Happiness is in those countries... or just at home!
Summer time, comedy, and the pretty hotels with pools in the happiest countries in the world ! #45
It’s been a busy but happy week!
First of all, we changed clocks on Sunday. I love summer time 🌻. The longer evenings are such a sign of spring and summer. And it means that after work, you still have time to go and enjoy yourself.
Then, at work, we welcomed my colleagues from Belgium, France and Italy. After some good discussions during the day, we took them to a traditional old London pub and then to diner at 1869 the booking office. It’s housed in the former booking office of the Saint Pancras station and the architecture is beautifully highlighted. Food was good, music was not too loud and conversation flowed easily. A good recommendation for a business diner.
I felt really happy that everyone had a good time and learned from each other. All my previous roles had an international focus, whereas my current job is very UK focused. So it was nice to be back to exchange with people of different cultures.
Then on Saturday evening, I went to my first Comedy Club in London with friends. It’s been on my post-lockdown bucket list for a while! We listened to four comedians and had a good laugh. 😂 The place is also a pub and a night club so it was full of people coming out on a Saturday night. Reminded me of when I was young!
Talking of happiness, there’s a regular report of the world’s happiest countries out and I took the opportunity to look at which hotel you could stay that if you wanted to go round them.
It is actually interesting to read what makes a country happy and sadly, to also pause and think of those countries that are at the bottom of the list.
More and more now, I am accutely aware of the extreme privilege I live in. I do ask myself regularly how I can contribute more to the world and share some of this happiness…
Are you feeling the same some time?
New content this week
Where to stay in the happiest countries in the world
Recently the World Happiness Report 2023 issue was published. It lists the top 10 happiest countries in the world, ranking highly for factors found to support happiness: caring, freedom, generosity, honesty, health, income and good governance. Here are my recommendations for hotels to try in each one of the happiest countries! Read more.
Extra finds
The Adria
Starting from £291 - Check latest prices and availability
The Adria is a townhouse hotel that exudes quiet luxury with stylishly simple rooms featuring Penhaligon's toiletries. The lounges are perfect for relaxation, and guests can enjoy afternoon tea, cocktails, and snacks from the butler's pantry. Although there is no on-site restaurant, there are plenty of dining options in the neighborhood. The hotel does not have a pool.
King Street Townhouse Hotel
Starting from £161 - Check latest prices and availability
King Street Townhouse Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel with 40 rooms decorated in muted tones of grey and blue. It has a new gym and spa that is very attractive. The hotel is located in the center of Manchester but on a side street, making it quiet at night. The seventh-floor infinity pool offers city views and indulgent relaxation.
AlmaLusa Comporta
Starting from 100 Euros - Check latest prices and availability
AlmaLusa Comporta is a stylish hotel located on Portugal's chicest coastline, often referred to as "Europe's Hamptons". It comprises 53 rooms, including 31 suites, and features the AlmaLusa Café and The RoofTop Bar. It is the only hotel in the village of Comporta and the only one within walking distance of a beach. There are adjoining rooms available.
La Voie Lactée
Starting from 145 Euros - https://www.hotel-lavoielactee.fr/
La Voie Lactée hotel is located in the heart of the La Mongie winter sports resort at an altitude of 1800 meters. The hotel has been entirely renovated in the spirit of the design of the 60s and 70s, while retaining its authentic character and offering a friendly welcome. Its spacious double rooms feature a bow window or balcony with magnificent mountain views. The hotel offers a gym and relaxation area with sauna and Nordic bath, but no pool.
NOS Hotel & Villas in Sifnos Island, Greece
Starting from 350 Euros - Check latest prices and availability
Spread across four stone structures, NÓS Hotel & Villas opened in April on Sifnos Island in Cyclades. The Athens-based K-Studio, which has designed many of the most sought after hotels in Greece of the past few years, tried to create an intimate village with its main square being ‘represented’ by the opening around the restaurant and the swimming pool. There are 18 suites each equipped with outdoor spaces shaded with draped sheets. 11 suites have a plunge pool and there is also an outdoor common pool.