If there’s one thing the world can never have enough of, it’s kindness! While travelling, kindness and friendliness can often make or break a trip. Warm and welcoming locals can transform a great vacation into a truly unforgettable one! Therefore, in honour of World Kindness Day, Expat Explore has put together a list of the friendliest countries in the world (in no particular order).
When World Kindness Day comes around on 13 November, we get to celebrate the magic of being kind to others, to yourself and to the world. In the countries listed below, you’ll generally find locals who are friendly, hospitable and passionate about sharing their love for their home country with the rest of the world! Whether you’re a tourist or an expatriate finding your footing in a new country, a little kindness goes a long way.
Experience World Kindness Day and take a look at ten of the world’s friendliest countries:
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is a country famous for its formidable rugby team, indigenous Māori culture and its stunningly diverse landscapes. From dramatic mountains to lush forests, golden beaches and crashing ocean waves – New Zealand is an outdoor adventurer’s dream! It’s also a country well-loved for its friendly people. Kiwis, as New Zealanders have been nicknamed, are generally welcoming and exude a laid-back, positive attitude.
“Manaakitanga” is a Māori word which expresses the Māori belief in showing respect for others and caring for the community’s wellbeing. This spirit of hospitality weaves itself through the greater country. Combine this welcoming atmosphere with the beautiful and oftentimes surreal scenery, and you’re in for an unforgettable trip during a visit to New Zealand!
2. Thailand
Known as the “Land of Smiles” Thailand is a favourite of travellers from around the world. With its bustling cities, idyllic islands, magnificent temples and mouth-watering local dishes, Thailand is undoubtedly a bucket list destination. During a visit, you’ll encounter friendly locals always ready with a smile. You’ll find that the atmosphere is similar to the food – generous, warm and full of unique flavour.
“Go big” in the hustle and bustle of major cities like Bangkok, admire the scenery of northern Thailand, or take it easy in the relaxed vibe of Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi and more of Thailand’s islands.
3. Ireland
“Céad míle fáilte!” – a hundred thousand welcomes! Ireland is a land of great natural beauty and warm hospitality. Irish cities like Dublin, Galway and Limerick are full of rich culture, captivating museums and lively pubs and restaurants. Travel around the Emerald Isle, visit historic villages in the countryside and be wowed by the scenery at the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the beautiful Ring of Kerry.
Anywhere you go in Ireland, grab your chance to get to know the locals. The Irish are known to be good-natured, helpful and generous. The Irish are also natural storytellers! Find a local pub, sit down and start chatting. Don’t hesitate to get in on the banter and light-hearted teasing or “craic” as the Irish call it!
Related: Read more about the highlights of an Expat Explore Ireland tour in this travel story!
4. Mexico
Mexico offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences to travellers. From experiencing the diverse nature (see the beaches, rivers, volcanoes, jungles, forest, deserts and more!), exploring the colour and cultures of vibrant destinations like Mexico City and getting your fill of traditional Mexican cuisine to stepping back in time at archaeological sites belonging to ancient civilizations such as the Mayans, Aztecs and Olmecs, Mexico is incredible!
Friendly, fun-loving and super helpful – that is the heart of Mexican hospitality. Locals put a strong emphasis on “simpatía” (empathy). They are welcoming to foreigners and are proud to share the rich, authentic culture and history of their country with visitors.
Related: Discover Expat Explore’s adventure-filled tours of South America.
5. Portugal
The second European destination to feature on this list is Portugal. Enjoy the combination of new and old in cities like Libson, explore colourful castles in Sintra and walk the historic, cobbled streets of Porto! Sip on Portuguese wine, tuck into mouth-watering Portuguese cuisine and listen to beautiful Fado music. Small coastal villages perfectly illustrate the laid-back, relaxed and warm attitude of Portugal’s locals.
Portuguese people are generally welcoming and helpful to visitors and expatriates who are relocating to this wonderful country. Look forward to the rich history, colourful culture and beautiful landscapes; from historic medieval villages to the breathtaking scenery of the Algarve coastline!
Related: Settle into the laid-back way of life when you enjoy a tour of Portugal!
6. Taiwan
This East Asian island country consistently ranks highly on lists of the friendliest countries in the world! Taiwan is well-known for its welcoming locals who ensure that both travellers and people relocating to the country find their footing easily.
Once dubbed “Ilha Formosa” (Beautiful Island) by early European explorers, Taiwan is a country rich in natural beauty and a distinct culture. Add to this delicious East Asian cuisine, glittering Taipei, historic temples and locals keen to showcase their country to tourists and you have a wonderful travel experience ahead of you!
7. Canada
Canada’s positive stereotypes ring true! This country is as naturally beautiful as it is full of friendly people. Canadians are known for being polite – almost notoriously so. A visit to Canada is sure to impress the senses and leave you feeling warm and welcome.
This vast country is home to epic natural scenery; from the Canadian Rocky Mountains and emerald green lakes to pink-sand beaches and craggy coastlines – not forgetting the world-famous Niagara Falls! Canada’s big cities such as Toronto, Quebec City, Ottawa and Vancouver all buzz with energy while small towns exude a calm, wholesome vibe. Anywhere you go you’ll likely find friendly locals who are super welcoming, kind and ready to help.
Related: Visit Canada on Expat Explore’s Eastern USA and Canada Escape tour!
8. Costa Rica
Head to this marvellous Central American country for unforgettable adventures. Costa Rica is home to lush landscapes including volcanoes, rainforests, cloud forests and golden beaches that kiss both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. This popular travel destination offers a peaceful getaway and relaxed way of life. “Pura Vida” (pure life) is the Costa Rican motto and across the country, locals share this way of life – studies show that Costa Ricans generally live long and healthy lives!
Visit and get to know the friendly people, enjoy the epic outdoor adventures (hikes, ziplining or surfing anyone?) and marvel at the magnificent biodiversity and wildlife – keep an eye out for sloths!
Related: Discover what it means to live Pura Vida on our Costa Rica Escape tour!
9. Iceland
While the landscapes may be icy and the climates chillier, Iceland’s small population is sure to warm you right up with their hospitality! Iceland is an ultimate bucket-list destination for many travellers. Glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, striking blue lagoons and the chance to see the Northern Lights – this country needs to be discovered in person.
When you’ve had your fix of Iceland’s great outdoors, head into the cities and towns to enjoy the industrious and incredibly welcoming nature of the locals. Here, you’ll find captivating music, art and culture. Similarly to its fellow Nordic neighbours, Iceland continuously ranks highly on the World Happiness Index. It’s difficult not to enjoy yourself when you’re surrounded by happy, kind and open-hearted people!
10. Philippines
Last but certainly not least on this list is the Philippines! Filipino hospitality is famous across the thousands of islands which make up the beautiful country. Locals are warm, welcoming and helpful and exude a positive, upbeat attitude – making it easy to join in on the enthusiasm.
On a trip to the Philippines, beach lovers will be in laid back paradise while big cities like Manilla offer an exciting boost of modern energy. If you choose to celebrate World Kindness Day here, look forward to incredible natural scenery, tropical relaxation, fantastic food and friendly faces.
Celebrate World Kindness Day and enjoy a trip to one of the destinations above and look forward to discovering new cultures, seeing beautiful landscapes and embracing the warm hospitality. Better yet, get ready to make a few new friends along the way!
Take a look at Expat Explore’s tours around the world and start planning your next dream vacation today.