dark winters put people off in Scandinavia, make them suicide… im sure it is. Family problems everyone goes through at certain stage of life, but if you have a good fundation in yourself, bit of wisdom, happiness, you’ll see that problems just come and go… and if it doesnt go, make your living over it. YOu have everthing a life need in your country… but then you still say: “life sucks” while people from my origem country says: “what’s the problem? just smile, relax” even though the violence has no limit… most of people are happy. Is it the Sun? The weather? The nature plays with humans self- development. Sun makes people opened, while dark cold winters make people depressed. The question is, WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU?? ..what’s poison for you is refreshing water for others.
June 4th, 2008 at 2:40 am
i live in Australia, and since when the hell is it dangerous????? Its one of the safest there is! and the crime rate is very low as well.
Hell iv never even seen a snake, kangaroo or crocodile!
There are schools everywhere! I like pass three of them just to get to mine, which is only like 2 minutes away.
And people here are not ‘poor’ at all.
Think before you say stuff, geez!
June 6th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
Canada is by far the best country in the world, it held that spot for 7years straight. It has one of the best cities in the world (Vancouver) that ranks first in best cities. It has the most fresh water lakes in the world, besides Russia, and has the best living conditions,health care, and long term living as well…I have Travelled throughout Scandanavia and i have to say that it is nice, but the cost of living, cold weather, and they rely heavily on other western countries for alot of there imports to survive…they lack self preservation, and they have the ‘coldest’ people i have ever met, and extremely rude customer service when it comes to there tourist industry….North America will remain the top continent in the world for living for a long long time…
June 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Nordic coubtries? Let’s get out the white sheets! What about the morality of the people? Pooh!
July 8th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Just to that knob called Nordic. Ireland is one of the richest countries in the world and its got the 3rd best schooling system in the world aswell. Its got the same weather as Canada and the air is up with the best in Europe as it is sourounded with ocean.
Yous ,
NoDic
July 21st, 2008 at 9:00 am
I only want to say that I am by birth American, through my mother British(more specifically English) and half Mexican from my Dad. I live in England, but would like to move, I’ve been thinking Ireland, definatly not in a city, but within easy commuting distance from one. So I wanted to ask Irish Andy and Jamie from Ireland some questions? maybe you could e-mail me? ealaniz921@yahoo.com , thanks for your time,
Em
July 28th, 2008 at 9:08 am
Hey All!
Humm some interesting comments and views. So far I’ve lived in Canada and Ireland(for 2 years). Also visited : USA, Norway, France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Dominican Republic. In my opinion Canada is in the top 5 best countries. I also have friends who live in Australia. From what I hear it’s a fantastic place. It is a little hard for me to believe however that Ireland is part of the top 5 best countries. Dont get me wrong is a beautiful place with some of the friendliest people on the planet however it is very expensive and seems to have corruption in the government. Just on a general basis just doesn’t seem like it would hit top 5 for me. I’ve never been to Iceland nor do I know anyone there so I cant comment on them being #1. Oh and Norway is a great place! I loved it when I was there. Norway should definetely be on the Top 5.
As for King Creole comment on the USA. I mean wow … it’s ok to be patriotic … but honestly take a good look at the USA… to me it’s generally not safe, the people are arogant and god only knows what type of country would elect Bush twice … I mean once can be a mistake … but twice?? Ugh and look on the type of planet we live in now because of it.
August 16th, 2008 at 5:24 am
Australia as one of the most dangerous countries in the world?? to “nordic”, whoever you are? obviously your a dumb ass at your own stage and it shows how little you know about Australia.
Schools are not too far away, there’s a school every 2 to 3 kms in every major city, town and suburb.
Our health care system is top notch with government assistance in every possible way.
Nordic, stop reading fantasy novels about countries and come back down to mother earth. I advise you to do some travelling around the world.
as for your comment about “home of the white peoples”?? what is this, 1943 back in the hitler days.
Comment like yours would have your head punched in a second.
If your country is the most educated in the world!!! how about you start fixing your english and grammar because half the time i cant understand your “ENGRISH BERY WALL”.
August 19th, 2008 at 6:58 am
Uhm….Have any of u ppl ever been the the US? I guess not cause it’d make 1 or 2. Anyway, its safer better and has nicer weather then any other country on the list.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Soroush, I live in the US and it definitely would NOT make 1 or 2. The US is becoming a hell hole. I can’t wait to move out. I’m heading to Canada.
Yes, people in the US are arrogant and love to stereotype other countries. The US is not safer.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
Another thing keeps the United States from being on the top ten is that it’s too religious. The United States has the bible belt after all. Majority of the US is becoming the bible belt.
Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand are very liberal about religion.
The United Sates is taken over by fundies.
The United States
September 11th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Ok, why bash each other? seems no one is any better than the others when it comes to being friendly.
The list is not only comprised of schools, healthcare, etc. Why not take a read at what goes into making the top of the list before making a decision for someone else where is better.
The americans like where they live, the canadians like where they live, the norwegians like where they live, the australians like where they live, the british like where they live, yata yata yata. we all have our likes and dislikes about where we live and about other countries. if you like it live there, if not….MOVE and get off your soap box about where everyone else likes to live. i live where i live regardless of what anyone thinks and I LIKE IT HERE thank you very much.
also, no need to bring george into this or make fun of anyone’s grammar. is anyone perfect in this world?
(BTW, i’m an american living in norway who has been to canada and britian)
September 14th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Well, Norway and the US now have all the charm of an ebola milkshake, having birthed the two biggest idiots on this thread.
October 2nd, 2008 at 12:13 am
I think is Europe, switzerland germany with munich as best city representative, canada with vancouver, iceland..
US will be at the bottom of my list..
October 6th, 2008 at 11:05 am
The list is very predictable, mostly White European countires. I guess things haven’t changed much. By the way, what the hell does “Home of White peoples? Mercy!” mean? Your comment sounded racist. You are free to live somewhere else. And take your hate with you!
October 6th, 2008 at 11:10 am
The morals of the Nordic people are very high. What an ignorant comment to make! They are clean, hard-working and responsible. If that doesn’t jive with your idea of good people then you need to get head examined. Don’t insult those who are better than you.
October 13th, 2008 at 8:14 am
I think the best nations are:
1)New Zealand
2)Canada
3)Sweden
4)Finland
5)Norway
October 13th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
you guys are haters , the greatest country , the most beautiful , and most ethnically diversed is the united states of america. Unfortunately like everything else when one is better others will always try to knock down. This is why everyone tries to migrate here.The poorest american lives better than all those countries mentioned . You guys are just jealous . LOL
October 15th, 2008 at 10:11 am
To King Creole:
You have a lot of very poor people. In fact if people knew how some of the people live - they would be horrified.
When we traveled through Chicago, our school bus got lost on the way - the kids on the buss were horrified - high school students. They had to move our students to another hotel do to violence and stabbing incident outside our hotel.
As for Canadieneh;
You say we have free health care, but have you realy had an emergency??? Forgot about the shortage of doctors?
My husband had a serious knee injury needed an emergency operation. Could not get a surgeon - in bed for a month in horiffic pain on drugs - the drugs did not help sooth the pain because his knee would fill up with blood. In emergency department every couple of days - needles to remove some of the blood that was pooleing into his knee to relieve pain - possible threat of blood clots. Finaly one doctor in the emergency suggested that if he wants treatment and wants to pay he can go to the states.- Which we finaly had to do. Paid by getting a $20,000 loan (mortgaged our house).
