The Friendliest Region on Earth

The friendliest region on Earth has been crowned — and it’s in the UK.

The UK’s worst kept secret is that people are friendlier up north. You only have to attempt to speak to a stranger on the tube to prove that theory. And now, new research has revealed the most welcoming region, not just in the UK, but across the world, is located in the north of the UK.

Claiming the coveted first prize to be the friendliest region on Earth was Perthshire in Scotland.

The ranking by Booking.com placed the county first, with Penghu, Taiwan in second place, followed by Boyacá, Colombia, in third. The region even beat out none other than Lapland, home to arguably the friendliest guy around, Santa Claus. The ranking was identified based on the share of accommodation providers receiving a Traveller Review Award 2024* from Booking.com.

But it’s not just friendly locals that makes the county worth visiting…

From forests and lochs to foodie hotspots, there’s something for everyone here. If it’s activities and the great outdoors you’re after, why not try a Highland Safari. It’ll be a bumpy ride in your Land Rover through the breathtaking countryside, where you’ll learn about the history and nature of the surrounding area. You might even catch sight of some red deer and golden eagles up ahead.

Sticking to the Land Rover theme, there’s also Wild Picnics. After a 30-minute off-road drive in the the vehicle (or an hour’s walk) you can enjoy a remote picnic nestled in a hut in the hills. There’s an extensive menu from pies, sandwiches, salads and soups to delicious brownies and pudding pots.

If you prefer to explore on two feet, there are several quaint villages worth a visit. There’s plenty of walking and cycling to be had on marked trails and routes. You’re also close to many a golf course in Perthshire, for all levels.

If you don’t fancy nine holes (it’s a good walk spoiled, after all) you can still book into one of Perthshire’s many fine dining restaurants or enjoy an afternoon tea.

For more exploring, go to the quaint village of Dunkeld, on the River Tay. The place is famous for it’s brightly coloured ‘little houses’ as well as a 1700s partly ruined cathedral. Use the village as a base for visiting The Hermitage, a forested area overlooking Black Linn waterfall, and Loch of the Lowes. This 130-hectare nature reserve’s star attraction is home to a pair of breeding ospreys, but there’s also red squirrels and fallow deer.

So, with train tickets from London to Perth for just £26.60, it’s time to book a trip to Scotland.

Source: Metro.co.uk/2024