cn traveller 10 best places to live

These are the 10 best places to live in the world

By Caitlin Morton

The idea of moving abroad is always appealing, whether you want to live somewhere with a better quality of living or simply have an insatiable appetite for travel. But what’s the best way to choose a new city?

The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Liveability Index ranks the best places to live in the world each year. The index collects data on 172 cities across five different categories: Stability, Healthcare, Culture & Entertainment, Education, and Infrastructure.

In the 2023 report , almost all of the cities’ saw improved livability, with an average index score of 76.2 out of 100 – a three-point jump compared to last year and the highest average in 15 years. The higher scores are due to the continued reduction of covid restrictions, as well as improvements in healthcare and education, culture and environment, and infrastructure projects. (The one notable decline was Kyiv, due to the ongoing Russian invasion there.)

So which cities are the most livable in 2023? The top 10 rankings are scattered across Western Europe, Oceania, Canada , and Japan . There were two European cities knocked out of the top 10 this year: Amsterdam and Frankfurt, which were replaced by two Australian cities. And once again, no US cities made the cut this year.

Counting down, here are the 10 best places to live in the world.

10. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)

Overall rating: 96.0 Stability: 95.0 Healthcare: 95.8  Culture and environment: 97.9 Education: 100.0 Infrastructure: 92.9

Jumping 25 ranks to claim a spot on this year’s top 10 is Auckland, New Zealand , where strict covid restrictions have finally been lifted. As New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland has a thriving culinary scene, including a new wave of restaurants that highlight Pacific flavours. Since the pandemic, Auckland has a redeveloped waterfront , featuring green spaces and new design-forward hotels. Just outside the city are wild and dramatic beaches with cliffs and black sand dunes. Plus, Auckland is a great launchpad for treks into the countryside, with its unique land formations and astounding natural beauty.

10. Osaka, Japan (tie)

Overall rating: 96.0 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 100 Culture and environment: 86.8 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 96.4

Osaka might be Japan's third-largest city (after Tokyo and Yokohama), but its tourism pull rivals that of the nation's capital. For starters, Osaka is one of the best food cities in all of Japan – must-eat regional specialities include takoyaki (battered, fried octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (grilled savoury pancakes with a variety of additions). We also love the city for its baseball culture, neon-lit neighbourhoods, and beautiful Osaka Castle.

Although it was ranked tenth last year as well, Osaka made gains in 2023 in the culture and environment category thanks to the ending of its covid restrictions, leading to an overall rating that’s one point higher than in 2022.

9. Toronto, Canada

Overall rating: 96.4 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 100 Culture and environment: 94.4 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 89.3

Toronto has the appeal of a big city without many of the common downsides – it’s clean, safe, easy to get around, and extremely friendly. Best of all, it benefits from Canada’s famously great healthcare and education systems. Downtown Toronto has a vibrant arts and theatre district and great restaurants, plus waterfront views that will make you forget about anywhere else you've lived.

8. Geneva, Switzerland (tie)

Overall rating: 96.8 Stability: 95 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 94.9 Education: 91.7 Infrastructure: 96.4

Ranks seven and eight were a tie, with the joint spot partially going to Geneva, Switzerland. Despite being one of the most expensive cities in the world, Geneva proves its livability with a perfect healthcare score (it is the home of the Red Cross, after all) and high numbers for stability and infrastructure. There’s no denying the city’s natural beauty, either – it boasts expansive views of the Alps and Jura Mountains, and, of course, is home to Lake Geneva. With a daily commute that gorgeous, we can see why people are eager to move here.

7. Calgary, Canada (tie)

Overall rating: 96.8 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 87.3 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 100

Calgary is another place where nature and urban living go hand in hand. You can see mountains from nearly anywhere within the city, and outdoor wonderlands like Lake Louise and Banff National Park are just a couple of hours away. Meanwhile, culinary and cultural events thrive in town – just check out the world-famous Calgary Stampede for proof.

