Now, if you think you are suffering from déjà vu and you feel you have read this before, well, you almost have. I have previously written about the best city in the world to live, but today it is about countries. So, which is the best country in the world to live?
Norway
Norway!
And other second best country in the world to live in is…..
Australia
Australia!
I have to say that both countries look stunning, but can you spot the major difference between the two?
- No, it’s not the skies! Both have beautiful clear blue skies.
- No, it’s not overcrowding! Both have plenty of space to enjoy.
- No, it’s not the seaside! Both have extensive coastlines.
Here’s a clue:
I’ll come back to the answer shortly.
So who says Norway is the best country in the world to live?
The United Nations human development index (HDI), that’s who. It’s a pretty good idea, the concept is explained at the hdr website, where they will tell you that “It is about creating an environment in which people can develop their full potential and lead productive, creative lives in accord with their needs and interests.”
It goes on to say that the basic human capabilities are “to lead long and healthy lives, to be knowledgeable, to have access to the resources needed for a decent standard of living and to be able to participate in the life of the community.”
It’s a great idea but did you notice there is no mention of the weather? Which brings me to the answer to my tricky spot the difference poser.
Norway is cold, very cold. Mid-winter temperatures can be around -7°c and average height of summer temperatures are just 16-22°C. On the other hand, Australia is hot, very hot. Especially in Brisbane where I live where 16-22°C IS the winter temperature and the summers average around 32°C and can hit 40°C or more.
That explains why in the picture of Norway the person appears to be wearing a very heavy overcoat whereas in the picture of Australia, which was taken in the middle of winter, the people are wearing shorts and bikinis.
And it’s also why I chose Australia over and above Norway when I migrated from the UK.
If you would like to know how all the other countries fared in the index, then you can see the full list here and get further confirmation that hot weather doesn’t count when you’ll notice that Iceland is third and Canada is forth.
Incidentally, last year Australia were forth, so we are moving in the right direction. The United States is 13th, up from 15th last year with the UK are unchanged in 21st position.
But without a doubt, Australia is the best country in the world for human development AND hot weather.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m sure Norway is a beautiful country but those temperatures are way too cold for my liking. I much prefer long, sunny, and warm days, where you can relax at the beach and enjoy the sun.
Couldn’t agree more David, you can’t beat the heat. I think it’s great just sticking on a pair of shorts and a T-shirt and you’re done.