How do you measure success? Is it the number that stares at you from your bank balance, or is it happiness? Most people will say happiness, but in reality, they act as though their bank balance is what matters. Sure, it’s hard to do the things that make you happy if you don’t have any money, but if you’re into simple pleasures, happiness ain’t that hard to come by.
That’s where the Bulanaire’s List comes in. Happiness is a little different from Fijians. It’s not just a feeling, it’s a way of life. Laughter is like air—not just a pleasant outflowing of air from the lungs, but a necessity of life. You can see it everywhere you look. In Fiji, “Bula” is more than just a greeting. It’s a wish for happiness, good health and the energy of life—and they say it ALL. THE. TIME.
So what is the Bulanaire’s List? Well, you’ve probably got an idea by now, but it’s something that Tourism Fiji came up with. After seeing a Gallup poll that found the overall happiness was on the decline pretty much everywhere other than Fiji, they decided that happiness could be a driver of tourism. No, they’re not just selling relaxation and soft, white sand—they’re selling happiness.
Kelly Slater is the most recent addition to the Bulanaire’s List, and it turns out his needs are pretty uncomplicated and probably very similar to your own.”My happiness is pretty simple,” he says. “Finding good waves, good food, and being around good friends.”
