Magnificent scenery, great climate, arts, and tasty local cuisines, are ingredients
of the motivation that send us touring a country or even settling abroad.
But you won't get to fully experience all of these if you end up in a hostile place
because, as a visitor, what sets you up for a fulfilling visit is the locals' warm hospitality
and positive spirit in your destination country.
In this episode of top 10 countdowns, we will be listing the friendliest countries you should
visit or move to.
To kick off this journey in Canada, country number 10.
Canada is not only famous for its landscape but also for the amount of kindness and friendly
attitude exhibited by the people.
Nothing emphasizes Canada's welcoming spirit more than the deluge of visa applications
it approves, ranging from residency, study, and scholarship, to visitations and more.
Newfoundland, populated by witty Irish descendants, is considered the core of the friendliest
provinces in the country.
If you are French, then there is no doubt you will quickly settle in the French-speaking
area of Montreal.
So, while you are visiting the famous art galleries in Toronto or immersing yourself
in the mountain scenery across the country, rest assured to meet smiling and patient locals.
Vietnam Takes Spot Number 9.
You will be left with no other choice than to erase your apprehensive idea of Vietnam
after you've visited the southeast Asian country.
In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in East Asia.
This growth, coupled with the friendly attitude of the locals, has become an attraction for
a teeming foreign workforce.
Also, with keen investment in its culture and cutting-edge infrastructures—like the
recently launched glass-bottomed bridge in Son La province—Vietnam has become a prime
destination for tourists.
The ever-smiling locals are always ready to give a good impression of their country by
paying attention to you and ensuring you enjoy the best food and facilities.
What Vietnamese mostly lack in being outgoing, they make up for in their admirable show of
kindness.
Colombia Proudly Sits in Spot Number 8.
Adding to the joy and excitement evoked by its Andean peaks, deep jungles, and pristine
beaches, Colombia harbors one of the most easy-going locals in the world.
Colombians are known for their positivity and tendency to express happiness by singing
and dancing.
So it will be normal for you to be wowed when you see a Colombian moving like the waves
during a relaxing time on one of the sun-bathed beaches.
Maybe when the local notices you as an audience, you will be approached and offered a spirit
or receive a compliment for your choice of bikini.
When this happens, you know better than not to accept the offer of a possible lifetime
of friendship or something more.
Number 7 — The Philippines!
The Philippines is an unusual travel destination, yet it offers some of the most exciting adventures
that intensifies after each visit—thanks to the many destination options scattered
across its 7,000 islands.
With different climates, ranging from tropical to maritime, you can visit the Philippines
when the weather is most favorable to you.
In summer, the Boracay islands, with idyllic beaches, is the prime destination for tourists
looking to relax in the sun and take on quests to find rumored treasure chests on the Cagban
beach or collect shells littered on the Puka Shell Beach.
Even with the abundance of world-class beaches, the Philippines also offers an urban feel
in metropolitan areas like the capital city, Manila, where the country's best museums,
hotels, and restaurants are located.
And if you are a history buff, the historical quarters of the city draw you in for an enjoyable
walk.
You can also visit Luzon, in the Vigan area, to catch more historical sites.
In regions like Banaue, home to the famed rice terraces, you will receive the warmest
welcome from the friendly locals in the ethnic village.
This warmth extends to other parts of the island, making the country an island of beaches,
history, and one of the most friendly welcoming people in the world.
In Spot 6 is Costa Rica!
If this was a list of the best countries to retire, Costa Rica would rank second.
But ranking sixth in this countdown gives more credit to the positive atmosphere of
this Central American country.
The country is culture-rich, has an abundance of nature's best scenery, and accommodates
one of the friendliest and most respectful locals.
Costa Ricans are often called Ticos, which means 'little brothers.'
This is because they place great value on family and community and do not tire of emphasizing
togetherness through their attitude.
Ticos are proud and passionate about their customs, so when you are on exciting trips
to the sophisticated city of San Jose, beautiful beach towns, lush forests, and other interesting
sites, be respectful of the traditional beliefs of your Costa Rican friends.
