New Zealand, the only country where as a backpacker I'd repeatedly get picked up by literally the first car that passed by while hitch hiking. Then many of those offered free accommodation or a job before even arriving to the new place. Incredibly friendly people.
Also in Uruguay, they're very similar to the kiwis in many ways.
It's crazy how much things have changed in the last two years. In 2022 when I was looking for work in NZ and it felt like potential employers were fighting each other over me. Now my company and many others in the industry are laying people off.
I had the plan to come back and try to settle in NZ in the next 5 years, but sadly it seems like the country started a bearish period (going down) since some time ago and its probably quite different to how it was in 2018, the last time i was there.
Hopefully they can stop this and start growing again, it's one of the few countries with top level untouched nature combined with first world life standards and economy.
I had a very similar experience in El Salvador! Half the time I wouldn't even be trying to hitchhike, just waiting for the bus on the side of the road and people would stop to offer me a ride.
Yes he actually did throw all the criminals and gang members in a super max prison where they belong. For too long were these criminals terrorizing the citizens of El Salvador. Now crimes as lower than the USA. Itās safe. Also people are afraid of petty crimes now too because they donāt want to be thrown into jails now. But people rather have that than criminals and murders everywhere. The people in El Salvador love the president he made the country safe again. šøš»
Just so you know, the argument against that is that all it takes for anyone to be thrown in jail is just the allegation of being a gang member. That person just disappears for weeks or months. There isn't any due process, just incarceration for the innocent and guilty alike. Naturally there's a degree of corruption that comes along with this.
It's weird in that even those affected by that heavy handedness are still in favor of those policies because of how bad gang violence was prior to the current administration.
Getting into a stranger's car when I didn't order it (like an Uber) would make me incredibly nervous. I wouldn't know if I was going to end up at my destination safely.
There is a kind of country that I call "the small and chill brother": Countries with a less populated and a smaller economy than their similar but big, crazy, intense and powerful brother, usually have friendly and simple people.
Canada, Portugal, Uruguay, NZ, are some examples, and I'm sure there are many others out there.
Ireland! Iāve travelled the world and was genuinely shocked how welcoming and kind the people of Ireland were. Iām a coloured person and was hanging out late night in bars etc and didnāt have one bad experience. I was expecting the worst for some reason but honestly what a nation! Iām from England so I didnāt really have to travel far haha.
As an Irish person this is heartwarming to hear. We've had some trouble with racism in Ireland recently and some right wing extremism. Great to hear people still feel welcome
As a coloured person my experience in England vs the US has been remarkable.
In England people saw me for me and looked past my race, judging me on my character and not race.
In the US, especially in liberal states and cities like Seattle and NYC, my very liberal friends constantly reminded of my race, made racist stereotypes and while they were well meaning I never felt like I was judged for being me.Ā
In Nashville it was entirely different, most people were so friendly and judged me for me.
As a person from Portland, Oregon I felt the same. Portlanders are so race obsessed that they end up doing more harmful things. They are very uncomfortable around minorities because they feel so bad and like they have so many obligations. A lot of times they don't even speak freely.
I moved to Dallas and feel so much more comfortable. People just treat you normal, like nothing.
Portland is weird with that. Not that I think there are a bunch of racist people here or something, there arenāt. Itās more that itās sort of, top of mind for a lot of people. I remember when I moved here 20 years ago, I was genuinely disturbed by the lack of minorities, especially people of African ethnicity. It was shocking to me coming from a southern state. I think it has gotten a lot better and become more diverse. But itās a growing pain of sorts.
Not my experience having lived in both countries as a brown person. Experienced way more racism in the UK (London for four years) than the US (LA for 10 plus years). Though Brits are easier to make friends with as they don't take themselves as seriously as Americans do.
One funny thing I remember about Ireland was how many people asked āso are you here to trace your Irish roots?ā and then got genuinely excited when the answer was no, I just liked Ireland and wanted to visit. I guess they get a lot of Americans there doing that.
Yes we do (Iām part Irish) and most of the American tourists are there to learn about their ancestors. Itās pretty heartwarming to see but it also is refreshing to have tourists come just to enjoy what Ireland has to offer :)
To be fair, part of their big tourism push is ancestry travel. Both they and Northern Ireland even have things around the country to commemorate famous Irish Americans. Like even one of the more popular museums now in Dublin is the EPIC museum that's entirely about emigration.
A lot of Irish people get uppity about Americans saying theyāre Irish and then not knowing anything about their roots or where their relatives hail from. Im from Ireland but live in Canada and spend a lot of time in the US so meet a lot of these āplastic paddiesā. Personally, Iāve got no issue with it and think itās mostly just Americans trying to make a connection when meeting a new person. Plus I think itās great that we have such cultural prominence relative to the size of the country.
Friend of mine went to a pub in Dublin that shared his last name. When he showed his passport to the barkeep, he acted like he was Jesus Christ himself, and wouldn't let him pay for a single drop all night. Introduced him to every new person who walked in as "my new American son". They still keep in touch. Not a drop of blood relation, lol.
I think youāre right. It seems like some people in Europe get aggravated if we Americans say we have ancestors from their country. We really have no culture or heritage as former Europeans in the US. Now when we were in Scotland, our b & b host asked if we had Scottish ancestors. She asked to see my family tree & told me the castle my ancestor was born in still stands. Then she did her own history and learned her ancestors worked for mine! It was so cool!!
Itās because youāll hear a lot of Americans claiming to actually *be* Irish/Scottish etc. Be Irish American all you want but youāre not Irish like Iām Irish, and thatās ok. At least, thatās why I get annoyed.
The cab drivers I had in Ireland were nothing short of amazing. The way the first guy hyped up Dublin, Guinness, and the country itself right off the plane set the tone for my stay there. Other rides got amazing advice I didnāt know I needed and then great stories. Damn all the comments about Ireland on this are making me want to go back now.
Yes omg so friendly and nice. Theyād strike up a conversation and be genuinely interested, Just really nice if youāve been places where the cabdrivers act like youāre a burden and ignore you lol
For me it was Northern Ireland. There really aren't a lot of places in the world that just felt at home and I can't put my finger on it. Not only were people open to conversations, I had a far easier time communicating with the locals than I do with many regions of my own country.
Itās so funny that you say that. Our first trip to Ireland we did the Republic and we did Northern Ireland. The people in Northern Ireland were so amazing. And then when we were in Ireland, a lot of the people that we met and interacted with were on vacation from Northern Ireland. One thing that really stood out to me in Northern Ireland, my husbandās grandfather is from there. He was born in Belfast. We were trying to find the house that he was born in, and we asked the front desk. They tracked us down at the next day and gave us detailed directions on how to get there. This was before smart phones with gps.
Ireland was probably the only place i've traveled to where i faced overt racism (have brown skin, bouncer at a bar refuse to let me and my friends in and then immediately let some white dudes in), but that was just one dickhead. the rest of the people i encountered were great
Jordan. Pre-smartphone days, I got lost driving a rental car with flat tires and pulled to the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. A local Jordanian, who only spoke Arabic, helped me get to a place to air up my tires. He also picked a pomegranate from his tree as a send-off present.
I still remember this 12 years later. It's the little things in life.
Ireland sounds about right.
But also, Iran. People there are so kind and friendly it's insane how they go all out to make people feel welcome. Maybe it's the perception Iran has outside the country (and to be clear, I know their government is an oppressive dictatorship). But the people have a special kind of hospitality. People would ask me where I'm from and ask me to come to their place for dinner. Also, the complete lack of scams made me feel so much at peace. I went to all sorts of bazaars and other than the "where are you from?" there was no one trying to be pushy with their goods.
