Making friends in a new country can often be a challenging part of the expat experience. However, according to the latest report from InterNations titled "Finding Friends," several Southeast Asian countries have emerged as some of the easiest places in the world to form social connections. This report examines how expats across the globe rate the ease of making friends in their new homes, considering factors such as local friendliness, social involvement, and the strength of friendships.
Southeast Asia Leads in Friendliness
In the 2024 rankings, the Philippines stands out, ranking 2nd globally as one of the easiest countries for expats to make friends. Known for its warm and hospitable culture, the Philippines continues to provide a welcoming environment for expats. The widespread use of English further facilitates social interactions, allowing newcomers to connect easily with locals and build strong friendships. The country’s culture, which emphasizes close-knit communities and inclusiveness, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to form new social circles abroad.
Indonesia follows closely behind, ranking 4th worldwide. Whether in the bustling metropolis of Jakarta or the serene island of Bali, expats in Indonesia find it relatively easy to integrate into local communities. The country’s rich cultural diversity offers expats opportunities to engage with a variety of social groups, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a socially active lifestyle.
Thailand rounds out Southeast Asia's top performers, coming in at 8th place globally. Renowned for its friendly locals and vibrant expat communities, Thailand provides a conducive environment for building new friendships. The Thai concept of "sanuk," or having fun, encourages social interaction and creates an inviting atmosphere for both locals and foreigners.
Viet Nam and Malaysia: Still Welcoming, But Less Socially Accessible
While not in the top 10, Viet Nam ranks 15th, still placing it within the upper half of the 53 countries surveyed. As Vietnam continues to modernize and attract more expats, cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi offer growing opportunities for social integration. However, the process may be more challenging compared to higher-ranked countries.
Malaysia, at 24th, provides a multicultural environment that offers expats a chance to engage with various communities. Although making friends might be slightly more difficult here, the country’s diversity and openness still present ample opportunities for building connections.
Global Perspective
Globally, Mexico takes the top spot as the easiest country to make friends in 2024. The country’s reputation for warmth and hospitality, combined with its lively social culture, makes it an ideal destination for expats looking to form friendships quickly. Other top performers include Panama (3rd), Costa Rica (5th), and Brazil (6th), highlighting the strong social environments found across Latin America.
Methodology
InterNations’ "Finding Friends" report is based on extensive surveys conducted among expats living in various countries around the world. The rankings are determined by responses that gauge how easy it is for expats to make friends, the quality of those friendships, and the level of social involvement they experience. The survey aims to help expats understand how welcoming locals are and how well they can adapt and fit into their new environments.
Conclusion
Southeast Asia continues to shine as a welcoming region for expats, with the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand leading the way in fostering friendly and social environments. Whether in the vibrant cities of the Philippines or the culturally diverse communities of Indonesia and Thailand, expats in Southeast Asia are finding it easier than ever to make meaningful connections and build lasting friendships.
