The 12 Least Friendly Countries in the World

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When you are traveling around the world, you meet all sorts of people — some of whom welcome you with open arms and others who make you feel like you are crashing the party. There are some countries famous for being so warm and others less so. It could be cultural differences, or issues in the form of strained political relationships, or simply perspective, but there are some places where on the menu friendliness isn’t exactly the top seller. Sometimes it’s not about the people themselves but rather the overall vibe a country gives off can be, well, a little chilly.

That doesn’t mean that these places aren’t worth visiting now. Attractive sights, a rich history, something you won’t forget — they could still do that. Just prepare to brace yourself for less than enthusiastic locals. If you’re booking your next trip and are curious where the smiles are in short supply, here’s a rundown of some countries that are not exactly friendly.

Russia

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Ah, Mother Russia. Russia is famous for its towering architecture and deep history, but it’s also known as a bit cold, both literally and figuratively. Moscow and St. Petersburg may dazzle you, but the people may not. The country’s long standing political tensions have left some travelers feeling they aren’t welcome. You’re not going to be greeted with warm smiles or open arms, but if you’re respectful, you’ll be okay.

North Korea

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Probably not a surprise, this one. North Korea isn’t exactly known for handing out friendship bracelets, after all; the country has a strict regime and an isolated stance from much of the world. The country is very much monitored and you don’t interact much with locals often. You’ll be an observer, not a welcomed guest.

Saudi Arabia

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Saudi Arabia’s known for strict religious laws and conservative culture – so maybe it can seem a bit standoffish to outsiders. Westerners that aren’t used to the local customs may find the culture unfriendly. Things are slowly changing, thanks to the recent push for tourism, but friendliness isn’t necessarily the first thing you’ll experience.

China

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A country where hustle and bustle can take over you. People are often in a hurry in crowded cities like Beijing and Shanghai, and personal space? Not a thing. With a population of such vast proportion, people wouldn’t stop and start a conversation and other factors, for instance, language barrier can so isolate you from a real or close neighborhood. And the government’s grip on daily life can sometimes make it feel more closed off.

Germany

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In Germany, the trains are efficient, the way of life precise, and it might come off as a stern place. Germans aren’t unfriendly at all, they’re just very reserved. You’re not going to be met with huge smiles or small talk. Germans can be quite warm once you break the ice, however. Just don’t expect it upfront.

Iraq

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Iraq, war torn and riddled with conflict, is not a country one thinks of as the ideal travel weekend getaway. There are years of political instability, and suspicion is high, and warmth toward foreigners might be a short supply. The country has a deep history and culture, but it’s a hard place to feel welcome.

Afghanistan

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Like Iraq, Afghanistan has been in turmoil for decades. It’s a place where, because of the constant conflict and instability, locals and foreigners will be a little more guarded. It’s not a place for a friendly reception, but a complicated country trying to rebuild itself.

Venezuela

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Venezuela has seen its fair share of economic crisis, political upheaval and widespread poverty. The atmosphere is never exactly brimming with friendliness as a result. It’s about survival, and that creates a tense environment for visitors. But the country’s challenges can make it a tough place to feel welcome, it’s not personal.

Iran

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Although it is said that individual Iranians are actually quite friendly, the country’s overall reputation may put you off. To outsiders, Iran can feel like a closed off society with tensions with the West and strict laws about what you can and can’t do. They are often curious, not always warm.

India

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India is a country of contradictions. There are places where people are really friendly, and there are places where people can be really overwhelming and not so welcoming as a first time visitor. Travelers, however, can feel more like intruders than guests; the sheer volume of people, the chaotic streets and at times –invasive curiosity. How friendly you will find people can vary widely depending on where you go.

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Turkey

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It’s a beautiful country with a lot of history, but it’s definitely had its share of political instability in recent years. But with tension between various cultural groups, and often a less than harmonious relationship with Western nations, it often seems less inviting. Tourists do still enjoy their visits, but some feel a bit of distance from locals.

France

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Not that Paris is not the city of love but, perhaps, not the city of friendliness. The French have a reputation for being proud, and some visitors find that this can be interpreted as cold if you don’t speak the language. Parisians are not going to literally roll out a red carpet for visitors, but they do like polite people, and even a little attempt at the French language goes a long way. But outside of the cities, the vibe is usually warmer.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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