Top 53 Countries with the Friendliest Locals for a Memorable Trip

53 Countries with the Friendliest Locals 

1.  Costa Rica  
2.  Indonesia  
3.

Image of a friendly greeting in a multicultural setting

Top 53 Countries Known for the Friendliest Locals in 2025

  • Costa Rica’s Warm Welcome
    Costa Rica remains a standout for its incredibly hospitable residents. Visitors and expats alike praise the locals for their genuine friendliness and laid-back attitude, making it an ideal vacation and relocation destination.

  • Indonesia’s Cultural Charm
    Often celebrated for their warm hospitality, the people of Indonesia demonstrate openness and kindness that enchant tourists and new residents. The nation’s diverse cultures contribute to a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

  • Brazil’s Festive Spirit
    Known worldwide for its lively festivals and outgoing people, Brazil’s locals foster a sense of community and warmth that makes visitors feel right at home, especially during major events like Carnival.

  • The Philippines’ Known Hospitality
    Filipino locals are widely recognized for their hospitality, often going above and beyond to help foreign visitors and newcomers, showcasing deep-rooted friendliness that defines their culture.

  • Vietnam’s Heartfelt Welcomes
    Vietnamese communities offer friendly smiles and openness to travelers, blending traditional respect with genuine kindness, creating an inviting environment for foreigners.

  • Mexico’s Open Arms
    Mexico’s people are known for their welcoming nature, making travelers feel at home whether exploring bustling cities or tranquil coastal towns.

  • Colombia’s Warmth and Vibrancy
    Despite past challenges, Colombia has transformed into one of Latin America’s friendliest countries, with locals known for their warmth, resilience, and welcoming spirit.

  • Oman’s Traditional Hospitality
    Omanis are celebrated for their traditional generosity and hospitality, often inviting visitors to share in their cultural practices and daily life.

  • Thailand’s Friendly Faces
    The “Land of Smiles” lives up to its nickname, with locals exhibiting warmth and friendliness that foster positive connections with tourists and expats.

  • Egypt’s Hospitable Culture
    Egyptians are renowned for their welcoming attitude, often extending hospitality that reflects their rich cultural heritage.

The list continues with numerous countries across continents renowned for their friendly populations:

  • Kenya, Greece, Panama, Spain, Portugal, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, China, Ireland, Australia, Bahrain, Cyprus, Qatar, Malaysia, India, Saudi Arabia, the United States, South Africa, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Belgium, Netherlands, Singapore, Malta, Luxembourg, Italy, Turkey, Hong Kong, Poland, United Kingdom, France, Chile, Hungary, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Norway, Czechia, Austria, Kuwait.

(Data Source: The 2024 Expat Insider survey by InterNations, focusing on the Ease of Settling In Index as perceived by expatriates worldwide)

This year’s data highlights the universality of friendliness — that warmth and hospitality are traits cherished globally, making travel and international living more enriching. Countries from every corner of the globe continue to foster communities where openness and kindness define everyday interactions, inviting the world to feel embraced and valued wherever they go.