How to Make Disney Cupcakes Like a Pastry Chef

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

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

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

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?

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?

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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?

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

Where to stay at Aulani

Aulani has 351 rooms for guests to stay in during their visit to the resort ranging from standard rooms and suites to more spacious villas. I stayed in a standard room during my stay and it was lovely. The bed had one of the most comfortable mattresses I've ever slept on and an exquisite bathroom. I wish there was a bit more counter space for all of my makeup, however, that's a tiny complaint in relation to how amazing the room was. My favorite part of the room aside from the mattress was the bathroom. I loved the overhead rainfall shower as it screamed luxury and was a great way to unwind and cool down after a long day at the beach.

What to do at Aulani

Take a class

For starters, there are many classes you can sign up for that are included in your stay such as ukulele classes, animation classes, hula lessons, etc. These classes vary based on the day, but you can check the Aulani app to see if there are any scheduled during your stay. You'll need to visit the community hall to reserve a time slot prior to the start time since space is limited so make sure you do that early on in the day. I took the animation and ukulele classes and they were fun ways to spend the later evening hours.

The resort also offers fitness classes for hotel guests they can participate in and those vary based on the day. You'll want to check the app to see what's going on during your stay whether that's pilates or sunrise yoga.

Meet the characters

What really makes Aulani stand out from the competition is the Disney magic inside the resort. At Aulani guests can meet characters from popular Disney films including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Moana, Olu Mel, Angel, Shellie May, Duffy, Max, Stitch, Chip and Dale, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck. The characters aren't the same everyday, but you can check the app to see who will be out starting at 9am the day of your stay.

Make sure you line up early because they get crowded and the lines close quickly. You'll also need to make sure you have a wristband so the character attendants can know you are a registered hotel guest.

Visit the Menehune adventure trail

There's so much to see and do at Aulani, but one way to get a lay of the land is by completing the Menehune adventure trail. This interactive activity allows people both young and old to explore the resort while they answer trivia and learn about the property. Be sure to look up as you walk to see the different flowers and murals on the walls. You'll need to pick up a tablet from the community hall in order to participate and it's included in your stay.

See the Mo'Olelo fire pit storytelling

At night you'll want to head over to the firepit located by the beach for a storytelling experience conducted by Uncle. Each night you'll be able to hear traditional Hawaiian stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. You'll want to check the app for accurate times but usually there are showtimes at 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, and 8pm.

Watch live entertainment

You'll find lots of live music and dancing at Aulani during your stay. Enjoy local musicians playing traditional Hawaiian tunes and pop classics or you may catch Uncle or Auntie Cass walking around playing the ukulele with some hula dancers by their side.

During my trip, I saw Uncle and Auntie Cass walking around the resort at various times of the day and they stopped at different locations to entertain the guests in the vicinity. There was also a live-action Moana show during one of the days of my stay which was adorable and brought theme park quality entertainment to the resort.

Go to Aunty's Beach House

Kids ages 4 to 12 can enjoy a variety of activities at Aunty's Beach House during their stay at Aulani. Most of the activities are complimentary, however, there are some paid experiences that you can sign up for if you'd like.

Relax on the beach

You can head on down to the beach to take a dip in the ocean or simply watch the waves crash onto the shore. Hotel guests can check out complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards to use while they are there or bring their own.There's also the chance to rent out snorkel gear and paddleboards if that's something you're interested in exploring during your stay. Be sure to head over to the beach during sunset to catch the most picturesque view.

Participate in a paid activity

While there are a handful of included activities, there are also paid activities you can sign up for. These vary based on the day but some of the most popular include making your own ears, hair braiding, painting, scuba diving lessons, and fish feeding opportunities.

Go to the Laniwai

Although Aulani is a resort, the property is also home to a spa and fitness center. At Laniwai, you'll be able to book an appointment for a spa treatment of your choosing from massages to manicures and hair styling sessions. These come at an additional cost, but treatments come with access to the Kula Wai which has other relaxing amenities including heated pools, rainfall showers, whirlpools, and cold plunges.