We paid into the health care system all our lives. We took this matter to the Tribunal in Toronto to try to get atleast some of our money back and lost the case because we were not seen and by a Canadian surgeon first.
I advised the tribunal of my attempts to get an appointment with surgeons in Ontario and was advised of waiting lists of 6 months to 2 years. Had surgeons names and phone numbers as evidence.
We also tried to apply for approval by Ontario government to go to the states - were advised it would take 4-6 weeks for the review of our application and than a decission would be made and could take another couple of weeks. Unfortunately we could not wait any longer the pain was too great and I don’t think people would let an animal suffer this long it would be called inhumaine.We had to pay for the treatment in the USA.
We provided the Ontario Tribunal with all necessary documentation.
We had all the medical info. The Canadian family doctor info., the trips to emergency info., the evidence in exray - knee crushed showing why there was an emergency. Letter from the US surgeon who did the surgery. Unfortunaltely we did not ahave a Canadian surgeon to comment on his knee injury and therefore the case was lost.
They do not care that you tried to get to see a surgeon - but none were available.
We are what the McQuinty government likes, families with emergencies who mortgage their homes to get medical treatment in USA - Mcquinty saves cash.
According to my accountant, another client of his had a brain tumor was advised it would take 6 months to see a specialist. Paid into the Canadian health care system all his life - he also had to pay $30,000 to get the tumor in his brain removed in USA.
As a Canadian when there is a shortage of doctors, and you need treatment you need to be referred to a specialist and wait 6 months to 2 years to see one. By than you can die, or loose your house do to no income.
As one of the politicians told me at the Provincial office of Mr. Smithers (Ontario) - thats just part of life. Oh well!!!!!
Is this the fault of the Federal department? NOPE - the McQuinty government received billions of dollars more in health care $ - they just didn’t give it to the tax payers/ patients.
I do have to say doctors and nurses in USA were very courtieous and had bed side manner. Unlike, what we experienced in Sarnia where the hospital is dirty, no bed side manner what so ever.
In Canada be prepared to bring change whilr going to emergency of your hospital - parking meters are running and you will be fined if you don’t put cash inwhile = common practice. NOT IN USA.
Canada needs lessons FROM COUNTRIES WHO HAVE THE BEST HEALTH CARE - Sweden, France just to mention a few.
Sarnia is waiting for a new hospital to be built - the fact is its not the bricks that make good doctors and nurses.
Canadians pay for own dental care, drugs, eye doctors + glasses - unless they buy insurance through their employers.
The more money you make the more income tax you pay - be prepared to pay 50% or more if you make $130,000 or more.
Property taxes are high $350,000 home -$5000 per year property tax.
Live on the lake?
Your property tax may be $12,000 + if your home is worth $500,000 or more.
We in Canada also have poor people - homeless, druggs,crime
(lot of crime in Toronto - gangs and gun shots heard every night.) BC, Alberta high crime as well.
We do not have free education past grade 12.
Our university / college students are ripped of by OSAP - privates who lend money to students at
2 1/2 percent above prime - they set up their payments so that they pay mostly interest not the principal.
Eg. monthly payment of $160 - represents $150 in interest and $10 in principal payment.
Today the interest students pay is at 7.5%.
Most students can’t afford to buy a home because they have a glooming OSAP loan against them and do not qualify for a loan. Try paying rent and your loan of at the same time.
The honors degree - is a 4 year degree which university students must take before entering into courses such as - teaching, legal, medical and other degrees. Total rip of - 4 years of taking subjects that take you no where. Cost $5000 - 6000 plus per year plus living expences of approximately $15,000 per year. Once in specialized program your tuition jumps to $30,000 year - depends on the program. Mostly funded by loans through OSAP.
October 15th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
guys why you fight. I will say after being in US for 23 years and be only as an slave, work pay taxes, even placed my kids in a private school, and with this republican govermment empoverishing the middle class families and not even having vouchers for private school which should be a priority to our future generation, the house market went up on taxes and insurance on top of principal, and almost 5 million people are losing their homes right now, i am married to a norwegian, norway has a quality of life and descent education to all but the govermment control and the production of oil makes a fascinating rich country and not working as slaves, while you work in US and if you get unemployed or fired there is no chance you can save your home or belongings, this is the true, while in norway you have 80 percent of unemployment covered, taxes are high but you live as a descent person for what your taxes are worth if someday you are unemployed, besides you get 4 weeks off per year, if you are native or married to a norwegian, what can you do here after the taxes and health care is up and high rocketing to support the rich and wealthy pharmaceutical companies and taxes and insurance almost 6000 per year on top of your principal/ how bad it can go with children do they give a crab, why almost 5 million people in US are losing their homes, to keep 4 more years to republicans and be more on deficit where the money went to Irak with excuse of war??? think guys, no more for future of my children, i better get my bud and move and learn a new language with those challenges and probably offer better life and choices to my children and they can return anytime to US but for retirement what can you find if you lost almost all of these people with 401 k plan if you don’t have any govermment pension???
October 16th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
The USA could be number one if it wanted to…. After it takes over the rest of the world.
October 25th, 2008 at 5:52 am
just curious are their any african american in these locations?
October 25th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
I agree that until you have lived and were raised in every country you do not have the right to comment on other peoples countries…nor do I believe that you should be putting down ur own country, especially one that, on a daily basis provides us with things other people can’t even imagine.
October 28th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
You can pretty much rank the world’s countries from best to based on the percentage of White and Northeast Asian peoples (generally, the greater the percentage, the better the place to live).
That’s a fact. You can infer your own conclusions from it.
October 29th, 2008 at 1:14 am
To yt: I’m sorry you had such a bad experience with our health care system. I on the other hand have nothing but praise for it. I have liver disease and I am on the liver transplant list. I have always received prompt, top notch care. I have a health care team that consists of 3 surgeons, 1 gastroenterologist, 1 family doctor, a home health care nurse and 2 surgical nurses that are keeping me as healthy as possible until I can have the transplant. This has been going on since 2005. I have never had to wait to see a specialist. Yes if I go to the emergency with a pain issue as opposed to a life threatening complication I am subjected to the long waiting times just the same as everyone else. I have never paid for a test or a prescription(a fantastic plan from my husband’s work). I use the long wait to calculate how much I am saving or to appreciate that I didn’t have to lose my home just because I got sick. Perhaps the difference is a pain vs life threatening issue or where you live. Maybe you should switch doctors. If there are not enough doctors in your area why don’t you get on a committee to attract new doctors to your area. Again, I am sorry about your situation but I would rather live in Canada then any other country in the world.
October 30th, 2008 at 11:24 am
I think Rwanda is the most beautful country on earth and it is has the worst racist people(Hutus and tutsi….) who kill each other and discriminate each other… This is deep rooted in their hearts (especialy tutsis)who hold poewr now and refuse rights to live for hutus and keep lying to foreigners that the country is peaceful and people love each other.
November 1st, 2008 at 11:53 am
For the best, top is
1.Canada
2.Canada
3.Canada
4.Canada
5.Canada
November 1st, 2008 at 12:04 pm
For the best country to live is Canada because It rank 1st three times in a row by the UN and other well known group. The reasons are this country is endowed with rich resources, multicultural oriented, and with very friendly government. I experienced it. To tell you my earning now is 1000 percent higher than what i earned in my own country.
