UN ranks T&T as happiest Caribbean nation

(Trinidad Express) Trinidad and Tobago has been named the “happiest” Caribbean nation again.

With its vibrant lifestyle, dynamic culture, booming business centre, strong government and, of course, largest Carnival celebration in the Caribbean, it is no surprise that the dual-island nation leads the way in happiness, according to the World Happiness Report from the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) released on April 23 which also stated that the country ranked highest in happiness in the Caribbean and 41st in the world.

“Trinidad and Tobago’s flourishing culinary scene and year round festivals, combined with local steel pan and soca music and picturesque beaches, bring out the happiness in both locals and visitors alike. Whether sampling world-renowned street food on Ariapita Avenue, Port of Spain, wining to the music at cultural and food festivals, getting a taste of adventure in the mountains of Trinidad or unwinding on Pigeon Point beach in Tobago, Trinbagonians have plenty of reasons to smile,” the Tourism Development Company (TDC) said in a statement following the release of the World Happiness Report.

“Additionally, with 15 public holidays last year, Trinidad and Tobago is among the top ten countries in the world for the number of public holidays.”

The World Happiness Report aims to help country leaders recognise the importance of happiness and well-being for the success of the world and sustainable development, the TDC stated.

Researchers examined 11 areas essential to happiness and well-being, including health, education, local government, personal security, income and overall satisfaction with life.

Trinidad and Tobago was also the top-ranked Caribbean nation in the previous Happiness Report, published in 2013, the TDC said.