As spring blooms, it brings the perfect opportunity for new beginnings and unforgettable experiences. Just as nature awakens with vibrant colors and new life, this season invites us to embrace growth, renewal, and exciting adventures just waiting to be discovered.
Have you ever wanted to experience a place not just as a tourist, but as a true local? Staying in a homestay offers the comfort of space and peace, while allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture—exploring neighborhood streets, discovering hidden gems, and connecting with the local community.
With that in mind, Booking.com investigated which destinations are the most pleasant to live in, according to global index of the best places to live to recommend the most pleasant destinations for a longer stay and an authentic experience.
Calgary, Canada
Nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is home to more than 240 different ethnic groups speaking more than 165 different languages. In addition to being known for its hospitality, the city is also rated as the cleanest in the world and is ranked fifth in the Global Liveability Index. Known as “Cow City” for its long history as a cattle ranching region, Calgary stays true to its cowboy roots by hosting the Calgary Stampede every July, a ten-day festival that also includes rodeo competitions.
Take in the sights and attractions by visiting the 190,8-meter-high Calgary Tower and learn more by strolling through one of the many museums and art galleries. Enjoy culinary delights like “ginger beef,” a Calgary specialty made with beef and ginger and served with a signature sweet sauce. For travelers looking to explore the scenic landscapes and Canadian wildlife, this Nature tour in Stjenjak is the perfect day trip to truly explore the beautiful surroundings. From skiing and snowboarding trips in the winter to hiking and walking in the summer, travelers will never tire of the city's vibrant cultural scene and enchanting flora and fauna.
Where to stay: Feel at home in Upscale 2BR Condo accommodation. Devonian Gardens and Calgary Tower are in close proximity to this beautifully decorated accommodation, equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning and all the household necessities needed to make guests' stay easier. Two bedrooms and a bathroom provide enough space for the whole family.
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is ranked 6th in the Global Liveability Index. The city is safe and its residents benefit from a high standard of living, excellent infrastructure and an international atmosphere. In addition to being a global hub for banking and finance, this Swiss city is also rich in culture. Visit the Grossmünster Church, a well-known landmark with twin towers that played an important role in the Reformation, or take a short but steep hike up the Uetliberg mountain, where you can admire the views of Zurich. To explore the city's culture in more detail, spend a day getting culturally uplifted at the Kunsthaus, where you can admire works by local painters and sculptors, learn about the history of Zurich's trams at the Tram-Museum or head to the Landesmuseum, where the story of Switzerland is documented, from the banks on Bahnhofstrasse to the Alpine farms and mountains.
For those who love a good shop, Bahnhofstrasse is a famous shopping avenue that stretches from the main train station to the shores of Lake Zurich, a sight not to be missed in itself! Travelers can spend the day strolling along the promenade or taking a boat ride to enjoy the view. Feel even more like a local with this Personalized private tour, which offers travelers the opportunity to get to know the city through the eyes of locals.
Where to stay: EMA House Serviced Apartments Superior Unterstrass is the perfect accommodation for a longer stay in Zurich. Located just two tram stops from the main station, it offers a great combination of proximity to the city centre and enough distance for travellers to get away and recharge their batteries. All studios and apartments are modernly decorated and feature a living area with a seating and dining area, as well as kitchen facilities, making it easy to feel at home.
Montevideo, Uruguay
Located on the coast of South America between Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay boasts a modern economy and a high standard of living, although it is still considered a developing country. The capital, Montevideo, is ranked 2nd in the Global Liveability Index among all Latin American cities. It has an excellent healthcare system, stable government, good transport connections and schools, and is characterized by European cultural influences and a relaxed lifestyle. There is much to explore, from seeing a play at the Teatro Solis to wandering around the Espacio de Arte Contemporanea art gallery, housed in an abandoned former prison. Day trip Tastings and tapas at Bouza Winery allows travelers to get to know the Uruguayan wine region while enjoying delicious local wines and tapas. The city has it all, including the Fortaleza del Cerro, which dominates the top of Montevideo's highest hill and offers a very impressive view of the bay below.
Where to stay: object Puertovideo offers comfortable apartments with one bedroom and a fully equipped kitchenette. The property is only a few minutes' walk from the main Independencia Square and is close to the Solis Theater and the Montevideo market and port. The location is excellent and will allow travelers to immerse themselves in the rhythm of the locals, providing them with an authentic experience of life in the city.
Auckland, Novi Zeland
Auckland is a large metropolis with a range of diverse heritage attractions, including museums, galleries and concert halls, offering residents a high quality of life. This beautiful city has many advantages from a private and cultural aspect: it is considered one of the safest cities in the world with low crime rates, it is ranked 9th in the global index of the best cities to live and offers a great balance between work and private life. Visit the famous Sky Tower, which offers a beautiful view of the Viaduct Harbor and Auckland Domain, the oldest city park formed around an extinct volcano, where the Wintergardens are located.
With a wide range of restaurants and bars, Auckland's dining scene is sophisticated yet relaxed, encompassing everything from fine dining to bistros and local spots with local flavours. The city is also home to the usual fast food joints. It's easy to explore without a car, as attractions can be easily reached on foot. For those who want to explore the surrounding area, this Waiheke Island indigenous forest tour and zip line will provide adventure lovers with a 3-hour tour of the island, including an exciting zipline experience.
Where to stay: Located within Auckland, Halfmoon Bay is a spacious apartment, equipped with a balcony with a beautiful view of the sea, barbecue equipment for warmer days and all the facilities necessary for complete relaxation while exploring the area. Close to this property are Half Moon Bay Beach, Ellerslie Racecourse and the historic village of Howick, all popular attractions for newcomers to the area. With a spacious double bedroom, lounge and well-equipped kitchenette, this property is ideal for those looking for a slice of home while exploring the city.
*The Travel Forecast 2025 study was commissioned by Booking.com and was conducted on a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12 to 24 months. A total of 27.713 respondents from 33 countries and territories participated (including 1016 from Argentina, 1002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1003 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1006 from Canada, 1007 from China, 1005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1008 from Japan, 1013 from Mexico, 1011 from the Netherlands, 1003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1004 from South Korea, 1008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1009 from Thailand, 503 from the United Arab Emirates, 1012 from the United Kingdom, 1006 from the United States and 1016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed the online survey between July and August 2024.
