10 Money-Saving Honeymoon Tips from Real Couples

If you’re in the throes of wedding planning, the honeymoon budget has probably crossed your mind once or twice — or maybe all the freakin’ time. How can you host the biggest party of your life, enjoy a memorable vacay and NOT go into some serious debt? Don’t fret! Below, 10 real brides and grooms share their biggest savings tips for money-conscious newlyweds. So take a deep breath and start daydreaming about tropical drinks because, trust us, you’ll need a stress-free holiday after your big day!

1. Go on aCruise:“I’d say the biggest thing we got out of doing a cruise was saving time, because it was stress-free planning. The all-inclusive aspect made it super easy to plan. We went in the off-season (but only just before the high season, so the weather was still okay) and got the lowest-level room. All of the other amenities are the same across the board, so it still felt pretty luxurious. And because the cruise line had deals with tour companies in each destination, we saved a bunch by taking their excursions — especially since many of them included meals. We were able to post the excursions on our travelersjoy.com site. Our family and friends gifted us specific experiences for our wedding. They bought us fancier meals and bonus packages for our days at sea.” — Clare Perret

2. Choose Your Own Adventure: “Our honeymoon was definitely not the norm. We rented a camper van for a road trip from the East Coast to the West Coast, and saved a ton by not sleeping in hotels. Another big thing we did was avoid eating out, and instead went to grocery stores to pack the little mini fridge in our camper van with food. It worked out great and saved us a LOT of money. We also looked for free or really cheap things to do on the road trip, like going to national parks. There was so much to do and so much to see!” — Lauren Burrows

3. Create a Honeyfund Account: “Instead of doing a registry, we did a honeymoon registry and didn’t pay for our honeymoon! To us, it was more valuable than plates we’ll never use, or a better toaster.” — Kaley Olson

4. Elope, or Raffle Off Goods to Raise Money: “We eloped and got married on our honeymoon site (LOL!). But I did have an artsy friend who got married, and she asked her artistic friends to donate things for a silent auction/raffle at her reception. People bought tickets and got a cool prize if they won. Also, you can find things you like on Etsy and contact shop owners to see if they would be willing to donate for the free publicity. Usually, artists can write off donations of work on their taxes, so it’s kind of a win-win for many small businesses that are just starting out.” — Michaela Meyer

5. Use a Travel Agent: “Go all-inclusive to a tropical place, because you’ll be exhausted. Get pampered in a place where you want to check out the town. Punta Cana? Cuba? There are amazing deals. Do you know a travel agent? They have great tips. Don’t worry about spending more — a good agent will save you money.” — Ellyn Nugent

6. Take Just a Bite of Everything: “We went to Spain and wound up spending way less on food than we thought because we basically just ate tapas for every meal. We went to a couple nice places but loved the more local atmosphere at the bars instead!” — Marisa Iallonardo

7. Use Groupon Getaways and Living Social deals: “If you aren’t specific on a location, you can find tons of discounts. Book your flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday when the flight deals are usually released. Speaking of flight deals, sign up for airline emails (i.e. JetBlue, Delta, etc.) so you get the notifications right when they are releasing their deals. Get an airline, hotel or travel credit card (preferably one with no interest for a year) and charge all of your wedding stuff on it. You’ll be paying for the wedding and building up miles. And the big one: Research your destination. You can save tons on travel and lodging, but I recommend splurging at least once on a nice dinner, romantic evening or, if you’re anything like us, an excursion to hike up an active volcano.” — Lisa Kaurich

8. Live Like a Local: “We found our honeymoon hotel in Bermuda on Airbnb! It’s beautiful and much more affordable than the hotels we were looking at. The reviews are great too.” — Brittany Schmid

