The world’s most welcoming places for 2025 named: Chester is No.1 in the UK while America’s oldest city makes the top 5 on the global list

The most welcoming places on Earth for 2025 have been revealed – and it’s Sigiriya in Sri Lanka that’s No.1 overall, with Chester topping the ranking for the UK and coming 10th globally.

The rankings have been drawn up by Booking.com, with entries identified based on the number of Traveller Review Awards each has.

Sigiriya is a 180m- (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka’s Matale District that’s surrounded by around two-dozen hotels that are bookable on booking.com.

Following the Unesco World Heritage Site on the worldwide list are Cazorla, Spain (second); Urubici, Brazil (third); and Taupo, New Zealand (fourth), which Booking.com says has ‘serene landscapes and a warm and welcoming nature, with cosy cafes, and a vibrant local arts scene’.

Coming fifth is St. Augustine, Florida – which is the oldest city in America, having been founded in 1565.

The most welcoming places on Earth for 2025 have been revealed - and it¿s Sigiriya (above) in Sri Lanka that¿s No.1 overall. Sigiriya is a 180m- (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka's Matale District that's surrounded by around two-dozen hotels that are bookable on booking.com

The most welcoming places on Earth for 2025 have been revealed – and it’s Sigiriya (above) in Sri Lanka that’s No.1 overall. Sigiriya is a 180m- (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka’s Matale District that’s surrounded by around two-dozen hotels that are bookable on booking.com

Chester tops the ranking for the UK and comes 10th globally, with Booking.com describing it as 'a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture'

Chester tops the ranking for the UK and comes 10th globally, with Booking.com describing it as ‘a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture’

Newry, County Down, in Northern Ireland, has been voted the second-most welcoming place in the UK

Newry, County Down, in Northern Ireland, has been voted the second-most welcoming place in the UK

The rest of the global list comprises Orvieto, Italy (sixth); Manizales, Colombia (seventh); Quedlinburg, Germany (eighth); and Ko Lanta in Thailand (ninth). 

Speaking about northern city Chester’s win, Booking.com said: ‘The historic gem offers a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture, all nestled within well-preserved city walls.

‘Known for its friendly locals and vibrant community spirit, Chester exudes a warm, inviting charm that leaves visitors feeling truly at home.’ 

Completing the rest of the eight-strong UK ranking are Newry, County Down (second); Enniskillen, County Fermanagh (third); Portstewart, County Londonderry (fourth); Woolacombe, Devon (fifth); Haworth, West Yorkshire (sixth); Newcastle, County Down (seventh); and Cheddar, Somerset (eighth).

MOST WELCOMING PLACES IN THE WORLD AND UK 2025, FROM AMERICA’S OLDEST CITY TO A HISTORIC GEM IN CHESHIRE

MOST WELCOMING IN THE WORLD 

1. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

2. Cazorla, Spain

3. Urubici, Brazil

4. Taupo, New Zealand

5. St. Augustine, United States

6. Orvieto, Italy

7. Manizales, Colombia

8. Quedlinburg, Germany

9. Ko Lanta, Thailand

10. Chester, United Kingdom

MOST WELCOMING IN THE UK 

1. Chester, Cheshire

2. Newry, County Down

3. Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

4. Portstewart, County Londonderry

5. Woolacombe, Devon

6. Haworth, West Yorkshire

7. Newcastle, County Down

8. Cheddar, Somerset

Source: Booking.com 

 

Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, in Northern Ireland, takes the bronze medal for the UK ranking

Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, in Northern Ireland, takes the bronze medal for the UK ranking

Cazorla, Spain, is Europe's highest entry - it's rated the second-most welcoming place in the world

Cazorla, Spain, is Europe’s highest entry – it’s rated the second-most welcoming place in the world

Urubici, Brazil, is the third-most welcoming place in the world, according to Booking.com

Booking.com based its awards on more than 360million verified customer reviews, evaluating the hospitality, service and standards of travel accommodations, activities and transport purveyors.

Only customers that have stayed at an accommodation, rented a car or rode in a taxi can leave a review of their experience on Booking.com.

Booking.com said: ‘This year’s Most Welcoming Places on Earth list highlights a diverse array of destinations from around the globe.

‘Whether it’s coffee farms and pristine beaches or medieval hideaways and jungle towns, these destinations showcase the world’s diverse charm and hospitality, inspiring unforgettable adventures in the year ahead.’

