In the 2024 InterNations Local Friendliness ranking, Indonesia has been recognized as the 2nd friendliest country in the world. This ranking, based on a global survey of expats and foreigners, evaluates how welcoming the local population is toward both foreigners and fellow locals. It also considers how often locals socialize with foreigners and how satisfied expats feel about their social interactions in their new homes.
Costa Rica tops the list as the friendliest country worldwide, with Indonesia close behind in 2nd place. This is a testament to the warm and inviting nature of Indonesian communities, making the country an attractive destination for expats seeking not only beautiful landscapes but also genuine connections with the people they encounter.
In Southeast Asia, Indonesia is not alone in being recognized for its friendliness. The Philippines secured 4th place in the global ranking, praised for its hospitable culture and the ease with which expats can integrate into local communities. Viet Nam follows closely at 5th place, known for its vibrant cities and rich cultural experiences, coupled with a welcoming attitude toward newcomers. Thailand, with its world-famous hospitality, ranks 9th, reflecting the country’s consistent appeal to both tourists and expats.
Malaysia, while further down the list at 25th, is still noted for its friendliness, particularly in its diverse and multicultural cities where expats can feel at home amid a blend of cultures and traditions.
Southeast Asia’s Rising Reputation for Friendliness
The presence of four Southeast Asian countries in the top 10 highlights the region’s growing reputation for being expat-friendly. These nations not only offer stunning travel destinations but also provide a warm and inclusive environment for those looking to settle or work abroad.
Indonesia’s high ranking reflects its cultural values of kindness and communal harmony. In cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta, foreigners often comment on the eagerness of locals to share their culture, assist with language barriers, and form lasting friendships. The Philippines and Viet Nam share similar characteristics, with expats frequently highlighting the ease of making friends and feeling welcomed in their new environments.
Thailand, known for its “Land of Smiles” reputation, continues to be a top choice for both short-term visitors and long-term expats. Whether in bustling Bangkok or the serene islands, the friendliness of the Thai people plays a significant role in the country's appeal.
Friendliness as a Key Factor for Expats
The InterNations survey underscores the importance of local friendliness as a key factor in the overall happiness and well-being of expats. While factors like job opportunities, cost of living, and quality of life are critical, feeling welcomed and socially included in a new country can make a significant difference in an expat’s experience.
With their high rankings in friendliness, Southeast Asian countries are positioning themselves as attractive destinations not only for travel but also for long-term living and working. Expats in these nations often cite the ease of forming friendships and the supportive nature of local communities as major advantages.
As global mobility continues to rise, these countries are likely to attract even more foreigners seeking not just economic opportunities but also meaningful social connections.
