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“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Qatar. Slavery is basically legal.

The1TrueRedditor , Oleksandr P Report

Final score:

133points

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eric p 1 month ago

But, oil...

12points

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Never leave the hotel in Egypt as an underaged girl without your parents. Even if you're with them you probably will be followed and hit on by older creeps, but they won't do anything when you're not alone.

PhiloPhocion:

The harassment is out of control. My first visit was with family and there were people calling out the lewdest comments about my literally 10 year old sister and our mum. Second visit in my early 20s was with a group of friends including two women, who were physically grabbed or touched by strangers saying lewd comments if we weren't literally standing shoulder to shoulder with them.
The scamming and conning is also out of control. Scams are everywhere, including in areas that most tourists would think are relatively safe (i.e. scammers working on official areas around major tourist sites, even sometimes right at the doors of official areas dressed in pseudo official uniforms, with no pushback from officials). And even officials themselves - I can't tell you the number of friends I've had who have had some form of having cameras or electronics seized by customs for no reason or 'spot check passport reviews' where your passport is taken unless you can pay the cop some pocket money.
I absolutely loved Egypt - its food, its sites, and most of its people are incredible warm and welcoming. But holy hell it makes it hard to love sometimes.
It gets a little better outside of Cairo but I advise literally everyone going to mentally prepare themselves and if they don't know anyone there already, to just hire a guide to at least help avoid the worst of the harassment and scams.

anon , Alex Azabache Report

Final score:

114points

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Shark Lady 1 month ago

You also have to look out for the guides though, there are many that will also rip you off.

32points

To learn more about places where travelers might not necessarily want to return to, we got in touch with travel expert Jhona Yellin, Editor at offMetro. Jhona was kind enough to have a chat with Bored Panda and reveal where she didn't have the best experience as a tourist.

"You might be surprised by my choice, but yes, it’s Paris—the most visited city in the world, fresh off hosting the Olympics with all its grandeur," she shared. "Well, during one of my trips to Paris, I ventured into the 18th arrondissement, which is often celebrated for its artistic legacy, thanks to legends like Picasso and Dali once calling it home. The area has transformed over the years into a bustling, working-class neighborhood with affordable spots and a real local vibe. But let me tell you, there are parts of this arrondissement that I would definitely avoid."

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I worked in Saudi Arabia for just 10 days and couldn't stand it. It saddened me that there were almost ZERO women in public. And in the airport there was a bookseller kiosk where all of the books were in English so they were obviously aimed at westerners and almost all of them were about Islam. I browsed one of them and it was basically trying to convince western women that god wanted them to stay inside where they were "safe" and how rampant rape is in western countries. Sickening. Ironically in the bottom corner there were like 3 books in Arabic and do you know what they were? HARRY POTTER books! Funny.

FinsT00theleft , SULTAN Report

Final score:

104points

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Black Cat 1 month ago

This is what happens when a society sees women and girls as sex objects and/or objects of beauty rather than human beings.

90points

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Kuwait is a f*****g cesspool.

penswright:

From Kuwait, Seriously don’t come here. There’s absolutely nothing special to do here that you can’t do literally anywhere else.
The lack of entertainment in the country is a huge issue, it’s the reason why we lead in obesity rates and why people don’t like going outside. Also if there’s a concert or a new mall opening, good luck going, if the traffic doesn’t kill you, the crowds will.

Banuvan , SenuScape Report

Final score:

86points

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Rose the Cook 1 month ago

I had an unscheduled stopover there, never left the airport but the people were really rude. I can't imagine why anyone would go there deliberately.

28points

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Pakistan. I lived there for a while. Even in the best neighborhoods in Islamabad, there is trash everywhere, literally no hygiene. Then, when it’s cold, trash is burned, releasing thick, toxic clouds of smoke.

InkedFrog , Aa Dil Report

Final score:

85points

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Bart 1 month ago

The trash burning thing is also a reason why I would never return to the north of India. After 3 days in Gorakphur I felt like I had chemical burns inside my lungs...