November 3rd, 2008 at 1:45 am
To anthony: There’s nothing to be jealous of.
November 4th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
For all of you that have knocked the United States. I don’t recall anyone here begging for any of you to move here. Just remember the next time your countries get into trouble. Who will you expect to come to your rescue? The United States. That’s who! Yes we have our problems, but would the country with out any problems please stand up!
November 5th, 2008 at 2:19 am
the top 5 countries are:
1. australia
2. australia
3. australia
4. australia
5. australia
period!
November 11th, 2008 at 2:43 am
Best countries in the world (even in global financial crisis)
1) Norway
2) Sweden
3) Finland
4) Denmark
5) Canada
Iceland is bankrupt so it just shot itself out of the list! So even if Norway (and other Scandinavian countries) have high taxes it is compensated by the social welfare these countries give back to the people.
1) Free health care - with 100% of your salary paid the first year and renewable to the second year
2) 1 year Maternity leave with 80% pay - 8 months with 100% pay
3) Free schools up to colleges and universities (unless you go to a private college!)
4) Almost free access of water (with the best-tasting water-from-the-kitchen-faucet! - fee is negligible every year!
5) High standard of living - high salaries!
6) High quality of education
7) One of the most well-travelled people in the world compared to population
8) Low crime rate in general
9) Beautiful nature, clean air, clean countryside,
10) BUT of course very expensive countries!
Well, we can’t have it all, can we?
November 12th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
To Phil: The United States isn’t the only country that can come to other countries rescue.
November 15th, 2008 at 11:49 am
the most and beautiful country is canada and the best city to live is winterpeg manitoba because the weather here is good like winter season. i love winter than summer beacuse i enjoy spinning and drifting in the road. thanks!!!
November 15th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Honestly, if you live in the United States and then go to any other country, though its economy sucks, and its leaders are retarded, and the country is in debt by 12 trillion dollars, United States is seriously like the best place to live…
November 18th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I agree with “International friend” in this sense. With the exception of Ireland its people are not really friendly, and actually rather haughty. People tend to be isolated and not connected with their neighbors/coworkers/etc. Everything closes very early and they all have rather tedious societies.No surprise they have the highest suicide rates. not to mention the weather, freezing winter but even worst, the pale summer (20-25 at the most, rainy or cloudy most of the time). This rankings should consider not only economics, security, health and education, but somehow should include social measures as well.
November 19th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
I would just like to point out that the US has not paid any debt it owes to the UN in many years, YOu say you are rich but ganging up on the developing nation so that you can all have moor luxirious is not a #1 Country. I am from Canada but have travelled all over the world. It is true that individules will all have diffrente #1 but if you break down the system the UN have in place the list is pritty bang on. I need to point out however that helth care played a very big role. Social Programs is one of the big parts of determining this and until the people of the US decide to stop beging gridy and put inplace a social helthcare system they will never be able to breech the top 5 list. Taxes are not astrinomical and you learn to live with it. my grandfather was diagnossedf with Canser and in a period of 7 mths he was able to have the 2 surgeries he needed and is now Canser free. I love Canada it is where i was born and where i was raised. I am curently finishing medschool and will starting by internship. i do belive Canada will always be one of the top countries in the world..
November 21st, 2008 at 6:29 pm
I’m a well-traveled American who is attending university in Montreal, Canada and must confess that this country is probably better governed than my own. A great country, but it surely benefits off of its extremely close relationship and proximity with the United States. I would also like to point out that running a country of 300+ million is a quite different than running a country of less than 9 million like these Scandinavian countries (Sweden is the most populous with only 9 million, I mean c’mon guys, that’s less people than there are in the larger American cities!), or even Canada with only 30 million people. And I would like to point out to some of the Canadians here, as much as I love your country, you must also recognize as well that Canada assists the US in nearly all of its affairs and if you know a thing or two about global economics, when the US scores big, so does Canada as a result. If the US economy crashes tommorrow morning, Canada would be the single most affected economy in the entire world, and next in line to crash.
November 27th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
LIST of World top countries is
1- INDIA
2- RUSSIA
3- JAPAN
4- SINGAPORE
5- UAE
6- OMAN
7- SOUTH AFRICA
8- UK
9- CANADA
10-ICELAND
November 30th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
This list of best and worst countries is totally subjective and it’s like saying I have the best wife in the world. I am born in Canada 56 years ago and love the countryside but I could hardly say I love various policies in Canada many might appear to very liberal and attract immigrants and give the impression we are all very generous Canadians and have a very good social support network. I predict in 100 years that Canada will be looked at as an experiment that failed. With all the land in this country, it is ridiculous that real estate should cost so much!!! By the way, the immigration polocies of the Scandinavian countries allows it to avoid many social problems countries like Canada and the US have with readjustment problems of new immigrants.
December 3rd, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I believe that Australia is the best country, however this is my opinion and is orientated toward the country i have been raised in. I am a 14 year old schoolboy so because of my inexperience this is probably a very immature view
January 18th, 2009 at 10:05 am
To the people who are being outstandingly obnoxious about the Top 5 Countries; you all have terrible grammar, and you all sound like complete uneducated idiots. It’s perfectly stupid how you think your ridiculous opinions will actually make a difference when it comes to choosing the Top 5 Countries for future years. There are reasons that the educated, professional, business people of the United Nations make the decisions regarding which countries of our world are best to live in. Accept them. You’re allowed your opinions, just perhaps try not to force them upon others and criticize everything you disagree with. Grow up.
January 18th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
The U.S. is a terrific country, we have our problems but so does every other country. Although I am really not looking forward to the new President, I still respect the fact that we (as a country) can go from complete racism to a black President in just a few decades. Although we can’t handle our money, we are still the most generous country on the planet and lead the world in most sciences (even if our scientists come from India and China:-) I have no delusions of a perfect country but from the countries I’ve been to, I still prefer the “good ole U.S. of A.” I do like hearing the country debates because I’ve often thought of moving to another country for a while so keep up the good work :-)
January 23rd, 2009 at 8:54 pm
I have lived in australia, greece and usa (currenlty in the usa)
by far the best country is
australia 1st
greece 2nd
usa 3rd
January 25th, 2009 at 3:19 am
Been almost everywhere and Australia is by far the best. Elsewhere is either too cold, too hot, too violent, too much poverty, too expensive or too unfriendly.
Australia is so enormous you can fit most of the other countries into the continent. You can choose the weather you like best from the cold south like Melbourne, to hot north like Darwin or anywhere in between. The Sapphire & Fraser Coasts have balmy temperatures averaging 20-30 C all year around, and have miles of magnificent beaches far surpassing Hawaii (the sand on Waikiki beach actually comes from Fraser Island). It’s the closest thing to Paradise on earth. There are no car-jackings or religious crazies running about blowing things up either, and a villa by the sea doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
January 28th, 2009 at 9:15 am
ok, saying canada is not a good place to live is not good to say to me. i live in canada, i love canada, and i would never in my life want to leave it. the free health care in incredibly, and amasing conveniant, the population is around 33 million. that is such a small amount compared to the land size, plus, no, you dont live in the middle of the woods, you live in towns and cities, there is like 6 highschools, and like, 12 public schools where i am. the cold weather is a downer, but i dont think it is as cold as people explain it as, you need to be up north in iqualit( a place near the upper islands) in canada to freeze. though it does get to -20c to -30c here, just wear a coat, ull be fine…
summer gets to 40c. it is very nice, i have a pool in my back yard,
everyone, the scenery in canada is breath taking, near haliburton(northern ontario) is beautiful, think trees as far as you can see, beautiful lakes, and if i go to my grandmas apartment building in sarnia(15 mins. from my house), you can see lake huron, like you are ON lake huron(not litterally), its beautiful , i HIGHLY vote canada as the #1 place to live. :)
January 29th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
We were going to move to Iceland or Norway until it just seemed so impossible/challenging as an American. We still love Norway and their diversity. Iceland seemed a lil more reserved. Now we are thinking NZ for a better quality of life..
