China might be emerging super power, countries in Middle East might have petro-dollars and Brazil and India might be emerging economies; but this is not enough to be the greatest places to live in. Quality of life is not only about GDP or military power. It is about cost of living, culture and leisure, economy, environment, freedom, health, infrastructure, safety and risk, and climate.
Travel magazine International Living published its annual Quality of Life Index for year 2010. Below is the list of top ten countries.
#1. France
France topped the list for the fifth time in a row with a bang. It has scored brilliantly in most categories. France has the best public healthcare system in the world. However, the soul of this great country lies in its culture, leisure and architecture. It is also one of the most visited countries in the world.
#2. Australia
Australia is not known as “sporting nation” because of its people love for sports. It is also famous for its large beaches and moderate climate. Cost of living in its biggest cities such as Melbourne and Sydney is lesser than other great cities in the world. The Australian economy is driven by agricultural, mineral, and energy exports.
#3. Switzerland
The greenest country in the world has also made it to the top three of quality of life index. Switzerland has once again proved that it has much more than the famous lakes and mountains. It is the brightest example of how good governance and smart policies can turned the natural disadvantages of a country into advantages. Its economy is not dependent on tourism anymore. It is now also known for its watches, secretive banks and technology.
#4. Germany
With relatively stable economy, Germany is 4th best place to live in. It is one of the biggest exporters in the world. It is also fifth largest in purchasing power. The country has also developed a high standard of living.
#5. New Zealand
Like Switzerland, New Zealand is also famous for its natural beauty. From Auckland's waterfront to the Southern Alps, it has some of the cleanest landscapes on earth. Its citizens have a great emphasis on sports, beach-life, and healthy lifestyles.
#6. Luxembourg
With per capita GDP of $88,000, Luxembourg is one of the world's richest countries. With only 51 miles long and 35 miles wide, it is relatively unknown to the people in rest of the world but it always performs great when it comes to quality of life index. It is also famous for its great restaurants.
#7. United States
United States is undoubtedly one of the most influential and powerful countries in the world. It has something to offer for everyone. It is the land of opportunities and convenience. It is clean, efficient, innovative, famous, democratic, rich and powerful. What else needed?
#8. Belgium
Belgium’s capital Brussels is the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. Brussels can also be termed as the greenest city in Europe.
#9. Canada
Canada is another name of natural beauty and resources. Islands of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are very popular among tourists. Health care and living standards in Canada are among the highest in the world. Canada's economy is based on huge natural resources, financial industry and innovative manufacturing industry.
#10. Italy
Italy is famous for its food and lifestyle. Its economy is largely driven by the manufacture of high-quality consumer goods produced by small and medium-sized enterprises.
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