Where Tourists Get Treated Best: 13 Friendliest Nations Ranked

Dreaming of your next getaway but unsure how you’ll be received? The truth is, some countries make you feel like a long-lost friend the moment you arrive.

Picture strangers offering directions with a smile, locals inviting you to share a meal, and communities that treat tourists like family. In a world where travel can sometimes feel cold or transactional, these destinations stand out for their heartfelt hospitality.

It’s not just about service it’s about connection. If kindness is high on your travel checklist, you’re in for a treat. These are the places where warm welcomes aren’t rare they’re the norm.

1. New Zealand

If you’ve ever wondered what genuine hospitality looks like, New Zealand delivers it in spades. Kiwis possess an innate friendliness that makes every visitor feel like family from the moment they arrive.

Their famous “she’ll be right” attitude creates a relaxed atmosphere where tourists never feel rushed or unwelcome. Local shopkeepers remember your name after one visit, and strangers offer directions before you even ask.

This welcoming spirit stems from their strong community values and respect for visitors exploring their stunning landscapes. You’ll find yourself planning return trips just to experience their warmth again.

2. Thailand

Known worldwide as the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand lives up to its reputation through countless daily acts of kindness toward visitors. Buddhist principles of compassion and respect deeply influence how locals interact with tourists.

Street vendors patiently help you navigate spicy food options, tuk-tuk drivers become impromptu tour guides, and hotel staff treat guests like honored family members. Even language barriers dissolve through their patient gestures and warm expressions.

Thai people genuinely enjoy sharing their culture with curious travelers, whether teaching you proper temple etiquette or recommending hidden local gems off the tourist trail.

3. Canada

Canadians apologize for things that aren’t even their fault – that’s just how polite they are! This legendary courtesy extends naturally to how they treat visitors from around the world.

From Vancouver’s bustling streets to Quebec’s charming cobblestones, locals go out of their way to help confused tourists find their destinations. They’ll walk you to your hotel rather than just point directions.

Their multicultural society means they understand the challenges of being in an unfamiliar place. You’ll experience this kindness whether you’re asking for restaurant recommendations or needing emergency assistance during harsh winters.

4. Ireland

Irish hospitality isn’t just famous – it’s legendary, and for good reason. The concept of “céad míle fáilte” (a hundred thousand welcomes) isn’t just a saying but a way of life.

Locals invite strangers to join their conversations in pubs, share stories about their neighborhoods, and offer genuine advice about hidden gems tourists shouldn’t miss. Their storytelling tradition means every interaction becomes an entertaining experience.

Whether you’re lost in Dublin’s winding streets or exploring rural countryside, Irish people treat helping visitors as a point of personal pride. Their warmth transforms simple tourist encounters into lasting memories.

5. Japan

Japanese hospitality, known as “omotenashi,” represents service elevated to an art form. This philosophy emphasizes anticipating guests’ needs before they even realize them.

Hotel staff bow deeply upon your arrival, restaurant servers remember your preferences, and even convenience store clerks treat every interaction with utmost respect. Lost tourists receive detailed hand-drawn maps from helpful strangers.

Though language barriers exist, Japanese people’s dedication to helping visitors transcends words through gestures, patience, and genuine care. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures every tourist experience exceeds expectations, creating unforgettable moments of human connection.

6. Portugal

Portuguese people possess a quiet warmth that immediately puts visitors at ease. Their concept of “saudade” – a deep emotional connection – extends to how they welcome strangers into their communities.

Locals patiently help tourists navigate their beautiful but confusing medieval streets, recommend family-run restaurants over tourist traps, and share personal stories about their beloved homeland. Elderly residents become impromptu historians.

This genuine care stems from their maritime history of welcoming travelers from distant lands. You’ll find yourself invited to neighborhood festivals and treated like a long-lost relative rather than just another tourist.

7. Fiji

When Fijians greet you with “Bula!” their enthusiasm radiates genuine joy at meeting new people. This isn’t rehearsed tourism – it’s authentic cultural expression rooted in centuries of welcoming traditions.

