21 FRIENDLIEST PEOPLE AND COUNTRIES TO VISIT
These were the 21 friendliest people and countries visited, based on hospitality. Hospitable means friendly, welcoming, jovial, outgoing, cheerful, good-humoured, approachable, chatty, helpful, and with all-round good vibes..
21 FRIENDLIEST PEOPLE AND COUNTRIES TO VISIT
We all know there is no place like home. However, when we travel, we want to feel welcomed and interact with pleasant people as if we are at home. Although this might be unrealistic, we still wish the locals would extend some hospitality to us as though we have previously met. I have met many lovely people around the globe.
Therefore, I acknowledge some countries such as; Belgium (super helpful people) Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, and Anguilla, among others, where I also met some friendly people and had enjoyable vacations. However, through careful consideration, I found these to be the 21 friendliest people and countries to visit, especially for holidays.
Even though this list comprises countries I visited, and at the risk of appearing bias, a special mention must be made of Trinidad and Tobago. The country that hosts the biggest and best carnival worldwide, and the only country to invent a musical instrument in the 20th century (the Steel Pan). It has some of the friendliest, most-jovial people in the world. Consequently, its national airline, Caribbean Airlines, also has the friendliest Air Stewards/Stewardesses worldwide.
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HOW DID I DECIDE ON THESE 21 COUNTRIES?
Based on my visit to these countries and my assessment of the people, I narrowed my list down to twenty-one. I determined my preferred choice of countries by interacting with people in these fields; immigration/T.S.A., airlines, hotels, restaurants, stores/supermarkets, tourist/information booths, tour guides, taxi/bus drivers, and just the ordinary “man on the street.” They all had similar traits, such as; being friendly, kind, pleasant, and outgoing. (Some countries did not make this list for reasons such as; the females were friendly but not the males and vice versa, or the young people were friendly but not the older folks and vice versa).
Whether on the plane, at the airport, or in another country, they were always first to smile, start a conversation, or even offer assistance. Notwithstanding, those who might disagree with this list because you currently or previously lived in any of these countries, remember I chose them solely on my interactions with them as a visitor or fellow traveller..
So here are The 21 Friendliest People and Countries to Visit
1.The Philippines - Manila
The Philippines (known as the Pearl of the Orient) is in Southeast Asia, and its capital is Manila. Filipinos are some of the most polite, humble, and happy people I have met. They take the top spot for showing the world that money does not necessarily make anyone happy. Because they are not rich (at least the ones I encountered) yet possess a genuinely positive and contented spirit. Filipinos are some of the sweetest people I have met. The Philippines is famous for its exotic islands, pristine beaches, numerous volcanoes, cuisines, and forests, and bustling, cheap, and historic city.
I always remember these two instances I saw the thoughtfulness and kindness of the Filipinos. The first instance was at the hotel; I told the staff I was searching for a T-shirt with then-President Rodrigo Duterte’s face. It was unbelievable when a staff member accessed one and gifted me during my stay.
The second instance was the day of departure from the Philippines I gave one of the hotel staff a tip, and she bought me a departing gift with it. How sweet was that!? Her kind gesture and selflessness touched me. No matter where you travel, you are sure to find Filipinos, and they always maintain their genuinely happy, chatty, and outgoing spirit.
Other points to note: the Philippines is a budget-friendly country, with over 117 million people.
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2. VIETNAM - Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam is in Southeast Asia, and its capital and second-largest city is Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam, is equally beautiful, economical, developed, and culturally rich as Hanoi. The only noticeable difference was the temperature in Ho Chi Minh was much cooler than in Hanoi. Hanoi was the most humid city I have ever visited. Regarding the Vietnamese people, I would exclaim WOW! I was clueless about their hospitality before visiting, but the day I arrived at their airport, I was sure they were the sweethearts of Asia.
The immigration officers were pleasant and looked like children in uniforms, haha, (they looked so young). On exiting the airport, I felt like a movie star, seriously. I recalled some young ladies approaching me, excited and asking to take photos with me. They asked if I was a model and loved my height.
