How important is a city’s friendliness to you? If it’s up there with activities, sights, food and wine, you may want to consider these destinations for your next holiday.
As part of its annual Traveller Review Awards, Booking.com has revealed its list of the 10 ‘Most Welcoming Cities on Earth’ – and one Aussie town features among the world’s friendliest destinations.
The online travel agent’s awards are based on over 309 million verified customer reviews, honouring 1.48 million accommodation properties, 449 rental car companies, and 129 taxi providers globally, with over 22,000 recipients in Australia.
This year, the awards list the Victorian village of Daylesford among the most welcoming places anywhere in the world. And anyone who’s been to the town can attest to its charm.
Reflecting a diverse range of destinations – from coastal towns and mountain retreats to desert hotspots – the list ranks Arraial d’Ajuda (Brazil) as the world’s most welcoming place, followed by Ermoupoli (Greece), Viana do Castelo (Portugal) and then Daylesford.
2024’s Most Welcoming Cities on Earth
- 1. Arraial d’Ajuda, Brazil
- 2. Ermoupoli, Greece
- 3. Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- 4. Daylesford, Australia
- 5. Grindelwald, Switzerland
- 6. Moab, United States
- 7. Uzès, France
- 8. Mazatlán, Mexico
- 9. Jaisalmer, India
- 10. Fujikawaguchiko, Japan
Closer to home, the OTA also unveiled a list of the ‘Most Welcoming Cities in Australia’, with the winning towns spread across the country.
2024’s Most Welcoming Cities in Australia
- 1. Daylesford, Victoria
- 2. Montville, Queensland
- 3. Maleny, Queensland
- 4. Hepburn Springs, Victoria
- 5. Ocean Grove, Victoria
- 6. Healesville, Victoria
- 7. Mount Tamborine, Queensland
- 8. Margaret River, Western Australia
- 9. Armidale, New South Wales
- 10. Mudgee, New South Wales
“Daylesford, located in Hepburn Shire is a uniquely beautiful town, known for its striking landscapes no matter the season, award-winning eateries and world-famous mineral springs and spa resorts,” said Brian Hood, Mayor of Hepburn Shire Council.
“With a distinct village feel, visitors are spoilt for choice with retail outlets, galleries and markets to explore. Daylesford also has an abundance of local festivals throughout the year that showcase its charm and many colours, including ChillOut, Australia’s largest regional LGBTIQA+ pride festival held annually in March.”
Booking.com Regional Manager for Oceania Todd Lacey said the awards acknowledge “the top-notch service our Australian partners provide to travellers and the critical role they play in our mission of making it easier for everyone to experience the world”.
“Behind each score or certificate is a whole year filled with real travellers, real experiences and real reviews, which is a core differentiator for providers to attract their next customers.”