Book a trip and enjoy the International Day of Happiness in style

Good vibes and fun experiences! That’s what travel means to us. Say cheese and smile for the camera as you discover these top destinations that are perfect for the International Day of Happiness

The International Day of Happiness is best spent travelling

How do you define happiness? This complex emotion can mean so many things to different people. Happiness is an individual pursuit yet, it can be created provided the conditions are right. If you were to ask us the definition of this emotion, we would define it with one word: travel. As the world starts to defrost, it is time to start thinking about where to go on your next adventure. However, if inspiration is slim pickings, let the International Day of Happiness celebrations inspire your next vacation. 

World Happiness Day reminds us that travel brings happiness

Stressed, worn out, wobbly, misunderstood or just generally feeling low? There is a remedy for that. It is widely believed that travel is a band-aid for the soul. A dream vacation is like a magic pill that puts a pin in reality and lets you feel the exhilarating rush of freedom. To venture off into unknown lands and escape the confines of your comfort zone is the best medicine in the world which is why this International Day of Happiness, we encourage you to indulge in travel. Going on vacation is like an extended happy hour but in the sunshine, so why not book a holiday and enjoy Happiness Day in style?

What is the International Day of Happiness?

Did you know there is a dedicated day in the calendar for happiness? This year the International Day of Happiness 2023 falls on March 20th. This day has been created with the aim to build a kinder and happier world. This hopes to be achieved by sharing one simple daily practice that can be adopted into your routine. 

The daily practice is based on three key pillars: be mindful, be grateful and be kind

The daily practice is based on three key pillars: be mindful, be grateful and be kind. With this in mind, we have applied the same pillars to your next vacation. Now you can choose where to travel based on destinations that lend themselves to this philosophy. 

Be Mindful - a World Happiness Day theme for the mind

The daily practice is based on three key pillars: be mindful, be grateful and be kind. With this in mind, we have applied the same pillars to your next vacation. Now you can choose where to travel based on destinations that lend themselves to this philosophy. 

Happiness is travelling. Especially to Aruba, the happy island

What better place to visit for the International Day of Happiness than Aruba? It has been coined as the “Happy Island” and you just need to do a quick Google search to see why. Its bright, sunny weather invites you to enjoy the great outdoors and bask in nature’s beauty. If you are staying in Aruba, Palm Beach is a fantastic spot to soak up the picturesque 

If you are staying in Aruba, Palm Beach is a fantastic spot to soak up the picturesque landscapes

Yet, there is more to this island than stunning sandy beaches. If you are in search of mindful activities, you are in luck. Sunrise yoga classes on the beach, nature walks, cooking classes and trips to a local farm to discover local agriculture practices are just some of the calming ways to spend a day in Aruba. If you are looking for relaxation on your happy trip, many of the island’s hotels offer luxury spa experiences that incorporate local products such as Aloe Vera and coconut oil into their treatments.

Spend the International Day of Happiness on the island of Aruba

Flamingos walking along a beach in Aruba

Celebrate international happiness day in Dubai

If you are planning to stay in Dubai, don’t miss out on the world happiness day activities that are scheduled to take place. While Dubai is known for its glitzy, glamorous lifestyle, it is actually a wonderful place to indulge in mindfulness. Find inner peace in one of Dubai’s pristine and perfectly manicured parks and attend a yoga session or simply enjoy a walk, stopping to take in the fragrant aromas of the flowers planted along the paths. Meditation is also a popular pastime for Emiratis and what better place to meditate than on the Ocean? Take a boat out to sea and let the steady ebb and flow of the waves soothe your mind and body. Of course, no trip to Dubai is complete without a beach day. Yet, instead of sunbathing, use your time to pick up litter and reflect on the amount of waste generated. This good deed will be sure to fill your heart and put a smile on your face. 

Dubai hosts many activities for the International Day of Happiness

Take a boat out and enjoy Dubai on the water

Indulge in a day of happiness in Canarias

In the Canary Islands, the day of happiness is every day. Here, life feels light and fun, perhaps because the eternal springlike temperatures provide endless opportunities for exploring the beautiful surroundings. Did you know, it is often believed that the seven islands represent the seven chakras? So, when it comes to happiness, let’s start with the heart chakra represented by Tenerife. Hike the rocky terrain of Mount Teide National Park and feel as though you are on top of the world. With each step, reflect on what makes you feel happy. Tenerife holidays also offer endless stretches of dark volcanic sand which are the ideal setting to indulge in some much-needed rest and relaxation. Soak up the sun and appreciate the stunning natural landscapes which change at every turn.

Lanzarote represents the crown chakra which is linked to our connection to spiritual issues as well as our inner and outer beauty. There is no denying that the island holds a unique energy that can be felt when exploring natural landmarks such as the Lago Verde or the artistic creations of the local architect, Cesár Manrique. His impressive art centre, the Jameos del Agua is a testament to the island’s creative nature and a must-visit when on holiday in Lanzarote. The island is also famous for its wineries, many of which can be visited. Aloe Vera also grows here and a trip around a local farm will offer an insightful experience of local life.

Every day is the International Day of Happiness when you are in the Canaries

A trip to “El Lago Verde” is a must when in Lanzarote

The United Nations International Day of Happiness teaches us to be grateful

What are you thankful for? If it is spending time with family or enjoying the latest art exhibition with friends, there are plenty of reasons to feel happy while on the road. Let the highs of city living lift your spirits and show you just how good life really is on the International Day of Happiness.

