For the second year in a row, Finland ranks as the world’s happiest country. 

Ranked in the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network’s 2019 World Happiness Report, Finland beat 156 other countries. 

The report ranks countries on several well-being variables such as life expectancy, income, freedom, and trust. 

Denmark took second place and Norway rounded out the top three. 

The United States placed No. 19, a slip from last year’s 18th spot. 

South Sudan was ranked the least happy on the list. 

As Finland celebrates another year at the top, the country announced a new program inviting people who are looking for the secret to happiness to apply for their “Rent a Finn” program. 

You read that right — “Rent a Finn” is a project which gives a lucky few people a chance to travel to Finland and spend time with some Finnish “happiness guides” who may just spill the beans on the secret to happiness.

There are a total of 8 Finns signed up to host visitors in their towns. 

Each offers a different learning experience. 

For example, hosts Linda and Niko — who live in Uto — like to go sailing and camping and will introduce their guests to “the simplicity of Archipelago life.”

On the other hand, host Esko — who happens to be the mayor of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland — offers berry picking, grilling, boating, and playing traditional Finnish games. 

Interested in applying?

All you have to do is make a three-minute video describing yourself, how you connect with nature, and what your goals are for visiting Finland. 

You’ll also have to fill out an online application. 

The chosen winners will travel to Finland this summer for three days– all travel and accommodation expenses will be covered. 

Dates vary by host. 

Officials also want you to know you must be comfortable on camera, since the experience will be filmed. 

Before you do any of that, Finnish officials say you can take this handy balance test to determine if you’re in need of a relaxing getaway to Finland. 

Onnea! (that’s Finnish for good luck, by the way!)

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