Taupo, New Zealand, comes fourth overall, with Booking.com praising its ‘serene landscapes and warm and welcoming nature’

Florida's St. Augustine is the oldest city in America, having been founded in 1565, and comes fifth on the global list

Florida’s St. Augustine is the oldest city in America, having been founded in 1565, and comes fifth on the global list

Source link

Visited 1 times, 1 visit(s) today

Related Article

Can an online lifestyle plan keep your brain sharp? Research says yes

Could an online program help protect your brain? New research shows that a personalized digital intervention targeting diet, exercise, and mental well-being can slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk in at-risk older adults. Study: An online multidomain lifestyle intervention to prevent cognitive decline in at-risk older adults: a randomized controlled trial. Image Credit: pathdoc / Shutterstock

These 31 Health Products Will Change Your Life

Fitness Get moving with these exercise essentials that can help you sweat confidently during each and every workout. Level up your fitness with these stylish and suprisingly functional wrist and ankle weights. Available in 1-pound and 2-pound weights, Bala Bangles add a constant yet comfortable resistance to your workout. You can wear them on walks,

Residents gradually choosing healthier diets | News, Sports, Jobs

There seems to be a trend of healthier eating, especially during the first month of the year. According to UnityPoint Health – Marshalltown Dietician Jessica da Silva, January is a popular time for people to make resolutions and refocus on building a healthier lifestyle. “That said, we don’t have to wait until the start of

Discover Wellness at West Park Rehab’s Free Event

FRANKLIN, Pa. (EYT) – Step into a world of health and wellness at West Park Rehab’s Free Wellness Event. Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This exciting event is set to take place at West Park Rehab located at 571 Pone Lane, Franklin, PA 16323. This event is

Analysis of health data reveals one in every two individuals has a lifestyle disorder

Photograph used for representational purposes only | Photo Credit: REUTERS A recent study has found that one in every two individuals has lifestyle disorders. The study, done as part of India’s 76th Republic Day by Redcliffe Labs, analysed health data from 2.8 million individuals across the country. Among respondents 52% were men and 48% were

The solution to reduce childhood obesity: educating teachers, students and parents in the Nestlé-supported progam – Granny’s Healthy Bag

The educational program “Granny’s Healthy Bag – Education for a healthy lifestyle” organized by the Healthy Traditions Foundation and supported by Nestlé has achieved remarkable results in improving the eating habits of school children participating in this project. Specifically, the percentage of overweight or obese children has visibly decreased year after year, according to annual

Being exposed to this noise can harm your heart health 💔

Living near an airport could cost more than just sleep. A recent study reveals that exposure to airplane noise, especially at night, alters the structure and function of the heart, increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular diseases. Noise pollution doesn’t just disrupt our peace. It also attacks our heart health. British researchers analyzed cardiac imaging

Luke Coutinho launches ‘You Care Lifestyle’ to ensure authenticity in health and wellness products

Luke Coutinho, the wellness and lifestyle expert and entrepreneur Narendra Firodia have launched an independent verification and authentication platform You Care Lifestyle, to bolster the health and wellness space in India. The venture has been launched through the ‘Pink Tiger’ stamp initiative, where onboarded brands will undergo rigorous multi-stage third-party testing and help consumers identify

From seated exercises to stretching & more

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any exercise, physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Researchers are encouraging healthcare providers to prescribe physical activity to seniors. (Image via Getty

Luke Coutinho and Narendra Firodia launch ‘You Care Lifestyle’ to verify wellness products, ET HealthWorld

Mumbai: Wellness expert Luke Coutinho and entrepreneur Narendra Firodia have launched an independent platform called ‘You Care Lifestyle‘ to verify and authenticate health and wellness products in India. The platform will use the ‘Pink Tiger’ stamp, which involves rigorous third-party testing to ensure product quality and transparency. The co-founders have invested up to $1 million

Cervical cancer and menopause: How are they connected? Doctor explains | Health

Cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection due to human papillomavirus (HPV), leading to abnormal cell formation in the cervix. Some of the common symptoms of cervical cancer are vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain and swelling. On the other hand, menopause marks the end of the reproductive years for a woman. Often, menopause comes with hormonal

Dr. Odle: Goal-oriented mindset can ring in health benefits for the New Year

Dr. Leo Odle (Submitted Photo/DigitalFreePress) By Dr. Leo Odle | Thoughts on Innovation Setting resolutions for 2025 is a simple way to start A new year brings new resolutions that can lead to improvements in daily habits as well as health benefits for many older Americans. In fact, according to a 2020 study, older adults

Too much screen time? Eye-healthy foods and habits to protect your vision | Health

Screens are omnipresent, and screen time is at an all-time high. Whether it’s at your workplace that requires working on a laptop or the convenience of a wide array of entertainment shows and movies at the tap of our finger. Simply put, screens dominate our lives. We live in a hyper-connected digital world with multiple

Exploring motivation, goals, facilitators, and barriers to adopt health behaviors at retirement age: a focus group study | BMC Public Health

Facilitators and barriers Participants identified various facilitators and barriers for a healthy lifestyle in general, most of them observed for both diet and physical activity, but some were specific to each. Usually, facilitators and barriers overlapped. For example, participants identified having more time as an expected facilitator, and lack of time as a barrier (additional

Is the diabetes epidemic being ignored? Join TOI Medithon part-6 as experts discuss management, symptoms and prevention

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide, characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. Raising awareness about diabetes is critical because it helps people recognize symptoms early. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes through timely interventions, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments.Education on diabetes

what if the solution lies in your lifestyle? 🥗

A study followed 346 participants suffering from chronic low back pain and presenting at least one lifestyle-related risk factor, such as obesity or sedentary behavior. Half of them benefited from the HeLP (Healthy Lifestyle Program), which combines consultations with physiotherapists, dietitians, and health coaches. For six months, participants received personalized advice to improve their diet,

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x