From the 2012 Legatum Prosperity Index (
http://www.prosperity.com/Ranking.aspx) which incorporates
traditional economic measures of prosperity with measurements of well-being and
life satisfaction:
"Like Switzerland, Sweden has been placing significant
emphasis on creating the conditions for innovation-led growth. The quality of
its public institutions is first-rate, with a very high degree of efficiency,
trust, and transparency. Private institutions also receive excellent marks
(3rd), with firms that demonstrate the highest ethical behavior (3rd),
supported by strong auditing and reporting standards (2nd) and well-functioning
corporate boards (1st). Goods and financial markets are also very efficient,
although the labor market could be more flexible (25th). Combined with a strong
focus on education over the years (2nd for higher education and training) and a
high level of technological adoption (2nd), Sweden has developed a very
sophisticated business culture (2nd) and is one of the world’s leading
innovators (2nd). Last but not least, the country boasts a stable macroeconomic
environment (13th), with an almost balanced budget and manageable
public debt levels. These characteristics come together to
make Sweden one of the most productive and competitive economies in the
world."
PLUS Sweden currently boasts the Scandinavian premiere of
Stephen Sondheim's award winning musical "Assassins"...I mean, what
more can you ask for?!
There is nothing on earth I enjoy more than a massage. Nothing. It's the ultimate pleasure in my opinion...lying in a warm room, face down and having someone knead my sore or tense muscles. The firmer, the better.