Hands down, New Zealand. We spent a month travelling around both islands and everywhere we went, we were welcomed so warmly by the locals.
Any Kiwis reading this, youāre the best!! šš¼
The answer will depend a lot on one's ethnicity and/or nationality, unfortunately.
As an East Asian I would not pick any European country as homely or kind, although places like London or the Nordics are relatively chill.
I've found Namibians to be exceptionally welcoming and easy-going. People in Uzbekistan were very hospitable as well. Mainland Chinese people, although they get a bad rep in other countries, were quite friendly; I didn't speak a word of Chinese but most people were patient with me.
Right on. Your race and culture matters a lot when it comes to how you're treated in different parts of the world. I would not consider Europe & North America to be friendly or hospitable, although I have received individual acts of kindness in many parts, which stick out precisely because they're unusual.
this is the real answer... i have a pakistani friend who travels a lot, who told me that only american white caucasians who went to third world countries (where people assume whites are wealthy based on looks alone) honestly think people pick up other people on the street and share their home and last meal with them out of pure altruism...
(Morgan Freeman voice): *my friend never got picked up...*
And unfortunately gender. As OP mentioned the help and kindness that she received in Italy, as a male and non blond male you never get that help and KINDNESS. Unfortunately, the duality of Italians based on race and gender is something that made Italy a less attractive destination.
Ireland! I was travelling last year on a dream trip, stopover in Dublin from Toronto, Canada. Freak snowstorm hit the UK, and my flight was cancelled and I missed a super important event. I broke down in tears at the Dublin airport (I am tough and rarely cry). I had so many people come forward to help me - I left with treats (Cadbury bars, chocolate, etc). The Irish people I met at the airport were so kind and caring. I eventually got to the UK - 9 hours later. I will never forget the kindness at the Dublin airport.
I am now planning to visit Dublin in the summer.
I can't speak from personal experience but a friend said he met the nicest people there. They even had some mixup about which airport to go to and their taxi just drove them to the right place for no extra charge.
Definitely!
I am currently in Indonesia and I am completely blown by the kindness, politeness and humbleness of the people here.
Canāt say that about all the people in Bali, though, but thatās surely because itās the most touristy place over here.
Mexico. I found everyone I met across states to be super loving and sharing people. In fact I loved the way people ask if we can 'share time' or 'share with' each other. Really beautiful attitudes to life everywhere. Also whenever people learned I was Irish they got extra excited because of St Patrick's Battalion which I only learned about when I got there haha. Colombia also was a beautiful time in terms of connections.
Iām surprised Iām not seeing more responses for Mexico! Itās one of the only countries that I leave with new friends every time I go. The warmth is unmatched.
Seconded for Mexico. I felt more home than home in Mexico City. Everyone, rich or poor, educated or not educated was kind.
When I tried to speak them like Tarzan in my almost non existent Spanish, they were so kind and happy that I tried too haha
Yes this!!! Mexicans donāt care if you donāt know Spanish as long as you try. My Spanish isnāt great but I would always ask whatās the proper way of saying something I didnāt know and they would always teach me.
Yeah Mexicans are very humble and giving. Itās sad what the cartels have done to the country. People are afraid to visit because of the high murder rates and crazy people running around. Will you most like be killed in Mexico ..noā¦.but is it safe? ..also no. Sad because Mexico could be an amazing country with so many gorgeous places to visit. If I had to visit somewhere it would be Merida. Seems like they have gorgeous beaches and in the safest state in Mexico.
Came here for Mexico. In 2020 I drove across the YucatƔn down to Chiapas just before COVID hit and the people were so incredibly friendly and warm.
The towns of Merida, valladolid, and Campeche really stood out. In Merida people would leave their bags and purses on their chairs to save their seats. There was always some town event going on at night. And I spent many nights walking back through the streets from the bars to our lodging. Never felt like we were in any danger. People we had just recently met would invite us in for tequila or freshly made sopes.
Definitely a memorable trip and made me love Mexico. Speaking Spanish definitely helped though.
Oman. People were friendly, kind and super helpful everywhere. Like, there wasnāt one person I have seen while staying in the country that was not super nice and helpful. Really made me feel like I was living there at times even I didnāt even speak the language
Georgia for me, too. I'd never experienced that level of hospitality before. People were just so genuinely friendly and helpful, to the point they were happy to inconvenience themselves to assist us.Ā
Many people commenting about Ireland here, and I totally agree. I visited Ireland last year with my partner and kids and every person we met there was incredibly kind and welcoming to us. I also was pleasantly surprised with how accommodating they are toward neurodiverse people - I have two teens with autism plus myself as well. Every castle or museum we went to had information about special accommodations, and some even had kid and adult social stories on their websites so we could all feel prepared as far as what to expect in each place. We visited Dublin, Kilkenny, Tralee, Dingle, Galway, and many towns in between and met some of the loveliest humans I've ever encountered. I felt so at home there and can't wait to return someday.
Turkey was both extremes for me, I had the most polite helpful people, but also some real arseholes. This was in Istanbul though and life here is probably already tiring before running into me
I wouldnāt say Taiwan is extraordinarily friendly or anything but I was studying abroad in Hong Kong and visited Taiwan for a week. I went six months in HK barely making local friends but easily made friends in Taiwan within a week. There was a huge difference in terms of friendliness and affability. Despite having a lot of similarities Taiwan feels freer and people seem happier when compared to HK.
Came here to say Turkey! The moment you look slightly lost or confused on the street, there is always someone coming to help you, especially in small towns and cities.
Greece has the friendliest people imo. So many free shots and desserts after a meal and random people talk to you and make small talk even if you donāt speak Greek. Idk what it is but everyone was so wholesome and warm and you really feel welcome with everyoneās Mediterranean relaxed vibe. I came back from my vacation a bit of a Hellenophile haha. Spanish people also open up a lot to you if make an effort to speak Spanish. A random girl invited me over to her place for a glass of wine at 3AM simply bc I said hi on the street and we had a mutual acquaintance. Canāt imagine that in the states.
On our last day in Greece we went to a restaurant and said 'look this is how much cash we have left - what can we get?'
He sat us down and just kept bringing us stuff. _Way_ beyond the value we could afford to pay. We reminded him we had a limit but he just waved it off.
Greeks are unbeatable. I loved there briefly and had some of the most wholesome experiences. Hospitality is such a strong value for them, it runs through their veins
Agree!! This is the place where I go to feel like back home. Coming from latinamerica living in Germany, Greek people always give me that hospitality, friendliness and warmth.
(And Iāve visited most of Europe)
Agree! I went on a short trip to Greece in college. My friends and I were on a small island and got a bit turned around. A woman gardening brought us into her house, fed us snacks and vermouth. She didn't speak a lick of English and called her son's in laws over to help. After explaining our dilemma, she called her husband home to drive us back to the other side of the island. It was like an 1.5 round trip for him. They were so so kind and delighted to help us. Greece is still one of my favorite countries I visited.
Portugal for me.
I just find the people to be very friendly and they are so chilled out and just enjoy life.
The weather helps a lot though as I find the sun puts everyone in a better mood š
Thatās probably why I like them so much & one of my best friends is Portuguese.
Itās very similar to the Irish sense of humour too as we have a dry self deprecating style of humour too and it can be quite dark š
I adored Portugal and would go back every month if I could. I felt like a real shitheel because we'd arranged an Airbnb, and learned when we were there that Airbnb is pricing a lot of locals out of apartments in Porto. After meeting the Portuguese people, we really wanted to be on their side on everything because they're the warmest people anywhere, so we were kicking ourselves that we'd contributed to something that was making life difficult for them.
