Denmark, Northern EuropeDanes are so friendly they'll pleasantly surprise even the most hardened travellers. As a testament to the people of Denmark, 33 years ago a section of Copenhagen declared itself a "free state" & has since lived tax-free, rent-free, & law-free with little to no repercussions in the way of lawlessness or disorder. The only rules are, no weapons, no hard drugs, & no violence. Sounds good to me.
Egypt, North AfricaEgypt, formerly a British Colony, maintains a high level of English among its citizens. I'm approaching this list from an English-based centricity which is why I find Egyptians to be friendly as opposed to say Moroccans, however English does tend to be the common language of travellers venturing beyond their borders. Beyond just that though the Egyptian people are warm and hospitable. While it's unfortunate that terrorist acts can obscure people's opinions of certain places, such as Egypt, it would be a shame to judge such a wonderful people from the acts of so few.
Finland, Northern Europe Helsinki is often regarded as the world's friendliest capital, they say if you stand on a street corner in the city with a map open that pedestrians will stop and ask you if you need directions. On my first night in Helsinki I inadvertently decided to test the theory. I was terribly lost and skimming through a map when a girl stopped to ask if I needed help. Before she could help me three other people stopped to make sure I was getting the correct directions. I didn't understand the directions entirely so the girl ended up walking with me for 10 minutes until I got to my destination.
Holland, Western EuropeI had the privilege of living in the Netherlands for a short time and I don't think I've ever met a more welcoming or friendly people. Almost everyone in the country speaks English as a second language and the people are receptive if you have a problem or if you just would like to strike up a pleasant conversation.
India, South AsiaSome people might disagree with my placement of India in this list, and while it is true that many of the people you'll meet while travelling in the country will have an angle and might be attempting to sell you something, there's still no denying the friendly nature of Indians especially towards foreigners. People here are genuinely interested in foreign travellers and it's impossible to spend any significant amount of time in the country without being invited into people's homes for dinner and conversation.
Ireland, Western EuropeIrish people on a whole are very friendly and always ready to buy a newcomer a drink. Visitors to the country will feel the warmth and embrace of the Irish people all the way from the small towns to the streets of Dublin.s
Philippines, Southeast AsiaWhile I can't speak for the south of the country where there's been an Islamic insurgency for the past few years, the Philippines for the most part is a very friendly and safe country. Filipinos are renowned for their amiable natures and in making almost all visitors feel welcome. Also English levels in the country are very good.
Singapore, Southeast AsiaSingapore is a small city state in Southeast Asia at the southern tip of the Malaysian Peninsula. Formerly a British colony, Singapore still retains English as its official language. The country serves as a regional melting pot of cultures and religions boasting large influences from ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Indians. The people of Singapore are a very friendly bunch and the city often feels more like a welcoming small town than a huge metropolis.
Sweden, ScandinaviaSweden is the third Scandinavian country I've mentioned thus far, and while it may seem as if I'm playing favoritism I can tell you that the people here are most definitely deserving of mention. I find it hard to imagine a tourist here could ever find his or herself distressed for more than a few minutes before finding assistance.
Switzerland, Western EuropeSwitzerland, the friendliness of Northern Europe but with a more convenient location. While the country may be outrageously expensive there is no doubting the friendliness of the people. It's the type of country where you could leave your camera on a park bench and find it there on your return. (Please don't try this.)
Taiwan, East AsiaIn a sometimes striking difference from their Mainland brethren, Taiwanese people can be very welcoming towards foreigners and travellers. English levels in the country aren't the best, but people are patient and very helpful when it comes to things like giving travellers directions.
Thailand, Southeast AsiaThe pearl of Southeast Asia, Thais are renowned for their welcoming nature and warm demeanors. Everyone from tourists to visiting businessmen can attest to the strong sense of hospitality running through Thai veins. The only discomfiture you'll run across in this country is in dealing with Bangkok taxi drivers.
Turkey, Middle EastTurks are a great and honorable people. While it's true that some solo female travellers have complained of the local's aggressiveness, this would seem to be an exception and not the rule. Visitors to the country can look forward to sharing tea and backgammon with a truly hospitable people.
United States, North AmericaOf course it depends on where you go, travellers to the large northeastern cities such as Boston or New York might not be raving about the friendliness of Americans. But generally speaking the people of the US are very friendly and helpful. Waitresses call you sugar, people will hold doors for you and the drivers are courteous. The important thing is to remember not to judge America by your airport experience.
Honorable Mentions
The following nations aren't exactly the epitome of welcoming with their troubled pasts and all and as such they might not make it onto anyone's travel itineraries in the near future, but I am sure you will not find much friendlier people anywhere in the world.
Albania, Eastern Europe Albania gets a bad rap and is widely known for its criminality. While there is an element of crime, Albanians through all their tribulations have managed to maintain a homely and welcoming attitude. English levels aren't the best, but the people are genuinely friendly. Not once while I was in the country did I feel unsafe or unwelcome.
Kosovo, Eastern EuropePart of Kosovoans hospitality towards me was because I was an American. In a reversal of some attitudes, Kosovoans generally maintain a positive opinion of the United States and its politics. The support of the NATO nations during the war and afterwards of Kosovo's independence will not soon be forgotten.
World's Friendliest Destinations - Travelers Digest - Article written in whole by Dakota Smith - Travelers Digest
