My miserable week in the “happiest country on earth”
A New York Times Magazine writer visited Finland in one of its gloomiest months.
From The Times
May 16, 2025

For eight years running, Finland has been rated the world’s happiest country by the World Happiness Report — but what exactly does it measure? One writer went there to find out.

Three men sitting in a sauna.

Catherine Hyland for The New York Times

Does Finland really know the secret to happiness? →

On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go.

Sign Up for The Great Read

On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go.

Get it in your inbox

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times.

To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

LiveIntent LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018