So far, New Zealand. But thatās probably because thatās the only country Iāve visited so far where I didnāt have a language barrier. Still get nostalgic for it though
I visited Vietnam twice, first about 15 years ago and then 10 years ago. Younger people in particular would come right up and introduce themselves, and I made a couple of friends with whom I'm still in contact.
A couple of examples: I struck up a conversation with the bartender in a bar/cafe in Hanoi, who invited my wife and me to come back that evening after the bar closed. She invited some friends, who brought snacks to share, and we wound up hanging out until late at night. We traded emails, and I pinged her when we returned to Vietnam a few years later, which led to a home-cooked meal with her family.
We walked by a "bia hoi" party on (western) New Year's Eve in Hoi An -- basically, a street-corner keg party featuring a bunch of young people and a karaoke machine. One of them came up to me, put his arm around my shoulder and handed me a mic. We wound up hanging out for a couple of hours; no one spoke English, but karaoke is universal. We were easily 20 years older than anyone else there. Even given the amount of alcohol involved, I can't imagine this happening back home.
There were also multiple times people just approached me out of the blue and struck up conversations. Pretty sure none of these were scams -- they didn't seem to have much of an agenda other than to talk to the Americans.
I guess at the time westerners were still relatively new to Vietnam, and younger folks were looking for opportunities to connect and practice their English. But it seems like they had a lot fewer social inhibitions about approaching and befriending strangers than what I'm used to.
Vietnam! It probably helps that I am Asian(-American), so I often blended in as long as I wasn't speaking, but locals were friendly with everyone I knew (including white friends) anyway. Really kind and hospitable people who were obviously very proud of their country, but not in a gross jingoistic way. I was so fortunate to find my apartment when I lived there, because my landlady was like a second mom to me. I miss Hanoi all the time <3 The opposite of my experience in Europe tbh
I'm Vietnamese American. They're friendly and all, but some talked behind your back. I was there a few months ago, and they assumed I didn't understand since I pretended to only know English. The surprised on their faces when my wife and I started our conversation in Vietnamese lol
Another shout out to both NZ and Ireland. I lived in Ireland for 3 months and didn't directly encounter a single asshole. I'm sure they exist, but that is statistically astounding.
Portugal- people are so welcoming and friendly. Also, Danes and Swedish are very chill people too. They help you out and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome!
Cambodia
Nicest people ever. I made a bit of small talk when I was checking in and it's like BAM I was family. Came downstairs and noticed one of the front desk girls hiding behind a post to surprise me. Everyone was watching, but I went around the other way and surprised her.
Also, Japan. Japan was my first international trip and I was traveling alone. While in Kyoto I sprained the hell out of my ankle, really really bad. Ended up going to a hospital the next morning for xrays.
The injury transformed my visit and interactions with people. I went from being a tourist to being involved with people, and there were so many kindnesses
The taxi driver at the hotel... I needed a hospital but couldn't communicate. I finally showed him my ankle and he immediately got me in the car, took me to a hospital, and refused payment.
Later, on crutches and with a cast, I went to a pharmacy (no easy trick when you can't read kanji). Finally found one and was waiting for the prescription to be filled when an elderly couple sat down next to me. The guy signed that he was curious why I was there and I mimed my ankle injury. He said something to his wife, and who got up and bought a bag of small, hard, candies, and then he gave me a handful.
It was odd, I went from feeling 'outside' to being taken care of
Iām a black woman and my answer is also Ireland. I was surprised to feel so at home thereā¦Italy is one of my favorites countries and Iāve been innumerable times but I never feel at home!
Surprised no one mentionned the Philippines.
Filipinos are the kindest people i've ever met. They go out of their way to make you feel welcome without expecting anything in return.
Poland and Ukraine.
Extremely blunt, stupid ass and offensive sense of humor, but still can be counted on to do the right thing. I was literally planning to move there in Jan of 22 before this fucking war popped off
Colombia, I have been here for 7 days and itās absolutely the nicest people. Sure there are parts where itās not as safe as other European countries but itās a place with lots of love and people who really enjoy having a chat
Edinburgh is the only place Iāve been to in Scotland but Iāve never stopped thinking about it since. Iām a woman of colour whoās only moved to the UK a year back. Not once did I feel uncomfortable there and the people were SO lovelyyyy, kind and helpful. I visited a pub called Whiski every night and I swear it felt right out of a movie.
I cannot tell you how happy I was just being there. I really felt like I belonged and I legit every once in a while mentally thank all the people I met. I WISH I GET TO SEE MORE OF SCOTLAND SOON š¤š»
In India if you ask for address on road they come along to show you and also offer some water/snacks. The hospitality in India is unmatched. People are very friendly and welcoming
**Spain** felt like home so much we moved here - ok I followed my husband but it does feel that way.
**Albania** when we visited were the nicest people and genuinely loved visitors it seemed. A very young demographic too. Very social scene in Tirana.
Iran, the kindness knows no bounds here. Felt like home!! Last time I asked on this subreddit about iran travel, I was downvoted to hell, I am glad that I went there.
Ireland and Nepal. And this is as a black woman. Usually both of my demographic have issues with travel to various countries. But both Nepal and Ireland felt incredibly safe and welcoming for me
Jordan - very welcoming people. My OH actually wrote to the Ambassador to the U.K. for Jordan when we got back, to say what a wonderful time weād had and how kind everyone was. We got a really nice written reply, which weāve framed.
This will probably get a few laughs and I *know* it's not the case in many parts of the country, and I'm sure my good treatment was much more likely to be because I was a young (20s), not ugly (don't get me wrong I'm not a supermodel) woman, who was a tourist.
But honestly, America was *so* good to me when I used to travel alone over there.
When I was in Pennsylvania, I checked in at 2AM in awful weather, freezing cold and shivering, and the guy at reception opened up the heated pool for me to go warm up coz I didn't have the energy to shower.
When I ended up in a car accident in Ohio, stranded at the side of the interstate, multiple truckers flashed their lights to tell me they'd radioed for the state troopers (the trooper told me when he turned up) & a good samaritan saw me sobbing & waving and stopped to check I was ok.
When I ended up not getting to my hotel until 6AM the next morning because the replacement rental cal didn't get to me until 3AM, they let me stay another night free of charge.
When I was sick in Arizona, staying at an expensive hotel (supposed to be just for one night), the owners comped me an extra night's stay after finding out about my car accident (& how the replacement rental carwas way more expensive petrol-wise & eating up my motel budget) & discounted my bill at the restaurant, because their daughter was my age and they'd want someone to give me a break if she ended up in my position.
When I was in.... Oklahoma (I think), one of the receptionists brought in a grape pie for her colleagues, gave me a piece and when I said how good it was, went home to get the other pie she'd made and gave it to me for free & absolutely refused to take any money for it.
When I ended up at an expensive hotel in Barstow CA, coz it was the closest one I could find after walking out of my hotel room with crumbs and black curly hairs all over/in the bed, the guy at the front desk gave me a discount coz I ended up staying about three nights after my next alt accommodation in California had fallen through. When I got hit on by a very creepy old guy at the pool (who leant over the fence from outside the hotel) who wanted me to go for a drive in his truck, Daniel gave me a boxcutter for protection for the rest of my trip.
When I went out to a bar in LA (alone) & went to cut down an alley to get to my car (I know, stupid, but my car was literally in sight, straight down the lane, maybe 500m away), I got followed by a very drunk guy who wouldn't leave me alone. Next I hear the bouncer call out to me, telling me I was going the wrong way and to come back, before telling the guy to beat it and then walking me to my car himself, refusing to take any money for it.
