by Erica Michelle

Created on: November 03, 2009   Last Updated: November 05, 2009

2009 was a year defined by change. It's not over yet, yet we can see certain patterns which mark this year with their turbulent charm. Where were the best places to be living during these times of change? Certain places were more apt than others. The following are a few particular locations which would have their inhabitants patting themselves on the back for managing to be there in this time of global change. Aspects which contribute to the definition of a 'best' living location include: cost of living, quality of life, environmental health, freedom, and community.

Costa Rica

According to a ranking list compiled by the New Economics Foundation, Costa Rica ranked at the very top for having the smallest ecological footprint and the happiest citizens in 2009. To some, Costa Rica is a verifiable heaven on Earth. Not only is the natural environment rich with the lush abundance of life, living in this country can also induce feelings of abundance in your financial pockets. Depending on whether one chooses a simple or more lavish lifestyle, the cost of living can range from $1500 to $3000 per month.

Colorado, USA

Though the mountains did not provide a shelter from the economic slowdown, they do set the stage for a vibrant and cradled arena of life. The quality of life in Colorado is high. Durango and Boulder are great cities for the ecologically conscious, and Fort Collins has a notable university and low crime rate; which makes it a good contender for raising a family.

Vancouver, Canada

This city tied with Auckland, New Zealand, as the 4th best city in the world to live, according to Mercer's Quality of Living 2009 rating list. Vancouver proved a promising dwelling place, providing daily doses of fresh sea air, clean water, and a dynamic rhythm for its inhabitants. Awareness of environmental issues is high in this city,

Denmark

This country, among many other high-ranking Northern European countries, ranked tops for having the happiest people on the planet. This is according to various studies, including a World Map of Happiness Project created at the University of Leicester in Leicester, England. Though citizens are taxed for more than 50% of their income, government support for quality of life; including subsidized healthcare and education, and programs to support new parents and the elderly.

Iceland

Similar to Costa Rica, in the way that this country is alive with the powerful forces of nature at play (though in very different balances); Iceland is a beautiful and peaceful country, ranking third for best country to live in on the UNDP Human Development index of 2009.

Depending on one's values, many places around the world could be considered an optimal living location. In 2009, as the winds of change swept across the face of every nation, those places where the citizens were content and the quality of life high proved to be best, though economic situations certainly contributed to the definition of 'best'.

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