Cambodia voted friendliest country in the world!
In news that will likely again rile Thai netizens, Cambodia has been voted the friendliest country in the world, at least according to the popular travel companion “Rough Guides”.
The Rough Guides survey backs up a previous report by Expat Insider where 96% of expats stated that Cambodians are very friendly, and 85% agreed on the welcoming nature of the people.
To read about the Expat Insider Poll click here.
Friendliest country in the world – the Top 10
While Cambodia was voted number one, South-East Asian countries managed to nab 6 places within the top ten. Thailand alas could only manage fifth, not only being beaten by the Kingdom of Smiles, but also The People’s Democratic Republic of Laos.
The top 10 is as follows;
1. Cambodia
2. Philippines
3. Laos
4. Nepal
5. Thailand
6. Myanmar
7. Indonesia
8. Fiji
9. Scotland
10. Sri Lanka
Scotland is one of the more surprising entrants to the list, although few visitors would argue about Scottish hospitality, particularly when it comes to sharing a drink, or ten.
Cambodia voted friendliest country in the world – what does it mean?
For those of us that live here, it confirms what we already know: that Cambodians are really friendly and that this is a great place to live. On a wider scale though it should also help with tourism, if and when the country does decide to reopen.
Will Thailand be angry again?
No one can ever truly predict how nationalists and netizens will react in this digital age. Following the last poll, some Thai newspapers cried foul and called it “fake news”. Ironically showing the very bitter side to competition for being the “most friendly country in the world”.
You can read about the Thai reaction here.
Although in fairness fifth is still a very respectable place to find yourself and may well help with the planned November 1st reopening of the country to tourism.