Similarly, on the street, both men and women wanted to take photos together and were curious about the Caribbean and whether I was also a pirate, haha. It seemed most hardly knew anything about the Caribbean except for the movie “The Pirates of the Caribbean.” Everywhere I went, everyone was super friendly, warm, and welcoming towards me, including the stores, bus, tour guides, and restaurants. The staff at the hotel were super-special, took extra-special care of me, and treated me like family instead of a guest. When the tour buses went into the rural areas, the locals waved at the buses as we passed by. I truly felt loved, nurtured, and welcomed in Vietnam.
On my day of departure from the country, the staff at the hotel said bon voyage to me with gifts of sweets, Autumn cake, and lacquerware, which I still cherish. Vietnam for sure has some of the most friendly and kind people worldwide.
Other points to note: Vietnam is a budget-friendly country with a population of over 98 million..
21 Friendliest People and Countries to visit Cont...
3. MEXICO - Cancun
Cancun is a city in Southeast Mexico, close to the Caribbean Sea. It has its own airport and is a super-clean, beautiful, and safe city. During my stay, the locals were always friendly and welcoming. I think Mexico is the Tequila hub of the world. There are so many different types of tequila and flavours. Cancun is not only perfect for relaxing on one of the many pristine beaches but there are lots to do in and around Cancun. One site I will highly recommend to all is to visit Chichen Itza (one of the 7 wonders of the world) in the Yucatan area.
Anyone who visits Cancun almost always returns, provided they have the finances. From arrival at the airport, until you leave, you will feel, see and taste the hospitality of the people. Everyone in Cancun was friendly and helpful, especially the hotel staff, the tour guides, the restaurant staff, the bus and taxi drivers, and even the people at the markets. They were always super-friendly and interacted with me as if we previously met. Cancun is a warm, hospitable environment that leaves you feeling pampered and refreshed.
Other points to note: Cancun is a reasonable (not expensive, not cheap) destination. The entire population in Mexico is almost 133 million people, and Cancun’s population is a little over 1 million.
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4. IRELAND - Dublin
The Republic of Ireland is an Island in the North Atlantic. It is the third largest country in Europe, and its capital is Dublin. From the moment I arrived in Dublin, I felt at home. The Irish love to joke and laugh (aka Irish Craic), similar to the people of my country. In Ireland, they consider alcohol consumption a vital part of their social life. That only shows how a little alcohol lightens any mood, especially in cold temperatures, haha! Besides the greyish buildings and grey skies, the most noticeable thing about Dublin was the warmth and joviality of the Irish.
Ireland (nicknamed the Emerald Isle because of its lush, green fields) is a clean, beautiful, and peaceful country. It is famous for its rich history, culture, and some of the world’s iconic writers, musicians, and actors. I used Ryanair (Ireland’s low-cost airline) while in Ireland. However, despite the low-cost carrier being dreadful for some check-in procedures, their check-in and onboard staff were very friendly and accommodating. Generally, everywhere I went in Dublin, and Howth (the fishing village), whether on the ferry, taxis, train, restaurants, etc., I had a great time filled with plenty of laughter and fun times. I certainly felt the warmth of the people.
Other points to note: Ireland is a very expensive country, with a population of over 5 million.
5. ALBANIA - Tirana
Albania is a Balkan country in Southern Europe, and its capital is Tirana. Even though it is one of the poorest, I chose it as the most hospitable country in Europe. It is famous for its remarkable and historical Ottoman architecture, exotic beaches, and religious tolerance. Straightaway as I arrived at the airport, the immigration officers were pleasant, welcoming, and friendly. I think they were the second-friendliest immigration officers I have encountered thus far. The taxi driver I used from the airport and throughout my stay was always punctual, honest, courteous, and very kind, so too was the hotel staff. Everyone I came into contact with in Tirana was friendly and helpful, including the policemen, border control officers, restaurant staff, and generally those I met on the streets.
Albanians are very approachable and will talk to you as though they have previously met. They will approach you and strike up a conversation, it does not matter whether it is a man, woman, old, or young. Poverty did not take away their spirit of hospitality.
Other points to note: Alabania is a budget-friendly country with over 2.8 million people.
