The Most Welcoming Countries for Tourists

We’ve all been there: We visit a foreign country, stop to ask for directions, try to order a coffee or do something incredibly simple, and are met with scowls and hisses from the locals because we are one of “those tourists.” It’s an uncomfortable feeling and in no way contributes to an enjoyable experience in an unfamiliar land.

The World Economic Forum collected data from countries around the world and compiled a list of the world’s friendliest places for foreigners to visit. The pertinent information reflects a location’s ability to host large numbers of visitors, including the availability of lodging, rental cars, ATMs and other aspects that contribute to the overall tourism infrastructure. Here are the report’s leading best suited for new visitors.

Austria

With every major car rental company available, Austria ranks highest in terms of creature comforts and conveniences. English is widely spoken and Austrian culture is not too different from other Western nations, making it easy to adapt.

Spain

The highest spot on the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness survey goes to this nation on the Iberian Peninsula, easy for foreigners to navigate and has the ninth-largest number of hotel rooms per capita.

Portugal

Coming in behind its Iberian neighbor is Portugal, whose tourism infrastructure ranks high in terms of safety, security and open-mindedness to other cultures.

This Alpine country comes in near the top for safety, security and environmental sustainability. English is widely spoken and the popularity of outdoor sports draws hordes of tourists each year, making the country well equipped for the masses.