9. Go for the All-Inclusive: “I highly recommend all-inclusive resorts to brides because there are lots to choose from, like Couples, Excellence, Secrets and Sandals. You don’t have to worry about paying for transportation, food, drinks or fun! Our resort had scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaks, sailboats and tennis included. It was also a no tipping resort so we really didn’t have to worry about paying at all while we were there. Lastly, I would recommend picking a location that is cheaper to fly to. We did Antigua, which was very pricey, but somewhere like the Dominican Republic or Mexico would’ve been much more affordable, so that’s definitely something to take into account!” — Mandy Poe

10. Shop Around: “We used cheapcaribbean.com and loved it. They took care of booking the flight and hotel, and you can book expeditions through it as well. It saved us money and we got the all-inclusive beach honeymoon we were looking for. Also, oddly enough, Costco has really good travel deals that couples should look into!” — Kathryn Feliciano

Planning your honeymoon? Check out all things Brit + Co Weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for more unique wedding inspo.

Paris, Bali, and Sydney top the list for most popular engagement spots, according to custom jewelry maker Glamira, but couples are thinking beyond the City of Lights when it comes to their honeymoon destinations. This once-in-a-lifetime trip should feel unique and special — a bucket list topper for sure. And as we head into the rest of the year, we're looking at where couples are headed going into 2024. Trainline, a European rail booking app, found that U.S. travelers are currently seeking out new places to spend their most romantic getaways. Here are the fastest-growing honeymoon destinations, plus unique travel experiences for newlyweds — or any couple — looking to get away and relax, unwind, and connect.

Popular Honeymoon Destinations

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Edinburgh, Scotland

From strolling Portobello Beach to grabbing a pint at one of Edinburgh's quirky bars, couples can enjoy Scotland's capital beyond the Mary Queen of Scots vibes at the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Harry Potter fans will especially enjoy The Elephant House, where J.K. Rowling started writing early drafts of the epic series. According to Trainline, there's been 80 percent growth in travel to Edinburgh, just about $70 train ride from London!

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Seville, Spain

Coming in second for rail travel is the historic Real Alcázar de Sevilla (just a $45 train ride from Madrid). Indulge in delicious tapas and Andalucian cuisine, experience the beauty of traditional flamenco, and visit the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, Real Alcázar, known for its architecture, lush gardens, and photo-perfect tile work.

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Venice, Italy

Travelers will never tire of this beautiful and unique city (just a $25 train ride from Milan). Pro tip: travel in the off season when it's not so crowded or expensive (plus, lighten the environmental impact of over-tourism). But it's SO worth a honeymoon filled with the best Italian food, gorgeous car-free walks, charming squares, and historic landmarks. And that honeymoon shot along the canal? Priceless!

Unique Honeymoon Destination Experiences

Courtesy of The Cove Eleuthera

Bahamas

A vibrant culture, pristine beaches and the friendliest people are what make the Bahamas a perfect getaway. If you love stargazing, do so from the comfort of your room at The Cove Eleuthera, nestled between two white sand coves on the secluded island of Eleuthera. The resort offers a “Tranquility Under the Stars” experience where you can stay in a luxury oceanfront room with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the ocean and a large private patio, plus an in-room telescope, constellation maps, and a private nighttime yoga sesh for you and your love set under the stars.

Photo by Pixabay

Santorini, Greece

This volcanic island in the Aegean Sea is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and dramatic landscapes. Start your marriage on a healthy note with a wellness experience atop the highest point of Santorini at the Andronis Concept Wellness Resort. Each suite has an ocean-facing infinity pool, where you can watch awesome sunsets and sunrises when the sky turns pink. The Kallos Spa can tailor a treatment for you, including a 90-day wellness plan based on your nutrition and lifestyle too.

Courtesy of The Chedi Andermatt

Andermatt, Switzerland

Switzerland is a great anytime-of-year trip, but ski and snowboard lovers will especially enjoy this winter white experience! Inspired by Far Eastern philosophy, The Spa at The Chedi Andermatt features 12 private spa suites where you and your +1 can relax, refresh and rewind with an Omorovicza treatment (a blend of Hungary’s mineral-rich healing waters, plus vitamins, essential oils and other natural ingredients).