6. ICELAND - Keykjavik
Iceland is a Nordic country in the North Atlantic, and its capital is Reykjavik. It is known as the Land of Fire and Ice and is the most peaceful country on earth. This peacefulness translates into how they treat each other and visitors alike. From the moment I arrived at the airport, I felt welcomed. The airport shuttle bus driver was in a super good mood because, as he puts it, “great weather today” and almost hugged me, ha!, It was 3 degrees Celsius that morning, and I wondered what the “not so great” weather felt like.
Iceland is famous for its rugged landscapes, Northern Lights (Aurora), Golden Circle, Geysers, Blue Lagoon, Midnight Sun, glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. With so much to see and do, one can see why it is such a popular destination. It is why they also attract more visitors yearly than their entire population.
The Icelanders I interacted with in Reykjavik were always down-to-earth, modest, helpful, kind, and friendly. The staff at their airline, Icelandiair (both check-in and onboard) were always outgoing and pleasant. I am still trying to find that soothing song played on the airlines at the end of their flights. It has been years, and I still cannot forget it.
Icelanders live in all-year-round cold temperatures but are very warm-hearted , and super-nice people.
Other points to note: Iceland is an expensive country to visit, with a population of less than 400,000.
21 Friendliest People and Countries to visit Cont...
7. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The United States of America is on the North American continent, and its capital is Washington D.C. The United States of America is the third-largest country in the world and is famous for sports such as; baseball, American football, basketball, and Soccer. It is also known for its movie and music industry, the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, Disney World, Hollywood, and so much more.
Contrary to what some might think, on entry into and exit from the U.S.A, the immigration, T.S.A., and customs in any of the airports are never unfriendly. Yes, they are thorough but do not give off any hostility. I have met many who were very friendly and chatty. Whether or not you think they are “feeling you out”, they never give off any unfriendly or unwelcoming vibes. Additionally, the workers at the duty-free shops and most workers at American airports are usually polite, friendly, and eager to help.
Americans are some of the chattiest, most outgoing, and friendliest people you will find. The taxi drivers, store workers, supermarkets, wherever you visit in the cities, I found them quite hospitable. Furthermore, you will encounter Americans on vacation in almost every country you travel. When it comes to being open and ready to engage in a chat, Americans are masters. You can spot an American from a distance based solely on body language, and sometimes, they are the chattiest ones in the bunch.
Some might even think they are “cocky”, but it does not take away from the fact most are hospitable, friendly, and quite outgoing (men and women of all age groups). I can recall countless times I have met Americans at airports around the world who have either helped me with luggage, given up spots in lines, or just met and talked as if we previously knew each other. Like them or not, they are generally very friendly and outgoing, unlike the many unfriendly and cold people and countries I have visited.
Other points to note: the United States of America is certainly not a cheap country. Some states, such as Los Angeles, Washington, and New York, and others are expensive, but even the less-expensive States still do not make it a budget-friendly country. The United States of America has a population of over 336 million.
8. CUBA - Havana
The Republic of Cuba is an island country in the northern Caribbean Sea, and its capital is Havana. Cuba is famous for its gorgeous beaches, music, Cuban cigars, coffee, rum, and classic, vintage cars. The charm, humility, resilience, and hospitality of Cubans are also very positive attributes of the country. Even though the country’s history has left it poor, most people are still patriotic.
Throughout my stay in Cuba, the locals were always very kind and friendly and even went out of their way to show me around the old city. Both men and women were always courteous and beaming with pride due to their love of their country. Havana is an upbeat and lively city because of its locals, which transcends to them being outgoing and hospitable toward visitors. For more about vacationing in Havana Cuba, click here.
Other points to note: Cuba is a somewhat expensive country. Depending on the region you are travelling from and your currency, you might find it is budget-friendly. Cuba has a population of almost 1.4 million.
9. GREECE - Athens
Greece is a country in Southeastern Europe, and its capital is Athens. It is known for being the cradle of Western Civilisation and the birthplace of democracy. It is also famous for its countless islands, ancient Olympic games, magnificent ancient architecture, and temples, and especially the Pantheon at Acropolis.
