Vanuatu was named the happiest country in the world twice, in 2006 and 2010, by the New Economics Foundation in the United Kingdom.
So, where does the secret recipe for happiness in Vanuatu lie?
Pure and Radiant Smiles
1. Abundant resources and a simple life. Located between 15 and 20 degrees south latitude, Vanuatu has a tropical oceanic climate with no harsh winters or scorching summers. It enjoys abundant rainfall throughout the year, lush vegetation, and rich marine resources.
2. Beautiful environment and a pleasant state of mind. Vanuatu is adjacent to the world's largest coral sea and is free from modern industrial pollution. The seawater is clear and azure, while the land is covered with dense forests, swaying coconut trees, and filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers. It also features natural wonders such as Champagne Beach, known as the "most beautiful beach in the South Pacific," and Mount Yasur, the "world's most accessible active volcano."
A Return to a Simple Life
3. Emphasis on family ties and a culture of sharing. Families in Vanuatu have close relationships, and neighbors live in harmony. The people share resources and wealth, participate in decision-making, support one another, and treat each other as one.
4. Governance by chiefs and social stability. The chief system is a part of traditional Melanesian culture and remains highly vibrant today. Every tribe and island has its own chiefs, with a clear hierarchy, orderly succession, and well-defined responsibilities. They take charge of everything from labor arrangements and the distribution of property to weddings, funerals, and ceremonial celebrations. The National Council of Chiefs represents chiefs from all regions, participating in the country's highest-level decision-making and management.