Courtesy of The Short Club

Turks & Caicos

Beach and water sport lovers should look to Turks and Caicos for a stunning Caribbean getaway with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a chill island vibe. The Shore Club offers serene wellness cottages directly on the beach to spa guests. Just take a stroll through the dunes on along the pathways lined with lush Sea Grape trees. Spend the day at the spa, the beach or travel to nearby islands for the perfect romantic getaway.

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County Limerick, Ireland

If gastropubs, castle hopping and medieval architecture is more your thing, visit County Limerick in Ireland. Known as one of Ireland's prettiest villages, Adare is famous for its thatched cottages and picturesque streets nestled in the Irish woodlands. Adare Manor offers a floor-to-ceiling nature-gazing experience where guests can surround themselves with nature, swim, and play on two custom-built indoor padel courts (they have instructors for newbies!). There's also outdoor fun like hiking, golfing, and bar-hopping at this Irish playground for active travelers.

Courtesy of The Lygon Arms

Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds, located in south-central England, is a picturesque region known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and quintessential English countryside. Consider this the Venice of England with canals and quaint stone bridges. The Lygon Spa Wim Hof at The Lygon Arms is surrounded by three acres of picturesque Cotswold scenery, where guests can experience a day of breath work, mindset exercises, and ice baths for the brave. You can also just lounge by the pool all day, enjoy afternoon tea, castle hop, and/or take a hot air balloon ride!

Courtesy of Alila Marea Beach Resort

Encinitas, CA

Astrology readings for two, anyone? Located where the beach and bluff meet in one of the most bio-diverse regions of North America, the Alila Marea Beach Resort offers astrology readings with detailed analysis of the stars’ alignment during your birth, revealing patterns, possible pitfalls and potential opportunities to achieve a happy life and marriage.

Courtesy of Alila Ventana Big Sur

Big Sur, California

If you have a penchant for panoramic views of coastline and dramatic cliffs, welcome to Big Sur! Travel along California's rugged coastline overlooking the Pacific for a truly breathtaking experience. Visit the intimate and divine Alila Ventana Big Sur. Their brand new Private Coldstream Bliss: Breath and Plunge Experience begins with a hike to a hidden stream among the redwoods followed by an exhilarating plunge into cold water, leaving you feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to honeymoon!

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Bodufushi, Maldives

Tropical paradise? Meet the Maldives. Enjoy island hopping in this archipelagic state in South Asia in the Indian Ocean, stay in overwater bungalows, visit colorful markets, and dance the night away on sunset cruises. JOALI BEING is a whole wellbeing island, where you can drift into a healing mix of stretching, acupressure and massage while floating in water with a show of constellations above. We'll take two, please.

Courtesy of Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe

Baja California, Mexico

Find a mix of stunning beaches and rugged desert landscapes to vibrant cities and charming coastal towns in this town bordering California. Enjoy whale watching, off-road adventures, surfing, and spa-ing at the wellbeing resort, Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe, where you can sit in a purifying steam room filled with hot volcanic rock.

Courtesy of Buahan

Bali, Indonesia

From art markets to beach resorts to wellness experiences and (what else?) fire dancing, Bali is a truly unforgettable experience. Nestled behind layers of flora and rice fields, Buahan is a secluded adult-only, no-doors, no-walls resort that offers escapists an eco-barefoot retreat. Enjoy guided meditation and a walk into a waterfall, after an invigorating hike.

Photo by Anna Sullivan

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is a coastal town located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, known for its stunning beaches, Mayan ruins, and cool, boho scene. You'll get a more relaxed and laid-back vibe to nearby destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen. For a unique spa experience, try the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, which blends Mayan culture into each treatment from its Quartz Sand Massage where you lie on warm quartz sand to a Nopal Restorative Ritual, which uses the Aztec plant for its skin-healing benefits.

Congratulations, enjoy, and happy honeymooning!

Looking for more travel inspiration? Find more travel inspiration on B+C’s Pinterest and Travel pages!

