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Koh Samui, ThailandThis list was first published in the book The World's Best Cities. One of Thailand’s largest islands after Phuket, Ko Samui’s prosperity and quality of life has risen steadily with the recent influx of visitors drawn to its intoxicating blend of street food stalls, hidden Buddhist temples, jungle waterfalls, and palm-fringed beaches.
Photograph by Thomas Linkel, laif/Redux

Top 10 Happiest Cities

Close-knit communities and spectacular surroundings raise the bliss in these urban oases.

Published December 19, 2014