January 31st, 2009 at 6:04 pm
I have travelled the world extensively and currently live in Ireland.I agree the scandanavian countries listed have wonderful attributes particularly Education system and Quality of Living. Norway’s national income from oil resources is the key to their success. However as already commented the immigration policy of Scandanavian countries is questionable. Despite Ireland currently suffering from Economic recession like most other developed countries right now, it deserves it place in the Top 5 list. Excellent Free Education System, Good Standard of Living, well paid jobs(much higher that nearest neighbour UK)relatively lower taxes ,low cost travel to/from other Euro zones, friendly people and generally a beautiful country. Reports of Political Corruption are grossly exagerated and the cases have been relatively petty(at least compared to some of our Euro friends) While I am a regular visitor to the US, I fail to understand why US citizens repeatedly preach about ‘the land of the free’ and seem to think that it is the only democratic country in the world!! Nonsense..it is far from the most democratic country..Racism is rife, still had the death penalty in certain states, poor US Millitary Human Rights record(Rendition practices & Continued operation of Guantanemo Bay come to mind..though thankfully Obama plans to change that)Poor Environemental responsibility(e.g. resistance to Kyoto Protocol)..so US cannot seriously claim a place on the list )
February 5th, 2009 at 7:48 am
“kap Says:
The USA could be number one if it wanted to…. After it takes over the rest of the world.”
Hahah dude, you guys cant even take over Iraq…
February 8th, 2009 at 11:12 am
top 5
canada
iceland
italy
norway
usa
top 5 worst
irack
iran
pakastain
india
france
February 9th, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Iceland really.
How about choosing places where people would actually like to live.
Iceland would have one of the if not lowest crime rates because no one would move there.
Best Places to live.
Switzerland
New Zealand
Canada
Germany
Australia
USA is a great country but it isn’t the right time to live there
with the economical problems, increasing job loss, but hopefully the new president should end the humiliating war in Iraq
February 12th, 2009 at 7:55 am
As we all know, the UN is anti-american so of course the US going to be down on the list. Canada, in the top five, are they serious. Long winters, pathetic health care system, do they have a military to defend themselves? Oh, its the US military that does that. Taxes are high. No beaches that I can think of. Every country in their top five except Australia is cold. Also, there is no deversity in any of these countries. Like everything eles the UN does, I would not take thier list seriously.
February 12th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
I have only been to two countries outside of the US, Mexico and Canada and enjoyed both places equally. The US in my opinion has never been worse and getting to meet and know people from around the world has opened my eyes. Younger days,I always thought it was the USA not knowing better. Some migrate here for work but I know for a fact they plan to move back to there country. Seems to me the playing field is not level and honestly believe that is the way the elite want to keep it.I have a friend that moved from the Phillipines to Vancouver,BC. and loves it. I am thinking of moving there and seeing for myself. Only drawback is the winters but I think I could work it out. I believe the USA is a great country but not any better that some.
February 15th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
I have discovered that national happiness and general quality of life correlates with national level of CO2 emissions. so …
As americans and Canadiens have higest output of CO2 per person, they should therefore have highest living standards.
February 16th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
I was born and raised in England, I have lived in Australia for 4 years when I was a young man, I can’t honastly say a bad thing about life in Australia, the people are the most genuine I have ever seen anywhere and the country has a great climate,I have also lived 3 years in Canada, I have traveled to 34 countries in the world, I now have been living in USA for 32 years,and of course after all that time I must love it here,the country is vast and beautiful, you can pick your climate on where you live, you can freeze in the winter back east or enjoy mild winters and warm summers in the west, and anything in between, if you live in sweden or Ireland those countries are very small and whatever the weather is where you are living is basicly the same as anywhere else in the country, England probably has the worst weather in the world as far as most of the time it rains but they realy do look after there people very well,
USA certainly has a lot of problems but the people mostly are down to earth like Australians and when you get old like me at least you have medicare which is not the best but its better then nothing,
and if you can afford a vacation now and then you can just hop in your car and drive hundreds or thousands of miles to so many wonderful places,
And even though the terroists hate us the most I feel very safe in the most militarily powerfull country on earth the USA !!!
February 19th, 2009 at 5:50 am
I would like to apologize for my rude and arrogant fellow americans’ comments. It is just this type of arrogance along with our general ignorance of America’s corrupt polocies and blatant lies that makes us such a socially despised country. We are only 5% of the world and we use 25% of the worlds resources. We have invaded a country to gain oil because of fear of losing our super power status. Our dollar has dropped 20% in the past year! Please do not post such opionated ignorance! You are making us look awful! Educate yourself. I love the spirit of the people of America, they are very tolerant, generous and kind, the weather is great in many places, but the government is corrupt and the people are brainwashed into thinking this is the greatest place in the world. They believe everything the news tells them without realizing its all owned by the corporations who control us. Anyways…. I could go on for days. Thank you all for posting your experience, I am looking forward to starting over somewhere after I get my degree.
February 21st, 2009 at 12:45 am
I am a global citizen. Countries can be generous to the poor by taxing the rich. The Governments should be prudent in making the right balance and there should be an ongoing debate within the society. If the model is not sustainable in the long run results can be catastrophic.
February 21st, 2009 at 6:32 pm
FutureMD,
Don’t apologize for me. You seem to have made a whopping generalization about Americans. There’s what, a handful commenting here. Not very scientific, FutureMD.
February 22nd, 2009 at 4:53 pm
The top 5 coutries are:
Canada
Iceland
Australia
Finland
Norway
Lebanon is the worst country on the planet !
February 24th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
i know that USA is not the best place to live but everyone in the US is not as many of the ppl posting in this thread saying USA IS THE BESST…. and being that we have faith in are contrie does not mean that we are blinded by the fact that we agree with then barrowing money hand over fist… altho i can honestly say that i have been to those contries on the list all but 2. Norway
3. Australia
and the cost for things their is stuiped and i know its cua their dollor is higher but i can build the best computer in the world for 1/6 the price they charge at thier shops
and esayer life means happyer and cheaper meand easyer
February 25th, 2009 at 11:03 am
I’m happy to see Ireland is up on the top 5 I’ve always wanted to visit it, Australia too,
March 1st, 2009 at 2:22 pm
It seems that for a lot of canadians is no difference between Stadard of Living and Quality of Life.Quality of Life doesn’t exist in Canada, it’s only a dream.
March 3rd, 2009 at 10:43 am
If you don’t like the USA then move out. Canada is a great place for polar bears and “free healthcare”.