Main image courtesy of The Cove Eleuthera

Piper Ratliff's outfits on The White Lotus are exactly what I'm looking to add to my spring and summer wardrobe for 2025. Piper's (Sarah Catherine Hook) style is the perfect mix of bohemian and classy that gives off a certain laidback elegance. And considering I'm a Carolina girl myself (not to mention I'm actually from the beach), I know exactly how to achieve that ultimate vacation vibe. Here are the best sundresses for a White Lotus look...without any of the drama.

Keep reading for the best sundresses to add some Piper Ratliff & White Lotus magic to your summer wardrobe.

How To Get Piper Ratliff's style from 'The White Lotus.'

Fabio Lovino/HBO

Like I mentioned earlier, all of Piper Ratliff's best outfits are a mix of three things: bohemian, classy, and fitted. While the aesthetic is giving girl off duty, her attention to detail means she always looks put together. Because if you ask me, that's the secret to always looking expensive! Her best outfits feature pieces that are fitted in a flattering way, her accessories are intentional, and everything in her outfit is working together. In this case, less is more.

8 Dresses For Summer 2025 Piper Ratliff Would Approve Of

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Wide Strap Midi Dress

This gorgeous dress is perfect for both spring and summer, and it's flirty while still offering plenty of coverage. Plus the blue and white color combo is so giving Carolina.

Madewell

Madewell Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress

To channel Piper's more minimalist outfits, this khaki dress is flattering, elevated, and it lets your accessories take center stage.

J. Crew

J. Crew Squareneck Midi Dress

If you prefer to keep your accessories, low-key, a printed dress will do all the heavy lifting for you. And this print is totally giving White Lotus!

Old Navy

Old Navy Fit & Flare Lightweight Smocked Gingham Midi Dress

You can never have too many fit and flair dresses if you ask me. Especially when they feature fluttery sleeves and a dreamy gingham print.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie LSPACE Calla Midi Dress

For the ultimate beachy look, opt for a lightweight, strappy dress. You can wear it over your bathing suit during the day or a colorful bodysuit at night.

J. Crew

J. Crew Fitted-Waist Shirtdress

If there's anything that makes sense for a preppy Carolina girl, it's a collar. Add some raffia sandals for a Piper Ratliff-approved boho edge.

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Strapless Drop-Waist Midi Dress

Y'all, I can't stop thinking about this dress. The silhouette! The color! The detail! It's the perfect thing to pack for any vacation...whether or not you're showing up to a White Lotus resort. ;)

Amazon

CUPSHE Beach Dress

Comfy, casual, and some eye-catching details? Sign me up.

Which Piper Ratliff-inspired look will you be rocking this summer? Don't forget to read up on Everything You Need To Know About The WhiteLotus Season Finale.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This summer, my partner and I are finally taking our long-awaited honeymoon trip to France. When we got married over four years ago, we didn't anticipate that our plans would get delayed quite this much. But factor in an unexpected cross-country move for new jobs, a serious health scare that sidelined me for the better part of 2019, and a global pandemic, and it all makes sense. But at last, our two-week adventure abroad from Los Angeles to Paris is fully planned and booked for this June and July, and the only thing left to do is to organize my packing list for our vacation — and do a little shopping of course.

Our plan is to spend one week living our best flâneur life walking from arrondissement to arrondissement in Paris — exploring museums, flea markets, and where ever else the wind takes us. This calls for breathable pieces that will make it comfortable to log plenty of miles under the heat of the summer sun. (By the way, if you have any recs for must-see Paris spots, my DMs are open @colourwars). Then for the second week of our trip, we'll train down to the south of France and split out time between Cassis and the general Cote d'Azur region and end the trip driving up through Provence. I've been dreaming and scheming this trip for literal years — it's hard to believe it's almost here!

If you're in a similar boat and starting to travel again after a long hiatus, packing may feel seriously intimidating. Here's hoping that my thorough overshare below will help you build your own solid packing list so you can depart for your next trip feeling relaxed and ready to disconnect — not worried about what you might forget at home. Allons-y!

