Based on the number of properties that received one of its Traveller Review Awards in 2021, Booking.com reveals the 10 most welcoming destinations in the world. Booking.com reports that the “most welcoming destinations on Earth” were determined based on the highest percentage of winners relative to the total hotels in a region. Each country could appear only once and each continent only three times. A region had to have at least 500 eligible accommodations to be included.
Departing from the global ranking and specifically looking at Italy, the five most welcoming regions are:
- Basilicata
- Trentino Alto Adige
- Valle d’Aosta
- Molise
- Campania
The most welcoming destinations in the world
1 Taitung County, Taiwan
Located on the eastern coast of Taiwan, surrounded by mountains and the sea, Taitung County tops the list of the most welcoming regions in the world and is perhaps the most unspoiled area of Taiwan. If you choose to visit this area, you will be amazed by the richness of its diverse culture. Many tribes have settled in this region, each known for their traditions and ancient rituals that contribute to the area’s diversity. Each tribe deserves a visit during a stay in this county, especially for travelers interested in learning more about the different cultures of the countries they visit.
Where to stay: Located in Taitung, the Jerry B&B is a clean and modern family-run accommodation. The city center and Taitung night market are just minutes away, giving you the opportunity to comfortably explore the city on foot. The property is also within walking distance of Taitung Train Station, making it easy to explore this beautiful regional area by train.
2 , Slovakia
Known for its mountainous landscape, the Prešov Region is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers who enjoy long hikes and, in winter, skiing and snowboarding. The area is mainly known for the High Tatras, part of the Tatra Mountains, a mountain range forming a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and it is also the highest point in Slovakia. The High Tatras offer fantastic hiking opportunities and feature a network of 600 km of trails, perfect for experienced hikers. The area also offers beautiful lakes to explore by rowboat and scenic cycling routes to enjoy by mountain bike.
Where to stay: To admire the stunning mountain landscape upon waking, choose the Penzión pod Magurou, located in the beautiful village of Slovenská Ves, just meters from the famous ski resorts of Ľandy and Jezersko Bachledova. The property offers fantastic views and is the perfect place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy open spaces, fresh air, and the best of sport, fun, and relaxation year-round.
3 , Australia
The Australian island state of Tasmania is known for its wildlife and stunning landscapes: over 40% of its territory is made up of national parks and world heritage natural areas. The locals are very friendly and the island’s relaxed lifestyle will make you feel right at home. With its cooler climate compared to the rest of the country, this is one of the best wine regions in Australia. Although the island is renowned for its beautiful nature, the capital Hobart is definitely worth a visit. The city offers a nice mix of history, scenery, and culture, and is a perfect place for food lovers, with award-winning restaurants providing refined culinary experiences using the best products from Tasmania.
Where to stay: Enjoy Tasmania’s sea by staying at Little Talisker. This luxurious holiday cottage is located in Stanley, a coastal town in the northwest part of Tasmania, known for its incredibly well-preserved colonial buildings and its massive volcanic neck called “The Nut.” Here, you can wake up to an incredible beach view and easily explore both the surrounding area and the town’s most famous attraction, the Nut State Reserve, which is just a short walk away.
4 , New Zealand
Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the Canterbury region surrounds the city of Christchurch and is a diverse area known for its wild shores, clear lakes, lush vineyards, and snow-capped peaks. The best way to explore the region is by train, which will take you through the Southern Alps, including New Zealand’s highest point, Aoraki/Mount Cook. For those who prefer not to climb mountains, the surrounding area is just as stunning. Located in the center of the South Island and famous for its crystal-clear lake framed by mountains, the town of Lake Tekapo is definitely worth a visit. At night, the sky here is so full of stars that stargazing will be an incredible experience.
Where to stay: The Woodbank Park Cottages are ideal for a stay in the woods of Hanmer Springs. This standalone cottage offers luxury accommodation and will give you the feeling of living amidst nature. Here you can explore the area by hiking through the Hanmer Heritage Forest, which lies just steps from the property, or relax at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, a spa center famous for its mineral waters. For those who want to explore the city, Christchurch is less than two hours away.
5 , Canada
The Canadian province of Nova Scotia overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the influence of the sea on this land is undeniable when you visit. Here you’ll find fishing villages, picturesque lighthouses, and red cliffs. In summer, Nova Scotia is the perfect place to relax on the beach. Nature lovers can explore the hiking trails of Cape Breton, which offer splendid views of the eponymous Highlands National Park. For those who prefer urban vibes, Halifax is the main place to visit. The city offers great tourist attractions and, for food lovers, many local cuisine restaurants.