The USA is huge. Saying people in the USA suck is just crazy. Not everyone agrees with our policies but who does the world turn to when they are having a crises? Russia? Ireland? Japan? lol. You hate the USA because we are arrogant =/ We know what we have and it’s great. Not all states, cities, and towns are the same so you can’t group them all into one catagory. Isn’t that what makes the USA great? We are hugely diverse. You can live freely and do with your money what you will. Just remember, everyone here escaped from your golden countries. I wouldn’t mind visiting other countries because I haven’t seen them all. Yet, I haven’t been to one that I look at as trading up. Love the way you guys can smoke in all the public places too. You are going to need the high taxes and “free” healthcare.
March 4th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
I cannot believe some of the uninformed and incredibly biased views on here. And some of the terrible spelling and grammer! If you are going to speak about your nations’ education system, at least do it proud by displaying proper English! I’ll wager that most of you haven’t even been to the countries that you are bashing or pretend to know so much about. Why do most of the Americans on here have to get so upset and defensive - it’s just a list!!! And the fact that you have the strongest military (and sacrifice social programs for milatary spending) and NOT a good thing, and is probably one of the reasons you are NOT on the Top 5 list. I know you think you are policing the world but invading autonomous nations for no reason other than to secure oil interests in the region is not something that flies with the UN or the rest of the world.
It is hard to argue with that list and you could easily argue for the inclusion of a few other nations in the Top 5 such as New Zealand, Switzerland and Sweden. I also found the Netherlands and Germany to be places that I felt I could live happily.
I am a Canadian living in Australia, so I would support either of those nations as one of the best places to live. I have been the United States about 30 times and I would say that the US is a great place to live, just not as good as Canada or Australia. And my bias puts Canada just a notch ahead of Australia. On the subject of medical systems I vouch for the Canadian and Aussie systems - I had emergency brain surgery in Perth last year and the Australian system was awesome! The fear of safety is REAL in the US - I have only seen a handgun once and it was brandished while wating at a traffic light in Kansas City, Mo. And I have never experience racial tension like that which exists in the US - you just can’t go to certain places. I am optimistic that foreign policy and social programs will change under Obama. Canada is linked to the US for better or for worse.
Since I haven’t been to the other 3 nations on this list, I cannot comment on them but you always hear good things. If Ireland is anything like the rest of the UK (and I suspect it is) I don’t think it would make my list.
The weather has nothing to do with quantifying this list - it is a Quality of Life ranking! BTW - we like winter time!!! Also, religious conflict is an issue in THE REPUBLIC of Ireland…not Ireland.
leslie: “Canada, in the top five, are they serious. Long winters, pathetic health care system, do they have a military to defend themselves? Oh, its the US military that does that. Taxes are high. No beaches that I can think of. Every country in their top five except Australia is cold. Also, there is no deversity in any of these countries.” No diversity for countries on that list? Have you ever been to them? Canada has the highest immigration rate per capita in the world. We don’t need a large military because we don’t willingly enter into armed conflict - we are busy with peace keeping and mopping up after the US leaves countries in shambles (Afghanistan). And at least we HAVE a health care system (our high taxes pay for our social care network, btw). If weather, beaches, military and low taxes float your boat, I know of some lovely sub-saharan African nations that you would enjoy!
Phil: “Just remember the next time your countries get into trouble. Who will you expect to come to your rescue? The United States.”
We don’t get into trouble or conflict…that is what makes the countries on this list the best! :-)
March 5th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
I am a Canadian and am always proud to here that my nation has been picked as one of the best. It really is a slap in the face to all the people that hate us.
March 6th, 2009 at 11:20 am
I been experiencing secret society affliated with the u.s. gov’t as discriminating, abusive religiously, persecuting and full of depraved and relentless members. I’m very seriously thinking about moving to a new coutry to live. I was left alot of money that this society is doing the most that they can, to not have me receive it. They have also blocked my employment for the last 4 years. I would like so more infomation and response about seeking refuge in another county. Also I’m part east Indian. I’m been a secret victim of the war in Iraq along with mu household memebers.
Thank you
Syreeta Bush
thank you
sincerly
March 7th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Americans seem to be so arrogant and this blog proves it.
So what if you have a large population?
That honestly does not make me respect you in anyway.
You think your going to take over the world.
GOOD LUCK!
I can almost GUARANTEE that the world would turn against you in an instant.
Believe me.
You are 12th because thats where you belong.
Deal with it.
March 8th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
It’s extremely popular to hate the USA. It’s even spread to SOME people in the USA and I wish those people would move out. It’s very funny to me how there is so much hate from people in other countries toward the USA. We hate no one =) It’s because we are happy. We don’t have the largest population. So, spend your lives hating us. We don’t want your countries. Just trying to keep ours free by extinguishing our threats.
I love the comment about the terrorism in the USA. Every country has it, but we meet it with extreme force. It just doesn’t pay to try and push your beliefs on us. Everyone is free to worship whatever you want here. Each different part of that freedom whether it be religeous rights, women’s rights, or other rights, we are hated by different sects for each. Guess what? We don’t hate you and will be there when you need us.
I am not saying the USA is the best country in the world. Only because it’s an opinion and everybody has one. Just don’t get on here talking about America when you really can’t see the bigger picture.
Everyone likes Sweden, Finland, and Norway. I really need to visit that area. I wouln’t live there because I hate could weather however.
March 9th, 2009 at 6:53 am
top 5
canada
france
england
u.s.a
argentina
March 9th, 2009 at 10:25 am
The easiest way to indicate how great you are. Check the number of haters, the more you have the greater you are. U…S….A!!!
March 10th, 2009 at 11:55 am
Andrew, if you like socialism, high taxes, cold wealther, health care for everyone, extremist run amuck and government involvement in every aspect of your life then canada and the other countries you are so fond of are perfect places for you. And as for as your country “mopping up” after us, that is all your pathetic military is capable of doing. You and people like you are very entertaining. We even call Canada “America Jr.”, thats how funny you people are. And your health care system is even funnier. You guys rationing out health care is your idea of a good system. Thats funny. Tell your people to stop crossing the boarder to get operations in the US. So, you stay in your cold environment, stay loyal to the queen of england, speak your french and smoke your cigarettes and kill your polar bears and be merry. Join the US hating club with all the other morons that depend on us…lol
March 10th, 2009 at 11:30 pm
Leslie,
You are right, those things add up to a perfect place for me, except I don’t know what you mean by “extremists run amock” and “government involvement in every aspect of your life”? Didn’t the US enact the Patriot Act which allows law enforcement to search all records and communications of it’s citizens? That is an outright breach of civil liberty and total government involvement, if I ever saw it. Socialism does not mean that the government is involved; Socialism strives for equality for citizens and equal distribution of goods and services. Extremists? Not sure what you mean but Christian fundamentalists seem to be very vocal and prevalent in your nation, just like your ex-president?
Yes we can and do cross the border to get private operations, and we pay for those. Just something that we are FREE to do if we want. Or we can get them here for free. Sometimes, unfotunately, people may have to wait a while and from stories that could be a long while. Not a perfect system by no means but I would rather have free basic medical care than no system at all. And why do you hate it so much? Isn’t a government supposed to help it’s people? “Ask what your country can do for you” and all that jazz?
Yes, our military is pathetic by your standards (isn’t everyones?) but what do we really need it for? I am proud of the fact that we don’t require a powerful military and grateful that the US is our friend and neighbor if things ever really hit the fan. Beating on other nation’s health care systems and “weak” military seems to be the one thing uniting all of the yanks on here…the things that no one who has them would change.
Loyalty to the Queen - If you mean the Commonwealth? Check!
