Costa Rica: Tropical gem named world’s friendliest destination!

Costa Rica has been named the friendliest country in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveller, despite stiff competition from destinations such as Thailand, New Zealand, and Portugal.

Selecting a holiday destination goes beyond just picturesque scenery or attractions; local hospitality can significantly enhance or detract from the visitor experience. While some locations face the challenges of over-tourism, others embrace visitors, fostering a reputation for exceptional warmth.

In a recent announcement, Conde Nast Traveller revealed the friendliest tourist destinations, with Austria topping the list in Europe and Costa Rica being recognised as the friendliest outside of Europe.

The publication lauded Costa Rica, stating: "Taking the top spot, Costa Rica is home to dynamic rainforests, world-class surfing and, of course, friendly people. 'Pura Vida' (meaning 'pure life') is their national expression, used by locals as a greeting but also as a guiding principle.

The Costa Rican lifestyle is centred around positivity and gratitude, and this infectious optimism enriches the outlooks of visitors too."

Conde Nast Traveller also highlighted Costa Rica's growing reputation as a prime ecotourism destination, noting that a quarter of its territory is protected by conservation reserves.

Despite its modest size in Central America, Costa Rica attracts a diverse range of tourists and offers a stunning variety of landscapes. From lush jungles and bubbling volcanoes to serene beaches and rugged mountains, the country presents a wealth of breathtaking views within a compact area.

The official Visit Costa Rica website stated: "Costa Rica is one of the most highly valued tourism destinations on this planet. This small piece of land has all the necessary components to intrigue and continually satisfy the millions who visit each year."