My Official Packing List For A Two-Week Vacation In Europe

What To Pack In A Carry-On — Clothes and Accessories

Undergarments
Socks
Bras
PJs
Swim Suit
Casual Outfits
Going-Out Outfits
Sweater
Sandals
Sneakers
Jewelry
Hat

Away The Carry-On ($275)

My husband called dibs on my favorite luggage so I may take this as an excuse to invest in a new colorful carry-on bag complete with a lifetime warranty. If lilac doesn't strike your fancy, we've got plenty more carry-on luggage recs here.

Gap '90s Reissue Cropped T-Shirt ($27) and GapFit Rec Shorts ($20)

I'm trying to resist the temptation to dress like a French girl cliché, so I plan on packing a slew of my monochrome sets like this one in a bright Kelly green vs. Breton strips galore.

Parade High Rise Boyshort ($12)

If you haven't tried Parade undergarments yet, this is your sign that you should! They're ultra-comfy and come in the best colors. I always bring a few neutral pairs with me if I'm traveling with white pants or sheer-ish dresses.

Lively Bralette and High Waist Swim Bundle ($95)

One of our hotels is right on the water in Cassis, so that seems like a good impetus to invest in a new swimsuit for the summer. This cabana stripe set feels very Cote d'Azur.

Madewell Patchwork Gingham Button-Front Tiered Midi Dress ($138)

I love a dress that can pull double-duty as a frock on its own or function as a beach coverup. This breezy piece could work for lazying around our hotel or for adventuring into town.

Allbirds Women's Tree Runners ($105)

I wear these sneakers everywhere and with everything. It truly feels like you're walking on clouds in these, and my feet will need the support as I rack up miles walking around Parisian streets!

Urban Outfitters Blake Printed Bucket Hat ($25)

Am I too old to rock a bucket hat? Maybe, but this flower power hat will shield my pale, over-freckled skin from the summer sun and make me easy to spot if I wander off from my partner while shopping or exploring a museum.

Charlotte Stone Jaquie Pool Slides ($198)

I'm usually a Tevas kind of gal but these rainbow checkered pool slides are screaming vacation and might need to come along with us on our trip! Here are some other great spring shoe and sandal trends if you're keen to browse.

Emma Mulholland Check Pyjama Short Set in Olive ($162)

You can't go wrong with a fun matching set, and these linen pajamas have a nice relaxed fit that are comfy for sleeping and lounging around. These would also make for a great swim coverup.

& Other Stories Boxy Rib Knit Cardigan ($89)

Peak summer travel doesn't typically call for sweater weather — but better safe than sorry! This knit will also be nice folded up as a plane pillow if I need extra comfort on the flight.

Essentials For Your Personal Item — Bag, Purse, or Tote

Wallet
Foreign Currency
Keys
Passport
Chapstick
Hand Sanitizer
Sleep Patches
Gum
Phone
Charger
International Power Adapter
Headphones
Hand Cream
Water Bottle
Book
Journal
Pens
Sunglasses
Vitamins
Tylenol/Meds

Madewell Leather Card Case ($30)

I hate carrying around a bulky wallet so I opt for thin card cases that can easily fit in my small fanny pack. Once abroad, I won't need my Vons grocery store card or other local punch cards I keep on me, so downsizing isn't a problem.

Ban.do Getaway Passport Holder in Emerald Super Bloom ($15)

I just got a new passport and my photo is horrendous — so I'm getting a cute passport holder to cheer me up when I have travel with it.

Happy Plugs Air 1 Plus Wireless Earbuds ($99)

You shouldn't be fighting with tangled cords when you're on vacation. That's why I'll be bringing along my wireless earbuds for my audiobook and music binges.

AMASS Four Thieves Mist Hand Sanitizer ($20)

Yes, hand sanitizer is still essential. And a mist makes it a little more fun.