Where to eat at Aulani

There is no shortage of food options while visiting Aulani from quick service locations to sit down restaurants, bars, and character dining. I went to almost all of the dining locations during my stay aside from Ama Ama.

On select night's each week guests can participate in a traditional Hawaiian luau, called the Ka Wa'A Luau, on the lawn of the resort. With live music, hula dancing, and singing, guests are transported into the culture right in front of their eyes. I absolutely loved the luau from the food to the show. It was definitely more of a spectacle with incredible storytelling, lots of fire, and even some special Disney friends.

For more casual meals, there are more quick-service dining options such as Ulu Cafe

Off The Hook, The Olelo Room, and Mama's Snack Stop. Ulu Cafe had delicious breakfast flatbreads and noodle bowls – plus you don't want to forget to try the Olu Mel cupcake. For dessert, be sure to stop by Papalua Shave Ice and Little Opihi to grab the viral rainbow shaved ice and classic Dole Whip.

If you're interested in meeting characters as you eat, Makahiki has a character dining meal every morning. The three-course meal allows guests to enjoy traditional Hawaiian dishes while they meet some special characters.

How much does Aulani cost?

In terms of price, Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa is pricey. Frankly, it's more expensive than a standard room at some deluxe hotels at Walt Disney World. The standard room rate starts at $999 per night. While you don't need to spend a week at the resort, even three or four nights will run you between $3,000-$4,000. Although you do get access to the pool area and the character meet and greets, that price doesn't include food and drinks or booked excursions — all of that is separate.

How many nights is enough at Aulani?

I can only speak from experience but I'd say four days is the perfect amount of time to stay at Aulani. During that time period, you'll be able to relax, enjoy the amenities and see different characters without having to rush. If you plan on staying longer in Hawaii, there are other hotels you can stay at and sights to see which you can find more about below.

Are there rides at Disney Aulani?

No, there are no rides at Aulani since it's only a resort and not a theme park. While there are character sightings at the resort, there are no rides or attractions for hotel guests to experience during their stay.

Can non guests go to Aulani?

Yes, non-guests can go to Aulani, however, they won't be able to participate in the character meet and greets, included activities, or swim in the lazy river or pools. A majority of non-resort guests visit the property to eat at some of the resort's top-tier dining options.

Other hotels on Oahu

While I loved my time at Aulani, I decided to venture to other parts of Oahu and checked out some other gorgeous properties.

The Royal Hawaiian

As a pink enthusiast, The Royal Hawaiian is a historic hotel that's all pink. From pink buildings to pink pancakes at breakfast, you'll be immersed in a chic and sophisticated pink palace. Located only steps away from the Royal Hawaiian Center, it's the perfect spot if you're looking to get a feel for Waikiki. My favorite part of my stay at the hotel was the hospitality — all of the staff were so friendly from the front desk workers to the valet employees.

In terms of food, I mentioned above that Aulani had a luau but there's also one at The Royal Hawaiian that's worth checking out. Aha'aina takes place steps away from the beach and you can listen to traditional Hawaiian stories while being entertained by hula dancers, singers, and fire knife dancers.

Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach

I also spent a few days at Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach which was right on the beach. When I tell you that my room was directly on top of the water I mean it — I was essentially sleeping on top of the waves. The rooms were chic, clean, and modern, but where the property really stood out was the location. It's right next to the shopping district and steps away from the beach. I took advantage of the on-site dining locations such as Monkeypod Kitchen which was absolutely delicious. Not only did it have a breathtaking view of the beach, but the flatbread was unlike anything I've ever had. Plus, I had a reservation at Merriman's Honolulu which was a 10 minute drive from the hotel and I was blown away. The property was so close to everything I wanted to check out during my stay while still providing a feeling of luxury.

