America might believe the Irish are the friendliest people on earth, and plenty of European neighbours would probably agree — though maybe not England (not that they’re in Europe anymore). But when it comes to official rankings, the picture looks a little different.
According to Globalstats’ 2025 list of the Top 20 Friendliest Countries, Ireland has landed near the very bottom, just one place above India. For a country that proudly trades on the phrase “Céad Míle Fáilte” — a hundred thousand welcomes — that’s a result that will surprise many.
Top 20 World's Friendliest Countries in 2025
01 🇲🇽 Mexico
02 🇧🇷 Brazil
03 🇵🇭 Philippines
04 🇮🇩 Indonesia
05 🇻🇳 Vietnam
06 🇴🇲 Oman
07 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
08 🇹🇭 Thailand
09 🇰🇪 Kenya
10 🇬🇷 Greece
11 🇵🇦 Panama
12 🇨🇴 Colombia
13 🇵🇹 Portugal
14 🇲🇾 Malaysia
15 🇧🇭 Bahrain
16 🇪🇸 Spain
17 🇹🇼… pic.twitter.com/w4AeANpYji— Global Statistics (@Globalstats11) March 17, 2025
Mexico came out near the top thanks to its vibrant traditions, music, and food that are celebrated worldwide. Tourists often describe the locals as warm and eager to connect, but the country still carries serious safety warnings from the US State Department, particularly in states like Sinaloa, Guanajuato, and Chihuahua, where violent crime remains a concern.
Brazil also scored highly, with more than eight out of ten expats saying they were struck by the generosity and friendliness of locals. Whether in Rio de Janeiro’s bustling streets or the remote stretches of the Amazon, Brazilians are known for their openness. Yet visitors are reminded to be careful, as issues of theft and violent crime persist, particularly for women travelling alone.
Further east, the Philippines is famed for smiles and easygoing charm, with locals quick to greet strangers like old friends. That warmth, however, exists alongside ongoing security concerns, with some regions still troubled by armed groups and sporadic violence.
Indonesia made the list thanks to its famously curious and welcoming locals, especially in areas where tourists remain rare. A smile and a respectful approach can open doors everywhere from bustling Jakarta to the quieter islands. Still, dangers such as flooding during monsoon season and cases of spiked drinks mean travellers must stay cautious.
Vietnam is another favourite, its people widely praised for their generosity and hospitality. Visitors often recall being invited to share food and stories with strangers, making it one of Asia’s most rewarding destinations. Its monsoon season can be treacherous, however, with storms and flooding between June and November.
Spain, even though it was ranked 16th on the list, deserves an honourable mention. The country is officially the most popular destination for Irish holidaymakers nowadays. Over 2.5 million visits are made every year from Ireland to Spain, making Spain the top European choice for holidays among us. Flights are frequent, many destinations are relatively close, the weather is appealing, beaches and food are big draws, and the hospitality plays its part. Irish people often travel to Spain not just for the sun, but for the nightlife — and with good reason. In cities like Barcelona and Madrid, nightlife kicks off late (often after 10pm), with locals enjoying long evenings filled with tapas, drinks, dancing, and street festivals — a contrast to the Irish norm, where evenings tend to peak earlier and pub culture dominates. In Spain, many bars, clubs, and beach venues stay open well into the early hours, with a lively mix of locals and tourists. It's safe to say, the good nightlife must have something to do with how popular this destination is to the Irish people.
But what about Ireland? Despite its global reputation for hospitality and the long-standing saying of “Céad Míle Fáilte” — a hundred thousand welcomes — the Emerald Isle ranked second from the bottom in this year’s list, just ahead of India. That placement will surprise many who see Ireland as a country where conversations with strangers come easily, and pub culture thrives on openness.
Globalstats notes that while Ireland’s charm is undeniable, issues such as petty crime in cities like Dublin were factored into the results. Pickpocketing and distraction scams are not uncommon in crowded areas, particularly around tourist hubs. Even so, the warmth of Irish people remains a cornerstone of its global image — with lively pubs, hearty food, and of course, a pint of Guinness all contributing to the sense of welcome.
The rankings highlight a paradox that applies worldwide: friendliness is real and deeply felt in many countries, but safety, infrastructure, and the traveller’s experience can tip the balance in unexpected ways. Ireland’s lower position on the list may sting, but for locals, the true test of welcome remains in the daily moments — a chat on the street, a story shared in a pub, or directions given to a lost visitor.
