The 10 Friendliest Countries in the World, Ranked by Warmth and Welcoming Spirit

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In a world increasingly shaped by global migration, remote work, and cross-cultural tourism, the friendliness of a country matters more than ever. Whether you’re moving abroad, backpacking across continents, or just looking for a vacation where locals actually smile back, knowing where to find genuine hospitality can shape your entire experience.

Drawing from global surveys, expat reports, and tourism satisfaction indexes, here are the top 10 friendliest countries in the world in 2025—places where kindness, openness, and human connection aren’t just values but lived realities.

1. Portugal

Portugal tops the list with a rare combination: safety, beauty, and people who want to talk to you. Whether you’re in Lisbon, Porto, or a quiet village in the Algarve, locals go out of their way to help strangers, especially if you’re trying (even badly) to speak Portuguese.

2. Ireland

The Irish reputation for friendliness is real. Strangers greet you in pubs, bus stops, and even while walking down rural roads. Locals are quick to share a laugh, offer directions, or dive into a chat about politics, music, or football—all in the same breath.

3. New Zealand

Kiwis pride themselves on being down-to-earth, approachable, and kind. The Maori concept of manaakitanga — hospitality and care for others—runs deep here, influencing everything from tourism to daily interactions.

4. Canada

No surprise here. Canadians are famously polite, but it’s more than manners. People hold doors, offer help without being asked, and apologize if they bump into you, even when it’s your fault.

5. Costa Rica

This Central American gem isn’t just rich in biodiversity—it’s rich in heart. Ticos (Costa Ricans) live by the phrase pura “vida—”pure life”—a “laid-back, positive philosophy that makes both visitors and immigrants feel welcome.

6. Mexico

Despite negative headlines, Mexico’s people are among the most generous and family-oriented in the world. Visitors consistently mention locals going out of their way to help, whether in bustling cities or remote pueblos.

7. Thailand

Known as “The Land of Smiles,” Thailand lives up to its nickname. From the mountains of Chiang Mai to the islands in the south, Thai hospitality blends grace, curiosity, and deep cultural respect for guests.

8. Australia

Australians balance informality with cheer. They’re known for talking to strangers like old friends—whether you’re buying a coffee, hiking in the bush, or just looking lost in Sydney.

9. Iceland

Icelanders may seem quiet at first, but once the ice breaks, expect humor, warmth, and hospitality that belies the country’s stark landscape. It’s a small nation that treats visitors like neighbors.

10. Vietnam

Fast-growing and fast-changing, Vietnam remains deeply rooted in the cultural values of respect and generosity. Foreigners often remark on the kindness of people in rural areas, where locals may invite you into their homes, even if you don’t speak a word of Vietnamese.

Why Friendliness Matters

A nation’s friendliness isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s an economic asset and a soft-power superpower. Tourists remember how they’re treated. Expats spread the word. And in an age of digital nomads and remote workers, friendly countries win not just hearts but long-term residents.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, a fresh start, or just looking to feel seen and safe, these ten nations prove that kindness is still alive—and it speaks every language.

The Philippines doesn’t crack the top 10 in the overall global “friendliest countries” list from 2025, but it still scores impressively in specific categories:

Friendly attribute (Global Soft Power Index 2025)

In Brand Finance’s Global Soft Power Index for 2025, the Philippines ranks 18th worldwide in the “friendly people” attribute, out of 193 countries, scoring particularly high on generosity, fun, and inclusivity.

Friendliness toward expats (InterNations 2023/2024 surveys)

According to InterNations’ expat surveys, the Philippines ranks 3rd globally for friendliness toward expatriates, with 86% of respondents saying locals are friendly and 72% finding it easy to make connections.