The friendliest countries in the world: 2024 Readers' Choice Awards
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Whether lounging at a beach resort or backpacking through mountains, what really makes a trip unforgettable is the people you meet along the way. Travelling to unfamiliar places can be daunting, so those who go the extra mile to make you feel at home are always appreciated. You may not have much in common – you may not even speak the same language – but the warmth of a friendly local surpasses cultural differences.
As part of our 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, we asked our well-travelled readers to share their wisdom on where to find the most hospitable people across the planet (excluding Europe – see the friendliest countries in Europe for those winners).
Getty Images10. Seychelles. Score 88.84
Made up of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa and with just 107,000 residents, this is the least populated country both in Africa and on this list. Despite being low on numbers, the sprawling archipelago is rich with eclectic culture, as the Arcadian jungle landscapes and crystal clear waters have attracted communities of African, European and Asian origins. Locals are proud to share their slow-paced lifestyle and kaleidoscopic heritage, with continental differences woven through their cuisine, music and architecture.
Getty Images9. Vietnam. Score 90.00
From skyscrapers in Ho Chi Minh City to paddy fields in Sapa, there are many sides to Vietnam, yet all welcome travellers with open arms. Even in rural villages, locals offer spare rooms to guests through homestay schemes, alongside their insider tours and home-cooked meals. The street food scene caters to travellers too, known for its traditional recipes at budget-friendly prices, while the unique Vietnamese ‘sidewalk culture’ immerses passers-by in the close-knit community through curbside food vendors, exercise groups and barbers.
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Getty Images8. Mexico. Score 92.17
Blending ancient pyramids with five-star beach resorts, Mexico’s allure is truly timeless. While you can anticipate some haggling in the markets, Mexican tradition is rooted in community and respect, so locals quickly extend their genuine affection and invitations to strangers. Visit one of Mexico’s beautiful small towns for the best sense of its culture, like offbeat Pátzcuaro, renowned for its Día de los Muertos celebrations. No trip is complete without authentic street tacos, sold by chirpy vendors at dirt-cheap prices.
Getty Images7. Sri Lanka. Score 92.73
Following a handful of glamorous openings last year, the hotels in Sri Lanka are better than ever and all topped off by the generous hospitality of their people. Upon arrival, expect a cup of Ceylon tea, the liquid national treasure, followed by an abundance of curries with a hearty kick. This predominantly Buddhist nation is also home to the 3000-year-old holistic healing practice of Ayurveda, making it the ideal destination for spiritual journeys and well-being retreats.
Getty Images6. Japan. Score 93.25
As well as being crowned the best country in the world in the 2024 Readers’ Choice awards, Japan returns to our lists, this time specifically for its people. The country’s friendly faces have made a well-rounded impression on our readers, as Tokyo coincidentally also ranks sixth in our list of the world’s friendliest cities. Besides the company, other reasons to visit Japan include the charming cherry blossoms, snow-capped Mount Fuji and world-class architecture, to name a few.
Getty Images5. Canada. Score 93.33
Canada is a land of vast, untouched wilderness, with only 20 per cent of its territory inhabited by humans. Natural wonders include glittering lakes surrounded by mountains, red sand beaches, and even the northern lights. The crown jewel, however, is Niagara Falls, a spectacle of gushing water unlike any other on earth. For the best sense of Canadian culture, head to the major cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where you are met with impeccable manners and genuine conversation everywhere you go.
Getty Images4. Maldives. Score 93.50
For the pinnacle of island luxury, the Maldives promises white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and only the highest standard of hospitality. Here, a peaceful and secluded stay in paradise awaits, with several hotels in the Maldives found amongst ocean tides and coral reefs through overwater villas on stilts. While this destination may seem more suitable for a dreamy honeymoon getaway, there are plenty of child-friendly resorts for making those long-lasting memories of family holidays too.
Getty Images3. Thailand. Score 94.37
As the highest-ranking Asian country on our list, Thailand sets the standard for friendly communities across the continent. Thai people have a reputation for whole-heartedly welcoming visitors into their culture, proven by the announcement of visa-free entry for 93 countries (including the UK) earlier this year. Whether haggling at Bangkok’s one-of-a-kind floating markets or diving amongst Koh Tao island’s turtles and coral reefs, travellers can expect a warm reception as they explore the country’s many wonders.
Getty Images2. New Zealand. Score 95.63
New Zealand was included in the 2023 round-up of friendliest countries, although it re-enters the charts this year with both an improved position and score. While it may be the furthest country from the UK, the nation’s reputation of laidback kindness withstands the 11,000-mile distance. From volcanic national parks to glacier valleys, the island country is also known for its diverse landscape of untamed wilderness, leaving keen hikers spoilt for choice.
Getty Images1. Costa Rica. Score 96.15
Taking the top spot, Costa Rica is home to dynamic rainforests, world-class surfing and, of course, friendly people. “Pura Vida” (meaning “pure life”) is their national expression, used by locals as a greeting but also as a guiding principle. Costa Rican lifestyle is centred around positivity and gratitude, and this infectious optimism enriches the outlooks of visitors too. The country is a leading ecotourism destination, with 25 per cent of its land protected by conservation reserves, making it a place which is kind to both the people and the planet.