The distinctive white-washed exterior of a typical house on the island of Ikaria glints in the sunlight. But Ikarians were not always so keen to draw attention to themselves. The island is scattered with stone ‘anti-piracy’ houses, homes built under boulders so they couldn’t be spotted by the Persian, Roman and Turkish invading forces who arrived on these shores over the centuries.

During the second world war, the island was occupied by German and Italian forces. It is estimated that 20% of the population died through starvation during this time as reported by British newspaper, The Guardian.

As a result, Ikarians have a strong sense of solidarity, making the island one of the friendliest places to live in the world. Property is reasonably priced too. A two-bedroom home on the island will set you back about €140,000 ($148k/£116k).

Revealed: the 6 places where most people live to 100 and beyond