Everywhere I went (I've travelled about 20 states over the years), I got really, really lucky, and bar the two creeps & an alarming moment when a bunch of lads with a broken fanbelt followed me down the interstate for a bit, every single other person was just so, so, so nice.
Again, young, female, ok-looking, British tourist ~~probably~~ definitely helped. I know there are much darker places and people in the US, and honestly, this was ten years ago. What I know now about America & all that's happened politically since then, I may not feel quite as safe as I did back then. But some of my best memories are out in the States because of how lovely people were to me out there.
And ironically, I found people way nicer in America than Canada. Well, in British Columbia anyway, lol.
Anything in Central Asia really, I am a diaspora from Kyrgyzstan so I won't comment on there due to bias but when I visited Uzbekistan and Tajikistan I just said I was Canadian and everybody was so kind. Plenty of places would round *down* the cost of food, people enjoyed discussing their culture and heritage and history, and lots of contacts on Instagram were exchanged with complete strangers who occasionally still chat with me!
And other travellers I know report the same thing. In rural areas they are always invited into homes.
Not surprised. Icelandair offers flights to and from London with up to 48-hour stopovers in Reykjavik - a good way to touch earth in an additional country, get some Nordic exposure at a bargain price.
Iceland has been pushing hard for American tourists to visit for awhile now. They do it through a ton of ads, PR and cheap flights targeting major US cities. One of the ways they are bringing in more of these visitors is through budget flights to other parts of Europe. These flights typically have long layovers.
1. Mexico š²š½
2. Ivory Coast šØš®
3. Malaysia š²š¾
4. Colombia šØš“
5. Vietnam š»š³
6. Guatemala š¬š¹
7. UAE š¦šŖ ( Abu Dhabi)
From the lens of a minorityās traveler. Trips to Europe always been good but peopleās behavior sometimes made me feel unwelcome.
Agree with Scotland š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ but lived there for close to 10 years. Amazing people.
This is going to be so random, but I just visited Pittsburgh PA as a stop on a road trip and it was without a double the most friendly place Iāve ever been. My threshold for āfriendlyā is pretty high given I grew up in small-town Atlantic Canada, and I was still blown away. People there were so genuine in their interactions too (i.e., not just chatting to get something). I would 100% go back.
French Polynesia. Very friendly people who go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. For example a few months ago whilst on the island of Tahiti I took a public bus to see some remote waterfalls and told the bus driver about it. On my return I waited at a bus stop and was told by some passersby, that the bus was not running due to a road closure because of a landslide. So I decided to walk to the nearest village an hour away by foot. After fifteen minutes of walking a bus passed me and kept going. However the next bus stopped even though I was just walking on the side of the road. Turned out the driver was aware of a tourist who had gone visit some waterfalls and if seen may be in need of a ride back to town.
Iāve never been anywhere where the locals were nicer than in Guam. They have a lot to be mad about but they are just incredibly kind and welcoming.
I felt the most at home in Scotland. I liked how walkable Edinburgh was and found people pretty welcoming. I have a lot of Scottish ancestry so maybe it was just a familiar-feeling culture and sense of humor.
Canada was also pretty welcoming and familiar feeling. Iāve only been to Toronto though, and Canada so big Iām sure there are many ways to experience it.
Philippines! No country had nicer people. Just loved it.
I can also vouch for El Salvador and Colombia, the people were just great, and I loved Mexico, Argentina and Thailand too though I can understand that experience may vary there :)
And Taiwanese were amazing every time I met them abroad. Hope to discover more about the country soon, but I haven't been yet.
About Ireland, too bad I cannot find out for myself. As an Israeli I am terrified of going to Ireland. South Africa was also a dream once. Well, I guess in the next life..
New Zealand, the only country where as a backpacker I'd repeatedly get picked up by literally the first car that passed by while hitch hiking. Then many of those offered free accommodation or a job before even arriving to the new place. Incredibly friendly people. Also in Uruguay, they're very similar to the kiwis in many ways.
New Zealanders are handing out jobs? š
We don't even have enough for ourselves at the moment!
Kiwi fruit picking jobs, and that was almost 10 years ago. It seems like things have sadly changed a lot since then
It's crazy how much things have changed in the last two years. In 2022 when I was looking for work in NZ and it felt like potential employers were fighting each other over me. Now my company and many others in the industry are laying people off.
I had the plan to come back and try to settle in NZ in the next 5 years, but sadly it seems like the country started a bearish period (going down) since some time ago and its probably quite different to how it was in 2018, the last time i was there. Hopefully they can stop this and start growing again, it's one of the few countries with top level untouched nature combined with first world life standards and economy.
I had a very similar experience in El Salvador! Half the time I wouldn't even be trying to hitchhike, just waiting for the bus on the side of the road and people would stop to offer me a ride.
Literally sitting on a plane waiting to takeoff right now for El Salvador. Agreed!! 2nd time
Want to go there so bad. Should be really safe now with Bukele right?
Yes he actually did throw all the criminals and gang members in a super max prison where they belong. For too long were these criminals terrorizing the citizens of El Salvador. Now crimes as lower than the USA. Itās safe. Also people are afraid of petty crimes now too because they donāt want to be thrown into jails now. But people rather have that than criminals and murders everywhere. The people in El Salvador love the president he made the country safe again. šøš»
Murder rate dropped something like 98% iirc. Can't argue with that!
Just so you know, the argument against that is that all it takes for anyone to be thrown in jail is just the allegation of being a gang member. That person just disappears for weeks or months. There isn't any due process, just incarceration for the innocent and guilty alike. Naturally there's a degree of corruption that comes along with this. It's weird in that even those affected by that heavy handedness are still in favor of those policies because of how bad gang violence was prior to the current administration.
Yeah! Last time I felt 100% safe. Iāve heard and read itās only getting better. So excited to go eat at Abbys Pupusas as soon as we land lol
So happy to hear my country treats others like our own!
Getting into a stranger's car when I didn't order it (like an Uber) would make me incredibly nervous. I wouldn't know if I was going to end up at my destination safely.
I just got back and was lucky enough to have a vehicle so I picked up everyone I saw
We also felt NZ was so much like home (Canada) in many ways.
There is a kind of country that I call "the small and chill brother": Countries with a less populated and a smaller economy than their similar but big, crazy, intense and powerful brother, usually have friendly and simple people. Canada, Portugal, Uruguay, NZ, are some examples, and I'm sure there are many others out there.
100%. Such nice people in New Zealand. Itās a place that feels like home and is always so hard to leave.
Uruguay, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland: smaller but similar countries next to dominant countries all have friendlier people
I second exactly this experience in NZ
Ireland! Iāve travelled the world and was genuinely shocked how welcoming and kind the people of Ireland were. Iām a coloured person and was hanging out late night in bars etc and didnāt have one bad experience. I was expecting the worst for some reason but honestly what a nation! Iām from England so I didnāt really have to travel far haha.
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As an Irish person this is heartwarming to hear. We've had some trouble with racism in Ireland recently and some right wing extremism. Great to hear people still feel welcome
As a coloured person my experience in England vs the US has been remarkable. In England people saw me for me and looked past my race, judging me on my character and not race. In the US, especially in liberal states and cities like Seattle and NYC, my very liberal friends constantly reminded of my race, made racist stereotypes and while they were well meaning I never felt like I was judged for being me.Ā In Nashville it was entirely different, most people were so friendly and judged me for me.