The Greeks are philosophers from ancient times and great people. My time spent in Athens was pleasant from arrival to departure. I met so many lovely people and made good friends. The Greek airline Aegean Airlines was superb and provided excellent service and Greek snacks during flights. Their check-in and on-board staff were also friendly and helpful. I also remembered two male Greek passengers trying to out-jostle each other (in a fun way, of course) to see who would assist me with my luggage when the plane landed..it was quite an entertaining scene.. haha!
The Greeks are also thoughtful because the hotel and the airlines continue to send me yearly birthday and Christmas greetings years after my visit ..how sweet! In Athens city and everywhere I went in Greece, men and women were very helpful, pleasant, and hospitable. Even though it is not as wealthy as it once was because of financial setbacks, the Greeks maintain their love and friendliness and are beautiful and genuine people.
Other points to note: Greece is a budget-friendly country, with a population of over 10 million.
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10. CANADA - Toronto
Canada occupies most of the North American continent and shares borders with the United States of America. It is the second-largest country in the world, and its capital is Ottawa. However, my visit was to Toronto, Canada’s largest city (known as the most multicultural city on earth) and one of the cleanest cities I have visited. Toronto also has a China Town, certainly one of the cleanest I have ever seen (there is one in many countries, and…I won’t comment).
Canada is famous for many things including Niagara Falls, which is not the tallest worldwide but is one of its biggest attractions. The longest highway worldwide (Trans Canada Highway – nearly 7,604 km) is in Canada, and the longest coastline worldwide (202,080 km) is also in Canada. It also has the most lakes worldwide (879,800 lakes).
Canadians are somewhat similar to Americans regarding their outgoing nature, not as chatty, but equally friendly. They rank very high on the politeness scale, are down to earth, and are genuinely pleasant folks eh!.. haha. From arrival at the airport, anyone can clearly see and feel the difference between the immigration officers, who are not as rigid and paranoid as in many countries. During my visit, they were always pleasant, and made my stay quite enjoyable.
Other points to note: Canada is an expensive country with a population of almost 39 million.
11. PORTUGAL - Lisbon
The Republic of Portugal is a country in Southern Europe. Its capital is Lisbon, and I view it as the Codfish capital of the world…seriously. Everywhere, including the duty-free shops at the airport, sells Codfish (Bacalhau as it’s called) or meals made with it.
Portugal is known as the Country of Explorers because some of the most famous explorers in history, such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, were Portuguese. It is also known for its stunning coastal views, fine Port wines, delicious cuisines, and Codfish. Lisbon is a gorgeous city with lots to see and do, and its locals are outgoing, helpful, and welcoming.
From the minute I arrived at the airport, the immigration officer was welcoming and even pointed out my surname is Portuguese. The hotel staff was hospitable, and others like the taxi drivers, tour guides, and generally everyone in the city. All the people I interacted with were pleasant, attentive, and friendly. I even met locals who gave up their seats on the street car so I could sit and enjoy the city rather than stand.
Lisbon is a stunning city with lots to see and do. They decorated the sidewalks and squares with beautiful and intricate cobblestones of various colours and designs, adding to their beauty. It is one of the symbols of Lisbon, and I love it. Portugal is one of Europe’s best because it is a lively and spectacular city with hospitable people.
Other points to note: Portugal is a reasonable (not expensive, not cheap) country, with a population of over 10 million.
21 Friendliest People and Countries to visit Cont...
12. BONAIRE - Kralendijk
Bonaire is a Dutch island in the Leeward Antilles in the Caribbean Sea (under the Kingdom of the Netherlands). It is part of the group comprising three countries known as the ABC Islands, inclusive of Aruba and Curacao. The capital Kralendijk is laid-back, clean, and compact. If you crave gorgeous beaches, a safe and peaceful vacation without the need for a vibrant nightlife, then Bonaire is for you. Furthermore,
Bonaire does not have public transport, so you must rent a car or call a taxi. The shortest taxi ride to any destination was 10 USD. During my stay in the city, the locals were always very hospitable. Many times while walking into the city from my hotel, they would stop to ask if I wanted a ride(both men and women). They would be the first to say hello or greet me with a big smile. I felt the warmth of the people to the point where I could see myself relocating there. I truly love the quietness of this island. It is a true hidden gem.