All Canadian cities on the list saw a small improvement to their stability scores this year, after the anti-vaccine protests that erupted across the country in 2022 came to an end.

6. Zurich, Switzerland

Overall rating: 97.1 Stability: 95 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 96.3 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 96.4

Switzerland’s largest city and economic hub may seem one-dimensional at first glance, with a reputation for being hyper-efficient and severe. The fact that you’ll find spotless streets and trains that always run on time is true – but the city is full of surprises. Come summertime, you’ll find citizens swimming in the Limmat River, playing volleyball in the parks, and riding their bikes to grab scoops of gelato. Zurich also is something of a haven for young creatives, which means you can find plenty of art galleries and fantastic restaurants. This year, education scores for both Swiss cities on the list improved to a perfect 100.

5. Vancouver, Canada

Overall rating: 97.3 Stability: 95 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 97.2 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 96.4

Vancouver is a perfect mix of natural beauty and sophistication. The city feels cosmopolitan, but it’s still easy to get outdoors within city limits and embrace that active Northwest lifestyle. The Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver is always a popular attraction, as is Stanley Park (for locals and visitors alike). Those that live in the city have regular access to outdoor activities like whale watching, snowshoeing, hiking, and mountain biking, depending on the season. Most importantly, the people here are so friendly, you’ll feel at home almost immediately.

4. Sydney, Australia

Overall rating: 97.4 Stability: 95 Healthcare: 100 Culture and environment: 94.4 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 100

After tumbling out of the top 10 last year, Sydney has made a sharp rebound in 2023 to claim the fourth spot on the list. Its return comes as its health score has significantly improved (after the covid waves that were still straining the country’s health system in 2022 have ended, EIU says.) Sydney’s vibrant arts and culture scene can only be outdone by its natural beauty: The Australian capital is surrounded by lush national parks and an amazing coastline that sports some of the beaches in the world . The locals here are famously laid-back and friendly – who wouldn’t be with roughly 300 days of sunshine each year?

3. Melbourne, Australia

Overall rating: 97.7 Stability: 95 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 95.8 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 100

Climbing the ranks from number 10 to number three this year, fellow Aussie city Melbourne remains one of the most livable cities in the world. (The city nabbed the number one spot for seven years in a row before dropping three years ago.) Melbourne shines with all of Australia’s best traits – it is sophisticated, stylish, and free-spirited – and continues to attract travellers with its world-class art and famed coffee and cuisine .

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Overall rating: 98 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 95.8 Culture & Environment: 95.4 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 100

Holding strong in second place again this year is Copenhagen . Despite its reputation for churning out cutting-edge restaurants and hotels, Copenhagen has an ageless charm that makes you want to keep going back. The whimsical, 1800s-era Tivoli Gardens puts all other amusement parks to shame, while the bohemian community of Christiania is a hazy, verdant dreamland. The city is expensive, but you don’t necessarily need a fat wallet to enjoy it. Public parks and free galleries abound, and the infrastructure makes it one of the most bike-friendly places in the world.

1. Vienna, Austria

Overall rating: 98.4 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 100 Culture & Environment: 93.5 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 100

Once again, Vienna takes the top spot as the most livable city in the world. The city earned a perfect score in nearly every category, benefiting from a thriving arts and culture scene and incredible healthcare and education. (It was only slightly dinged on its culture and entertainment score for not having enough major sporting events, according to the study.)

Vienna “continues to offer an unsurpassed combination of stability, good infrastructure, strong education and healthcare services, and plenty of culture and entertainment,” the EIU report says. Between visiting the opera, touring the gardens at Schönbrunn Palace, and sampling Sachertorte (chocolate torte), you’ll never get bored here. Plus, the local government puts a lot of resources behind infrastructure and housing, so the cost of living is far lower than in comparable European cities.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler US .

CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go

Seeker editors, with a full palate featuring all colors of the rainbow, from picturesque ivory houses lining the tangier coast to the clear turquoise waters of okinawa, these are the 20 best places to travel according to cn traveler. take a look into these unique and culturally rich tourist destinations that while sometimes overlooked, are guaranteed to produce lifelong memories and instagram-worthy pictures..

Slovenia, Tangier, South Haven, Grampians National Park, Galle, Rwanda, Okinawa, Nashville, Mokpo-si, Metz, Guyana, El Chaltén, Dubai, Dominica, Copenhagen, Canary Islands, Arctic Archipelago, Makadikadi Basin, State of Bahia, Armenia

Slovenia is a small yet diverse country with stunning natural beauty, including the Julian Alps and turquoise waters of Lake Bled. Its capital city, Ljubljana, offers charming architecture, colorful street art, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can also explore historic towns, like Piran on the Adriatic coast, and indulge in Slovenian wine and artisanal cheeses.

Tangier in Tangier, Morocco

Tangier's rich history, unique culture, and stunning landscapes are what make it a must-visit destination in Morocco. This city boasts charming markets, winding alleyways, and colorful architecture, as well as breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Strait of Gibraltar, and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore the Kasbah, the old medina, and the famous Tangier American Legation museum, while also enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine.

South Haven , United States

South Haven is a charming coastal town nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its stunning beaches, picturesque lighthouse pier, and eclectic boutiques and restaurants, this community is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Midwestern experience. From hiking along the beach to sampling local craft beers, visitors will find no shortage of activities and sights to explore in this bustling Michigan gem.

Grampians National Park , Australia

Grampians National Park is a picturesque destination located in Victoria, Australia that attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers all throughout the year. The park features rugged mountain ranges, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, making it a popular spot for activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. In addition, visitors can see diverse flora and fauna that are found nowhere else in the world.

Galle , Sri Lanka

Galle, based in Southern Province Sri Lanka, is an enchanting city that truly reflects the Sri Lankan culture with its charming Dutch colonial architecture and winding streets filled with colorful markets and cafes. It is undoubtedly one of the most iconic destinations in Sri Lanka, offering visitors a unique blend of history, scenic beauty and exotic experiences. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker or someone looking for relaxation, Galle is a must-see destination on CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go.

Rwanda is a small but captivating country located in east-central Africa. Known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, Rwanda offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From exploring the lush forests of the Volcanoes National Park to learning about the country's rich history and culture at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Rwanda is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in Africa's beauty and diversity.

Okinawa , Japan

Okinawa, a group of islands located in southern Japan, ranks as one of the best tourist destinations in the world. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage, Okinawa offers an exciting experience for visitors. The island is also known for its unique blend of traditional Ryukyu culture and modern Japanese amenities.

Nashville , United States

Nashville, known as the "Music City", is a buzzing hub of music, food and culture. With its thriving live music scene, delicious Southern cuisine, and fascinating history, it offers visitors a unique experience. Highlights include visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame, exploring the trendy neighborhoods of East Nashville or the Gulch, and trying some hot chicken at Hattie B's.

Mokpo-si , South Korea

Mokpo-si, located in the heart of Jeollanam-do province in South Korea, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From pristine beaches to lush forests, scenic hiking trails to traditional markets and temples, this charming port city has something for everyone. The vibrant local culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly people make it one of the CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go.

Metz , France

Metz, located in the Grand Est region of France, is a charming city known for its stunning Gothic architecture, picturesque squares, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the magnificent Saint-Etienne Cathedral, the impressive Pompidou-Metz contemporary art museum, and take a stroll through the charming streets of the old town. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and welcoming locals, Metz is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to France.

Guyana is a South American gem that offers a plethora of opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its rich biodiversity, sprawling rainforests, and pristine waterfalls, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy, from jungle trekking and birdwatching to river cruises and spotting endangered species. This emerging travel destination boasts friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant culture that can't be missed.

