Based on the number of properties that received one of its 2021 Traveller Review Awards, Booking.com reveals the world’s 10 friendliest destinations. Booking.com says the “Friendliest Destinations on Earth” were determined by the highest percentage of winners relative to total hotels in a region. Each country could only appear once and each continent could only appear three times. A region had to have at least 500 eligible properties to be included.
Moving away from the global ranking and looking specifically at Italy, the five most welcoming regions are:
- Basilicata
- Trentino Alto Adige
- Valle d'Aosta
- Molise
- Campania
The friendliest destinations in the world
1 Taitung County, Taiwan
Located on the east coast of Taiwan, surrounded by mountains and sea, Taitung County tops the list of the friendliest regions in the world and is perhaps the most pristine area in Taiwan. If you choose to visit this area, you will be amazed by the richness of its varied culture. There are many tribes that have settled in this region, each known for its traditions and ancient rituals that contribute to the diversity of the area. Each tribe is worth a visit during a stay in this county, especially for those travelers interested in learning more about the different cultures of the countries they visit.
Where to stay: Located in Taitung, the Jerry B&B it is a clean and modern homestay. The city center and Taitung Night Market are just a few minutes away, giving you the opportunity to conveniently get around the city on foot. The property is also within walking distance of Taitung Railway Station, making it easy to explore the region's beautiful area by train.
2 , Slovakia
Known for its mountainous landscape, the Prešov Region is the perfect destination for adventurous travellers who enjoy long hikes and, in the winter season, skiing and snowboarding. The area is best known for the High Tatras, part of the Tatra Mountains, a mountain range that forms a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and is also the highest point in Slovakia. The High Tatras offer fantastic hiking opportunities and have a network of 600 km of trails, perfect for experienced hikers. The area also offers beautiful lakes to explore by rowing boat and scenic cycling routes to enjoy on a mountain bike.
Where to stay: To admire the splendid mountain landscape when you wake up, choose the Penzión pod Magurou, located in the beautiful village of Slovenská Ves, a few meters from the famous ski areas of Ľandy and Jezersko Bachledova. The property offers fantastic views and is the perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy open spaces, fresh air and the best of sport, fun and relaxation all year round.
3 , Australia
The Australian island state of Tasmania is known for its wildlife and beautiful landscapes: over 40% of its territory is in fact made up of national parks and world heritage natural areas. The locals are very friendly and the relaxed island lifestyle will make you feel at home immediately. With its cooler climate than the rest of the country, this is one of Australia's best wine regions. Although the island is renowned for its beautiful nature, the capital Hobart is definitely worth a visit. The city offers a beautiful mix of history, scenery and culture and is a perfect place for food lovers, with award-winning restaurants providing fine dining experiences using the best Tasmanian produce.
Where to stay: Enjoy the Tasman Sea by staying at Little Talisker. This luxury holiday cottage is located in Stanley, a coastal town in the north-west 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 view of the beach and easily explore both the surrounding area and the city's most famous attraction, the Nut State Reserve, which is just steps away.
4 , New Zeland
Located on the South Island of New Zealand, the Canterbury region surrounds the city of Christchurch and is a diverse land known for its wild coastlines, 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 up into the mountains, the surrounding area is equally stunning. Located in the center of the South Island and famous for its crystal clear lake with mountains as a backdrop, the town of Lake Tekapo is definitely worth a visit. At night, the sky here is so full of stars that observing them will be an incredible experience.
Where to stay: Il Woodbank Park Cottages is ideal for a stay in the woods of Hanmer Springs. This detached cottage offers luxury accommodation and will give you the feeling of living in the middle of nature. Here you can explore the area by hiking through the Hanmer Heritage Forest, which is just a short walk away, or relax at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, a spa 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 is located on the Atlantic Ocean, and the influence of the sea on this land is undeniable when you visit. There is no shortage of fishing villages, picturesque lighthouses and red cliffs. In the summer, Nova Scotia is the perfect place to relax on the beach. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the hiking trails of Cape Breton, which offer beautiful views of the eponymous Highlands National Park. For those who prefer an urban vibe, Halifax is the main place to visit. The city offers excellent tourist attractions and, for food lovers, many restaurants serving local cuisine.
