World’s 7 Best Cities to Live

World’s 7 Best Cities to Live

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From Asia to the U.S. and Europe, there are hundreds of cities that constantly attract new residents, thanks to low crime rates, quality of life and many other factors. Spending the past few years moving from one city to another, I’ve had my fair share of scouting for new nesting ground. Having picked up a trick or two on where’s best and where’s not, here’s my own list of 10 best cities to live based on my own likings and experiences.

1. Melbourne, Australia

This vibrant city at the Southern end of Australia is a treasure trove of beaches, seaside esplanades and quirky antique shops. Edgy urbanites co-exist with aboriginal culture in a city that grooves with urban culture. Melbourne is just an hour away from the Great Ocean Road, a stretch of coastal cliffs bursting with wildlife and hiking trails. The Grampians mountain range are also just several hours’ drive away. It’s definitely my favorite city in Australia, just be careful, you might never want to leave.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona: progressive, new-age, explosive and colorful. The hip crowd can hang around the beach at Barceloneta, while the artistic ones can mingle around works of Gaudi. Barcelona is a sprawling city with the conveniences that every cosmopolitan city has, yet it has completely come to its own.

Spain might not be ranking tops in the European ranking of infrastructure or GDP, but everyone who’s been there knows about the immeasurable quality of life. The three most important things in life for the Spaniards – cerveza (beer), siesta and fiesta.

3. Singapore

Coming in at number 1 in Mercer’s 2009 Worldwide Infrastructure Ranking, Singapore is definitely one of the best places to live in Asia. There’s not just low crime rate, but also excellent connection with the world, good career opportunities, high standard of living and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Urbanites who like living in a metropolis will definitely appreciate the vibrant nightlife and entertainment establishments available. Being a bilingual nation also helps a foreigner get by easily.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

One of my favorite cities in Europe- Prague is cheaper than most west European countries, but has equally stunning architecture, historical monuments and rich culture. In terms of security and stability, it is also on par with its neighbors. The weak currency makes cost of living here much lower as well- an important point to consider when relocating. The proximity to neighboring Germany and Austria also make it a good base to explore the area.

5. Dubai, UAE

Ranking as the top Middle Eastern city in the quality of life index, Dubai has been an expatriate-hub in the recent years. Plenty of friends looking to work abroad are seeking out opportunities in Dubai and it looks like they’re doing better than before. Quoted as ‘the fastest growing city in the world’, Dubai is now home to the tallest building, largest man-made marina and the most luxurious hotel in the world. Adventure seekers can also head out to nearby sand dunes to surf in the sand.

6. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is the most influential city in the whole of South America, despite its economic debacle in 2002. Stretching from old neighborhood like San Telmo to the swanky riverside zone of Puerto Madero. the city holds on to its history and culture like no other. Littered with gorgeous architecture, melancholic tango bars and antique shops, Buenos Aires is reminiscent of Europe, yet completely its own. A unique place to live and smell culture, this is the perfect place to live for art lovers who seek a bohemian lifestyle.

7. Seattle, U.S.

Surrounded by magnificent mountain range, Seattle is said to be one of the best residential cities in the U.S. Being the 13th largest metropolitan area in the States, it’s neither too big nor too small. Temperatures are also milder here, which means comfortable winters and summers. There’s a vibrant music scene and plenty of outdoors options from boating to hiking. For housing costs, check out Seattle property management.

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January 21, 2010 · Recommendations, Travel Tips, Working abroad

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56 Responses to “World’s 7 Best Cities to Live”

Travel Blogs on January 20th, 2010 9:25 pm

I totally agree on your number 1, great ciy, great activities, events, nighlife, shopping area, close to the beach etc Melbourne is a great place to live
Andy Hayes on January 20th, 2010 9:50 pm

I'm so glad Melbourne is at the top – it is at the top of my list. Great suggestions!
Jen Laceda on January 21st, 2010 2:52 am

Awww, no Toronto? Can I convince you to live here? We are the most multicultural city in the world, and everyone brings something from their own culture / country over here. Plus healthcare is great!
Nellie on January 21st, 2010 8:37 am

Jen wooo I've read so much about Toronto from your site – you've already convinced me. But hey I live in a small city in Spain now – no multiculturalism to speak of, and I'm lovin' it! So honestly, you don't need much to convince me. Come visit when you can! Have fun with the new baby
Nellie on January 21st, 2010 8:39 am

hey Thanks Andy! Yeh every time I'm in Melbourne, I can barely get on that plane and leave, it's just so full of life! I haven't told u how impressed I am with your site, cool stuff you have there man, esp with your neon lights post.
Thapelo on January 21st, 2010 9:28 am

I love Joburg, having been to many cities around the world it still comes top.
Anil on January 21st, 2010 2:16 pm

I love Seattle, hands down my favorite city in the US. Like you said, not too big, not too small.
G-Star on January 21st, 2010 3:10 pm

Barca is cool but not as cool as the capital Madrid having spent years in both the Catalans are that keen on the British which makes it difficult and you missed out my fav's: Bangkok and London!!
katy on January 21st, 2010 3:48 pm

Great post, but no Chicago sniff, sniff. Chicago is an absolutely fantastic place to live – lots to do, amazing architecture, beautiful lakefront, shopping, diverse neighborhoods. We're spoiled here! (the only real downside is the winter weather…!)
gotpassport on January 21st, 2010 9:52 pm

Hi Nellie,

Only been to Seattle and Barcelona and loved both cities. Looking forward to going to all of them! Personally like Portland also.