The Good Patch Nite Nite Patch ($16)

We originally featured these in our spring break essentials piece because of their ability to help with jet lag and a messed up sleep schedule. I'm hoping these patches packed with premium hemp extract and melatonin will help me catch some zzz's on my 12-hour flight from Los Angeles to Paris.

Sunski Dipsea Dusk Bronze Sunglasses ($58)

These polarized sunnies are neutral enough that they should match most of the outfits I'll be packing.

Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks ($32)

I don't mess around when it comes to long flights, especially if they're overnight and I hope to sleep. These compression socks give me peace of mind and also ensure I won't have to deal with any swelling from traveling.

European Travel Plug Adapter, 2-Pack ($22)

During my first trip to France in 2011, I totally fried all of my hair styling tools because of my adapter situation. Rookie move. I will not make the same mistake this time, so I'll be bringing backup with these power plug adapters for my phone charger and flat iron.

Baggu Duck Bag ($34)

A roomy bag with a zip or snap closure makes for a great personal item while flying. This one will fit my personal essentials, reading material, and a few plane snacks — and it's neutral enough to match a lot of my travel looks to wear once I'm in France.

Tylenol Extra Strength Dissolve Packs ($5)

I'm a baby when it comes to taking pills, especially if I'm head-achy or PMSing and I don't have any water nearby. These little dissolvable packs are great for stowing in your purse for unexpected health hiccups and they kind of taste like Pixy Stix, so there's no bitter aftertaste to worry about.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm ($31)

I have super dry skin and live in a desert climate in California, so I'm very bougie about my hand cream. This one has never let me down.

People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry ($10)

I can't travel without a book or two, and this one is just so delightful! I'll likely bring Emily Henry's newest novel, Book Lovers, with me as well.

Personal Care Toiletries Packing List

Travel Size Skin Care
Travel Size Shampoo & Conditioner
Razor
Retainer
Deodorant
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Floss
Tampons/Pads
Tweezers
Styling Tools
Dry Shampoo
Brush or Comb

Want more inspiration? Check out our thorough travel-size beauty product cheatsheet!

Cadence Capsules ($14)

These little capsules are great for transferring over your skincare so you can keep your routine while on the go. They're also magnetic so you don't have to worry about losing them.

Bliss Block Star™ Mineral Sunscreen ($9)

SPF is my number one skincare essential, so a few travel size sunscreens will definitely be in my toiletries bag. The Bliss daily sunscreen is a great option for its clean ingredients, sheer finish, and fresh lavender scent.

Blush Divine Radiant Lip & Cheek Color ($30)

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's new beauty line totally lives up to the hype. In addition to the tinted serum I use regularly, the hydrating cream lip and blush stain is perfect to complete a no-makeup makeup look on vacation.

Sand & Sky Tasmanian Spring Water Splash Serum Travel Size ($30)

When treating my dry skin, I look for products with hyaluronic acid in them for an extra blast of hydration like this water-based serum from Sand & Sky.

R+Co Death Valley Dry Shampoo Mini ($18)

My favorite dry shampoo that comes in a travel size spray. It smells great and adds volume for a win-win.

Half Magic Chromaddiction Matte Eye Paint ($24)

You never know what adventures await when you're heading abroad, so I'll be packing a few fun beauty products like this graphic chartreuse eye color from Euphoria's makeup artist, Donni Davy, for unexpected nights out and gallery hopping.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($25)

This product has been my holy grail for the last decade — at least. It's light enough for summer wear and delivers the perfect no-makeup makeup finish to smooth out any uneven color on my face. The SPF is an added bonus paired with the other sunscreen I wear, and the travel size version won't take up too much space in my toiletries bag.

With any luck, I'll have plenty of space to squeeze in all of the above (and more) into my carry-on luggage. If you're heading somewhere fun this summer, DM us @britandco and tell us about your packing list travel essentials and where you're headed on your next vacation!

The World Happiness Report for 2025 is officially here, and there's a LOT to take away from it — including the happiest countries around the world that you can visit and live in this year. Whether there's better healthcare, more community, and everything in between, some places really are just happier than others. So, without further ado, these are officially the most happy countries in the world for 2025!