Where to stay: Located in the heart of Digby, theHillside Landing B&B offers spacious accommodation overlooking the port of this town. The B&B is the ideal starting point for exploring this charming fishing village and admiring its colorful buildings and fishing boats. As the area is known for the famous Digby scallops, you can easily visit one of the many restaurants close to the property for a taste of this local delicacy.
6 Austria, Upper Austria
Upper Austria (Oberösterreich in German) is located in the northern part of the country, on the border with Germany and the Czech Republic. The region is known for its beautiful hills and the Danube, the second largest river in Europe, flowing through its green landscape. Here you can enjoy nature while going on long hikes and exploring the region by mountain bike on one of the many cycle routes. During the winter, you can have fun on the slopes, as the area is also known for alpine and cross-country skiing. Culture buffs will be amazed by the region's picturesque towns, filled with castles, streets and historic buildings.
Where to stay: Located in the Austrian hills, theHaus Salzkammergut it's the perfect place to stay and wake up to a beautiful view of the Austrian landscape. The property is located in the small town of Obertraun, less than two hours' drive from the region's capital, Linz. You can go on great hikes near the property 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 location that allows those who visit to enjoy the best of both worlds. While Patagonia is usually known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for adventurous travellers, Chubut also offers some stunning coastline, making it a great destination for relaxation and beach lovers too.
Where to stay: The Hotel Toulouse is centrally located in Puerto Madryn, a coastal town 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 short walk from the property. To explore the city, the property also offers free bicycle rental.
8 , Chile
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and Argentina to the east, the O'Higgins region is a beautiful and diverse destination waiting to be discovered. Named after the “Father of Chile,” the area is a historically rich destination for travelers who want to learn more about Chilean culture. The O'Higgins region is also known for its industries, as it is home to the world's largest underground copper mine, El Teniente, and the picturesque site of Sewell, an uninhabited mining town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.UNESCO. With vineyards and coastal towns, O'Higgins is a great place to visit for travelers of all types.
Where to stay: Wake up to a view of green hills and beautiful landscape at Manulodge Matanzas. The property is located in Matanzas, a coastal village in the O'Higgins region famous for its beach, which is within walking distance. For those who prefer to enjoy a bit of healthy relaxation, it is possible to take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or pamper yourself in the property's wellness centre.
9 , United States of America
Located between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers in the central United States, Iowa is an off-the-beaten-path destination worth discovering. Iowa is the epitome of rural America, where you can get up close and personal with the wildlife, farms and villages of the American prairie. Both rivers offer boating, fishing and canoeing opportunities, and are ideal for anyone with a passion for water sports. On the west side of the region, the Loess Hill National Scenic Byway allows you to explore the rare and spectacular natural landscape of the Loess Hills region.
Where to stay: Enjoy the tranquility at Wildwood Lodge & Suites, a lovely boutique hotel located in West Des Moines. The property has a truly welcoming feel, allowing you to completely relax and unwind after a day exploring the surrounding area, for example with a hike through the greenest part of Greenbelt Park in Clive. Downtown Des Moines is just a 15-minute drive away, perfect for those who want to take a trip into town during their stay.
10 , Brazil
Minas Gerais is a large inland state in the south-east of Brazil, it is known for its colonial-era cities and is well 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 historical architecture of this region, which also offers a beautiful mountainous landscape (many of its cities are in fact built on high ground). 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 city known for its colonial-era baroque architecture. Just a short walk from the center of Tiradentes, you can easily explore this picturesque historic town, wandering the cobblestone streets and enjoying the beauty of the colorful colonial buildings.
