Vacations with the ‘host factor’: Booking.com uncovers the top countries with hospitality in their DNA

Research conducted by Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travelers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, across 21,500 travelers from 29 countries reveals that Thailand (85%), Indonesia (83%), Mexico (77%), Taiwan (77%) and India (75%) are the top five countries where locals consider hospitality to be in their DNA when comparing experiences of being a guest in their home country vs. being a guest abroad.

Booking.com uncovers what it is about these countries that make them so welcoming while delving into its more than 5.7 million listings of homes, apartments and other unique places to stay, to suggest friendly and inviting places to stay in each of these destinations that have the ‘host factor’.

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 travelers seeking to experience a warm welcome and immerse themselves in the local culture. Thailand also offers many opportunities for travelers 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 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 mesmerized by the crystal clear waters and abundance of marine life. Hop on a traditional ‘Jukung’ boat to Medan, the hub for cultural diversity and spend a full day on a private adventure, exploring the remote jungles of Bukit Lawang, learning about the animals and plants and enjoy a jungle lunch with your tour guide. 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 nights 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 travelers can explore nearby sites such as the Nusa Penida Harbor 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 traveler as it features upscale shops, fabulous restaurants to tickle your taste buds and beautiful museums. Mexico is also home to various stunning beaches, majestic mountain ranges, jungles and deserts for the adventurous type. 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 travelers rated their country as providing the best hospitality. Many travelers 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 or an adventurous hike through the Taroko National Park.

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 travelers 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 organize various activities such as snorkeling, rafting, diving and cycling.

India

India is the home of cultural and historical hotspots such as the Taj Mahal, an iconic ivory-white marble mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, Amber Palace, a palace constructed of red sandstone and marble and Hawa Mahal, another palace constructed of red and pink sandstone. With all of these interesting and beautiful attractions catering for travelers 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 tranquility. 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.

For those who have hospitality in their DNA, visit https://join.booking.com/homeowners/?aid=1755241 to join the 5.7 million listing already on Booking.com, which include everything from homes and apartments to igloos and tree houses.