Sometimes despite being in another country or another continent, we somehow feel at home. The people look different, you don’t understand a word of their language, the architecture is different from what you usually see, the food has ingredients you have never tried in your life, but you still feel welcomed. Culture shock is experienced less in countries where you are treated in a friendly manner. Therefore, after comparing the results of the US News and World Population Review rankings, with opinions from travelers around the world combined with data from various forums, we have chosen the ten friendliest countries in the world.
This country of unique animals, impressive landscapes, excellent wines and cities with a very high quality of life tops the list of the most hospitable countries in the world. In Australia, in addition to meeting people open to tourists, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities: surfing and hiking, visiting museums and sacred places and seeing animals in their natural habitat. According to National Geographic, there are twice as many kangaroos as humans in this country, but as adorable as they may seem, they are actually part of the wild and can be quite dangerous. Therefore, Australia is a friendly country, the exception is some dangerous animals that inhabit its territory.
Taiwan is a relatively small and densely populated island off the coast of mainland China. Despite the communication barriers that arise between Taiwanese and visitors, Taiwanese are willing to lend a hand however they can: using translators or calling friends who speak English. In addition, Taiwan is among the 30 safest countries in the world, according to the 2022 Global Peace Index. Nature, affordable prices, the kindness of the people and the gastronomy with an endless offer of Asian cuisines make you feel welcomed in such a different country.
They usually call it the “land of smiles” for its friendly people, who spread smiles inviting you to get to know the unique culture of their country. This attitude comes from sanuk, the Thai philosophy of optimism, joy and enjoyment of life. Thai people are always ready to help others, even if they are very busy at work. In addition to the people, the country is famous for its paradisiacal beaches, diverse cuisine and imposing temples with giant Buddhas. Chiang Mai is the friendliest city in Thailand, according to a 2020 Condé Nast list, so don’t forget to add it to your travel itinerary.
Canada is so hospitable that every year it appears in the rankings of friendliest places. A country surrounded by oceans and shrouded in snow, where you are treated with dignity regardless of your ethnicity, creed or gender preferences. Outdoor sports such as skiing, mountaineering or cycling are an integral part of the Canadian identity, so its inhabitants will be happy to invite you to play sports with them or simply participate in local events.
The Philippines is a pocket-friendly destination, thanks to its low cost of living, but that’s not the only reason it ranks fifth. The friendliness of the people is palpable from the first moment you set foot on Philippine soil. Today, English is the official language, along with Tagalog, and is spoken by the majority of the population (more than 92%, according to the British consulate). Therefore, foreigners feel very welcome both in tourist destinations and on lesser-known islands.
Portugal is one of the friendliest and safest countries in the world, which is why it is a perfect destination for women traveling alone. Thanks to watching English and American television and most movies in their original language, the Portuguese speak English very well and understand Spanish. So, if you are not sure of your English, you can always ask a question in Spanish and they will help you for sure!
Hospitable people willing to make friends, as well as living traditions, colonial cities and endless tacos. Security problems do not overshadow the friendliness of this country, as its people are eager to introduce foreigners to their culture, showing them the most impressive places and restaurants with the most delicious food. Mérida is the best city in Mexico for retirees, while Guadalajara is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the world. A dream for anyone!
Country of gods, heroes, coastal cities and picturesque Mediterranean islands, one of which – Santorini – has been considered by various means the most beautiful place in the world. With its excellent climate and friendly people, Greece deserves to be on this list. Without a doubt, you will quickly fall in love with the Greek lifestyle, its historical heritage and, of course, its traditional food: gyros, horiatiki, tzaziki or spanakópita.
The Nordic countries have long been on the list of the best countries to live. Finland is reputed to be the happiest country on Earth for the sixth consecutive year, according to the World Happiness Report 2023, and is a benchmark in many aspects: ecology, well-being, educational system, security. This country welcomes its visitors from the airport, classified as one of the most efficient and comfortable in the world. Due to its social programs and high quality of life, Finland is on the list of the friendliest countries, and its inhabitants are more than willing to teach us how to be happy.
Pure Life! It is no coincidence that Costa Ricans use this phrase in their daily lives. “Pura vida” is a way of living, of being happy. Situated between two oceans, the Atlantic and the Pacific, Costa Rica has become known as a hospitable destination, where stunning volcanoes sit alongside cloud forests and leave you spellbound. It is not the first time that it has been included on the list, in addition to being a cheap country, it has great tourism potential, a variety of ecosystems and activities: rafting, surfing, hiking, sport fishing. Costa Ricans know how to welcome visitors!