Where to stay: Located in the heart of Digby, the Hillside Landing B&B offers spacious accommodations with a view of the harbor of this town. The B&B is the perfect starting point to explore this charming fishing village and admire its colorful buildings and fishing boats. Since the area is famous for the well-known Digby scallops, you can easily visit one of the many nearby restaurants to sample this local delicacy.
6 Austria, Upper Austria
Upper Austria (Oberösterreich in German) is located in the northern part of the country, bordering Germany and the Czech Republic. The region is known for its beautiful hills and for the Danube, Europe’s second largest river, flowing through its green landscape. Here you can enjoy nature while taking long hikes and exploring the region by mountain bike on one of the many cycling paths. During winter, you can have fun on the slopes, as the area is also known for alpine and cross-country skiing. Culture enthusiasts will be amazed by the region’s picturesque towns, full of castles, streets, and historic buildings.
Where to stay: Located in the Austrian hills, the Haus Salzkammergut is the perfect place to stay and wake up to stunning views of the Austrian landscape. The property is located in the small town of Obertraun, less than a two-hour drive from the regional capital, Linz. You can enjoy fantastic hikes nearby and explore the surrounding area by car or bike.
7 , Argentina
Chubut is a province located in southern Argentina, between the Andes and the Atlantic Ocean, a position that allows visitors to enjoy the best of both worlds. While Patagonia is usually known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for adventurous travelers, Chubut also offers some wonderful coastlines, making it an excellent destination for relaxation and beach lovers as well.
Where to stay: Hotel Tolosa is centrally located in Puerto Madryn, a coastal city known for its beaches. The property offers rooms furnished in a modern style and is ideal for a relaxing stay. You can easily spend a day at the beach, as Puerto Madryn beach is just a few steps away from the property. To explore the city, the hotel also offers free bicycle rentals.
8 , Chile
Bound to the west by the Pacific Ocean and located to the east of Argentina, the O’Higgins region is a beautiful and diverse destination waiting to be discovered. The area is named after the “Father of Chile” and is rich in history, ideal for travelers who want to learn more about Chilean culture. The O’Higgins region is also known for its industries, as it hosts the world’s largest underground copper mine, El Teniente, and the picturesque site of Sewell, a UNESCO World Heritage abandoned mining town. Thanks to its vineyards and coastal towns, O’Higgins is a perfect place to visit for all types of travelers.
Where to stay: Wake up to views of green hills and stunning landscapes at Manulodge Matanzas. The property is located in Matanzas, a coastal village in the O’Higgins region famous for its beach, just a few steps away. For those who prefer some healthy relaxation, you can take a dip in the outdoor pool or pamper yourself at the property’s spa center.
9 , United States of America
Located between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, in the heart of the United States, Iowa is a destination off the beaten path well worth discovering. Iowa is the quintessence of rural America, where you can get to know up close the wildlife, farms, and typical prairie villages of America. Both rivers offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and canoeing, and are ideal for anyone passionate about water sports. On the western side of the region, the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway allows exploration of the rare and spectacular natural landscape of the Loess Hills region.
Where to stay: Enjoy tranquility at the Wildwood Lodge & Suites, a charming boutique hotel located in West Des Moines. The property has a really cozy feel, allowing you to completely relax and unwind after a day spent exploring the surrounding area, for example with a hike through the greener part of Greenbelt Park in Clive. Downtown Des Moines is just a 15-minute drive away, perfect for those who want to take a city trip during their stay.
10 , Brazil
Minas Gerais is a large inland state in southeastern Brazil, known for its colonial-era towns and definitely worth exploring. With its rich history, Minas Gerais is a perfect destination for those who want to learn more about Brazil’s culture and heritage. Be amazed by the beauty of the still-intact historic architecture of this region, which also offers a lovely mountainous landscape (many of its towns are actually built on a hill). Of the top five highest cities in Brazil, four are located in Minas Gerais.
Where to stay: Pouso Lar Doce Lar is a beautiful guest house located in Tiradentes, a town known for its colonial Baroque architecture. Just a few steps from downtown Tiradentes, the property will easily allow you to explore this picturesque historic town, walking the cobbled streets and enjoying the beauty of the colorful colonial buildings.
