Countries with the ‘host’ factor

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Countries with the ‘host’ factor

By THE NATION

 

 

Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Taiwan and India are the top five countries where locals consider hospitality to be in their DNA when comparing experiences of being a guest in their home country and being a guest aboard, according to research conducted by Booking.com across 21,500 travellers from 29 countries.

 

The website team uncovered what it is about these countries that make them so welcoming while delving into its more than 5.7 million listings of homes, apartments and other unique places to stay, to suggest friendly and inviting places in each of these destinations that have the host factor.

 

Thailand

 

Across all of the 29 nationalities surveyed, it was respondents from Thailand (85 per cent) who thought their country was more hospitable when compared to others. Most commonly known for its beautiful beaches and temples, it’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking to experience a warm welcome and immerse themselves in the local culture. Thailand also offers many opportunities for visitors to enjoy cultural activities such as experiencing the vibrant hill tribe culture.

 

Where to stay: If the culture vulture in you is bursting to break free, then Hongkhao Village, located outside the city centre of Chiang Mai, is the perfect accommodation and location for you. It’s a jungle paradise, offering an authentic Lanna culture style stay close to the Mae Ping River.

 

Guests are introduced to the highly recommended and helpful onsite staff who are known for assisting guests with any restaurant reservations and travel recommendations throughout their stays.

 

Indonesia

 

Indonesia, home to beautiful volcanic islands and Komodo dragons, will bring out the inner adventurer in everyone as you island hop across this beautiful and exotic destination. Visit the tropical island paradise of Nusa Penida and be mesmerised by the crystal clear waters and abundance of marine life. Hop on a traditional Jukung boat to Medan, the hub for cultural diversity and spend a full day on a private adventure, exploring the remote jungles of Bukit Lawang, learning about the animals and plants and enjoying a jungle lunch with your tour guide. But not only is Indonesia known for all of these, it is also known for its hosting as 83 per cent of Indonesians believe its country is more hospitable than others.

 

 

 Here to stay: Nestled on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida is the Kabeh Jati Garden Villa & Restaurant, your own piece of paradise that you can call home. After a relaxing nights stay in your wooden bungalow, take in the impressive vistas of the emerald waters from your private terrace or balcony. A friendly host will be on hand to arrange car hire so you can explore nearby sites such as the Nusa Penida Harbour and the white sands of Atuh Beach.

 

Mexico

 

Mexico falls into third place on the list of the countries where locals (77 per cent) believe they are more hospitable than other countries. The capital Mexico City caters to the modern traveler as it features upscale shops, fabulous restaurants to tickle your taste buds and beautiful museums. Mexico is also home to various stunning beaches, majestic mountain ranges, jungles and deserts for the adventurous type. Mexico offers something for every traveller and Mexican hosts are known for going above and beyond to offer their guests a warm welcome.

 

Where to stay: For a host that exceeds expectations, look no further than the selfcatering apartments of HomFor Napoles. Not only are guests provided with a fully equipped kitchen and a stunning terrace for those who want to enjoy their breakfast in the beautiful sunshine, but the host is also known for being friendly and going above and beyond.

 

 

Taiwan

 

Venture to Taiwan and discover why 77 per cent of Taiwanese travellers rated their country as providing the best hospitality. Many people visit Taiwan for its bustling nightlife and famous landmarks such as the Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum and the Shilin night market. But why not swap the hustle and bustle for a breath of fresh air? Take a trip to the idyllic crescent shaped Chishingtan Beach, or a relaxing stroll along the bank of the picturesque Liyu Lake or an adventurous hike through the Taroko National Park.

 

Where to stay: Located in the city of Hualien, Hualien Wow Hostel provides affordable accommodation, with both private and dormitory rooms and friendly staff offering the best local tips. In fact, Booking.com travellers rated the friendly staff as one of the top things they loved during their stay here. Take advantage of the 24hour front desk where staff can help organise various activities such as snorkelling, rafting, diving and cycling.

 

 

India

 

India is the home of cultural and historical hotspots such as the Taj Mahal, an iconic ivorywhite marble mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, Amber Palace, a palace constructed of red sandstone and marble and Hawa Mahal, another palace constructed of red and pink sandstone. With all of these interesting and beautiful attractions catering for travellers from around the globe, it’s evident why 75 per cent of Indians believe their country to be more hospitable than most.

 

Where to stay: If convenience is key, a stay at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata is the place to be. Located in the heart of Kolkata’s shopping and business district, the Oberoi Grand Kolkata offers guests an outdoor pool, gym and spa as a perfect retreat to relax in tranquillity. Once you have soaked in the pool or spent hours in the shopping district, you can splurge in your room where guests are offered 24-hour room service or take a quick trip downstairs to indulge in four fantastic dining options.

 

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/breakingnews/30370995

 

-- © Copyright The Nation 2019-06-14

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[RotMahKid]

I would have expected that booking.com would to a better research, they even dare to mention Chiang Mai.

Are they from this world or paid by TAT.