Scroll to see what the happiest countries in the world are for 2025!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

Yan Krukau

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

FbyF Studio

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

Samson Katt

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

Vlada Karpovich

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

Paul Theodor Oja

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Damir K

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Rudy Kirchner

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Shvets Anna

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

Diego Madrigal

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Bryan Martinez

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

Kristoffer Brink Jonsson

  1. Finland
  2. Denmark
  3. Iceland
  4. Sweden
  5. Netherlands
  6. Costa Rica
  7. Norway
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Mexico
  11. Australia
  12. New Zealand
  13. Switzerland
  14. Belgium
  15. Ireland
  16. Lithuania
  17. Austria
  18. Canada
  19. Slovenia
  20. Czechia
  21. United Arab Emirates
  22. Germany
  23. United Kingdom
  24. United States
  25. Belize

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While I love seeing BookTok-viral novels get turned into movies (hello It Ends With Us!), it's just as fun to see them get turned into TV shows, like Fourth Wing — which is why I had such high hopes for A Court of Thorns and Roses at Hulu...before it got canceled. But believe it or not, the fantasy series cancellation could actually a good thing.

Here's the latest update on the A Court of Thorns and Roses show.

Is the ACOTAR TV show still happening?

KoolShooters/Pexels

A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show has officially be scrapped at Disney’s 20th Television, according to Variety. But ACOTAR fans, don't give up hope! Sarah J. Maas was working with Outlander creator Ronald D. Moore, but now Variety's sources say that after the rights expire at Disney, SJM will be shopping the rights to an ACOTAR show to a different studio and platform.

Honestly, I'm totally here for this because a platform like Prime or Max would provide a different kind of edge and aesthetic to the series that would serve it in a different way. And if we have to wait a little longer for a platform SJM feels most aligned with, I'm willing to stick it out!

On February 27, 2024, Sarah J. Maas reportedly went out to coffee with Margot Robbie. Margot's production company (LuckyChap) has backed projects like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, Saltburn. Everything Margot touches turns to gold so I really hope she eventually ends up on the creative team for A Court of Thorns and Roses!

Who plays Rhysand in ACOTAR?

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We never got an official cast announcement, but there are plenty of ACOTAR fancasts.

Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca in Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, would be the PERFECT addition to the cast, whether she plays Elain or Feyre. And now, I honestly don't know if I'll be satisfied with anyone else ;). "She is ELAIN," one TikTok user comments. "Literally copy paste from my brain Elain."

Deuxmoi (via Marie Claire Australia) revealed some potential actors who could be in the running, like Thomas Doherty, Theo James, and Katherine Langford. Actress Brec Bassigner expressed that she'd love to be considered for a role. "I emailed my team, and I was like, ‘Listen, I don’t care if I have one line. I have to be a part of this,'" she says in an interview with TV Line.

Is ACOTAR getting a 6th book?

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Yes, ACOTAR book 6 is on the way! We don't know who the new book will focus on, but Sarah J. Maas did say she's excited to bring it to us.

"The next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them," she said during an appearance on TODAY.

What is A Court of Thorns and Roses about?

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A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a huntress who's forced to live with the immortal faeries after killing a wolf in the woods. The longer she stays in the Fae's world, the more she begins to love it — and the passionate, alluring faerie Tamlin. But as a dark shadow grows, both their world and Tamlin are put in danger, and it's up to Feyre to save them all.

When did the Court of Thorns and Roses series come out?

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A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first novel in the series of the same name, and was published in 2015. Sarah J. Maas continued the series with A Court of Mist and Fury in 2016, A Court of Wings and Ruin in 2017, A Court of Frost and Starlight in 2018, and A Court of Silver Flames in 2021.

Are you excited for the A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show? Let us know your dream cast in the comments and on TikTok! And read up on The Only ACOTAR Character Breakdown You Need Before Book 6 Comes Out.

This post has been updated.