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This UK city has been named one of the world’s friendliest destinations

It was beaten to the top spot by an Italian resort town

Amy Houghton
Written by
Amy Houghton
Contributing writer
York
Photograph: Shutterstock
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There’s nothing better than being made to feel at home in a foreign city. You may just be finding your way around a new place (and the language barrier can be intimidating), so any kind gestures from strangers are always sure to become a lasting memory. 

Here in the UK the people of Yorkshire are considered some of the warmest people in the country. And if you were looking for any confirmation, this is it. According to Booking.com, the city of York has been named one of the ten most welcoming destinations worldwide, coming sixth in an official ranking from the booking platform. The number-one spot, meanwhile, went to Italian resort town Polignano a Mare.

The ranking is based on the proportion of accommodation options in each location that received a Booking.com Traveller Review Award, which rewards commitment to excellent service and hospitality. So next time you find yourself wandering York’s cobbled streets, don’t be shy, get to know the locals. You’ll be glad you did. 

Here are the world’s ten most welcoming destinations, according to Booking.com:

  1. Polignano a Mare, Italy
  2. Hualien City, Taiwan
  3. San Sebastián, Spain
  4. Dresden, Germany
  5. Klaipeda, Lithuania
  6. York, UK
  7. Ushuaia, Argentina
  8. Porto De Galinhas, Brazil
  9. Mexico City, Mexico
  10. Gold Coast, Australia

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