El Chaltén , Argentina

El Chaltén is a nature lover’s paradise, nestled in the Andes Mountains of Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province. This small town offers world-renowned hiking trails, including the challenging Fitz Roy Circuit and the laid-back Laguna Torre. With stunning views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes, El Chaltén is a must-visit destination for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Dubai in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic culture and modern luxury. Known for its stunning skyline and world-class attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah, visitors can indulge in gourmet dining, high-end shopping, and desert adventures. With a rich history, intriguing souks, and stunning beaches, Dubai is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience.

Dominica is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known as the "Nature Island of the Caribbean," it boasts pristine rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hot springs. Visitors can also indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking the iconic Waitukubuli National Trail, making Dominica a hidden gem in the Caribbean.

Copenhagen in Copenhagen, Denmark

Welcome to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark and one of CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go in 2021. This city is a blend of old-world charm and modern-day living, with sleek architecture and stunning parks. Don't miss out on the Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, and the historic Nyhavn Canal. Copenhagen also offers a thriving food and shopping scene, making it a must-see destination in Europe.

Canary Islands , Spain

The Canary Islands are a group of seven exotic islands located off the coast of North Africa. Known for their beautiful beaches, warm weather, and volcanic landscapes, the islands are a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and surfing. Visitors can also enjoy the unique culture and cuisine of the Canarian people, who have a rich history and diverse traditions that reflect their African and Spanish heritage.

Arctic Archipelago , Canada

Arctic Archipelago is an otherworldly wonderland situated in Nunavut, Canada. It's part of the vast and remote wilderness of the Canadian Arctic and is comprised of over 36,000 islands. The archipelago is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts with its abundance of animal species. For those seeking adventure and seclusion in a pristine, breathtaking natural environment, Arctic Archipelago is undoubtedly one of the best places to go.

Makadikadi Basin , Botswana

Makadikadi Basin is a spectacular destination, located in the heart of Central District in Botswana, that has been featured as one of CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go. This vast salt flat is home to diverse wildlife species, such as lions, zebras, and meerkats, and offers visitors the chance to witness one of the world's most significant wildebeest migrations. The basin's distinct landscape, peaceful atmosphere, and unique cultural experiences make it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

State of Bahia , Brazil

State of Bahia is a unique destination on CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go that offers a diverse mix of Afro-Brazilian culture, tropical beaches, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. This state is known for its Carnival celebrations, vibrant music scene, and colorful street art. Visitors can explore the charming colonial towns, go hiking in mountainous landscapes, and enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Armenia is a country of historical significance and natural beauty. CN Traveler's 20 Best Places to Go lists the ancient city of Yerevan, with its rich culture and welcoming locals, as well as the majestic Mount Ararat, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into the country's religious heritage. Visitors can also explore the monasteries and churches that dot the landscape, or take a hike through the lush forests of Dilijan National Park.

More From Forbes

The 25 u.s. cities with the best quality of life, ranked in a new report.

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The quest for a better quality of life influences many Americans’ decisions on where to live, work, play and travel. U.S. News and World Report has just released its ranking of the top 25 U.S. cities that offer the highest quality of life .

The list is based on a number of factors, including crime rates, educational quality, general well-being, commuter indices, healthcare availability, air quality, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Risk Index and more.

The report provides valuable insights for anyone considering a move, looking to travel to a high-quality place or just curious about how their city stacks up against other locations.

Ann Arbor, Michigan has been named the city with the highest quality of life in the U.S.

Topping the list as the city with the highest quality of life is Ann Arbor, Michigan, which has a score of 7.9 out of 10. “Ann Arbor is a city of contrasts. It is at once rural and urban, sporty and smart, outdoorsy and high-tech, counterculture and high society,” says U.S. News and World Report. The presence of the University of Michigan injects a vibrant cultural and educational spirit, and residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, a rich cultural scene and a strong job market, according to U.S. News and World Report. In addition the city’s cost of living and property values are above the national average, according to U.S. News and World Report, reflecting its desirability and economic vitality.

