The Happiest Country on Earth is... {Gadling}

Sep 3rd 2006 6:35AM Having personally lived in Vanuatu for six years I disagree with it being the "happiest place on earth". One thing, the standard of living for the native peoples is very low, while rich tourists come and enjoy the duty free shops, Class AAAA restaurants and AAAAA accomodations, all owned & operated by ex-patriates. There is an severe increas on crime, often turmoil within the government and mal nourished children, with lots of unemployment. Billions of aid from several countries are pumped in annually. Many native families I interacted with had, in their own words, watched the western ways take over and leave them wanting for much; even the basics.