The United Nations came out with its "World Happiness Report". It shows the state of happiness in today's world.

They also created the "Happy Planet Index", which measures how countries balance personal well-being, environmental impact, and life expectancy.

The World Happiness Report

Denmark: First Place--Denmark proves you don't need the sun to have a "sunny disposition". Its position at the top of a list shows there's something about high-latitude attitude that brings out happiness in people.

Finland: Second Place--Finland residents have a healthy work-life balance and a high overall quality of life. That also means tourists to Finland will be among locals who embrace leisure time and family.

Norway: Third Place--Norway regularly ranks as one of the world's best places to live.

Netherlands: Fourth Place—Netherlands has an equal distribution of happiness across its entire population.

Canada: Fifth Place—Canada was the topNorth American country on the list. It got high scores for political freedom, strong social networks, and health and economic stability.

Happy Planet Index

Costa Rica: First Place--Costa Rica topped the Happy Planet Index for the second time. The country has a high life expectancy (higher than in the U.S.), a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2021, and a degree of well-being that outranks most rich nations.

Vietnam: Second Place--Vietnam has improved in recent decades with healthy economic growth, an increasing life expectancy and positive reports of well-being. Tourism is also on the rise.

Colombia: Third Place--Surprised to see Colombia on the list? You shouldn't be. In 2004, capital city Bogota published a report called "Planning for Happiness". They also started a major social project aimed at improving the lives of half a million people. There are still issues, but Colombia is an up-and-comer on both being a happy planet and in tourism.

Belize: Fourth Place—The country has ahistory of peace, cultural diversity and the world's second-longest barrier reef. People who visit Belize will be the only ones who understand why it's near the top of the Happy Index. And for Americans, it's even better. English is the official language in Belize.

El Salvador: Fifth Place--El Salvador has a balance of well-being, life expectancy, and environmental impact. Visitors will find friendly hosts and a vibrant city life.