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In Number 5—Ireland!
The island of Ireland is home to one of the most interesting groups of people on earth.
Irish folks are witty and tend to throw jokes at you while being so lighthearted to receive
equal measures from you.
In Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, you are sure to make one or more friends if you
are keen for a conversation over a pint in a pub.
Even more, Dublin is a culture-rich city with a wealth of history in its architecture and
unique museums.
You won't want to be in Dublin and miss a trip to the impressive Kilmainham Gaol — a
former prison turned museum — and the stunning Christ Church Cathedral, amongst others.
Cork and Belfast city are also major metropolitan areas with their own unique attractions like
the fishing port of Cobh in Cork Harbour and the Titanic Belfast museum, accurately named
after the doomed Titanic ship, which was built in its shipyard.
The best of nature's scenery is finely placed in several counties across Ireland.
Kerry County welcomes you to Killarney National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the
natural gifts of pristine waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and mountains.
On the route through the Ring of Kerry, you will be amazed by several other gifts of nature
in places like Ladies View, Gap of Dunloe, Muckross House, and Torc Waterfall.
While visiting these exciting sites, you can always make an Irish friend without even trying.
Number 4—Cambodia!
Until 2017, nobody would have considered Cambodia in a countdown category like this; but coming
up fourth within four years says so much about the improvement in the country's tourism sector
and the hospitality of the locals.
Cambodians are known to be outgoing people.
A typical Cambodian won't mind signaling you to join them for a drink in a bar or just
generally sparking a friendly conversation with you—that is, if you can manage through
the language difference.
Cambodia carries a warm soul and a fascinating cultural heritage to soak yourself in.
Its historical attraction is capped by the temple city of Angkor Wat, which is the world's
largest religious building.
The beaches on the coast make for an excellent refreshing spot under the warm sunshine, and
the cultural vibrance and architecture of the capital city, Phnom Penh, will leave you
hooked.
Number 3—Mexico!
Mexico is unsurprisingly on this list, and only it has dropped one position in the latest
index.
What hasn't dropped, however, is the number of foreigners flocking to the southern North
American country, most of whom come to enjoy the sun on the beautiful beaches, adventure
in the greenery of the forests, and get lost in the bustling urban activities in cities
like Mexico City.
The locals have a friendly attitude, and there is an already existing large population of
expatriates from different parts of the world.
This means meeting a resident who understands your language is very easy and could help
you settle in quickly.
Even if you don't understand Spanish, a typical Mexican is very likely to be patient with
you and maintain politeness as you both interact.
Number 2 is Taiwan!
See past the language barrier, and you will notice the contagious smile of a Taiwanese,
indicating that they are the most polite people in the world.
When you are not being pampered by a local, you can soak yourself in the capital city,
Taipei—packed with beautiful museums, fancy restaurants, bars, and many other attractions.
Taiwan boasts parks and historic towns with sublime architecture.
Lukang and Kinmen islands are dotted with ancient Chinese buildings of varying architectural
styles.
The Sun Moon Lake is a sight to sore eyes.
It's a little wonder there are shops, restaurants, and luxury hotels mounted around the lake.
In Taiwan, you are promised great hospitality and a satisfactory stay.
(Number 1) Portugal has jumped to the number one spot
after garnering plenty of positive remarks from the growing number of expatriates in
the country.
The European nation offers urban sophistication in cities like Lisbon and Porto, which are
home to historic architecture and the country's best museums, trending cafes, concert houses,
and shopping centers.
On the Mediterranean coast, you will find beach towns and resorts offering the best
beach experience you can rarely find anywhere else.
Even so, Portugal tops this list mainly because of the warmth of the people.
Portuguese are open-minded and extremely welcoming people.
In discussions, you will catch their proud, broad smiles as they talk about their rich
culture and the many things their country has to offer.
. And that's a wrap on the top 10 friendliest
countries to live in or visit as a tourist.
We believe you enjoyed the journey and you are now better informed to make a good vacation
or relocation decision.
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Happy traveling, and stay safe!