French & English - Check!
Smoke your cigarettes - ??? Yes we do have cigarettes and people do smoke them.
Kill your polar bears - They are protected, actually. Did you mean harp seals?
I never said I hate the US, quite the contrary actually. I like the US and (generally) most of its people. In my (biased) opinion I just think the quality of life is better in Canada and other countries, and apparently the UN agress.
March 11th, 2009 at 9:40 am
all the comments from my fellow U.S. citizens makes me want to leave even faster.
March 11th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
I read almost every comment here but I ‘d like to know which is the ranking for Edinburgh city in UK?
I’m interested about it because I’m going to study there .
March 11th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Oh my! Where to begin? I must admit that I have never traveled outside the USA. Although, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to someday. I agree that Americans have a strong sense of pride when it comes to our country. I also believe that most people feel the same about their own countries. I don’t think our pride is a sign of ignorance or arrogance. Many people all over the world possess those qualities including here. I would like to draw attention to the Americans who are criticizing Canada. Our President who the majority of the voters elected into office just a few months ago seems to be trying to change our way of life to mirror Canadas. It may help, it may make things worse. Who knows…much of it will depend on how we accept change and how the world will view us. I love USA. I will support our leader even when I don’t agree. USA will always be home no matter where I end up..kind of like when you move out of your parents house but it is still home during the good and bad. What it comes down to is what country will best suit your needs??? Many people have mentioned they couldn’t live in cold so the top 5 list isn’t logical in their mind. There are also many people who could care less about the cold and are more concerned about job/education/military/government/resources/medical yada, yada, yada….with this in mind, there is no way everyone could agree with this list.
I love my country even when I don’t agree with what our government has done. And there is no way I could even begin to compare it to other places. To the people who have been privileged enough to experience other cultures (I am jealous)..everyone comes out of an adventure with a different experience because we are so diverse. And that is a gift. If we all agreed, we would be boring.
March 12th, 2009 at 11:41 am
Well said Andrew and I respect your opinion. And the saying goes “ask Not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”. Also you might want to really get to know the true definition of socialism and understand that the US is not based on it nor did the forefathers intended on this country being a democracy. Its a Republic and Capitolism is the intended way here. Where the strong, the smart and the talented survives contrary to what some people’s beliefs and stupidity. I have visited Toronto on a couple of occations and loved it. You mentioned the patriot act but I dont even think you know the jist of it. But I respect your opinion which is a one of Americas great deals. But I dont respect dumbasses like Roberm. Im sure he is one of the losers in our society that could not take advantage of our system so he blames everyone else for his failers. He is probably too broke to move away. But if he does, who really cares. Thanks for your opinions Andrew
March 12th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Leslie, I’m flying the white flag here. I guess we could go on and on about what is superior, but I guess that we amicably agree to disagree on some points? Cheers for your opinions!
March 14th, 2009 at 5:27 pm
listen guys , if you really want a clear and brief answer for ‘ whats the most livable , safe, peaceful and beautiful country on earth ‘ ..
its NEW ZEALAND . with all my appreciation to other countries
enought said .
thanks
March 17th, 2009 at 5:43 am
Halim, I have been hearing about New Zealand and finally read up on it. Very good point you have in terms of New Zealand. I like the pro capitolist aspect of the country also. Very interesting….thanks for the heads up
March 18th, 2009 at 5:29 am
Sorry I cant speak english very well, anyway I have something to say and all of you will understand.
Share what you have with the needy and you´ll be happier. Some of the richiest countries in the world have an historically debt with the poorest ones. Think about it, and try to understand why you are boasting so much of your luck. But remain humble cause all around the world you will find, depression, injustice, blood, suicide, abuse… even here people base their identity in something temporary… why?
March 27th, 2009 at 12:57 am
Have some of you guys actually been to the countries you’re saying shouldn’t be there? Or are you just going on stereotypes? There are some legends being believed about things like snakes and it being dangerous to live in certain places sit seems. In my opinion it’s not a bad top 5…Iceland was a great spot (possibly before the economic collapse haha). Australia’s a good place to live…I haven’t been to many better. Everywhere has a problem or two though if you look hard enough.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:05 am
As far as I’m concern USA should be number 1. It’s the only country in the world where you can be anyone you wish have any weather you want and where ethnic minority can live without secret prejudices.
April 4th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
slovenia is the best!
April 5th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
You are all missing the point entirely. The best place to live, is simply the place one calls home… where one is surrounded with a support system of love, respect and a common cultural world-view. From the above comments, it is clear how one may enjoy the benefits of a free education and health care system, yet still remain basically illiterate, ignorant, or even end up dying alone, in a top notch hospital, despised and rejected. Is it NOT more important to focus on a quality of life with regard to the people who encompass our world, those who wipe our tears, hold our hand, and love us? Then, whatever country you may find yourself in….Life will be safe, sweet and secure. Fear is causing all this arrogance, aggression, finger-pointing and hatred. I live in South Africa, where we pay for a good education, private medical, and have security alarm systems on all our houses,… and still pay moderately high taxes. But we have learnt to appreciate the truly important things in life. A group of interesting friends, enjoying this beautiful world and its glories of nature, a circle of love, family, respect, dignity, humility, compassion, empathy and a basic acknowledgement of diverse culture and a celebration of differences. You guys make me weep for humanity. We are all meant to be brothers, questing for peace, searching for unity and tolerence. Why are you all so defensive and angry?
April 11th, 2009 at 6:36 am
I think any country other than US & UK is ok. US violence UK too many immigrants on welfare.
April 17th, 2009 at 10:31 am
I am Albanian and in my opinion the best places to live in are:
1.Switzerland- No.1 forever
2.Denmark
3.Norway
4.Finland
5.Italy
April 22nd, 2009 at 9:29 am
The Best country in the world is–
1. Where you have friends and family.
2. Where you can be gainfully employed and free do what you like
All other things are irrelevant!!!
April 23rd, 2009 at 3:29 am
Well I’m not sure if Canada is the best place to live, I lived in 4 countries so far, and each one has it’s pro’s and cons. I lived 13 years in Brazil, 15 years in Canada, 2 years in Ireland, and 1 year in the Czech Republic. I say for Quality of life, Brazil is one of the top ones, and that means if you live in a small city there isn’t the problem with poverty or violence. Canada is great place if you want to work and earn money, Ireland it’s great place to meet people all over the world, it’s superior than Canada, because it’s more European Immigration than Asians, I found that in Canada the immigrants don’t like to mix. Czech Republic for culture is up there, and also being a single men, it’s great place to meet girls.
April 26th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Australia is by far the best place to live in, and I would rank US 2nd, been there and loved it, the only thing is the crime rate which is too high. It’s a massive country like Oz, so there’s lots of room to move around of you’re not happy in one place as opposed to small countries where you get stuck.
April 30th, 2009 at 7:41 pm
I am unable to praise the healthcare system as I have not been in a serious accident requiring me to go to the hospital. I am able to claim that the general population of Canada indeed praises the healthcare system. THere are flaws but no system can be perfect.
Responding to a comment about Toronto made by “yt”, Toronto is nowhere near the explaination you gave about it. I don’t think you have lived in Toronto. The reason that people claim that Toronto is safe is because we have a relatively low crime rate for our population. We also have to keep in fact that all big cities have violence, drugs, gangs, prostitututions, etc… but it is lower in Toronto than in most other cities. The only problem that I see in your description of Toronto is the face that you hear gunshots every night. I may not know the area you were talking about but I can claim that most Torontonians find the city safe.
