Are there any countries at the moment that are close to what you'd describe as Socialist? I find myself interested in certain aspects of it, but wanted to know if there's anywhere that practices some of it so I can see/research for myself to try and figure out where I sit politically.

Another question regarding this - are there any links/similarities between socialist ideologies, and services offered by welfare (such as free transport, education, healthcare, unemployment benefits, housing)?

Apologies if I'm mixing things up or anything, thought it would be quicker to just ask directly. Since I'm from a western country I'd assume the lens through which we view and understand socialism may differ