oleh admin | Mar 16, 2025 | culture, living abroad, relocation, Travel, world
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A survey conducted by InterNations among expatriates living in 53 different nations worldwide revealed some insights.
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EXPLORE FURTHER: As a seasoned traveler, here are some of Europe’s least-known gems you shouldn’t miss
A recent survey has unveiled which nation ranks as the most welcoming place for expatriates globally, placing an Central American location at the top of the chart.
The outcome stems from a survey conducted by
InterNations
, a guide for expats, where foreigners living in 53 different countries worldwide were asked to rate their adopted homes.
Foreigners were queried regarding their social activities, if they felt like they had settled in, how easily they adapted to the cultural environment, and the amiability of the locals.
Therefore, where are the most welcoming locations for expats to relocate?
The friendliest…
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
tops the list as the most welcoming nation for expats looking to move abroad.
Most expatriates (88 percent) find themselves very welcomed in Costa Rica, and 83 percent report feeling at home there.
Over one-third (35 percent) believe that adapting to the local culture is quite simple, as opposed to only 21 percent globally.
A Canadian expatriate shares with InterNations: “The residents here are typically kind and delightful individuals. Over time, you get accustomed to embracing the ‘Pura Vida’ way of life in Costa Rica.”
With nine out of every ten expatriates deeming the locals as welcoming, it comes as no shock that 58 percent find forming friendships with people from this area quite straightforward.
Mexico
Mexico secures the second spot in the rankings thanks to high scores for its welcoming inhabitants.
Nearly 75 percent (73 percent) of expatriates report being satisfied with their social lives in Mexico, and an impressive 85 percent say they feel welcomed there.
According to 67 percent of expatriates, making local friends is straightforward. However, only 31 percent mention that most of their friends are Mexican, which significantly exceeds the worldwide average of 17 percent.
An American expatriate shares with InterNations: “Making social connections appears to be significant for locals, hence their enthusiasm in befriending newcomers, such as expats.”
The Philippines
Over forty percent of expatriates (41%) residing in the Philippines, which holds the third position on the ranking, mention that their primary friendships are with locals.
Nearly 70 percent (specifically 69 percent) of expatriates find it easy to make local friends in the Philippines, whereas 68 percent express satisfaction with their social lives in this Southeast Asian nation.
A UK expatriate shares with InterNations: “I adore the relaxed and unrestricted way of life here. People are always ready for a conversation.”
Almost eight out of ten expatriates feel welcomed in the Philippines (85 percent), and roughly four out of five (78 percent) report feeling at home there.
The least friendly…
Kuwait
Kuwait is ranked as the least welcoming nation for expatriates. Just one-fourth of these individuals feel welcomed in Kuwait (26 percent), and nearly half (49 percent) do not feel at home there.
Slightly less than half (47 percent) of the respondents find it challenging to adapt to the local culture, whereas merely 22 percent express satisfaction with their social life in Kuwait.
Over half (53 percent) of the expatriates interviewed mentioned that their friendships are limited to other foreigners residing in the Middle Eastern nation.
This might be due to the fact that 61 percent of expatriates mention finding it challenging to form friendships with locals in Kuwait.
Norway
Norway is placed near the bottom of the rankings. Many expatriates struggle to form local friendships in this Scandinavian nation, as indicated by 67 percent who say it’s challenging for them. Additionally, 49 percent express dissatisfaction with their social lives.
Fewer than half of the residents in Norway (49 percent) report feeling at home, whereas 40 percent perceive the locals as unwelcoming.
Foreigners also struggle to adapt to the local culture in Norway – and having language skills doesn’t appear to make much of a difference.
An expatriate from Kenya told InterNations, “Regardless of how proficient my Norwegian language abilities have become, I still struggle to form friendships with Norwegians.”
Germany
Germany likewise performs poorly, placing third from last in terms of friendliness with 32 percent of expatriates feeling unwelcome there.
Less than 40 percent (39 percent) of expatriates consider locals friendly in Germany, whereas 65 percent mention difficulty in forming friendships with people from the area.
A foreigner from the Czech Republic shares with InterNations: “Making friends with Germans can be challenging because typically, they tend to stick with their group of pals formed back in nursery school or during their education.”
