Why Mexico is celebrated as the friendliest country in the world

Mexico has just been named the friendliest country in the world for 2025.

This news comes from the Global Friendliness Index, a ranking that assesses how welcoming locals are to visitors.

The index found that Mexicans are not just friendly, but they are also incredibly helpful, making it easy for anyone to make friends and feel comfortable while exploring their beautiful country.

From bustling cities to tiny towns and sunny beaches, countless travellers and people who have moved there say that Mexico shines with everyday kindness, warmth and a strong sense of community.

Many visitors share stories of how locals go out of their way to help strangers, share food and introduce them to Mexico's rich culture and traditions.

According to these accounts, the welcoming experience makes people so happy that they often return time and again or even decide to make Mexico their new home.

"To be clear, 'friendliness' is entirely dependent upon each individual’s personal experiences - it is entirely possible to feel unwelcome in a friendly country or welcome in an unfriendly country, depending upon the people and situations.

"However, when enough personal experiences are combined, trends can and do emerge," shared a statement from the World Population Review. 

Brazil, the Philippines, Indonesia and Portugal followed Mexico in the rankings, highlighting a variety of welcoming global destinations.

Every year, countless people choose Mexico not just to visit but to live, work or retire permanently. 

In addition to being celebrated for its friendliness, Mexico boasts a remarkable culinary scene.

In the 2025 rankings for top cuisines, Greece holds the number one spot with a score of 4.60, thanks to its fresh Mediterranean flavours and time-honoured culinary traditions.

Italy follows closely behind with a score of 4.59, known for its iconic dishes that are loved around the globe.

Mexico earns a respectable third place with a score of 4.52, recognised for its vibrant spices, diverse regional dishes and deep cultural roots that influence food trends worldwide.

Close behind, Italy secures second place with 4.59, maintaining its global influence through iconic dishes beloved worldwide.

Meanwhile, Thailand has been named the best country to visit in your lifetime, celebrated for its rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Greece comes in second, admired for its beautiful architecture and crystal-clear waters, while Indonesia ranks third, known for its incredible natural beauty, from volcanic mountains to idyllic islands.

Portugal, Sri Lanka and South Africa make up 4th, 5th and 6th place, respectively.