While they are as different as different can be, there are some places in the world where travellers just feel at home. These are the special cities where you can walk into a bar or a coffee shop and just start connecting with people. Where you’ll randomly bump into someone who will end up a friend. These super-social cities are are must-visit destinations if one of your travel goals is to make new friends on the road.
Melbourne, Australia
One of the world’s most livable cities is Australia’s quirky cool kid, Melbourne. The people of Melbourne often seem relaxed and happy no matter what they‘re doing. Melbourne’s multicultural population also ups curiosity levels, helping people be more open and talkative about their backgrounds and experiences. Melbournians are mad about coffee so a coffee shop is probably a good place to start your visit. Strike up a caffeine-fueled conversation and make a point to get plugged into the city’s flurry of secret and quirky bars.
Dublin, Ireland
It’s pretty fair to say everyone likes having a pint in Dublin. It’s such a cosy place that it’s warming to everyone. Having a beer (or, if you want to do things properly, a Guinness) connects people and makes everyone just a tad happier. Dublin’s old-fashioned yet modern and progressive society enables both the tourists and locals to meet and get along.
Newcastle, England
Friendliness reigns in the north of England. Even if you can’t understand what some people are saying because of the thick Geordie accent, you’ll still be welcomed with open arms. Most of the time you’ll have a bit of banter with someone, local or otherwise, and then take a Jagerbomb shot. If the conversation didn’t start flowing before, it certainly will after.
Boracay, Philippines
Filipinos are some of the happiest people in the world, making them friendly and easily approachable. Anyone who’s been to the Philippines raves about the wonderful and warm people they’ve met along the way. The island of Boracay offers something for everyone, from must-try street food to gorgeous unspoiled beaches — and let’s not forget the popular Filipino pastime, karaoke. Share a cocktail and a song and you may just leave the country with a few new friends.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
One of the happiest and friendliest cities in South America, Buenos Aires is very European and filled with culture. The locals are laid back, and happily share their beautiful city with the influx of tourists who mix in the crowds. With its cosmopolitan vibe, Buenos Aires actually feels a little off-the-beaten-path compared to many other cities in South America. Whether you’re sharing a meal or dancing in the clubs, this Argentinian city always has something going on that will captivate you.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Home to the famous Angkor Wat temples, Siem Reap isn’t short on tourists. But there is more to it than these Khmer ruins. This city is sleepy for the most part with a friendly ambiance where locals and tourists mingle at markets, shops and festivals. Its array of restaurants, cafés and bars are easy going, making the city increasingly popular with expats.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a peaceful and historical city, surrounded by Buddhist temples and beautiful Japanese countryside. Expats who have moved here have openly said they still discover something new every day.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Often seen as the “real” Thailand, Chiang Mai is the country’s second-biggest city. Situated in the north of the “land of smiles,” Chiang Mai is an expat and traveller favourite. It has everything from bustling city life to quiet suburbs and exotic jungles. Because of its quiet ambiance, Chiang Mai often slips under the radar a little. But the friendly and amiable people who live here much prefer that side to the more chaotic bustle of Bangkok or the southern Thai islands.
Auckland, New Zealand
Lauded as one of the world’s friendliest cities, Auckland is filled with amazing sights and locals keen to show them off. Already a traveller hot spot, Auckland boasts beautiful surroundings, fresh air and a growing economy, giving Melbourne a run for its money when it comes to livability.
Galway, Ireland
If you ask world travellers about friendliness and good hospitality, Galway is sure to get a mention. Quay Street is a great place to start with bars, restaurants and cobbled medieval alleyways to explore. Even if this street feels a little like European cities such as Bath, Lisbon or Verona, Galway locals put their own spin on things, especially the humorous McDonaghs imitating a McDonalds sign. If you want to make friends, head down to this neighbourhood on a Friday night, and, by the end of it, you’ll be a few pints deep with some new mates.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has only recently been getting its due. It’s becoming more and more popular with travellers and expats. The restaurant scene ranges from tiny hidden tapas bars to incredible world-class fine dining restaurants. Wander the different districts of Barca, and you are bound to bump into fellow tourists, a friendly bunch of amigos or maybe even a soulmate.
The Florida Keys, United States
Located in southern Florida, there is nothing quite like the laid-back, easygoing charm of the sun-soaked Florida Keys. With a number of islands to choose from, there is something for every type of traveller. Snorkel off the coast of Key Largo, dine on fresh seafood and relax on Big Pine Key or sip on a daiquiri while exploring the relaxed nightlife on Duval Street in Key West.