Be happy, international travel to Barcelona awaits

Happiness, travel and tourism are just some of the things holidays in Barcelona are famous for. This vibrant city offers endless reasons to feel grateful. Just a normal stroll along its wide, buzzing Avenidas is an art exhibition in itself thanks to the stunning architecture of notable architects like Antón Gaudí. Gazing at these buildings will fill you with awe and wonder and remind you of the beauty and creativity that humans are capable of. 

Barcelona also happens to be a food lovers’ paradise

Barcelona also happens to be a food lovers’ paradise - from tapas, paella, local wines and vermouth, this city reminds us of the pleasure of food. Of course, the beach, the people, the creative boutiques and the street festivals all contribute to making the International Day of Happiness in Barcelona something to remember forever.

Barcelona offers many reasons to be happy international style on holiday

A trip to “El Lago Verde” is a must when in Lanzarote

Travel happy to Madrid

Madrid is a city that offers many reasons to feel grateful and full of life. If you are planning to stay in Madrid, immerse yourself in the vibrancy and diversity of Spanish culture by visiting some of the best art galleries in the world, just a stone’s throw from the city centre. The Prado Museum or the Reina Sofia Museum are wonderful ways to appreciate the creativity of the world. While Madrid is a city, there are still plenty of green spaces to connect with nature, the most famous being Retiro Park. Admire the beauty of nature and savour the precious moments of your holiday as you stroll around the neat gardens. Of course, Madrid’s gastronomic scene is world-famous and a trip to the San Miguel Market is a must if you want to be reminded of life’s simple pleasures and indulge in a tasty tour of Spanish cuisine. Here, it is possible to travel and be happy at the same time as this city has it all.

Madrid is a wonderful place to enjoy a travel happy city break

Lose yourself strolling through Madrid’s winding streets

Enjoy UN Happiness Day in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Madrid is a city that offers many reasons to feel grateful and full of life. If you are planning to stay in Madrid, immerse yourself in the vibrancy and diversity of Spanish culture by visiting some of the best art galleries in the world, just a stone’s throw from the city centre. The Prado Museum or the Reina Sofia Museum are wonderful ways to appreciate the creativity of the world. While Madrid is a city, there are still plenty of green spaces to connect with nature, the most famous being Retiro Park. Admire the beauty of nature and savour the precious moments of your holiday as you stroll around the neat gardens. Of course, Madrid’s gastronomic scene is world-famous and a trip to the San Miguel Market is a must if you want to be reminded of life’s simple pleasures and indulge in a tasty tour of Spanish cuisine. Here, it is possible to travel and be happy at the same time as this city has it all.

Punta Cana is the perfect place for a UN happiness day vacation

Take a day trip to the beaches of Punta Cana when visiting Santo Domingo

Travel is happiness so be kind

Madrid is a city that offers many reasons to feel grateful and full of life. If you are planning to stay in Madrid, immerse yourself in the vibrancy and diversity of Spanish culture by visiting some of the best art galleries in the world, just a stone’s throw from the city centre. The Prado Museum or the Reina Sofia Museum are wonderful ways to appreciate the creativity of the world. While Madrid is a city, there are still plenty of green spaces to connect with nature, the most famous being Retiro Park. Admire the beauty of nature and savour the precious moments of your holiday as you stroll around the neat gardens. Of course, Madrid’s gastronomic scene is world-famous and a trip to the San Miguel Market is a must if you want to be reminded of life’s simple pleasures and indulge in a tasty tour of Spanish cuisine. Here, it is possible to travel and be happy at the same time as this city has it all.

Enjoy the Day of Happiness activities in Yucatán

Giving back is the secret to happiness, especially when it comes to travel. Yucatán is home to many natural wonders, such as cenotes, underground rivers, and biosphere reserves. If you are planning a holiday in Cancún or the surrounding areas, why not participate in ecotourism activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, and swimming in cenotes?  Not only will you be having fun but you will be supporting sustainable tourism practices that protect the environment and preserve the region's natural beauty. It’s a win-win. 

Of course, you cannot visit Yucatán without experiencing the magical lifestyle of the indigenous Mayan communities

Of course, you cannot visit Yucatán without experiencing the magical lifestyle of the indigenous Mayan communities. Many offer cultural tourism experiences for visitors, such as traditional Mayan ceremonies, craft workshops, and cooking classes. These activities allow visitors to learn about Mayan culture and support sustainable tourism practices that empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage. Now, if these are not International Day of Happiness event ideas for your holiday, we don’t know what are. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy the exhilarating happiness that Mexico provides.

Exploring the Mayan ruins in Yucatan is one of the day of happiness activities to enjoy

The temple El Gran Jaguar in Tikal

Travel to happiness or San José, Costa Rica as it is also known

Of course, you cannot visit Yucatán without experiencing the magical lifestyle of the indigenous Mayan communities. Many offer cultural tourism experiences for visitors, such as traditional Mayan ceremonies, craft workshops, and cooking classes. These activities allow visitors to learn about Mayan culture and support sustainable tourism practices that empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage. Now, if these are not International Day of Happiness event ideas for your holiday, we don’t know what are. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy the exhilarating happiness that Mexico provides.

Travel to happiness and reach Costa Rica, a country set to make you smile

A Costa Rican landscape complete with a view of the Arenal volcano

Enjoy a happy, easy trip to the Maldives

Of course, you cannot visit Yucatán without experiencing the magical lifestyle of the indigenous Mayan communities. Many offer cultural tourism experiences for visitors, such as traditional Mayan ceremonies, craft workshops, and cooking classes. These activities allow visitors to learn about Mayan culture and support sustainable tourism practices that empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage. Now, if these are not International Day of Happiness event ideas for your holiday, we don’t know what are. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy the exhilarating happiness that Mexico provides.

Enjoy a happy easy trip to the Maldives this year

Protect the marine life while on holiday in the Maldives