THE MOST HOSPITABLE NATIONS FOR EXPATRIATES
1. Costa Rica
2. Mexico
3. The Philippines
4. Indonesia
5. Brazil
6. Thailand
7. Panama
8. Colombia
9. Kenya
10. Greece
11. Spain
12. Oman
13. Vietnam
14. Egypt
15. Portugal
16. UAE
17. Cyprus
18. Bahrain
19. China
20. Australia
21. New Zealand
22. Qatar
23. South Africa
24. Malaysia
25. Saudi Arabia
26. India
27. Hong Kong
28. USA
29. Ireland
30. Singapore
31. Belgium
32. Malta
33. Italy
34. France
35. Japan
36. South Korea
37. Poland
38. Luxembourg
39. Canada
40. Turkey
41. Netherlands
42. UK
43. Chile
44. Hungary
45. Denmark
46. Switzerland
47. Czechia
48. Sweden
49. Austria
50. Finland
51. Germany
52. Norway
53. Kuwait
Source:
InterNations
Read more
oleh admin | Mar 16, 2025 | thailand, Travel, travel destinations, travel in asia, travel recommendations
According to a recent report from the exclusive guided luxury travel service Kensington, Thailand was the sole Southeast Asian country featured among the top 10 best places for solo travelers around the globe this year.
The report stated that nations such as India and Thailand received high rankings due to their rich historical and cultural offerings.
Thailand has long been famous for its golden pagodas, friendly locals and favorable visa policy.
Renowned for its enchanting culture, dynamic food scene, and stunning natural scenery, Thailand excels as an ideal spot for individuals traveling alone.
India topped the list, followed by Italy and Japan.
Completing the list of the top 10 solo travel destinations were Egypt, Thailand, Australia, Spain, Iceland, France, and New Zealand.
The report draws upon insights from “affluent” travelers, utilizing data from Kensington’s year 2024 reports along with findings from two external surveys carried out in collaboration with Opinium Research and Dig Insight.
oleh admin | Mar 15, 2025 | asia, culture, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
Japan and South Korea continue to be favored getaways particularly for Filipinos. Both of these East Asian nations are renowned for their deep-rooted cultural traditions, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes.
Interestingly, online travel agency Agoda revealed in a recent survey that 84-percent of travelers are eager to discover new destinations this year.
This tendency enhances the attraction of discovering hidden gems in less-traveled areas across Japan and South Korea, providing new adventures in these popular spots, particularly for visitors who have been to these nations several occasions before.
For individuals looking for distinctive experiences far from typical tourist hubs, insurtech company Igloo recommends these off-the-beaten-path locations in Japan and South Korea. These destinations provide an excellent chance to discover something new and remarkable.
Each nation provides a mix of old-world charm and contemporary offerings that strongly appeal to Filipino tourists, who value ease of access, bustling urban centers, and activities suitable for families.
1. The Tottori Sand Dunes located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, lie close to the Sea of Japan and just beyond downtown Tottori. These expansive dunes provide an oasis of desert scenery. Covering a distance of 16 kilometers, visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding or riding camels here. Additionally, one can appreciate the remarkable natural formation which has taken millennia to develop through wind action carrying river sands from the Sendaigawa River onto the coastline. For more artistic displays, head nearby to the Sand Museum where you can see detailed sand art created by renowned global sculptors.
2. Shirakami Sanchi, located within Aomori and Akita Prefectures in Japan, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This untouched woodland features towering ancient beeches, cascading waterfalls like Anmon Falls, and tranquil hiking paths. Believed to have stood for approximately 8,000 years, this primeval forest reportedly served as an inspirational backdrop for Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film “Princess Mononoke” from 1997. To experience serenity, you can wander around these majestic falls or reach the summit of Mount Shirakami for panoramic vistas.
3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong, South Korea: Travel back through history as you explore Hahoe Folk Village, recognized by UNESCO for maintaining ancient Korean traditions with its classic hanok dwellings. Situated in Andong, this vibrant open-air museum provides insight into the customs of the Joseon Dynasty era. Be sure not to overlook their captivating mask dances and relish genuine Andong jjimdak, an aromatic steamed chicken delicacy.