Boulder, Colorado—at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains—comes in second on the list with a score of 7.7. This city is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, health-conscious community and outdoor recreational opportunities: “For residents seeking wellness, Boulder has opportunities from forest bathing and free meditation sessions to an abundance of marijuana dispensaries, spas and alternative health care studios,” says U.S. News and World Report. Combined with its active arts scene and high-quality dining options, this make Boulder a magnet for those seeking a balanced and engaging lifestyle. According to U.S. News and World Report, Boulder's high cost of living and limited housing due to geographical constraints are notable challenges.

The list reveals a clear trend toward cities that offer a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities and cultural amenities. Most of these cities are home to major universities, which contribute to their vibrant local economies and cultural scenes.

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But it’s not all small cities: New York City, one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, also makes the top 25 list. “The metro area is a place of opportunity, which is why—despite the crowds and costs—people keep coming,” says U.S. News and World Report.

Read on for the complete list.

Boulder, Colorado—which has been named as the having the second best quality of life in the United ... [+] States.

The Top 25 U.S. Cities With The Best Quality Of Life

• Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Boulder, Colorado
• Madison, Wisconsin
• San Jose, California
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
• Hartford, Connecticut
• Rochester, New York
• Trenton, New Jersey
• Boise, Idaho
• Washington, D.C.
• Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina
• Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Fort Collins, Colorado
• Worcester, Massachusetts
• Albany, New York
• Naples, Florida
• Syracuse, New York
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Lancaster, Pennsylvania
• New Haven, Connecticut
• Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New York City, New York

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Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023-2024

U.S. News analyzed the 150 most populous metro areas to find the best places to live. To make the top of the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life.  For more information on how we rank, read the  Best Places to Live methodology.

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Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.

At Livability, we’re experts on what makes cities of all sizes great places to live. For more than a decade, we’ve been curating our annual list of the Best Places To Live in America, helping you discover the most livable cities in the U.S.

If you’re looking to relocate, what’s on your wishlist? Want a shot at owning a home? To spend less time sitting in traffic? Or perhaps you dream of starting your own business in a tight-knit, supportive community?

Maybe a better quality of life is waiting for you in a place you haven’t considered — a place where you’re not just a number. Our Best Places list is chock-full of helpful information about living in each of our Top 100 cities to help you find your perfect place to live.

How we choose the Top 100 best cities

Livability commissions data on thousands of U.S. Cities. And then we sort through that data so you don’t have to. We partnered with Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) to curate our Top 100 Best Places To Live in the U.S. based on nearly 100 data points and an algorithm that takes into account measures of a city’s economy, housing and cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education and health. Check out our Best Places Methodology to learn more about our process for choosing the Top 100 cities. 

Size and affordability set Livability’s Best Places list apart

There are lots of best places lists out there, but ours is unique for several reasons.

First, we only consider small to mid-size cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000. To us, that’s the sweet spot in size for getting plugged in, finding your people and feeling at home fast.

Second, we believe that affordability is one of the biggest benefits of living in a smaller city. With that sentiment in mind, we only consider cities with a median home value of $500,000 or less. We also analyze average rent and home prices relative to income in each city, as well as other factors that influence the cost of living. Ours is the only list truly centered around affordability. 

Our cities may be smaller, but what you can accomplish in them is BIG . 

Third, our Top 100 cities are not ranked from 1 to 100. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the perfect place to live, we’ve created a  list that is  fully interactive, with tools to sort and filter according to the criteria that are most important to you. 

To see the unfiltered list in its entirety, just keep scrolling down the page. Or, experiment with the sorting and filtering features to curate your own personalized Best Places To Live list!

So whether you’re looking for a fresh start, want to get closer to your family or hope to take the next step in your career, the cities on our list are ready to welcome you. Now, let’s find your best place to live!

Explore Our Best Places to Live in the U.S.