Great share, Thanks.
Ayngelina on January 21st, 2010 11:49 pm

Jen beat me to the post about Toronto. I live here (well for the next 8 weeks before a rtw trip) and while I often tell people not to visit here if they can only go to one place in Canada (Vancouver is better to visit), Toronto is an amazing place to live in. We have a unique diversity that is reflected in its culture and attitude.
Nellie on January 22nd, 2010 12:29 pm

Thanks guys for sharing – Toronto, Portland and Chicago all sound like awesome places to live in. I've heard so much about Portland as well – the myriad of outdoor activities you could do there etc.

A question I have for everyone – what are the factors that matter most to you when considering a place to live? Conveniences? Multi-cultural? Energy?
gotpassport on January 22nd, 2010 6:06 pm

One of the reason we like Portland so much is because they are totally environmental friendly. Survey shows that Portland is one at the top of the list for best place to retire. If it is good for the seniors it is good for us. we think so anyway. Yes, it is full of outdoor activities, hiking, beaches, and a road trip along the coast would be ideal. it is our goal to return to Portland when we come back from Asia (that is if we don't hop to another country like South America or Africa) to live in Portland but in an RV.

Great question Nellie! Love your site by the way!
marta on January 25th, 2010 6:16 pm

i would love to live in barcelona someday, i think it's just great, so lively, cosmopolitan, a nice size city big but not to big, the people are friendly and you got the seaside just at the doorstep with great weather almost all year round, vamos no?
Elaine Ellis on January 27th, 2010 8:22 pm

Wonderful post. I'd sell my soul and all of my belongings to live in Barcelona. Even though my Spanish is abysmal, I think that is one of the best European cities there is. The food is fantastic. I've been twice, and I feel like I've barely touched the city.
admin on February 1st, 2010 5:41 pm

Yeh Elaine, Barcelona is ever-changing isn’t it? I recently went there for the fourth time, and it was almost like getting to know a different city altogether. I love discovering something new about it every time I’m there.
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Dougles on February 3rd, 2010 8:08 pm

Super post, Need to mark it on Digg
Dougles
Pat on February 15th, 2010 2:53 am

The multiculturalism of Toronto is amazing. I've lived there (downtown) for 10 years, and learned a lot and loved the various ethnic-based festivals. It's a great, safe, easy to live in city (as long as you can afford it). The air pollution is horrible though. As the car traffic has increased over the years, so has my asthma, to the point that I can't see living there much longer (I'm a long distance runner, love Toronto's parks and ravines). I've spent the last year in BC, and hadn't had to use my asthma breather once, something I need daily in Toronto. I've had a good life in Toronto, but it's killing me.
Check out this article from 2007 – more than 400 car air pollution deaths a year http://www.citytv.com/toronto/citynews/news/local...
admin on February 16th, 2010 5:38 pm

Oh seriously? I’d think cities like Beijing, Hongkong and Bangkok would have a serious pollution problem, not Toronto?! I’ve never been to Toronto, only a transit at its airport, would love to visit someday to check out the pollution prob!
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Michela on March 20th, 2010 12:22 pm

Melbourne is definitely the city I would pick o live in for a while…along with Singapore…
I can add Munich to this list….a great place to live
Arepeace on March 23rd, 2010 11:31 am

Hey..check out Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia..You may surprise..the life is more leisure and relax here
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Perry Torres on April 5th, 2010 2:28 pm

If you want to spend your retirement life to interact with people, then I should say Brazil is the best choice. The people are very friendly and accommodating. The food is perfect and the cost of living is cheaper compared to other countries. Like Brazilians, Costa Rican is also very friendly and hospitable. Spain greatly influenced their culture. Costa Rica counts as one of the most stable country in America because they have high standard of education and life style. For retirees who wants to buy a house in Costa Rica you can save a lot of money because you can buy a house in Costa Rica 70% lower than houses in United States.
Bellevue carpet on April 7th, 2010 12:50 am

Amazed to see my hometown of Seattle made the cut. I guess we sometimes take for granted what a great place this is.
christian pumps on April 15th, 2010 7:09 am

Enter text rAmazed to see my hometown of Seattle made the cut. I guess we sometimes take for granted what a great place this is. ight here!
Teri Green on April 21st, 2010 2:22 pm