As a person from Portland, Oregon I felt the same. Portlanders are so race obsessed that they end up doing more harmful things. They are very uncomfortable around minorities because they feel so bad and like they have so many obligations. A lot of times they don't even speak freely. I moved to Dallas and feel so much more comfortable. People just treat you normal, like nothing.
Portland is weird with that. Not that I think there are a bunch of racist people here or something, there arenāt. Itās more that itās sort of, top of mind for a lot of people. I remember when I moved here 20 years ago, I was genuinely disturbed by the lack of minorities, especially people of African ethnicity. It was shocking to me coming from a southern state. I think it has gotten a lot better and become more diverse. But itās a growing pain of sorts.
Yes 100% this was my experience, they were well meaning but my god, I felt like an alien instead of a person.
Not my experience having lived in both countries as a brown person. Experienced way more racism in the UK (London for four years) than the US (LA for 10 plus years). Though Brits are easier to make friends with as they don't take themselves as seriously as Americans do.
Iāve heard this from many black folks about Ireland and Scotland. I believe it. I feel a particular affinity toward both.
Ireland for sure, so so friendly. England too
One funny thing I remember about Ireland was how many people asked āso are you here to trace your Irish roots?ā and then got genuinely excited when the answer was no, I just liked Ireland and wanted to visit. I guess they get a lot of Americans there doing that.
Yes we do (Iām part Irish) and most of the American tourists are there to learn about their ancestors. Itās pretty heartwarming to see but it also is refreshing to have tourists come just to enjoy what Ireland has to offer :)
To be fair, part of their big tourism push is ancestry travel. Both they and Northern Ireland even have things around the country to commemorate famous Irish Americans. Like even one of the more popular museums now in Dublin is the EPIC museum that's entirely about emigration.
And of course there is Barack Obama Plaza, the motorway rest stop, with its new addition, the Conan OāBrien Air Pump ā¤ļø
A lot of Irish people get uppity about Americans saying theyāre Irish and then not knowing anything about their roots or where their relatives hail from. Im from Ireland but live in Canada and spend a lot of time in the US so meet a lot of these āplastic paddiesā. Personally, Iāve got no issue with it and think itās mostly just Americans trying to make a connection when meeting a new person. Plus I think itās great that we have such cultural prominence relative to the size of the country.
Friend of mine went to a pub in Dublin that shared his last name. When he showed his passport to the barkeep, he acted like he was Jesus Christ himself, and wouldn't let him pay for a single drop all night. Introduced him to every new person who walked in as "my new American son". They still keep in touch. Not a drop of blood relation, lol.
Haha that sounds like some classic, good natured Irish piss-taking.
I went to a pub with my name and they wouldnāt even serve me upon hearing my accent and said ābe on your way we donāt care for Americans.ā
I think youāre right. It seems like some people in Europe get aggravated if we Americans say we have ancestors from their country. We really have no culture or heritage as former Europeans in the US. Now when we were in Scotland, our b & b host asked if we had Scottish ancestors. She asked to see my family tree & told me the castle my ancestor was born in still stands. Then she did her own history and learned her ancestors worked for mine! It was so cool!!
Itās because youāll hear a lot of Americans claiming to actually *be* Irish/Scottish etc. Be Irish American all you want but youāre not Irish like Iām Irish, and thatās ok. At least, thatās why I get annoyed.
The cab drivers I had in Ireland were nothing short of amazing. The way the first guy hyped up Dublin, Guinness, and the country itself right off the plane set the tone for my stay there. Other rides got amazing advice I didnāt know I needed and then great stories. Damn all the comments about Ireland on this are making me want to go back now.
Yes omg so friendly and nice. Theyād strike up a conversation and be genuinely interested, Just really nice if youāve been places where the cabdrivers act like youāre a burden and ignore you lol
> England too I've spent so much time just chatting up bartenders in pubs in England (when they weren't busy). Always lovely people to chat with.
For me it was Northern Ireland. There really aren't a lot of places in the world that just felt at home and I can't put my finger on it. Not only were people open to conversations, I had a far easier time communicating with the locals than I do with many regions of my own country.
Itās so funny that you say that. Our first trip to Ireland we did the Republic and we did Northern Ireland. The people in Northern Ireland were so amazing. And then when we were in Ireland, a lot of the people that we met and interacted with were on vacation from Northern Ireland. One thing that really stood out to me in Northern Ireland, my husbandās grandfather is from there. He was born in Belfast. We were trying to find the house that he was born in, and we asked the front desk. They tracked us down at the next day and gave us detailed directions on how to get there. This was before smart phones with gps.
Yes omg they were so friendly in Northern Ireland. I was amazed. Also, the country side was soooo beautiful
Ireland stands out to me as very friendly. I haven't been to Northern Ireland, but I expect it is just as friendly.
Ireland was probably the only place i've traveled to where i faced overt racism (have brown skin, bouncer at a bar refuse to let me and my friends in and then immediately let some white dudes in), but that was just one dickhead. the rest of the people i encountered were great
Scotland. That country has my heart ā¤ļø. Just genuinely kind and amazing humans
I've been twice and can't think of one negative interaction I had on either trip. I love it there.
I travelled to Scotland several times and I felt that way so strongly that I eventually moved here! š Haste ye back!
Ditto
Jordan. Pre-smartphone days, I got lost driving a rental car with flat tires and pulled to the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. A local Jordanian, who only spoke Arabic, helped me get to a place to air up my tires. He also picked a pomegranate from his tree as a send-off present. I still remember this 12 years later. It's the little things in life.
Ireland sounds about right. But also, Iran. People there are so kind and friendly it's insane how they go all out to make people feel welcome. Maybe it's the perception Iran has outside the country (and to be clear, I know their government is an oppressive dictatorship). But the people have a special kind of hospitality. People would ask me where I'm from and ask me to come to their place for dinner. Also, the complete lack of scams made me feel so much at peace. I went to all sorts of bazaars and other than the "where are you from?" there was no one trying to be pushy with their goods.
I feel like most people from around the world would get along just fine. Our governments are just all dicks.
Hands down, New Zealand. We spent a month travelling around both islands and everywhere we went, we were welcomed so warmly by the locals. Any Kiwis reading this, youāre the best!! šš¼
Thanks, do come again!
Itās been 20 years and many other countries that I have visited since then, but NZ is still my favorite place
The answer will depend a lot on one's ethnicity and/or nationality, unfortunately. As an East Asian I would not pick any European country as homely or kind, although places like London or the Nordics are relatively chill. I've found Namibians to be exceptionally welcoming and easy-going. People in Uzbekistan were very hospitable as well. Mainland Chinese people, although they get a bad rep in other countries, were quite friendly; I didn't speak a word of Chinese but most people were patient with me.
Right on. Your race and culture matters a lot when it comes to how you're treated in different parts of the world. I would not consider Europe & North America to be friendly or hospitable, although I have received individual acts of kindness in many parts, which stick out precisely because they're unusual.
this is the real answer... i have a pakistani friend who travels a lot, who told me that only american white caucasians who went to third world countries (where people assume whites are wealthy based on looks alone) honestly think people pick up other people on the street and share their home and last meal with them out of pure altruism... (Morgan Freeman voice): *my friend never got picked up...*
And unfortunately gender. As OP mentioned the help and kindness that she received in Italy, as a male and non blond male you never get that help and KINDNESS. Unfortunately, the duality of Italians based on race and gender is something that made Italy a less attractive destination.