Other points to note: Bonaire is an expensive island. Unlike some other Caribbean countries, freedom of speech (meaning you can use obscene language without being arrested or charged) and so also the use of cannabis, Bonaire has a population of a little over 25,000.
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13. POLAND - Warsaw
The Republic of Poland is in Central Europe, and its capital is Warsaw. When I think of Poland, Polish sausage, dumplings, and the people stand out most. Poland is known as the Land of the Fields. It is famous for its Polish-born Pope John Paul 11, being the land of mythology and folklore, and having Europe’s most ancient forest (Bialowieza Forest). It is also famous for its Pierogi (little Polish dumplings), Kielbasa (ready-to-eat Polish sausage),
The Polish are sweethearts. Based on my interactions with them (men, women, old or young), they were all super-sweet to me. They are helpful, friendly, and kind people. These are the reasons I always choose their airline, LOT Polish Airlines when travelling in the region. Their check-in and on-board staff are always kind and very friendly. It is another airline that usually sends me yearly Christmas and birthday greetings.
Everywhere I went in Warsaw, including the airport staff, stores, buses, trains, etc., they were always polite and pleasant. Additionally, just the fact that they accepted so many Ukranian refugees speaks volumes. I have only good memories of Poland mainly because of the Polish hospitality. Therefore, I will always love the Polish and highly recommend Poland for a vacation.
Other points to note: Poland is a reasonable (not expensive, not cheap) country, with a population of over 41 million.
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14. SPAIN – Madrid
The Kingdom of Spain is a country located in South Western Europe. Its capital Madrid is the biggest city and a true architectural beauty. Spain is famous for its bullfighting, culinary arts, spectacular architecture, football, and magnificent beaches. My time spent in Madrid, Spain, was nothing but fantastic. From entry into the airport, you can feel the people’s genuine willingness to help visitors.
All the Spaniards I met, from immigration officers to those on the streets, were pleasant, approachable, friendly, and welcoming. It seems they live an open, laidback lifestyle in Madrid, so visitors can truly feel it. I have also met Spaniards in other countries, and they also were consistently pleasant, and some even a bit chatty. Spain deserves to be on this list because no one will ever feel any coldness emerging from these people.
Other points to note: Spain is a reasonable (not expensive, not cheap) country, with a population of about 47 million.
15. JORDAN - Amman
The Kingdom of Jordan is in the Middle East. It borders Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Israel, and Syria, and its capital is Amman. Jordan is famous for its archaeological sites, the Dead Sea, untouched desert landscapes, and Petra, its most famous site. It is located in a very strategic and prime spot because Jordan lies in Asia, Europe, and Africa, hence the reason so many empires and kingdoms wanted to own it.
Upon arrival at Jordan’s airport, I immediately knew the people were friendly. I always say that immigration officers are usually a good indicator of this. The Jordan immigration officers were the funniest, most outgoing officers I have ever encountered in any country. The hospitality continued on their national carrier, Royal Jordanian airline, the day I flew with them. Because the flight was not full that day, the flight attendant and I chatted and shared jokes almost the entire way to Israel. She was a pleasant lady and the most down-to-earth flight attendant I have ever met. Further, when the plane landed, she handed me a big bag filled with yogurt, water, humus, granola bars, and so many treats that I had to give most of it away. How generous was that!?
In the city, my tour guide was also one of the sweetest I have ever met. He was a perfect gentleman, respectful and friendly. I truly admire the Jordanian people. I remember while I was downtown in the city, a police officer walked up to me, shook my hand, introduced himself to me, and started chatting.
Generally, everyone was friendly and very welcoming wherever I went in the city. Jordan is a country I will never forget and will love to return to. They made me feel special because everyone was so hospitable. What lovely people!
Other points to note: Jordan is an expensive country with a population of over 11 million.