4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island, South KoreaThis hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang, South KoreaImmerse yourself in the verdant expanse of Damyang Bamboo Forest, famously called Juknokwon. Here you can meander along serene trails flanked by soaring stalks of bamboo, creating an idyllic setting for relaxed strolls. Known for its culinary delights inspired by bamboo, this location invites visitors to savor specialties like bamboo rice and bamboo-infused ice cream, perfect treats for enthusiasts of gourmet experiences.
How to journey safely and with flair
The charm of lesser-known spots stems from their capacity to provide an alternative experience—escaping typical touristic throngs and diving into pristine landscapes and authentic traditions. Discovering these locations can feel akin to revealing a clandestine treasure, rendering each instant uniquely special and unforgettable. Picture yourself perched at the peak of the Tottori Sand Dunes, basking in the vastness of this desert oasis, or meandering along the serene trails of Namiseom Island, enveloped by the vivid hues of fall foliage.
The timing is crucial when you visit these lesser-known treasures. Going during the low season lets travelers enjoy the locations at their calmest moments—be it strolling through Shirakami Sanchi’s untouched paths or wandering around Oedo Botania’s verdant grounds sans the usual throngs of tourists. This way, individuals can get plenty of opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the ambiance and genuinely bond with nature.
Getting to these locations frequently turns into quite an expedition, whether you’re enjoying picturesque ferry trips or navigating twisty bus routes; this makes your voyage an integral aspect of the outing. It’s wise to scout out transport alternatives beforehand for a more seamless excursion, plus utilizing local travel passes might cut down on expenses as well as reduce travel duration.
To fully enjoy these places, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Interact with residents, listen to their tales, and relish distinctive foods such as Andong jjimdak or specialities from Tottori Prefecture. A basic greeting in either Japanese or Korean could lead to heartfelt talks and cherished moments.
When you’re organizing your journey, keep in mind that lesser-known spots might present certain difficulties like being far-flung or having sparse amenities. That’s why all-encompassing travel insurance plays a crucial role. Created together with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master provides safeguards against personal injuries, delayed flights, missing baggage, health crises, and also includes protection from Covid-19 related issues.
Discovering secret spots isn’t merely about visiting different locations; it’s about crafting distinct recollections and encountering the globe with a sense of individuality and awe. Begin your preparations now and allow lesser-trodden paths to guide you towards indelible moments.
oleh admin | Mar 13, 2025 | Travel, travel destinations, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations, vacations
Timing is everything for
budget-conscious
visitors planning for their summer vacation.
Although June and July are prime traveling times, August frequently provides the most attractive deals. Marking the beginning of the late-summer shoulder period, August boasts pleasant temperatures accompanied by smaller crowds and reduced expenses.
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Find Out:
5 Actions to Take Once Your Savings Hit $50,000
Here’s why August stands out as the quintessential summer month.
most budget-friendly for travel
.
Generating extra income can be quite simple.
You may begin this week.
Shoulder Season Begins
According to travel professionals, the timeframe from late August to mid-September is referred to as the shoulder season since it marks the shift from high summer travel activity to the onset of fall tourism. During this interval, prices generally decrease.
“Typically, as summer progresses, travel becomes more affordable,” stated Steve Schwab, the CEO.
Casago
, a vacation rental and property management business. “Most people usually require or at least appreciate having some downtime before schools reopen to ensure things are organized, leading to a decrease in holidays towards the latter part of August. Additionally, August often turns out to be significantly hotter and drier than June in many locations.”
Explore More:
5 Budget-Friendly International Getaways You Can Explore in 2025
Demand Drops
Mercedes Zach, a travel specialist at
ASAP Tickets
, part of
Trevolution Group
As stated, the demand for flights and lodging usually drops, leading to lower prices.
Consequently, numerous hotels, airlines, and tour organizers provide reduced rates during August to draw additional tourists and maintain their competitiveness,” stated Zach. “Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that expenses related to travel may differ considerably based on your chosen location. As an illustration, coastal getaways in warm climates or regions hosting major events could still be quite pricey all through August.
Europe Is More Affordable
Late August is an ideal time for cost-effective travelers looking to enjoy Europe since prices drop once the local population returns from summer vacations. Furthermore, numerous sites stay operational yet offer shorter queues and reduced expenses during this period.
One of the top destinations for an inexpensive summer getaway this season is Southern Europe, particularly led by Spain and Greece,” Zach mentioned. “Places such as cities like Barcelona and Madrid, along with island getaways like Mallorca and Ibiza, typically provide better deals during August once the major tourist crowds have subsided.