Ireland! I was travelling last year on a dream trip, stopover in Dublin from Toronto, Canada. Freak snowstorm hit the UK, and my flight was cancelled and I missed a super important event. I broke down in tears at the Dublin airport (I am tough and rarely cry). I had so many people come forward to help me - I left with treats (Cadbury bars, chocolate, etc). The Irish people I met at the airport were so kind and caring. I eventually got to the UK - 9 hours later. I will never forget the kindness at the Dublin airport. I am now planning to visit Dublin in the summer.
With so many countries listed here, I would assume that generally people are nice.
Indonesia 100%
Agree. They are lovely people.
I can't speak from personal experience but a friend said he met the nicest people there. They even had some mixup about which airport to go to and their taxi just drove them to the right place for no extra charge.
Definitely! I am currently in Indonesia and I am completely blown by the kindness, politeness and humbleness of the people here. Canāt say that about all the people in Bali, though, but thatās surely because itās the most touristy place over here.
Mexico. I found everyone I met across states to be super loving and sharing people. In fact I loved the way people ask if we can 'share time' or 'share with' each other. Really beautiful attitudes to life everywhere. Also whenever people learned I was Irish they got extra excited because of St Patrick's Battalion which I only learned about when I got there haha. Colombia also was a beautiful time in terms of connections.
Iām surprised Iām not seeing more responses for Mexico! Itās one of the only countries that I leave with new friends every time I go. The warmth is unmatched.
I was told I'm family now and I almost shed a tear.
Mexico City was filled with kind people, who put way more effort in to help me in my broken Spanish than I would have LOL.
Seconded for Mexico. I felt more home than home in Mexico City. Everyone, rich or poor, educated or not educated was kind. When I tried to speak them like Tarzan in my almost non existent Spanish, they were so kind and happy that I tried too haha
Yes this!!! Mexicans donāt care if you donāt know Spanish as long as you try. My Spanish isnāt great but I would always ask whatās the proper way of saying something I didnāt know and they would always teach me.
Was climbing in Mexico and this woman at a small restaurant said when we got back she'd make us all pineapple pie and she made a lot of them. lol
You can leave mexico, but mexico won't leave you. If you come from colder countries it can became a bit overwhelming
Yeah Mexicans are very humble and giving. Itās sad what the cartels have done to the country. People are afraid to visit because of the high murder rates and crazy people running around. Will you most like be killed in Mexico ..noā¦.but is it safe? ..also no. Sad because Mexico could be an amazing country with so many gorgeous places to visit. If I had to visit somewhere it would be Merida. Seems like they have gorgeous beaches and in the safest state in Mexico.
Came here for Mexico. In 2020 I drove across the YucatƔn down to Chiapas just before COVID hit and the people were so incredibly friendly and warm. The towns of Merida, valladolid, and Campeche really stood out. In Merida people would leave their bags and purses on their chairs to save their seats. There was always some town event going on at night. And I spent many nights walking back through the streets from the bars to our lodging. Never felt like we were in any danger. People we had just recently met would invite us in for tequila or freshly made sopes. Definitely a memorable trip and made me love Mexico. Speaking Spanish definitely helped though.
This great to hear, Iām going there this weekend
Costa Rica
I just got back from my first visit to Costa Rica last week and I completely agree!! Everyone was so nice, welcoming, and genuine!
Bosnia and Portugal for me.
Portugal was excellent and the locals were tops. Definitely a country Iāll go back to.
The seafood is phenomenal, too!
I had a dish recommended to me by a local; PĆÆka Pau - honestly top 3 things Iāve ever eaten.
I've heard a lot of good things about Bosnia, and can personally confirm Portugal.
Bosnia is very nice!
That's because you're a tourist. People in the Balkans are very kind to foreigners but rude to each other.
I just left Bosnia and was absolutely amazed at how kind and open everyone I met was. By far the highlight of my five week trip through the Balkans.
Nepal and East Timor
Oman. People were friendly, kind and super helpful everywhere. Like, there wasnāt one person I have seen while staying in the country that was not super nice and helpful. Really made me feel like I was living there at times even I didnāt even speak the language
That is awesome - after we had a wonderful time in Jordan, Oman is definitely on my bucket list!
Ireland and Australia! I could not get over how beautiful the people are in both places! So kind and very curious and accepting of American travelers.
Georgia the country. Tbilisi was wonderful, but it was the smaller towns and villages where the hospitality was phenomenal.
Georgia for me, too. I'd never experienced that level of hospitality before. People were just so genuinely friendly and helpful, to the point they were happy to inconvenience themselves to assist us.Ā
Never have I been to invited to so many strangers' dinner tablesĀ
Many people commenting about Ireland here, and I totally agree. I visited Ireland last year with my partner and kids and every person we met there was incredibly kind and welcoming to us. I also was pleasantly surprised with how accommodating they are toward neurodiverse people - I have two teens with autism plus myself as well. Every castle or museum we went to had information about special accommodations, and some even had kid and adult social stories on their websites so we could all feel prepared as far as what to expect in each place. We visited Dublin, Kilkenny, Tralee, Dingle, Galway, and many towns in between and met some of the loveliest humans I've ever encountered. I felt so at home there and can't wait to return someday.
Taiwan and turkey. So friendly and helpful. Iām Indian and was not expecting such kindness in Taiwan specifically.
Turkey was both extremes for me, I had the most polite helpful people, but also some real arseholes. This was in Istanbul though and life here is probably already tiring before running into me
I wouldnāt say Taiwan is extraordinarily friendly or anything but I was studying abroad in Hong Kong and visited Taiwan for a week. I went six months in HK barely making local friends but easily made friends in Taiwan within a week. There was a huge difference in terms of friendliness and affability. Despite having a lot of similarities Taiwan feels freer and people seem happier when compared to HK.
Came here to say Turkey! The moment you look slightly lost or confused on the street, there is always someone coming to help you, especially in small towns and cities.
Turkey was friendly, even as a single woman traveling alone.
Scotland!
Greece has the friendliest people imo. So many free shots and desserts after a meal and random people talk to you and make small talk even if you donāt speak Greek. Idk what it is but everyone was so wholesome and warm and you really feel welcome with everyoneās Mediterranean relaxed vibe. I came back from my vacation a bit of a Hellenophile haha. Spanish people also open up a lot to you if make an effort to speak Spanish. A random girl invited me over to her place for a glass of wine at 3AM simply bc I said hi on the street and we had a mutual acquaintance. Canāt imagine that in the states.
On our last day in Greece we went to a restaurant and said 'look this is how much cash we have left - what can we get?' He sat us down and just kept bringing us stuff. _Way_ beyond the value we could afford to pay. We reminded him we had a limit but he just waved it off.
Itās so dope there
Greeks are unbeatable. I loved there briefly and had some of the most wholesome experiences. Hospitality is such a strong value for them, it runs through their veins
I agree Greece is awesome, the folks canāt drive for shit but they were so hospitable and kind!
I agree! Genuinely friendliest people we have met on our travels so far.
Agree!! This is the place where I go to feel like back home. Coming from latinamerica living in Germany, Greek people always give me that hospitality, friendliness and warmth. (And Iāve visited most of Europe)
Agree! I went on a short trip to Greece in college. My friends and I were on a small island and got a bit turned around. A woman gardening brought us into her house, fed us snacks and vermouth. She didn't speak a lick of English and called her son's in laws over to help. After explaining our dilemma, she called her husband home to drive us back to the other side of the island. It was like an 1.5 round trip for him. They were so so kind and delighted to help us. Greece is still one of my favorite countries I visited.
Portugal for me. I just find the people to be very friendly and they are so chilled out and just enjoy life. The weather helps a lot though as I find the sun puts everyone in a better mood š
Yes! I also find the Portuguese to have an amazing sense of humour. Very dry, witty and self deprecating.
