5 places to beat the January blues

Blue Monday is officially the glummest day of the year. Cheer up with five of the world's most optimistic destinations

7 mins

1. Vietnam

A recent study conducted in 53 countries showed that Vietnamese are most optimistic people in the world. With beautiful beaches and very affordable food and drink, visitors to this magnificent country are bound to find themselves on a high too.

2. Japan

In a bid to address rising suicide rates in the country, a number of savvy hairdresser’s in the city of Toyama have tapped into a new market – clinical psychology.

Holidaymakers who fancy the idea of a pep talk whilst they get a chop should look into flights to Japan, where 650 hairdressers have signed up to the incentive.

3. Canada

Everybody likes to be flattered every once in a while and a company in Montreal, Canada have developed a novel way of showering your loved one or colleague with compliments.

For a fee, those who know someone in need of some sweet talk can arrange for a ‘Flatter Me Phone Call’ from a member of a specially trained team to a loved one.

4. Costa Del Sol

Spain’s Costa Del Sol is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine each year making it an almost sure thing sun destination.

And with sunshine proven to reduce stress and release endorphins, it’s no wonder that thousands travel on flights to Malaga every January to soak up the winter sun and put a smile on their face.

5. Norway

The United Nations Human Development Index for 2010 showed that Norway had the highest standard of living based on factors including life expectancy and access to knowledge.

Coupled with its spectacular fjords, waterfalls and mountains, it’s easy to see why Norwegians are among the world’s happiest nations.

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