The world’s friendliest countries

Travelling is an inspiring, eye-opening and more often than not life-changing experience. If someone told you that travelling hadn’t irrevocably changed them in one way or another, I’d say they weren’t being truthful. There is just something so soulful and life-affirming about travel—it truly makes you understand how small you are in the spectrum of this wonderful planet we call home.

There are so many things that I love about travelling, but perhaps one of my favourite things would be the people I meet along the way. Now, I’m not talking about fellow travellers (although it’s always a great experience meeting them too!) I’m talking about the people who inhabit the wonderful countries I’ve visited.

The graciousness and kindness people offer to someone they’ve never met always astounds me. Of course when travelling you should always keep your wits about and do what feels safe, but if you open your hand and heart to those around you, it will be over-flowing by the time your journey comes to an end.

In this spirit of this, we’ve compiled a list from the research of the World Economic Forum of the friendliest places in the world to travel.

How could people in Iceland not be happy with this view?!

1. Iceland
Despite only getting 3-4 hours of sunlight per day in winter, the people of Iceland always seem to be so happy. Maybe it’s to do with their amazing volcanic scenery and mammoth waterfalls.

2.New Zealand
Australia might not have made the top 10 but our neighbours across the Tasman Sea surely did! Must be all that clear air, rolling hills and roaming sheep that puts our neighbours in a good mood.

3. Morocco
Mostly known for their ah-mazing food, Moroccans come in at number three on the world’s friendliest countries list. There is some history to their friendly ways, however; Morocco was the gateway to North African and a trading hub filled with so many different cultures. So really, their friendly disposition makes a lot of sense just based off that information alone.

4. Macedonia
The beautiful Macedonia comes in at number four. Why wouldn’t you be happy when you live in a city with awe-inspiring mountain views and charming ancient ruins?

5. Austria
Only in recent years has Austria become well known as one of the friendliest places to visit in Europe. With its picture-perfect views of rolling hills and gorgeous glacial lakes, it’s easy to see why.

6. Senegal
In new Africa lies the stunning Senegal, filled with white-sand beaches and dense tropical forests. Smiling and friendliness is just part of the package deal!

7. Portugal
From the gorgeous grottos in Lagos to the quaint homes and cobblestone streets of Lisbon, there isn’t much in Portugal not to love. And, it takes in about 13 million happy travellers each year. Smiles all round in Portugal.

8. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnians are perhaps some of the nicest people you’ll ever come across in your travels. Another reason to visit the picturesque country is for their east-west fusion, mountain villages and remarkable river rapids.

9. Ireland
Ah, the luck of the Irish (or should it be the friendliness of the Irish?) The Emerald Isle, so-called because of its beautiful green landscapes, is renowned for its friendly locals and lovely hospitality.

10. Burkina Faso
Coming in at number 10 is Burkina Faso in West Africa. They are living proof that you don’t need much to be happy because whilst they are one of the friendliest, they are also one of the poorest countries in the world. Nonetheless, Burkina Faso offers some wonderful wildlife and amazing amber deserts that would put a smile on any local’s face.