60% live in the Reykjavik metro area. An outdoor lover's paradise, it has volcanos, glaciers, and hot springs. There are good time indoors, as well. Many head out to bars at midnight or later.
2. Oceania
Not Australia-lite. Life isn't as stressful as in 'the bush' across the Tasman Sea. Kiwis are laid back and check all the 'friendly' boxes: family-friendly, LGBT-friendly, eco-friendly, LOTR nerd-friendly.
3. Africa
Leave time tables and rigid schedules home. One of the most pleasant activities in Morocco: Tea in a cafe. You'll be roped into a conversation by locals and learn more than you ever thought possible.
4. Europe
Macedonia: A confluence of Balkan, Greek, and Ottoman/Turkish cultures. Old and new intermingle is unique and odd ways. Tourism is year-round with beaches for summer and skiing for winter.
5. Europe
Austria is breathtaking, both culturally and geographically. It offers some of the best alpine excursions and outdoor activities of any country in the world. Austrians are also keen to show off their cultural gems as well. Mozart? Ever heard of him?
6. Africa
Fear of Ebola was a detriment to the culturally-rich (and Ebola-free) country of Senegal. Cosmopolitan luxury beach resorts dot the coastal areas, but inland you can see giraffes, rhinos, and hippos.
7. Europe
Portugal is one of the most-visited destinations by the British, particularly the city of Faro. It might seem all that the Portuguese do is party. This is a country of festivals; the more people the merrier!
8. Europe
Bosnia and Herzegovina has one of the highest tourism growth rates in the world. Skiing, rafting plus the nearby Mediterranean place the country in a prime location, to say nothing of the locals who welcome visitors with smiles and helpful advice.
9. Europe
The Irish are so known for being friendly that it's almost a cliché. Besides its overall high welcoming rating, Ireland also gets superior marks on lists for single female travelers. Visit a pub, order a beer, and prepare to engage in some warm conversation.
10. Africa
The Burkinabé people are warm, welcoming and lively. Large open-air markets, overflowing with handmade crafts and surrounded by upbeat music, make for a unique travel experience.
Rank / Continent
Country
Explanation
131. Asia
Mongolia's is still tainted by its communist past. Its private tourism industry is a mere 20 years old. As the least densely populated nation on earth (3 people per mi2), the locals are wary of an influx of tourists.
132. Europe
Like many other former satellite states of the U.S.S.R., infrastructure in Bulgaria can be lacking in remote villages. There are many tourist facilities, but it's best to research their condition before you arrive.
133. Europe
Folk culture in Slovakia's heartland thrives, making for a truly unique experience. However, tourists are sometimes seen as a commercialized threat.
134. Asia
Pakistan is awash in cultural history, but the political climate of the region doesn't inspire confidence in safe, successful travel, particularly for Westerners.
135. Asia
Many governments advise against all non-essential travel to Iran. This is a particular shame because the well-educated and welcoming people of Iran seem at odds with the firebrand governmental officials.
136. Europe
Riga, Latvia's capital city is a cosmopolitan area, but in the small regional towns, you can get a true sense of the interplay between native Latvian and Russian cultures. The cultural interplay can be a touchy subject, so it's best to not voice any political opinions.
137. Asia
Kuwaiti people are warm, but Western customs can be problematic. As a Muslim country, alcohol is illegal and eating publicly during the day in Ramadan is not suggested. Also, it's best not to discuss politics.
138. Europe / Asia
Russia has a deep cultural history but government bureaucracy and corrupt cronyism can mar a visit. If you can stand the hassle (visitors need an invitation letter to apply for a visa), you'll be greatly rewarded.
139. South America
Venezuela's hasn't had a well-developed tourism industry, but this may change with Hugo Chávez's death. Violent crime ranks among the highest on earth, particularly toward foreign travelers.
140. South America
37 official languages: Bolivia has the highest proportion of indigenous peoples in Latin America, many on track to disappear. Tourists are viewed with skepticism. Exchanging dollars for bolivianos? They better be in newly minted and crisp condition; no tears or badly worn bills will be accepted.
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