20 Most Liveable Cities

Although it’s often often assume that NYC, London, Berlin and all those global hotspots are the best cities around, the facts of the matter may not be so clear cut as we metropolis-dwellers might want to believe. The current issue of Monocle offers up a somewhat surprising list of the brightest and most liveable cities around right now, taking into consideration their infrastructures, business opportunities, cosmopolitanism, green spaces, and of course the general well-being of their respective inhabitants. Here is the list; enjoy:

01- Munich: Munich emerged as Monocle’s most liveable city in the world. Perfect work-life balance, great green spaces; all around pleasant place to be.

02- Copenhagen: The city’s slogan says it all: “There’s something modern in the state of Denmark”. Indeed, the city is a veritable maelstrom of creative activity and youthful dynamism. One of several beacons in the North.

03- Zürich: In Zürich, small and perfectly formed has turned out to be both a blessing and a curse.

04- Tokyo: Integrated transport, breathtaking technology, great service and the best bars make this our top big city.

05- Vienna: Vienna is back at the heart of Europe - its well-connected airline helped put it in fifth place.

06- Helsinki: The fastest flying times from Europe to Asia’s hubs make Helsinki more than Nokia-town.

07- Sydney: The city has some environmental issues and an antiquated transport system. But then there’s the beach…

08- Stockholm: An eye for detail, good street style and strong public services make this a pleasant place to build a nest.

09- Honolulu: The city has the luxury of sitting on Asia’s doorstep. This is great news but it needs to put it to use.

10- Madrid: Red tape and poor infrastructure are counterbalanced by cultural vibrancy and a 24-hour lifestyle.

11- Melbourne: The city scores every time for sport and culture. Just pack an umbrella.

12- Montreal: A laid-back bilingual city where the good life comes at a bargain price.

13- Barcelona: Cradled by the sea and mountains and rocked by crime and grime.

14- Kyoto: Low-rise, high style: the city mixes the best of modernity and tradition.

15- Vancouver: Well-connected and wealthy, just make sure you like talking sport.

16- Auckland: Great setting, Polynesian culture and an improved transport system.

17- Singapore: It’s still conservative but this city state is enjoying a cultural boom.

18- Hamburg: The ship’s come in for this port city with ambitious growth plans.

19- Paris: It rains, dogs foul the street, there’s little green space but the city works.

20- Geneva: It may have a Latin beat but what really makes Geneva tick is cash.

Thanks to Monocle for the highly informative list.

Top 20 Liveable Cities