June and July
.”
Travelers looking for budget-friendly options might want to explore coastal towns that remain pleasant but see smaller crowds as the month draws to a close.
“Some of the excessively crowded Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos might remain expensive, whereas destinations like Crete, Rhodes, and Thessaloniki tend to become more budget-friendly by late August,” according to Zach.
Cheaper Transportation
Following an analysis of 40,000 airline routes during the summer season, Jesse Neugarten, who serves as both the CEO and founder of the company, revealed the findings.
Dollar Flight Club
, indicated that the reduction in demand might lead to fare reductions of 10% to 15% when compared to June and July levels.
For instance, well-liked destinations in Europe like Rome or Barcelona frequently offer lower fares after the peak travel month of July,” explained Neugarten. “Within the United States, locations such as Orlando and Las Vegas tend to see reduced costs during August too. These cities boast numerous flight options with multiple carriers. Consequently, when demand decreases due to fewer bookings, ticket prices typically drop.
For vehicle rentals, Mark Mannell, who serves as CEO and co-founder,
Car Rental Savers
As stated, prices decrease after Aug. 15.
Mannell stated, “We examined the overall cost of car rentals reserved over the past three summers. According to our study, the most affordable month to book a car rental is undoubtedly August. Typically, August prices were approximately 10% lower compared to the others.”
June or July
.”
Mannell advised that those planning to capitalize on August offers ought to make their reservations early.
Mannell pointed out that some destinations become fully booked during the summer and prices skyrocket at short notice. For spots such as Alaska and Yellowstone, he suggested making reservations up to a year ahead of time.
Top Offers for Low-Cost Off-Peak Getaways
Travelers who aren’t concerned about destinations with the
August rainy seasons
Or scorching summer heat might earn you discounts for the August vacations.
Zach mentioned that for those planning an economical trip through Southeast Asia, August presents a wonderful opportunity since it falls outside the peak season. This means destinations such as Bali, Bangkok, Krabi, and Vietnam tend to be more affordable. However, visitors should be prepared for some rainy weather and higher humidity levels.
Due to the
late-summer rainy season
Additionally, all-inclusive resorts and flight packages to Mexico and the Caribbean might provide better deals in August.
“Frequently, it involves heat and hurricanes,” Zach stated. “Nevertheless, it’s an ideal period to steer clear of
massive tourist crowds
and high prices.”
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The Least Expensive Summer Month for Travels
oleh admin | Mar 13, 2025 | asia, islands, thailand, Travel, travel destinations
This year, Bali, Indonesia’s famous vacation spot, was named Asia’s most stunning island at the yearly Reader’s Choice Awards presented by travel magazine DestinAsian.
The Maldives took the second spot, with Boracay in the Philippines and Phuket in Thailand following closely behind.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s biggest island, secured the fifth spot. Completing the top ten list were Palawan from the Philippines at sixth place, followed by Thailand’s Koh Samui, Malaysia’s Langkawi and Penang, and Indonesia’s Lombok rounding off the rankings.
These accolades honor the best locations, accommodations, air carriers, and travel services throughout Asia, as determined by ballots cast by countless travelers globally. The list emphasizes superior service standards, exceptional travel encounters, and above all, customer contentment.
Bali has earned widespread acclaim for its deep-rooted cultural legacy, which combines elements of Hindu-Balinese customs. This includes elaborate dances, mesmerizing ceremonies, and historic temples.
In 2024, Bali saw an influx of 6.3 million international travelers, exceeding numbers from before the pandemic, with plans to welcome around 6.5 million visitors this year.
oleh admin | Mar 13, 2025 | ancient rome, croatia, culture, tourist attractions, Travel
Stunning amphitheaters, grand imperial palaces, and lost urban centers—Croatia boasts an extraordinary legacy from antiquity, reflecting a time when Rome held sway over the Adriatic coast. Across the nation, formidable ruins continue to endure, resisting the passage of years as they narrate tales spanning hundreds of generations. Spanning the opulence of rulers to remnants of daily existence, these six locations offer essential stops for anyone seeking insight into classical times.
Boasting a rugged coastline and ancient cities, Croatia conceals remnants of a splendid history under its cobblestone streets and rolling hills. From antiquity onwards,
The Romans have molded this region.