May 6th, 2009 at 7:40 am
Honestly, I lived 13 years of my life in norway (im 18) and 5 years in the United States.
I would love to give some pro’s and con’s about Norway.
Everything has already been said about norway, and MOST OF IT, is true. People are rude, taxes are high, BUT people live happily, they dont complain, VERY MANY people have 2 houses, 2 cars, and a boat. people get paid well, (my dad few airplanes and was paid around 200,000 a year)
Education was… not great through 1-7 grade.
Norway SHOULD be no. 2 on the list, because I’ve seen more or less all of europe already. (yes, scandinavians in general have travelled all over Europe)
on the OTHER HAND, the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is the most arrogant, egocentric, and ethnocentric country I have ever visited and/or lived in!!
I am SCARED to put my opinion out beacause people are so judgemental. If you are not a pure christian, then you are the devil. the US is a very unaccepting country. people dont care about anything else than their job and how much money one makes and well… I honestly cant stand the united states. the only thing i like is the education to SOME DEGREE. schools are biased, and well, if you’re not a genius, you are dumb. so. by this said, i would throw the United States on the very middle of a world list.
TO ALL OF THESE “PATRIOTIC” AMERICANS… YOU NEED A REALITY CHECK. THE UNITED STATES IS NOT A SUPERPOWER. NOT AT ALL. YOUR ECONOMY IS SHIT AND WELL, WHO IS DUMB ENOUGH TO ELECT BUSH TO PRESIDENCY TWICE!!?!?!?
MOST AMERICANS HAVE NEVER EVER SEEN ANYTHING ELSE THAN THEIR BACKYARD AND MEXICO.. SERIOUSLY.
wow.
Americans piss me off.
arrogant dumbasses.
May 7th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Re Australia to be the best country. It might be a nice country, but everyone except Australians know that Australians are bloody annoying!
May 10th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I am an Australian, living in the United States for roughly 8 months of the year (Australia being the other 4) but I have been fortunate enough to have visited New Zealand, Japan, Indonesia, London and many more. America is great, you can do what you want i agree, but Australia rolls that way aswell. Tokyo is an amazing place to visit, wouldnt want to live there, same goes with London. In America i have been asked if in Australia we have… “the internet, cars, mcdonalds, cell phones, giraff’s, mothers day, if we speak english”, and the list goes on. very entertaining. So no, its not a 3rd world country chasing kangaroos around all day. But at the same time we like to make everyone else think we do… To the last comment, you must be a ticked off english cricket team suporter right?
May 10th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
i have lived in america all my life and i will agree that its a cesspool filled with arogant fascists who belive that america is the greatest because they have been brainwashed to believe that since they were born. and in my opinion the 5 nicest countrys to live in the world are 1.netherlands,2 finland,3 sweden,4 canada,5 germany
May 11th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
I am 16 years old and have lived in the USA all my life, but have visited many different countries such as Switzerland(which was probably the best place I have ever visited), Italy (very nice as well), Germany (Suprisingly well-off), and France (…the people seemed mad all the time). I can honestly say that the US probably does deserve the number 12 spot on the list, but I also feel like the US is getting bashed too severely. The diversity, I would say, is US’s greatest attribute, but our increasingly apalling economic situation being the worst, as well as self-fulfilling stereotypes.
May 12th, 2009 at 10:00 am
wow, a thread that’s been going on for two years…
I’ve visited Ireland, the UK England & Scotland (not Wales), Finland, The Netherlands, France, Germany, Luxemburg, Spain and the US. I’ll be visiting Mexico this summer and I hope to visit Sri Lanka and South Korea in the coming months and year.
I work in a company where there are 28 nationalities, all people with a high level of education. I like them all and the French will tell you France is the best place to live… (I might actually agree - that is the South of France). Every American I’ve met outside the US and know is proud of his country, loves it but admits it’s deeply flawed and loves Europe. Most will not return to the US after they have lived in Europe or Australia. People flock to the US because of ‘image’ - not reality. Yes it is possible for a man to become extremely rich, an immigrants son may become president but… most fail and do no better than they would have done elsewhere in the world and may actually be worse of than they would be in any other Western country.
Finland is… strange, terribly xenophobic - but beautifull. I met people there who lived their for years and still had no close Finnish friends. I visited an Irish Pub there and within 15 minutes every foreigner in the place was at the same table.
But Helsinki is a truly beautiful city, so is Turku and I believe it’s a great place to live for the Finnish. But still, it’s an amazingly beautiful country.
I haven’t made up my mind about Spain, I’ve only ’skimmed’ through it while on a few canyoning trips in the pyrenees.
Belgium is a great place to live but like any country it has it’s down sides. On the plus, we have 1250 kinds of beer, the best in the world (though the Czech may disagree and are the only ones in the world who are entitled). We love food and drink and we enjoy it here, or wherever we go. But Belgians love France and Italy because we share a love for food and drink (but they have much better weather).
France is my favorite country I think, I’d be living there if it was not for my family and friends.
All and all, this is a list based on a set of parameters. The choice of parameters decides its outcome. It all depends what you deem important yourself.
I don’t feel the need to bash any country, let alone over some obscure list.
May 12th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Idk what country is best or worst.
someone said that INDIA is worst to live in but my quistion to u is that WHY is india the worst place. its 2nd highest populated country in world.
INDIA is one country where there are more doctors, scientist, teacher.
I came passed 4th grade and came to USA from india to get better education. After i came i found out that i was beter of in india.
I did algebra in 4th grade. I am doing algebra in 9th grade in USA.
India is ahed of other countries in math, and science. We do suck at english tho.
my top 5 countries
1. USA
2. INDIA
3. AUSTRALIA - always beats india in cricket:(
4. italy
5. russia
worst:
1. all the countries with TALIBAN and dictators
May 13th, 2009 at 5:02 am
1. Iceland
2. Norway
3. Australia
4. Canada
5. Ireland
I think what this poll is trying to get at is which countries would be the best to live in for the long run. If you consider one of the criteria which the poll takes into account (problems resulting from global warming etc) the 5 countries listed above are what the facts suggest would be the best countries to live within going into the future.
Being Irish, I would consider Ireland as a strong candidate country to migrate to. There are several reasons, however if I was to work off the recent trend(not taking into account the sharp decrease in economic activity throughout the ENTIRE world i.e. not just Ireland) for a countries development, the country of my choice, to move to would be Ireland. I would consider myself as having traveled extensively enough as to be able to come up with an unbiased opinion.
If you were to consider that Ireland pre 1990s was one of the poorest countries in the world, let alone Europe and now to be considered among the top 5 places to live is an achievement. I can understand some commentators above underestimating Ireland’s ability to be ranked as seen. There is a strong stereotype associated with the Irish, such as us being people who live off potatoes, drink heavily, and build houses out of turf, while smoking a pipe and following plans laid out by a leprachaun(not sure about the spelling:P) but the fact is (shocking as it may seem to some) that this couldn’t be further from the truth. I am not going to sit here all day and go through each detail, but think that the wider public should change its opinion on Ireland, or at least lay off us a bit. If Ireland continues to develop like it is(you should compare statistics from say ten years ago till today) it will become a very attractive place, for even the most demanding of people to live.