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LivScore: 875

Region: Midwest

Population: 100,691

Med. Home Value: $380,506

North Carolina

LivScore: 874

Region: Southeast

Population: 179,000

Med. Home Value: $434,151

Region: Northeast

Population: 106,410

Med. Home Value: $467,495

LivScore: 864

Population: 102,878

Med. Home Value: $332,418

LivScore: 862

Population: 150,412

Med. Home Value: $433,840

LivScore: 853

Region: Southwest

Population: 76,538

Med. Home Value: $491,262

Overland Park

LivScore: 851

Population: 200,187

Med. Home Value: $354,977

LivScore: 846

Population: 113,429

Med. Home Value: $359,460

LivScore: 842

Population: 224,003

Med. Home Value: $470,968

LivScore: 839

Population: 85,685

Med. Home Value: $343,627

LivScore: 837

Region: Northwest

Population: 97,992

Med. Home Value: $491,129

Population: 89,914

Med. Home Value: $413,215

LivScore: 823

Population: 129,525

Med. Home Value: $462,253

LivScore: 817

Population: 107,497

Med. Home Value: $464,840

Rhode Island

LivScore: 813

Population: 83,726

Med. Home Value: $278,000

LivScore: 812

Population: 92,969

Med. Home Value: $282,106

LivScore: 811

Population: 237,757

Med. Home Value: $473,902

Virginia Beach

Population: 458,089

Med. Home Value: $339,166

Fort Collins

LivScore: 808

Population: 170,959

Med. Home Value: $488,892

LivScore: 807

Population: 119,977

Med. Home Value: $367,817

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China's 10 best cities to live in for 2019 and 2020

China Central Television released its list of China's 10 best cities to live in for 2019 and 2020 on July 6, 2020. The list came from a survey launched by the National Bureau of Statistics, China Post Group and the National Institute of Development at Peking University. The survey collected 130,000 responses from people around the country.

A sense of contentment, happiness and security are the top three criteria of the survey, with the public having high satisfaction in water and air quality, security, medical service, education and green space.

The survey also noted the public has higher expectations for internet governance, food safety and inclusiveness, as well as social conduct.

Let's take a look at China's best cities to live in for 2019 and 2020. (The rankings are in Chinese character stroke order.)

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The best hotels in the world: Gold List 2023

Consider The Gold List the answer to the question our editors get asked more than any other: what are your favourite places to stay? Our annual collection, passionately selected by our international team, reveals just that

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10 Best Places for Fado Music in Lisbon

By Todd Plummer

With its wandering streets, intricate tile work and unforgettable colors, Lisbon by day is one of Europe’s most charming cities. But after dark, the city takes on an entirely new mood—one of mystery and romance, and no tradition better encapsulates the passions running through these city streets better than fado, a music genre so integral to the Portuguese experience that UNESCO recognizes it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It’s electric, it’s raw, it’s emotional, and it's often one of travelers’ most treasured memories of Lisbon. Whether you’re in the mood for a full-on fado restaurant (where you get a traditional meal served alongside a three-hour-or-longer fado performance), or you’re just in the mood for a glass of albariño at the local watering hole where you can hear up-and-coming fadistas give an impromptu performance, here are some of Lisbon’s most treasured fado hot spots.

Mesa de Frades Arrow

Step back in time with a visit to Mesa de Frades, built in a former chapel in Alfama, with the original tiles and murals still on the walls. The musical lineup toes the line between emerging fadistas and established stars, and the intimate setup offers an otherworldly ambience; performers will walk between tables during their sets, giving you a front-row look at the action, no matter where you're sitting. The experience is nonpareil.

Tasca do Chico Arrow

With ceilings draped with flags and walls lined with portraits—all reminders of the local and national legends who have walked through these doors—Tasca Do Chico oozes nostalgia. This is an intimate bar setting in Bairro Alto, where you're likely to be rubbing elbows—and backs, and feet—with your neighbor. Just go with it; after all, the closeness is all part of the fun. Come here on Mondays and Wednesdays for Fado Vadio nights, when locals and amateurs take the stage.