Retire to Sydney and live amidst the largest cosmopolitan city that is New South Wales. Set on one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, Sydney is known for its incredible beaches; shopping; restaurants; culture and history; the famous Sydney Opera House; The Rocks; the white sands of Bondi; and the Harbor Bridge. Nice list!
Teri Green on April 21st, 2010 2:34 pm

There are many other reasons to consider living in Spain. For example, the landscape is very beautiful. There is every modern amenity you may be interested in, but you will still find that around the next corner is a perfectly suitable location for tranquility. In terms of cost, when you retire in Spain, the cost of living is more affordable than in the United States.
Teri Green on April 23rd, 2010 2:16 pm

There are many other reasons to consider living here. For example, the landscape is very beautiful. There is every modern amenity you may be interested in, but you will still find that around the next corner is a perfectly suitable location for tranquility. In terms of cost, when you retire in Spain, the cost of living is more affordable than in the United States, but higher than more rural countries. Compared to other European countries, Spain continues to be affordable.
Federico on April 23rd, 2010 10:33 pm

I don't get it.

I lived in Melbourne for over a year and have to say that I cannot understand at all why it keeps being rated as one of the best cities to live in in the world. Sure, people are nice, as they are almost everywhere. Climate sucks, it is far from everywhere in the world…and the city itself is not nice. I had a good time at the end, but only because I made good friends in school (was studying a masters in uni). ????

cheers,

Federico http://www.maitravelsite.com
joey on April 26th, 2010 6:44 am

i'm sorry but melbourne is the best and melbourne is the most multicultural city in the world so get your facts straight buddy and the best weather all year round i reccomend melbourne plus the healthcare in australia is the number 1 in the world so thank you.
Teri Green on April 28th, 2010 12:14 pm

Many countries have been on your list for quite a long time, you are about to make your choice. Which one will it be? New Zealand? Australia? Italy? Spain? Or simply you need change, and this country is one place you would like to live out your life. It really doesn’t matter what the reason is; what matters is you have chosen a place in which you have learned the language; made friends; and long to return there for good.
Rachel on May 7th, 2010 3:42 am

Hi Nellie,
No New York?

This is a great site. I'd love for you to write for Pink Pangea (http://pinkpangea.com), a travel site specifically geared towards women travelers. Submit a photo of yourself in one of the countries you've traveled to and write a post about your experiences, providing some tips for other women travelers.

Looking forward to hearing from you,
Rachel
rachel@pinkpangea.com
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admin on May 7th, 2010 10:51 pm

Thanks Rachel, I’ll definitely be in touch!
noob on May 10th, 2010 4:35 pm

where is moscow??
bruno on May 17th, 2010 6:38 am

cadê nova york nessa lista????????????????
rich on May 20th, 2010 2:42 pm

I spent two years in amsterdam and that would be on my list.Liberal,multi-cultural,creative,healthy with a cycling lifestyle. But then I lived in denver and i loved that too so perhaps i'm just biased towards places i've lived.
Low Cost Hotels on May 26th, 2010 10:41 am

I am pleasantly surprised I mean I love Melbourne, though I really thought one of the more exotic locations even in Australia would have been in the top 7. I guess the measure is based on employment per capital, disposable income, affordability etc. Whereas I look at lifestyle. I would have chosen South East Asia, Phuket and or Bali in Indonesia. There are many island that wow once you are there you cannot leave.
admin on May 27th, 2010 5:42 pm

hey you’ve got an interesting way of looking at it. I’d agree – I mean who doesn’t want to live by the beach in a cheap place with so much nature and kind people. But yes, the list is based on the GDP, standard of living etc, basically looking at it in a practical perspective.
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Tahany on July 23rd, 2010 10:59 am

hi every1
many people say that canada is awesum bt i wanna which is better to live coz' i am migrating
(Toronto or vancouver?)
Ted on August 3rd, 2010 1:44 am

Don't agree with most of the cities listed here.
Cathy Sweeney on August 5th, 2010 5:34 pm

I agree with you, Katy! I would just add wonderful food to your list, too! It has world class restaurants as well as the best breakfast places — and don't forget the pizza! Chicago is my hometown and I go back to visit as often as possible.
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Nellie on August 18th, 2010 4:25 am

Thanks for the useful info! I'd definitely have to check out Brazil and Costa Rica, I missed these two destinations out during my 6-month trip in South and Central America. They sound like perfect places to live!
gui on August 25th, 2010 10:30 pm

I love Buenos AiresI already have been there,and it's amazing
Martha on September 3rd, 2010 4:36 am

Great post! I think Seattle is the best city in the world and has the best things to offer! I recently stumbled upon this blog that I found pretty funny in its reference to Seattle: http://burisonthecouch.wordpress.com/2009/06/23/t...

Thanks for the post! Seattle rocks!