These are apparently the world’s ‘most polite’ countries, according to a new survey

Though it might not sound like the biggest of travel dealbreakers, visiting somewhere that makes you feel welcome is down to the attitudes of the locals, and it can make a world of difference to your experience. 

That’s why financial services provider Remitly has done some research into the most well-mannered countries on the planet. They surveyed 4,600 people from 26 different countries, based on their perception of their own politeness, and also where they’ve travelled and been welcomed by polite people. 

Japan topped the list of the world’s politest countries, with more than a third (specifically, 35.15 percent) of respondents describing the place as polite. It’s hardly surprising – the nation has a worldwide reputation as a place that places great emphasis on respect and social harmony, with a language built on honorifics and bowing to greet people as standard practice – so clearly it’s accurate. 

Canada follows in second place with a politeness score of 13.5 percent, and the UK claims third place with 6.23 percent. This pair actually have a lot in common when it comes to perceptions about their politeness – a tendency to over-apologise and frequent use of ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. Oh, and don’t forget about the UK’s staunch attitudes towards queuing – what’s more polite than that, eh?

Rounding out the top five are China and Germany, but scroll on to see the top 25 most polite countries on the planet.

The 25 politest countries in the world right now

1. Japan
2. Canada
3. United Kingdom
4. China
5. Germany
6. Philippines
7. Sweden
8. Denmark
9. Finland
10. South Africa
11. Australia
    = Switzerland
12. United States
13. India
14. Ireland
15. New Zealand
16. Norway
17. Netherlands
18. Thailand
    = France
19. Brazil
20. Spain
21. Belgium
22. Italy
23. Austria

Read the research in full on Remitly’s official website, and have a browse of Time Out’s own research into friendliness below. 

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