Ireland is also the base for many of the worlds leading computer hardware and software companies within Europe. Internationally, Ireland is the second largest exporter of computer software in the world behind the U.S. Intel have there European base in Ireland. So if your computer was manufactured in Europe( Ireland, more specifically for DELL and HP)it probably contains hardware and software that was “made in Ireland”. The physical computer you use might also have “made in Ireland” stamped on the back. If companies like Intel, Dell, Microsoft, IBM, Wyeth, Google, EMC and Abbott Laboratories have faith enough in Ireland to have their European bases here then we must be doing something right.Anyway Wikipedia has all the answers!
If I did move to any country I would move to the U.S. mainly because we share a language etc. HOWEVER, I think I would only be able to manage a few years over there. The food in Ireland beats any food in America!In general all European food is excellent!
Ireland is also the second wealthiest country per head of population in the world, behind Japan…. Who wants to live in Japan? It smells weird! Overpopulated too!
That was a bit of a rant!
The main thing is we have lots of clean, drinkable water, which will become super important in the future. Ireland or any country with a plentiful source of mineral water or just plentiful rain (way too much in Ireland-clean unpolluted rain) has the potential to be the next exploiter….i.e. an OPEC for water….you might see Ireland as an OWEC country soon!:P
May 13th, 2009 at 5:38 am
AUSTRALIA!!!!
May 14th, 2009 at 1:02 am
hi….can you give youre opnion please on my list the bestplaces to live kuwait london spain germany france
May 14th, 2009 at 1:05 am
can you give me your opnion please the best country to live in kuwait london spain u s a
May 16th, 2009 at 7:17 am
I live in canada and yes it does have beatiful lakes. As a country this is not a good place to live .canadian citzens get nothing in this country its excatly immgrants who rule canada, while born canadians get nothing and worry day to day about putting food on the table or a house to live in. While these immgriants that are not even supposed to be here are getting everything handed to them on a platter. As for health care plan to wait 1o - 12 hours in emgergency department or if u are sick months to wait to see a specialist even for kids.so to lady with the pool wait till u hit a bad situation in canada then u will see it for the country it is. Oh and if we ever had to go to war god help us. But then again we would be kissing the united states butt to get us out of it. But canada go to war won’t happen we have them all over canada its there safe haven
May 16th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
You ppl can’t make a list based on your own experiences, because you don’t know what’s it like living in a country where you haven’t been to.
May 18th, 2009 at 1:14 am
The U.S. is ok. Although it is definitely not the best country in the world, It is not as terrible as some individuals say it is. Not every American is full of himself/herself, nor is everyone patriotic or Christian. I know I am not. American values are very much entrenched in Judeo-Christian culture as are politics and laws, which have strong religious undertones.
As an American I must admit the education/ school system is not as good as it should be since the people in power spend tax payers’ money on wars and send aid in the form of weapons and money to nations with gross human rights violations. The government is also very corrupt.
I am, however, fond of the U.S. ’s ability to provide a free, or nearly free, college education.
Australia, Sweden, Switzerland, and Spain are great ! I loved them all ! The people are awesome, Sweden being an exception. For the most part they are very liberal, Spain with some exceptions, but they are all great !
May 19th, 2009 at 11:06 am
I have read the blog & makes intresting material to know the various criterias to judge the best countries to live in.I do acknowledge that the countries mentioned are good but not better than India.There are innumeriable factors that makes India the best place to live in.
1. Being the largest democratic country in the world the Indians enjoy greater liberty than most of the countries mentioned.
2. As most of the countries provide free medical aid to the people, here also people enjoy the same facilities esp the poor ones& imagine, the amount of taxes to be paid is very minimum. Many tax benefits are given to the people.
3. India is the country of diversity you find a lot of variety not only in the culture & tradition but also in topography, You find the snow falling regions inJammu& kashmir, the sand dunes in Rajasthan the cold temperate north east regions, the hot climate in south. Diversity is also seen in the seasons we have three distinct regions.
4. In todays world India is the fastest economically growing country & the main IT hub of the world.
5. The education which most of the countries boost of, is given free of cost to the students in India
In other countries the students pay a hefty amount to get the degree certificates, in India the students get the same Quality education at a very minimum amount.
India has made tremendous efforts, & progress in all the fields in a span of 60 yrs the results are there for all to see.
May 19th, 2009 at 4:41 pm
I’m only 16 and never travelled abroad, but its sickening to see all the Anti-American bashing. Just like any other stereotype against a country, the things people say about us are far from the truth. The average, suburban American is hard-working, down to earth, and generally friendly. None of us have World Domination aspirations, spread hate against other countries, or have bad healthcare. Have you ever heard of Healtg Insurance? We may have to pay for our healthcare but its far and away the best healthcare in the world. Out country is certainly NOT violent either. People see violence in inner city areas and think it permeates out into the whole country. WRONG. Inner-city slums are where 90-95% of our violence occurs. Otherwise the U.S. is just as safe as any Scandinavian country. If I had to pick a place to live besides the USA, it would be Australia, Canada, then probably New Zealand and the UK. Those places dont have a language barrier and have the most similar cultures to the U.S. I’d definitely like living in Australia, beautiful weather, great people, and similar culture! Those Aussies got it figured out IMO
May 23rd, 2009 at 12:21 am
Yer all stuck in a rut - broaden out and look at an alternative best 10 countries to live in for opportunities, healthcare, lifestyle etc:
1. Oman
2. Malaysia
3. Bahrain
4. Brunai
5. Bahrain
6. Slovakia
7. Uruguay
8. Cyprus
9. Finland
10. France
May 24th, 2009 at 6:24 am
Guys I’ve lived in many countries, US, Finland, Australia and Japan but nothing compares to homeland. If you are Norwegian you will say Norway is the best, if you are Italian you will say Italy is the best, American etc..
So to leave my comment:
You may be living in “rich” countries, but nothing compares to the sunniest and most beautiful country in the world with the best people who know how to live their lives: GREECE!! Because
“Greeks don’t live to work, they work to live”
I am sorry that some of you English, Americans etc will never understand that. When you do, u will know what I am talking about.
May 28th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
I think theres good and bad parts of all the countries mentioned, and theres good and bad people in all. I’d have to say one of the worst places would be America, not really any good places to live there. Well, the places there that are considerd “good” are the all white suberbs, Americans cant really be blamed for being irgorant of the rest of the world because their just born into a country thats waaay to into it’s self. Not all Americans are stupid rednecks of course, at least, i really doubt it, i havent met any that arnt but im sure theres at least a few.
June 1st, 2009 at 8:15 am
Home is where the heart is. We all stick up for where we call home. As for me, I’ll stick to Canada. I’ve travelled a bit in Europe and the mid-east but I’m not an expert. I’ve travelled (and still travel) extensively to the US and, while a great place, I wouldn’t want to live there.
June 3rd, 2009 at 4:54 am
I agree with each and every one of you in some way :) Im from New Zealand - and I have to say…we are most of the time forgotten. lol :P I think every country has its positives and negatives, but Australia and New Zealand really are GREAT places to live :) The quality of education is great, health care in New Zealand and Australia is some of the best, crime rates are low - relative to the population that is - and each Country has its own individuality. Each Countrie’s hospitality is different simply because of the different cultures and beliefs :) But honestly…COME TO NEW ZEALAND!!! LOL! If you think the Aussie’s are nice people…come and meet us! LOL! Yup - Kia Ora Mate! Wel