Clube de Fado Arrow

Since 1995, this candlelit space in the heart of Alfama has enchanted locals and tourists alike. Located just steps from the iconic Lisbon Cathedral, Clube de Fado boasts Moorish influences on every inch, from its arched ceilings to its thick stone walls. The roster is a revolving door of the city’s best singers, including Maria Armanda, Machado Shares, and Maria Ana Bobone; additionally, house guitarist Mario Pacheco is a living icon of the genre. It’s on the pricier end of the spectrum, for sure, but the caliber justifies the splurge, as does the food—don’t leave without trying the signature bacalhau.

Café Luso Arrow

Located in a historic horse stable in Bairro Alto that predates the earthquake of 1755, Café Luso pretty much has history oozing from every inch. There's a beautiful patina on every wall, column, and brick, lending the space a glowing, magical atmosphere and setting the stage for the fabulous music to come. Fado sessions run from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. nightly, with intermissions so guests can converse, order a glass of wine, and move throughout the space.

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Casa de Linhares Arrow

Mystery and romance linger on every inch of Casa de Linhares, a storied fado restaurant, located in a Renaissance-era mansion in Alfama that nearly fell to dust in the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755. But thanks to the enduring tradition of fado, this house continues to be an elegant and refined expression of Portuguese culture. The best of the best perform regularly here, including some of the art's most glamorous singers (Fábia Rebordão, Vânia Duarte, Silvana Peres) as well as charming young guitarists (Bruno Chaveiro, André Dias).

Sr. Fado de Alfama Arrow

There are only nine tables at Sr. Fado de Alfama, a hole-in-the-wall fado restaurant in Alfama, so make sure you book in advance. It's a prix-fixe menu, and owners Ana Marina and Duarte Santos bring out your food. As soon as dinner hits the table, they'll transform from servers into performers—it's really a two-person show here. There's plenty of fado in Lisbon, but very few places still have such a homey, salt-of-the-earth feel, and the owners' hospitality really transforms the experience.

Tasca do Jaime Arrow

A gritty grotto in the true tradition of fado tavernas, Tasca Do Jaime is a local favorite set far from the tourist circuit, not far from the Feira da Ladra market. The singers have been known to improvise and perform spontaneously—not necessarily the most refined expression of fado, but definitely one of the most enjoyable. There are only 24 seats, so either book in advance or show up early; after all, this a salt-of-the-earth experience matched by few other Fado clubs in town.

Senhor Vinho Arrow

Senhor Vinho hosts some of the greatest names in the game, with regular appearances from fado legends like Aldina Duarte and Joana Amendoeira. Because of its esteemed reputation, the club is a bit pricier than other fado joints. It also offers higher-end food, so expect to spend a little more time (and money) here. With traditional Portuguese tiles, antique tapestries on the walls, and white tablecloth, the rustic, yet refined, decor creates an elegant atmosphere.

Adega Machado Arrow

An important fado joint since its opening in Bairro Alto in 1937, Adega Machado has hosted the art form's greatest singers over the decades, including the likes of the great diva Amália Rodrigues. The intimate space is filled with antique furniture and traditional tile work, and you'll be hard pressed to find a more charming fado joint in town. Today, residents include other heroes of the genre including Marco Rodrigues, Joana Veiga, and Isabel Noronha. One thing's for sure: You won't see a bad show here.

A low-key Bairro Alto favorite that draws a local crowd of Fado enthusiasts, Povo is where you go for a spontaneous night. It's also a low-risk introduction to fado because it's inexpensive, there's always a reliable cohort of emerging performers on tap, and the crowd is enthusiastic without being stuffy. There's no cover, and the scrumptious menu of snacks and share plates makes this a great place to stop before or after dinner elsewhere.

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