Aussie state named the most welcoming place on Earth

One Australian state has bee named the "most welcoming place on Earth" in Booking.com's annual list of most friendly destinations. 

South Australia has claimed the prestigious title, with ten regional towns also being recognised for their hospitality. 

The travel bookings website based its finding on more than 360 million verified customer reviews, with Croatia, Portugal, Argentina, Mexico and Vietnam also receiving honourable mentions for their welcoming locals. 

“Our Booking.com partners go above and beyond to help create memorable travel moments,” the website’s Oceania manager, Todd Lacey, said.

“We’re thrilled to see South Australia recognised on the global stage this year, and are looking forward to continuing to support our local partners as they welcome visitors to the state’s world-class events, wine regions and scenic landscapes.”

South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison welcomed the announcement, saying, “It’s no news to locals, but now the world knows that South Australia is among the most welcoming regions in the world."

"The fact that this highly regarded accolade is based on more than 360 million reviews on the leading travel site, Booking.com is an honour and will put our state on the consideration list of engaged potential visitors worldwide,” she said.

“From the Adelaide Hills to Kangaroo Island, from the Barossa to the Murray River and the Flinders Ranges, guests will always be warmly welcomed in South Australia.”

The travel website also named Australia's top ten most welcoming towns, with Victoria and Queensland boasting the most winners. 

Check out the list below. 

10. Orange, NSW

9. Daylesford, Victoria

8. Halls Gap, Victoria

7. Port Lincoln, SA

6. Bicheno, Tasmania

5. Ocean Grove, Victoria

4. Mudgee, NSW

3. Margaret River, WA

2. Maleny, Queensland

1. Montville, Queensland

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