Island communities invite visitors to participate in kava ceremonies, share traditional meals, and learn about their customs firsthand. Children wave excitedly at passing tourists, and elders share wisdom about island life.

Their relaxed “Fiji time” philosophy means locals never rush interactions with visitors. Every conversation feels unhurried and meaningful, creating connections that extend far beyond typical tourist experiences in paradise.

8. Turkey

Turkish hospitality runs so deep that refusing offered tea might actually offend your hosts! This ancient tradition of welcoming strangers reflects centuries of crossroads culture between Europe and Asia.

Shopkeepers invite browsers for complimentary tea regardless of purchase intentions, restaurant owners personally ensure your meal meets expectations, and taxi drivers become enthusiastic city guides. Their generosity knows no bounds.

Even in bustling Istanbul, locals take time to help confused tourists navigate complex transportation systems. This warmth stems from their belief that guests are gifts from God, deserving the highest respect and care.

9. Costa Rica

Costa Ricans embody “Pura Vida” – pure life – in every interaction with visitors. This philosophy creates an atmosphere where tourists feel immediately relaxed and welcomed into their peaceful way of living.

Locals enthusiastically share knowledge about their incredible biodiversity, patiently explain wildlife behavior during nature tours, and recommend sustainable tourism practices. Their environmental consciousness extends to caring for human visitors too.

Restaurant servers take time to explain traditional dishes, hotel staff remember your preferences, and strangers offer genuine smiles on hiking trails. Their laid-back attitude helps stressed travelers rediscover life’s simple pleasures.

10. Morocco

Moroccan hospitality transforms every visitor into an honored guest through their ancient tradition of radical generosity. The Arabic concept of “karam” means hosts must provide the best they have to offer.

Families invite complete strangers to share meals, artisans patiently explain their craft techniques, and guides become passionate ambassadors for their rich culture. Their warmth transcends religious and cultural differences.

Though haggling is expected in souks, it’s conducted with humor and respect rather than aggression. Locals understand tourism’s importance and treat visitors as partners in preserving their beautiful traditions and heritage.

11. Scotland

Scottish warmth melts away faster than morning mist over the Highlands when locals encounter visitors genuinely interested in their culture. Their pride in heritage creates enthusiastic cultural ambassadors everywhere you go.

Pub patrons invite tourists to join their conversations, shopkeepers share clan histories, and even gruff-looking Highlanders become animated storytellers when discussing their beloved Scotland. Their dry humor makes every interaction memorable.

Locals take personal responsibility for ensuring visitors experience authentic Scottish culture beyond tourist stereotypes. They’ll recommend hidden distilleries, secret hiking trails, and family-run establishments that showcase real Scottish character and traditions.

12. Nepal

Nepalese people greet visitors with “Namaste” – recognizing the divine in each person – and this spiritual philosophy shapes every tourist interaction. Their mountain culture emphasizes community support and mutual aid.

Sherpa guides risk their lives ensuring trekkers’ safety, teahouse owners treat exhausted hikers like family members, and monks welcome curious visitors into ancient monasteries. Their generosity emerges from genuine Buddhist compassion.

Despite economic challenges, locals share whatever they have with struggling travelers. This selflessness creates profound connections between visitors and residents, transforming simple mountain adventures into life-changing spiritual experiences filled with human kindness.

13. Philippines

Filipino hospitality, called “kapamilya,” literally means treating visitors like family members. This cultural value creates an atmosphere where tourists never feel like outsiders in this archipelago paradise.

Locals go extraordinarily far to help confused travelers – walking them to destinations, calling relatives for translation help, and inviting strangers to family celebrations. Their infectious joy makes every interaction feel like a celebration.

Restaurant staff remember your spice preferences, tricycle drivers become impromptu tour guides, and beachside vendors share local legends while you enjoy tropical sunsets. Their genuine care transforms ordinary vacation moments into treasured memories.