Looking for a change of scenery? Here are five of the best places around the world to visit.

#5: Australia
This country is home to five major coastal cities – Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide, and is known for the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback and a variety of beaches and rainforests. Not only will you be able to find world famous natural wonders, Australia is also ranked fifth in the world for quality of life and provides some of the best education around the globe.

“The food in Australia was really good and different compared to the food we have here. I also really enjoyed the beaches as well,” freshman Daniel Hwang said.

#4: Sweden
Sweden, one of the most generous countries regarding education, healthcare, and other social welfare programs, ranks fourth on this list. Here you can find many world-renowned palaces, museums, and street art. Make sure to visit Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, and experience the streets, restaurants, lively nightlife, and shopping areas. Sweden is also one of the best countries for women, due to the extremely narrow gender pay gap and generous funding and support for families.

#3: UK
This selection of countries places third for its history, food and cities. Known for their awful food, the United Kingdom has shaken that off and has become one of the centers for fine food dining. London, the capital, has been climbing the ranks for food globally and now outclasses New York Michelin star-rated restaurants. Asides from food, here you can also find antique cottages, fairytale castles and towering cathedrals. The United Kingdom also ranks first for education across the globe.
Freshman Liza Broydo enjoys London for its food and streets. “I loved London, especially the old looking streets, and the food was amazing.” Broydo said.

#2: Canada
Home to Niagara Falls and poutine, Canada falls in the number two spot for its plentiful natural wonders, low crime rate, education and health. Here you can find the French-speaking cities, Montréal and Québec, which are great for sightseeing and touring. Be sure to make a stop at Toronto, the largest city in Canada, made up of multiple cultural pockets and ethnic neighborhoods such as Little India, Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown and Koreatown. Northern liCghts are another popular attraction here.
Freshman Joseph Yi was attracted to Canada for its scenery. “Niagara Falls was one of the coolest things I’ve seen in my life,” Yi said.

#1: Switzerland
Switzerland, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, comes in first for its history of neutrality, health, safety and being politically stable, and is well known for its numerous lakes, falls and medieval villages and structures. This country is also home to popular ski resorts, spas, hiking trails and world renowned watches, chocolate and cheese.

Christina Liu

Staff Writer