Hosts who can boast; Booking.com reveals the top five destinations the locals swear by

There is nothing like a bit of local hospitality. But not all hospitality is created equal. To assess who’s best, global travel company Booking.com recently surveyed 21,500 travellers from 29 countries asking them to rate the quality of their local hospitality offering.

Booking.com then asked travellers to compare their experiences of being a guest in their home country vs. being a guest aboard. The results reveal the top five countries where locals consider hospitality to be in their DNA.

Thailand

Across all of the 29 nationalities surveyed, it was respondents from Thailand who thought their country was more hospitable when compared to others. Most commonly known for its beautiful beaches and temples, it’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking to experience a warm welcome and immerse themselves in the local culture. Thailand also offers many opportunities for travellers to enjoy cultural activities such as experiencing the vibrant hill tribe culture.

Where to stay: If the culture vulture in you is bursting to break free, then Hongkhao Village, located outside the city center of Chiang Mai, is the perfect accommodation and location for you. A jungle paradise, offering an authentic Lanna culture style stay close to the Mae Ping River. Guests of Hongkhoa Village are introduced to the highly recommended and helpful on-site staff who are known for assisting guests with any restaurant reservations and travel recommendations throughout their stays.

Indonesia

Indonesia, home to beautiful volcanic islands and Komodo dragons, will bring out the inner adventurer in everyone as you island hop across this beautiful and exotic destination. Visit the tropical island paradise of Nusa Penida and be mesmerised by the crystal-clear waters and abundance of marine life. But not only is Indonesia known for all of these, it is also known for its hosting as 83% of Indonesians believe its country is more hospitable than others.

Where to stay: Nestled on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida is the Kabeh Jati Garden Villa & Restaurant, your own piece of paradise that you can call home. After a relaxing night’s stay in your wooden bungalow, take in the impressive vistas of the emerald waters from your private terrace or balcony. A friendly host will be on hand to arrange car hire so travellers can explore nearby sites such as the Nusa Penida Harbour and the white sands of Atuh Beach.

Mexico

Mexico falls into third place on the list of the countries where locals believe they are more hospitable than other countries. The capital Mexico City caters to the modern traveller as it features upscale shops, fabulous restaurants to tickle your taste buds and beautiful museums. Mexico offers something for every traveler and Mexican hosts are known for going above and beyond to offer their guests a warm welcome.

Where to stay: For a host that exceeds expectations, look no further than the self-catering apartments of HomFor Napoles. Not only are guests provided with a fully equipped kitchen and a stunning terrace for those who want to enjoy their breakfast in the beautiful sunshine, but the host is also known for being friendly and going above and beyond.

Taiwan

Venture to Taiwan and discover why 77% of Taiwanese travellers rated their country as providing the best hospitality. Many travellers visit Taiwan for its bustling nightlife and famous landmarks such as the Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum and the Shilin night market. But why not swap the hustle and bustle for a breath of fresh air? Take a trip to the idyllic crescent shaped Chishingtan Beach or a relaxing stroll along the bank of the picturesque Liyu Lake.

Where to stay: Located in the city of Hualien, Hualien Wow Hostel provides affordable accommodation, with both private and dormitory rooms and friendly staff offering the best local tips. In fact, Booking.com travellers rated the friendly staff as one of the top things they loved during their stay here. Take advantage of the 24-hour front desk where staff can help organise various activities such as snorkelling, rafting, diving and cycling.

India

India is the home of cultural and historical hotspots. The Taj Mahal, an iconic ivory-white marble mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is the most well-known but there are thousands more to discover. With all of these interesting and beautiful attractions catering for travellers from around the globe, it’s evident why 75% of Indians believe their country to be more hospitable than most.

Where to stay: If convenience is key, a stay at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata is the place to be. Located in the heart of Kolkata’s shopping and business district, the Oberoi Grand Kolkata offers guests an outdoor pool, gym and spa as a perfect retreat to relax in tranquillity. Once you have soaked in the pool or spent hours in the shopping district, you can splurge in your room where guests are offered 24-hour room service or take a quick trip downstairs to indulge in four fantastic dining options.