, constructing theaters, forums, villas, and fortresses that still stand as testaments to their legacy.
Today, these awe-inspiring remains still captivate tourists who wish to explore history and magnificence throughout their visit. Every location provides a compelling look into an age when Rome influenced legislation, customs, and design across the area.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, these articles can assist you in selecting your itinerary:
-
This island off the coast of Dubrovnik is waiting to be explored immediately.
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Croatia: 5 Culinary Specialties to Try During Your Stay in the Thousand-Island Country
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Croatia offers a delightful culinary experience with these five must-try dishes when visiting this archipelago nation.
—
If you’re planning a visit to Croatia, make sure to sample these five traditional local specialties during your trip through the land of numerous islands.
-
In the Balkans, the landscapes and people come alive through the pen of Rebecca West.
6 historic locations you shouldn’t miss when visiting Croatia
The Pula amphitheater stands as a stony colossus suspended in history.
At the center of the Istrian Peninsula lies Pula, home to an astounding Roman amphitheater. Perched above the Adriatic Sea, this monumental structure was initially constructed during the reign of Augustus and subsequently enlarged by Emperor Vespasian in the 1st century.
st
a century, which could formerly accommodate as many as 23,000 spectators.
The majestic arches continue to stand tall, resisting decay and serving as a testament to the glory of past gladiator contests. Nowadays, the sounds of savage animals have been supplanted by music performances and cultural celebrations, infusing fresh vitality into this enduring landmark.
Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a testament to imperial extravagance
At the center of Split
, vibrant narrow streets hide one of the most impressive historical royal palaces constructed during the early 400s.
th
For Diocletian, this immense structure combines a luxurious palace with formidable military defenses.
The arched hallways, stone-paved courtyards, and meticulously maintained shrines transport guests into the grandeur of an emperor who selected Dalmatia for his refuge. Beyond being merely an artifact, this structure is deeply integrated within the urban tapestry; today, its pillars serve as supports for cafes and bazaars, whereas its subterranean areas continue to resonate with echoes from ancient times.
Salona, the long-lost city of Roman Dalmatia
A short distance away from Split lies Salona, where extensive remains sprawl across what was once a prosperous area. Serving as the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia, this thriving commercial center had a population exceeding 60,000 residents until it was laid waste by barbarian attacks.
In today’s scene, the breeze meanders among the ruins of an amphitheater partly crumbled into dust, with vestiges of ancient bathhouses and basilicas standing tall like memories from when traders, warriors, and politicians frequently intersected within this flourishing metropolis.
The Roman Forum of Zadar, the vibrant core of an ancient city spanning a millennium.
Located by the seaside, Zadar preserves a Roman forum at its core, featuring remnants that underscore the city’s significant position in ancient times. Established during the reign of Emperor Augustus, this extensive paved area served as both the administrative hub and economic center of the city.
Isolated pillars, remnants of ancient sanctuaries, along with pieces of colonnades, continue to rise, etching history onto the stones. Surrounding these testaments to the past, the city thrums with vitality, featuring bustling cafes and an archaeological museum that prolongs the exploration of times gone by.
Burnum, a military encampment established within stone
Away from the well-trodden route, Burnum watches over.
the dry terrain of the Dalmatian inland regions
Here, you won’t find opulent villas or intricately designed shrines; instead, you’ll see the remnants of a military encampment where Roman soldiers were stationed.
The starkly elegant amphitheater stands as testament to the amusement provided for the troops, whereas the remnants of the aqueduct highlight Roman innovation. This less-frequented location immerses tourists in the unforgiving and tactical environment of old military outposts.
The ruins of Nesactium, an obscure Illyrian settlement.
On the outskirts of Istria lies Nesactium, which showcases remnants of an early civilization active prior to Roman times. Situated atop a hill between the villages of Muntić and Valtura, this archaeological site uncovers the ruins of a fortified town featuring large stonewalls, shrines, and burial grounds that reflect age-old traditions.
Defeated by Rome in the 2nd century.
nd
In the 1st century BC, the area was redesigned following imperial city-planning principles, featuring bathhouses and sanctuaries devoted to deities of Roman mythology. These remnants can still be seen amidst the oak and olive groves today.
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