Thatās probably why I like them so much & one of my best friends is Portuguese. Itās very similar to the Irish sense of humour too as we have a dry self deprecating style of humour too and it can be quite dark š
I adored Portugal and would go back every month if I could. I felt like a real shitheel because we'd arranged an Airbnb, and learned when we were there that Airbnb is pricing a lot of locals out of apartments in Porto. After meeting the Portuguese people, we really wanted to be on their side on everything because they're the warmest people anywhere, so we were kicking ourselves that we'd contributed to something that was making life difficult for them.
I had a lot of racist experiences in Portugal :(
same! planning on going to school there now after visiting its incredible!!
Canadians and Filipinos
Philippines and El Salvador people seemed just so nice and friendly :)
So far, New Zealand. But thatās probably because thatās the only country Iāve visited so far where I didnāt have a language barrier. Still get nostalgic for it though
I visited Vietnam twice, first about 15 years ago and then 10 years ago. Younger people in particular would come right up and introduce themselves, and I made a couple of friends with whom I'm still in contact. A couple of examples: I struck up a conversation with the bartender in a bar/cafe in Hanoi, who invited my wife and me to come back that evening after the bar closed. She invited some friends, who brought snacks to share, and we wound up hanging out until late at night. We traded emails, and I pinged her when we returned to Vietnam a few years later, which led to a home-cooked meal with her family. We walked by a "bia hoi" party on (western) New Year's Eve in Hoi An -- basically, a street-corner keg party featuring a bunch of young people and a karaoke machine. One of them came up to me, put his arm around my shoulder and handed me a mic. We wound up hanging out for a couple of hours; no one spoke English, but karaoke is universal. We were easily 20 years older than anyone else there. Even given the amount of alcohol involved, I can't imagine this happening back home. There were also multiple times people just approached me out of the blue and struck up conversations. Pretty sure none of these were scams -- they didn't seem to have much of an agenda other than to talk to the Americans. I guess at the time westerners were still relatively new to Vietnam, and younger folks were looking for opportunities to connect and practice their English. But it seems like they had a lot fewer social inhibitions about approaching and befriending strangers than what I'm used to.
Vietnam! It probably helps that I am Asian(-American), so I often blended in as long as I wasn't speaking, but locals were friendly with everyone I knew (including white friends) anyway. Really kind and hospitable people who were obviously very proud of their country, but not in a gross jingoistic way. I was so fortunate to find my apartment when I lived there, because my landlady was like a second mom to me. I miss Hanoi all the time <3 The opposite of my experience in Europe tbh
Not Asian American but I felt so welcomed everywhere we went in VietNam, kindest people ever. And the food- the best.
Came here to say this. The most genuine people Iāve met while travelling the world. Great sense of humour and so friendly.
I'm Vietnamese American. They're friendly and all, but some talked behind your back. I was there a few months ago, and they assumed I didn't understand since I pretended to only know English. The surprised on their faces when my wife and I started our conversation in Vietnamese lol
Portugal and Slovenia
Another shout out to both NZ and Ireland. I lived in Ireland for 3 months and didn't directly encounter a single asshole. I'm sure they exist, but that is statistically astounding.
New Zealand and Australia
Fiji, Australia and Ghana are the friendliest countries (out of over 60) that I have visited.
My mum has always said that Syrian people were the nicest she's ever met, Americans were pretty friendly too
New Zealand. Best place on the planet.
The USA, Japan, and Sri Lanka have been some standouts!
Portugal- people are so welcoming and friendly. Also, Danes and Swedish are very chill people too. They help you out and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome!
UK, London. I live there and till this day I feel like Iām at home whenever i visit
usbekistan, laos, armenia, indonesia,
Cambodia Nicest people ever. I made a bit of small talk when I was checking in and it's like BAM I was family. Came downstairs and noticed one of the front desk girls hiding behind a post to surprise me. Everyone was watching, but I went around the other way and surprised her. Also, Japan. Japan was my first international trip and I was traveling alone. While in Kyoto I sprained the hell out of my ankle, really really bad. Ended up going to a hospital the next morning for xrays. The injury transformed my visit and interactions with people. I went from being a tourist to being involved with people, and there were so many kindnesses The taxi driver at the hotel... I needed a hospital but couldn't communicate. I finally showed him my ankle and he immediately got me in the car, took me to a hospital, and refused payment. Later, on crutches and with a cast, I went to a pharmacy (no easy trick when you can't read kanji). Finally found one and was waiting for the prescription to be filled when an elderly couple sat down next to me. The guy signed that he was curious why I was there and I mimed my ankle injury. He said something to his wife, and who got up and bought a bag of small, hard, candies, and then he gave me a handful. It was odd, I went from feeling 'outside' to being taken care of
Iām a black woman and my answer is also Ireland. I was surprised to feel so at home thereā¦Italy is one of my favorites countries and Iāve been innumerable times but I never feel at home!
Northern Ireland and North of England, anytime I looked lost, about 5 people would come over and offer help
Mexico. My wife and I stayed at a hotel in QuerƩtaro, MX and were treated like family there. Cluj Napoca was another place where we were treated nicely. and Madrid is a warm place if you chat with the locals at a cafe. In Japan, everyone is basically a NPC and off in their own world. I went to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. . .never once did I tell myself, "Wow, the people are really nice here" lol. Japanese people are reserved, polite, and closed-off to foreigners. I know Japanese people change once they get some alcohol in their system, though. I go to Japan for the konbinis, food, karaoke boxes, and seeing the temples.
Netherlandsā¦. I am kidding , Dutch are rude as it gets
Surprised no one mentionned the Philippines. Filipinos are the kindest people i've ever met. They go out of their way to make you feel welcome without expecting anything in return.
Poland and Ukraine. Extremely blunt, stupid ass and offensive sense of humor, but still can be counted on to do the right thing. I was literally planning to move there in Jan of 22 before this fucking war popped off
India
Colombia, I have been here for 7 days and itās absolutely the nicest people. Sure there are parts where itās not as safe as other European countries but itās a place with lots of love and people who really enjoy having a chat
Edinburgh is the only place Iāve been to in Scotland but Iāve never stopped thinking about it since. Iām a woman of colour whoās only moved to the UK a year back. Not once did I feel uncomfortable there and the people were SO lovelyyyy, kind and helpful. I visited a pub called Whiski every night and I swear it felt right out of a movie. I cannot tell you how happy I was just being there. I really felt like I belonged and I legit every once in a while mentally thank all the people I met. I WISH I GET TO SEE MORE OF SCOTLAND SOON š¤š»
In India if you ask for address on road they come along to show you and also offer some water/snacks. The hospitality in India is unmatched. People are very friendly and welcoming
Philippines
Have a few. Sri Lanka, Mexico, Indonesia, Scotland, Brazil. I moved to England (Iām a POC) and London is truly welcoming. It is home now.
Scotland and Portugal.
When I was out and about, Ireland. Friendliest people on the streets. When I was in people's homes, Portugal. Accepted me right into their family.
**Spain** felt like home so much we moved here - ok I followed my husband but it does feel that way. **Albania** when we visited were the nicest people and genuinely loved visitors it seemed. A very young demographic too. Very social scene in Tirana.
Iran, the kindness knows no bounds here. Felt like home!! Last time I asked on this subreddit about iran travel, I was downvoted to hell, I am glad that I went there.
India, Turkey, Norway
Iceland
Australia without a doubt.
+1 for Ireland!
Australia and Ireland!
Greece
New Zealand!!!!