16. TURKIYE/TURKEY/ - Istanbul
The Republic of Turkiye is unique geographically because it lies partially in the Middle East, Europe, and even the west of Asia. Its capital is Ankara, however, my visit was to Istanbul. Istanbul comprises so many beautiful mosques, each more intricate than the next. It is home to famous Turkish treats, teas, carpets, bazaars, Hammams (Turkish baths), and the best Baklava worldwide.
The Turkish are sweet people. From the workers at the airlines (Turkish Airlines) to immigration and those I interacted with throughout the city, the response was always welcoming. I think the Turks have a sweet spot in their hearts for black ladies, haha, just my observation. I got along well with Turkish men and women, and even now, friendships continue.
They are inviting, helpful, kind, and sincere people. The Turks love to travel because I have met them in so many countries, and they are always very outgoing and fun. They deserve their rightful place on my list of friendliest people and countries worldwide.
Other points to note: Turkey/Turkiye is a budget-friendly country with more than 87 million people.
17. SOUTH AFRICA - Cape Town
South Africa is at the southern tip of Africa, and its capital Cape Town is known as the Mother City. Cape Town is famous for its inspirational and national treasure, President Nelson Mandela. It is also known for its culture, music, wineries, gorgeous beaches, and its most famous landmark Tabletop Mountain.
The moment I arrived at the airport in Capetown, I felt welcomed. The workers throughout the airport were very hospitable and helpful. This airport and immigration officers are in my top five world’s most welcoming because they were super-sweet and friendly. It seems some of the airlines have a meet and greet for visitors who may need assistance. The first lady I interacted with after immigration was a darling. She was so genuine and hospitable. I knew from that moment I would have a great time in South Africa, and I did.
What I love about Cape Town is the friendliness and helpfulness of the people. The hotel staff treated me great, and so did the tour operators and everyone else I met on the ferry, bus, and everywhere I went. I felt the warmth of the people as though I was home. South Africans are lovely people, and this applies to all races. Because the whites and blacks seem to live in harmony, and it transcends the visitors. I highly recommend Cape Town to everyone because of the almost eighty countries I have visited, South Africa is among my top 5 favourites. It is simply breathtaking.
Other points to note: Cape Town, South Africa, is a reasonable (not expensive, not cheap) country with a population of about 60 million.
18. DOMINICA REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo
Dominica Republic is a Caribbean country in the Lesser Antilles. It shares the landmass with Hati, known as Hispaniola. Dominica Republic has the Caribbean’s tallest mountain peak – Pico Duarte (10,417 feet). It is also well-known for its spectacular beaches, waterfalls, cuisines, rums, etc. Santo Domingo, its capital, seems to be a city big on medical and cosmetic tourism because there were so many visitors at the hotel with post-surgery bandages.
It is a country where everyone smiles or waves at you, even if they do not know you. Both men and women, the old and young, were very hospitable during my stay. The airport staff, the hotel, the markets, and everywhere, you will not find any stuck-up sourpusses. The locals smiled, said hello, or waved when they saw visitors, which is the norm in most Caribbean islands. They were always ready to mingle and strike up lively conversation with each other and visitors alike. Because it seems family and building relationships are paramount to them. Rightfully, Dominica Republic deserves its place among the 21 friendliest countries and people to visit.
Other points to note: Dominica Republic is a budget-friendly country with a population of almost 11 million.
21 Friendliest People and Countries to visit Cont...
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19. SINGAPORE - Singapore
The Republic of Singapore is a small country in Southeast Asia, and its capital is also called Singapore. We know Singapore as the country with the “rags to riches template” because it turned around its economy from financial crises and depression to being the second wealthiest country in Asia.
Singapore is 5th most visited city. It has some of the most drastic laws, not only for major crimes but minor infringements such as traffic offenses and littering, etc. It is known as the Lion City or the Garden City because of its well-manicured, clean, and lush public spaces. It is also famous for being a global financial center, having the best airport and airline worldwide, and mesmerizing architecture.
Undoubtedly, Singapore has a warmth about it. All the people in the city I interacted with until I departed were hospitable, helpful, and even chatty. Some even gave up their seats inside the train so I could sit. As I sat, they drew me into conversation with the locals. Singaporeans were always smiling and communicated with what little English they knew. I truly felt welcomed in this country.
