Cambodia Named 5th Friendliest Country in the World by Condé Nast Traveller
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Cambodia has been recognised as the fifth friendliest country in the world, according to the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, further solidifying its reputation as a destination defined by warmth, hospitality, and cultural depth.
With an impressive score of 97.33 out of 100, Cambodia ranked ahead of regional neighbours Vietnam (6th place, 97.27) and Thailand (8th place, 96.36). The award reflects feedback from thousands of global travellers who participated in the annual survey conducted by the luxury British travel magazine.
“As a predominantly Theravada Buddhist country, Cambodia is centred around the concept of ‘metta’ — a Pali term roughly translating to unconditional love for all beings. It comes as no surprise then that the Cambodian people greet visitors with universal and heart-warming kindness, regardless of their background,” the magazine commented in its official release.
A Legacy of Hospitality
At the heart of Cambodia’s appeal is not just its ancient wonders and scenic landscapes, but the genuine warmth of its people. From the lively streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s riverfront capital, to the spiritual majesty of Angkor Wat — the world’s largest religious monument — visitors consistently cite interpersonal experiences as the country’s greatest treasure.
While urban centres draw tourists with food, art, and history, rural Cambodia offers an entirely different kind of intimacy. Condé Nast highlighted Khmer homestay schemes, which provide immersive experiences in silk-weaving villages and family-run farms, as exemplary of the nation’s people-first approach to tourism.
“The land itself is home to major cities, such as Phnom Penh, as well as the magnificent Angkor Wat Temple… But head to the rural regions to truly get under the skin of the place,” the magazine added.
Regional Standout in Southeast Asia
Cambodia’s placement marks a significant moment in the country’s post-pandemic tourism recovery, as it continues to attract travellers seeking authentic, welcoming environments. Outranking several tourism heavyweights — including Vietnam and Thailand — underscores Cambodia’s growing stature on the global stage.
Global Rankings: Who Took the Top Spot?
Kenya topped the 2025 list with a score of 98.46, praised for its spirited culture and strong community ties. It was followed by Barbados (98.18), Mexico (98.00), and New Zealand (97.75), rounding out the top four.
Cambodia’s fifth-place finish is not only a national honour but also a sign that the Kingdom’s quiet charm is being noticed worldwide.
A Win for Cultural Tourism
As global travellers shift focus toward meaningful, people-centric journeys, Cambodia’s emphasis on cultural heritage, humility, and community-led tourism appears to be paying off. With this new recognition, local stakeholders are hopeful it will drive responsible tourism growth in the years ahead.
The Ministry of Tourism has welcomed the news, stating that the ranking reflects the nation’s ongoing efforts to promote not just destinations, but the spirit of the Cambodian people.
“This is a proud moment for Cambodia. Our people have always been our greatest ambassadors,” a ministry spokesperson said. “We invite the world to come experience our hospitality firsthand.”
About Condé Nast Traveller
Condé Nast Traveller is a globally renowned British travel publication known for curating high-end and authentic travel experiences. Its annual Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most respected in the travel industry, based on direct feedback from its global readership.
Final Thoughts
As Cambodia climbs higher on the global travel radar, its recognition as the fifth friendliest country in the world is a testament to a deep cultural philosophy rooted in empathy, generosity, and respect. For travellers seeking more than just sights — but human connection — Cambodia is ready to welcome with open arms.
