What places in the world increase dopamine levels: a rating for tourists

Traveling brings vivid impressions, new knowledge, and invaluable experience. Some places in the world, thanks to their natural beauty, cultural richness, or interesting entertainment, can cause a real dopamine explosion, experts say.

Dopamine levels increase when experiencing positive emotions, achieving goals, and gaining new experiences. The Express has published the top places that will definitely help you get an incredible experience.

A new study conducted by Scenic Cruises in collaboration with clinical psychologist Dr. Gurpreet Kaur has shown which tourist destinations improve mood. Dr. Kaur carefully selected each indicator because sunlight naturally increases dopamine levels and quality cuisine offers essential nutrients and enjoyment. Walking lowers cortisol levels, helping to regulate dopamine, and clean air improves brain function.

1. Split

• The annual number of sunny hours is 2631.
• Air quality PM2.5 (µg/m3) - 10.
• Quality of green spaces (out of 100) - 58.
• Average restaurant rating on Google (out of 5) - 4.7.
• Score of hiking routes (out of 100) - 97.
• Overall score (out of 100) - 100.

Split is an amazing city on the Adriatic coast, which harmoniously combines a rich history, modern rhythm of life and unsurpassed natural beauty. Split is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. The narrow streets of the Old Town invite you to stroll and enjoy the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Modern cafes, restaurants and shops create a contrast with the ancient architecture.

2. Amsterdam

• Annual number of sunny hours - 1662.
• Air quality PM2.5 (µg/m3) - 13.
• Quality of green spaces (out of 100) - 84.
• Average Google restaurant rating (out of 5) - 4.6.
• Score of hiking routes (out of 100) - 85.
• Overall score (out of 100) - 98.

Amsterdam offers entertainment for all tastes: from relaxing canal walks to the vibrant nightlife. The city is well equipped for tourists. It has a convenient transportation system, many hotels for every budget and a variety of shops. The capital of the Netherlands is also a major cultural and artistic center.

3. Tallinn

• Annual number of sunny hours - 1923.
• Air quality PM2.5 (µg/m3) - 5.
• Quality of green spaces (out of 100) - 77.

• Average restaurant rating on Google (out of 5) - 4.6.
• Assessment of hiking routes - 78.
• The overall score (out of 100) is 97.

Tallinn combines medieval atmosphere with modern European style. It is an ideal city for those looking for a relaxing vacation, interesting excursions and unforgettable experiences. UNESCO has included Tallinn's Old Town in the World Heritage List. Narrow streets, medieval houses, towers and cathedrals will take you back to the days of knights and Hanseatic merchants.

4. 4.

• The annual number of sunny hours is 2649.
• Air quality PM2.5 (µg/m3) - 8.
• Quality of green spaces (out of 100) - 78.
• Average restaurant rating on Google (out of 5) - 4.5.

• The rating of hiking routes is 65.
• Overall score (out of 100) - 96.

New Orleans combines a variety of cultures, music, cuisine and architecture. The city is considered the birthplace of jazz. You can enjoy live performances by jazz musicians in numerous clubs and bars throughout the city. One of the most famous carnivals, Mardi Gras, is held in New Orleans. It is a colorful holiday with parades, costumes, and music.

5. Lisbon

• The annual number of sunny hours is 2806.
• Air quality PM2.5 (µg/m3) - 12.
• Quality of green spaces (out of 100) - 68.
• Average restaurant rating on Google (out of 5) - 4.6.
• Rating of hiking routes - 64.
• Overall score (out of 100) - 95.

Lisbon falls in love at first sight. It combines a rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine and friendly people. Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon with narrow streets, white houses and a medieval atmosphere. Summers in Lisbon are warm and sunny, and winters are mild. Holidays in Lisbon will be cheaper than in many other European capitals.

The rating also includes:

• Cadiz, Spain.
• Malaga, Spain.
• Liverpool, United Kingdom.
• Vancouver, Canada.

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