Other points to note: Singapore is one of the most expensive countries worldwide, with a population of almost 6 million.
20. FINLAND - Helsinki
The Republic of Finland is a Nordic country in Northern Europe, and its capital is Helsinki. Finland is the happiest country on earth. It is famous for its Saunas, and has the world’s cleanest air. Regarding the Finns; they are high on being polite, helpful, friendly, and welcoming. From arrival to departure, I experienced the hospitality of the Finns. They are pleasant people who make eye contact, smile, and are generous.
I did not interact with the immigration officer on arrival but on departure. T.S.A. officers were pleasant. Taking the tram to my hostel was a breeze, I remember entering the tram with my two suitcases, and before grabbing the second one, a couple who were standing alongside me assisted me without me asking for assistance. When I arrived at my accommodation, I noticed the lady signaling, who I assumed was her husband, to help me with my suitcase. He took it outside on the sidewalk and quickly reentered the tram. I smiled and said thanks, and they both smiled, nodded, and waved bye. How kind, I thought to myself!
Similarly, on my return to the airport, because the metro does not allow you to move slowly, as soon as it stopped at the airport and I was slowly removing my suitcase, a lady quickly grabbed one of my suitcases and assisted me off the train. How sweet once again! Throughout my stay in Helsinki, everyone I interacted with, including the stores, restaurants, and even my new friend Klaus, and others, were all very selfless and hospitable without expectations.
Other points to note: Finland is an extremely expensive country with a population of over 5.6 million.
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21. MALTA - Valletta
The island state of Malta is in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily, Italy. The archipelago consists of three islands; Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Malta is the biggest of the three. I previously described it as “Malta – where Europe meets the Caribbean,” because it is an island that has the look and feel of a tropics. Even though I visited during winter when it was cold. it had a tropical vibe.
Malta has a mixture of luxury hotels and club resorts, gorgeous waterfronts, beaches, and deep blue skies with a tropical breeze. It is a famous movie and film location, where they filmed many scenes from movies and T.V. series in Malta and Gozo. A scene from Games of Thrones was filmed in Gozo.
On arrival at the airport, I immediately felt welcomed. I spoke to two different people who were quite pleasant and communicated with me as if we previously met. This was before they directed me to the tourist bus that shuttles visitors to various hotels. The people who operate this service and the driver (who spoke all the way to the hotels’ stops) were very outgoing. The employees at the hotel were all super-sweet, very helpful, and attentive.
Throughout my trip, everyone was really friendly. This includes the people at the restaurants, tour operators, police, etc. Despite someone I met on a flight telling me that Maltese do not like black people, I arrived with an open mind and experienced no coldness nor racialism from anyone. I previously wrote that
Malta is one place I felt at home and wished I could relocate to because I felt so much peace wherever I went. The islands are also peaceful, and the view from every location was always spectacular, and so is the spirit of the people. I can confirm that excellent hospitality is alive and well in Malta, no matter who you are.
Other points to note: Malta is a moderately expensive country with a population of over 445,000.
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A very enjoyable read, Cory. It warms my heart to know there are all these beautiful, warm and friendly people out there just waiting to greet me when I visit their country! Thanks! This makes my day!
O.K. great work Cory. Now I know where to go to not get beat up, But can I really trust you!
Even though my country didn’t make the 21 I dee we got special mention at the top. I agree with the list.. dome people I have not met but from the list and what I have heard from others i agree with the list. Thanks for sharing cory.
Thanks for mentioning ng my country. Yes we are friendly.happy to see the list. Thanks for the hard work .
Hahaha I can agree with some I have encountered and yes americans ate friendly too. I bet one country starting with S will never be there for you. Lol thanks for the information.
Thanks for sharing cory I agree especially with Philippines. Nice people. Thanks for all the information you share.
Of course of course we are friendliest people in the world . Thanks for menoning..tes I agreed with you with most of those I have interacted with.
Thank you appreciate it yes we are! Lol keep up the excellent writing.
Hi. Cory as usual you write very good information, I see my country. I am happy we were friendly to you.