OMG, when did Kylie Kelce give birth? 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kylie (McDevitt) Kelce (@kykelce)

Kylie and Jason welcomed their fourth daughter March 30, according to PEOPLE, but an official announcement was shared via the couple's joint Instagram post on April 1. "Whoop, there she is! Finnley “Finn” Anne Kelce 3/30/25," reads Kylie's caption and we think it's the cheekiest way to describe her arrival.

The subsequent photos of Finnley are just as cute as she's seen wearing the cutest floral onesie and being held by her parents. Call us biased, but she has the most precious face we've ever seen. Even her uncle Travis thinks so!

PEOPLEalso reports the NFL player incredulously told his brother how much he wanted to see Finnley after the latter asked how he felt. "Yes, I want to see my new niece, Jason! You only sent one picture. You didn’t even tell me what name you picked yet."

But his complaints stopped the minute Jason showed him Finnley during their latest New Heights podcast episode. Travis immediately melted and said, "Hey, little muffin! Look at you. You hanging out with Mom? Tell Ky I said hello. I’m glad everything’s going great." He even thinks her name is "adorable."

When did Jason and Kylie announce she's pregnant?

Kylie Kelce shared the huge news on Instagram November 22nd! Of course grandma Donna Kelce was the first to leave a comment. She wrote, "🔥🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍 Love it!!!" Brittany Mahomes also commented by writing, "Ahhhhhh Congrats you guys!!!🥹🤍."

How did Jason and Kylie's other daughters react?

In Kylie's same Instagram post, her and Jason's daughters can be seen expressing a range of emotions. There's an 'Eek' expression from their oldest daughter Wyatt, a happy look from their middle daughter Elliott, and pure tears from baby girl Bennett. Kylie wrote, "I feel like we captured a very accurate representation of how each of the girls feel about getting another sister. At least Ellie, mom and dad are on the same page! 🤷♀️"

How did Jason and Kylie prepare to be a family of six?

Jason Kelce took the news of being an official girl dad like a champ. He told E! Newshe's "got it pretty easy" because "the clothes are all going to be hand-me-downs or already bought." Not only that, but they'd already secured a baby crib prior to their newborn's birth.

“I love my kids so much, and especially my daughters,” he added. "I was telling somebody out there because they're expecting their first — and they look at you. They smile at you. There's just a way that kids have to warm your soul in a way that nothing else can.”

He also shared his excitement about watching his daughters grow up with a new sibling. "And hopefully we'll welcome a fourth into this world, and we'll be able to watch them fight and tear each other apart and all the good stuff."

He even appeared on The Rich Eisen Show where he joked, "I'm screwed [in] like in 10 years. The moment they’re all in middle school, I feel like it’s just gonna be chaos." He also hopes Wyatt "can start helping out a little bit more." But, he's still looking forward to it! "I obviously have not had a son, but there is something about a daughter in the way I think as a dad, you feel an extra amount probably of protection and love toward that child," he shared.

What did Kylie say about her fourth pregnancy?

Kylie previously opened up on her new podcast, Not Gonna Lie, about her feelings on her fourth pregnancy. At the time, she said she was "so incredibly grateful to be able to get pregnant, but it is a means to an end." She further said, "When I tell you that I cannot stand being pregnant, I mean it. I don't have a a fun time."

If that sounds a little uh...negative, it actually makes a lot more sense when she explained more! She elaborated, "I am nauseous for most of my pregnancy. It tapers off a little after the first trimester, but I continue to have nausea throughout my pregnancy." Woof, I know that's tough!

Kyle continued by explaining she hasn't even really had the fun, wacky cravings many pregnant people get — instead she had more "aversions" in each of her pregnancies. I'll take cravings over aversions any day!

The podcast host then joked, "When you're super pregnant and someone comes up to you and says, 'Isn't this just the most beautiful thing ever? 'I want to punch you in the face. I'm not going to, but I want to."