One of the best parts of travelling is meeting new people: locals who welcome you in, or fellow wanderers swapping stories over street food. In some places, it’s easy: the culture is open, friendly, and instantly warm. In others, connections take a little more time. You'll find both across Asia, from destinations famed for their charm to places where friendliness unfolds quietly, but genuinely.
So, where are the most welcoming places in Asia? Travellers know best – which is why Condé Nast Traveller asked its readers for the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards to vote on the friendliest cities and countries around the globe. We're glad to say that Asia shines bright, with destinations from Singapore to Bhutan making the cut. If you’re after a heart-warming getaway, these are the spots to put on your list.
Asia's friendliest cities
Singapore (#4)
Despite its reputation as a fast-paced, competitive city, Singapore ranks impressively high with a friendliness score of 95, sharing joint fourth place with Florence, Italy. Convenience is king here: the city boasts a world-class transport system, unparalleled cleanliness, and air-conditioned malls everywhere (to combat that humidity). The friendly locals are the icing on the cake.
Kyoto (#10)
With a score of 92.73, Kyoto edges out Tokyo to claim the 10th spot on CN Traveller’s global list. The former capital of Japan is dotted with Buddhist temples, palaces, shrines, and charming wooden houses. Its ever-polite, mannerly locals add to its timeless appeal.
Asia's friendliest countries
Bhutan (#4)
Scoring 97.78, Bhutan is officially the friendliest country in Asia. A Buddhist kingdom nestled in the majestic Himalayas, it lives by values of compassion, mindfulness and non-violence. This is evident in its use of the Gross National Happiness Index (over purely economic measures), and its commitment to sustainable development. As CN Traveller puts it, Bhutan is "as friendly to the planet as it is to the people".
Cambodia (#5)
Cambodia scores 97.33 on the friendliness scale, just a hair under Bhutan. CN Traveller attributes the warmth of this country to the Theravada Buddhist faith practised here. Whether you're in its capital Phnom Penh or the far-flung countryside, you'll be greeted by hospitality rooted in "metta", an unconditional love of all beings.
Vietnam (#6)
Vietnam's been having a moment. It's one of 2025's hottest destinations, with travellers flocking to its underrated beaches in Phu Quoc and Da Nang, as well as tranquil towns like Hue. One more reason to visit: welcoming residents – earning the country a score of 97.27 and sixth place on this list of the world's friendliest countries.
Thailand (#8)
There's a reason that Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles". This backpacker haven ranks joint eighth on CN Traveller's global list with a score of 96.36. From idyllic beaches in the south to cool mountain trails in the north (not to mention the irresistible energy in Bangkok), there's tons to experience in Thailand. One things for sure: you'll find warm hospitality everywhere.
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