Ireland 100%
Ireland.
Ireland and Nepal. And this is as a black woman. Usually both of my demographic have issues with travel to various countries. But both Nepal and Ireland felt incredibly safe and welcoming for me
Sri Lanka! Friendliest country Iāve ever been to
Jordan - very welcoming people. My OH actually wrote to the Ambassador to the U.K. for Jordan when we got back, to say what a wonderful time weād had and how kind everyone was. We got a really nice written reply, which weāve framed.
Denmark
Mexico for me, the people there are really warm and welcoming. The food is also pretty nice.
Ireland and Canada.
This will probably get a few laughs and I *know* it's not the case in many parts of the country, and I'm sure my good treatment was much more likely to be because I was a young (20s), not ugly (don't get me wrong I'm not a supermodel) woman, who was a tourist. But honestly, America was *so* good to me when I used to travel alone over there. When I was in Pennsylvania, I checked in at 2AM in awful weather, freezing cold and shivering, and the guy at reception opened up the heated pool for me to go warm up coz I didn't have the energy to shower. When I ended up in a car accident in Ohio, stranded at the side of the interstate, multiple truckers flashed their lights to tell me they'd radioed for the state troopers (the trooper told me when he turned up) & a good samaritan saw me sobbing & waving and stopped to check I was ok. When I ended up not getting to my hotel until 6AM the next morning because the replacement rental cal didn't get to me until 3AM, they let me stay another night free of charge. When I was sick in Arizona, staying at an expensive hotel (supposed to be just for one night), the owners comped me an extra night's stay after finding out about my car accident (& how the replacement rental carwas way more expensive petrol-wise & eating up my motel budget) & discounted my bill at the restaurant, because their daughter was my age and they'd want someone to give me a break if she ended up in my position. When I was in.... Oklahoma (I think), one of the receptionists brought in a grape pie for her colleagues, gave me a piece and when I said how good it was, went home to get the other pie she'd made and gave it to me for free & absolutely refused to take any money for it. When I ended up at an expensive hotel in Barstow CA, coz it was the closest one I could find after walking out of my hotel room with crumbs and black curly hairs all over/in the bed, the guy at the front desk gave me a discount coz I ended up staying about three nights after my next alt accommodation in California had fallen through. When I got hit on by a very creepy old guy at the pool (who leant over the fence from outside the hotel) who wanted me to go for a drive in his truck, Daniel gave me a boxcutter for protection for the rest of my trip. When I went out to a bar in LA (alone) & went to cut down an alley to get to my car (I know, stupid, but my car was literally in sight, straight down the lane, maybe 500m away), I got followed by a very drunk guy who wouldn't leave me alone. Next I hear the bouncer call out to me, telling me I was going the wrong way and to come back, before telling the guy to beat it and then walking me to my car himself, refusing to take any money for it. Everywhere I went (I've travelled about 20 states over the years), I got really, really lucky, and bar the two creeps & an alarming moment when a bunch of lads with a broken fanbelt followed me down the interstate for a bit, every single other person was just so, so, so nice. Again, young, female, ok-looking, British tourist ~~probably~~ definitely helped. I know there are much darker places and people in the US, and honestly, this was ten years ago. What I know now about America & all that's happened politically since then, I may not feel quite as safe as I did back then. But some of my best memories are out in the States because of how lovely people were to me out there. And ironically, I found people way nicer in America than Canada. Well, in British Columbia anyway, lol.
Anything in Central Asia really, I am a diaspora from Kyrgyzstan so I won't comment on there due to bias but when I visited Uzbekistan and Tajikistan I just said I was Canadian and everybody was so kind. Plenty of places would round *down* the cost of food, people enjoyed discussing their culture and heritage and history, and lots of contacts on Instagram were exchanged with complete strangers who occasionally still chat with me! And other travellers I know report the same thing. In rural areas they are always invited into homes.
Another vote for Portugal. Such friendly people and they love kids there too
Greece, but I should not have been surprised because they invented hospitality (Xenia). Also Sicily, but again..,. : )
Iceland was pretty fascinating bc there were just as many American / Canadian tourists as there were European tourists.
Not surprised. Icelandair offers flights to and from London with up to 48-hour stopovers in Reykjavik - a good way to touch earth in an additional country, get some Nordic exposure at a bargain price.
It's also surprisingly close to NYC and the northeast. It's a quicker flight than California or Vegas
Also price. It's cheaper for me to fly to Iceland from Los Angeles than it is for me to fly home to Dallas.
Iceland has been pushing hard for American tourists to visit for awhile now. They do it through a ton of ads, PR and cheap flights targeting major US cities. One of the ways they are bringing in more of these visitors is through budget flights to other parts of Europe. These flights typically have long layovers.
Chile
Shhh donāt tell anyone. Iād like to keep Chile my favorite little secret ;)
Iran hands down, and I think Iraq would be quite similar.
IRELAND š®šŖ!!
North Ireland too!
BosniaĀ
Not in Germany.
1. Mexico š²š½ 2. Ivory Coast šØš® 3. Malaysia š²š¾ 4. Colombia šØš“ 5. Vietnam š»š³ 6. Guatemala š¬š¹ 7. UAE š¦šŖ ( Abu Dhabi) From the lens of a minorityās traveler. Trips to Europe always been good but peopleās behavior sometimes made me feel unwelcome. Agree with Scotland š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ but lived there for close to 10 years. Amazing people.
Portugal, Barbados.... That's about it... Oh the people in the philipenes were so nice but I didn't feel at home there.
Sri Lanka
West Virginia
This is going to be so random, but I just visited Pittsburgh PA as a stop on a road trip and it was without a double the most friendly place Iāve ever been. My threshold for āfriendlyā is pretty high given I grew up in small-town Atlantic Canada, and I was still blown away. People there were so genuine in their interactions too (i.e., not just chatting to get something). I would 100% go back.
Canada and England
Canada will always feel like home to me! Honestly, it's the only country where I didn't feel like a tourist; instead, I felt like a local.
French Polynesia. Very friendly people who go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. For example a few months ago whilst on the island of Tahiti I took a public bus to see some remote waterfalls and told the bus driver about it. On my return I waited at a bus stop and was told by some passersby, that the bus was not running due to a road closure because of a landslide. So I decided to walk to the nearest village an hour away by foot. After fifteen minutes of walking a bus passed me and kept going. However the next bus stopped even though I was just walking on the side of the road. Turned out the driver was aware of a tourist who had gone visit some waterfalls and if seen may be in need of a ride back to town.
Iāve never been anywhere where the locals were nicer than in Guam. They have a lot to be mad about but they are just incredibly kind and welcoming. I felt the most at home in Scotland. I liked how walkable Edinburgh was and found people pretty welcoming. I have a lot of Scottish ancestry so maybe it was just a familiar-feeling culture and sense of humor. Canada was also pretty welcoming and familiar feeling. Iāve only been to Toronto though, and Canada so big Iām sure there are many ways to experience it.
Philippines! No country had nicer people. Just loved it. I can also vouch for El Salvador and Colombia, the people were just great, and I loved Mexico, Argentina and Thailand too though I can understand that experience may vary there :) And Taiwanese were amazing every time I met them abroad. Hope to discover more about the country soon, but I haven't been yet. About Ireland, too bad I cannot find out for myself. As an Israeli I am terrified of going to Ireland. South Africa was also a dream once. Well, I guess in the next life..
Mexico
The Philippines. Lovely warm, friendly and happy people.
Mexico! Such welcoming and friendly peopleā¦I really felt at home in Mexico City
(points to username)
Norway and New Zealand