34points

The13thReservoirDog , Taryn Elliott Report

"Take the area around Marx Dormoy and Porte de la Chapelle stations, for example," Jhona continued. "During the day, it’s fine—people are going about their lives, and you might even find a decent boulangerie tucked away on a side street. But at night, the vibe completely changes. The stations become hangouts for groups of drunk and homeless individuals, which can make things feel dicey. Walking through there after dark left me constantly checking over my shoulder, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you enjoy that kind of adrenaline rush."

The travel expert also added that there are some places she's avoided entirely based on others’ experiences. "Dubai, for example. Now, I know some people love the glitz and glamour, but I’ve heard too many stories about how rigid and strict it can be for certain tourists, especially women, and that doesn’t quite align with my idea of a relaxed vacation," Jhona told Bored Panda.

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Turkey was terrible.

My cousin was a blonde-haired, blue-eyed little girl at the time.
And some weird old man actually tried to kidnap her right in front of us.
He grabbed her hand and tried to walk off with her.
Bare in mind she was maybe 5 or 6 at the time.
When we all started arguing, and were basically playing tug of war with this man trying to make him let her go, police came over and let the man go..
They were speaking Turkish so we don’t know what he said but the man was allowed to walk free.

Final score:

83points

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Xenia Harley 1 month ago

My cousin who lives in Europe had a friend who many years ago went to Turkey with his wife. The friend was going into another shop while the wife ran into another shop. She was never seen again. People in the shop denied she was ever there. He called all authorities who basically did nothing. She was never found. The man went back to Turkey numerous times to try to find her, but nothing. She just vanished.

72points

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Morocco.

From being ripped off, to children following me down a dark alley asking for money, to horrible hotel reception, to rich, spoilt locals at nightclubs, I've never been to any other country where I've been so relieved to leave.

jerpear , Polykarpos Tiftikoglou Report

Final score:

76points

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Anthorn 1 month ago

The one about the children is just so sad.

19points

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Did not enjoy LA. Visited a bunch of places including more obvious stops like Hollywood, the beach, downtown. It is not a place I'll go back to.

RedofPaw , Bryan Underwood Report

Final score:

66points

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Damned_Cat 1 month ago

As a Californian, I would tell a tourist to skip L.A. and Hollywood; they are not the glamourous places that people are led to believe. Maybe visit Disneyland and the San Diego Zoo, but then get out of Southern California and head north. We have so many beautiful State Parks and other natural areas. Visit Monterey and our Wine Country areas (Central Coast and Napa). See Yosemite. Then you'll feel like it was worth the trip.

91points

On the other hand, we wanted to hear about places where Jhona had surprisingly nice travel experiences. "On my wine trip in Portugal (which I extended to see more of this amazing country), I discovered Lagos," she shared.

"It’s got that exotic flair mixed with a laid-back coastal vibe that just sweeps you off your feet. I went expecting beautiful beaches, and yes, it delivered on that front with its golden cliffs and hidden coves, but what truly surprised me was how warm and welcoming the locals were," Jhona noted. "It’s the kind of place where people stop to chat, recommend their favorite little seafood spots, and make you feel like you’ve lived there your whole life."

#10

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Weird one, but Tokyo (not Japan as a whole). I have never felt so alone surrounded by so many people. I feel like I understand the loner trope in anime much better now. The food is great, everyone seems polite, and it is incredibly safe. But unlike nearly every other place I have traveled, I can't think of a single person in Tokyo that I had an actual conversation with.

The rest of Japan that I have been to is a different story. Extremely kind and welcoming. Lots of really interesting characters, and I mean that in the best way.

theOGFlump , Aleksandar Pasaric Report

Final score:

63points

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PeTeH 1 month ago

I'd rather be surrounded by many people who leave me be than a few people that harrass me.

81points

#11

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I love Italy, but Rome was not great for me. There was an overwhelming amount of shady people trying to take advantage of tourists. The local we were with warned us not to carry any valuables to any touristy spots because there was a 100% chance someone would try and pickpocket us.

One evening, a group of dudes followed me around for almost an hour, harassing me because I was a teenage boy with long hair, which must have meant to them that I was gay (I'm not, but that didn't matter to them). 4 grown-a*s adults following around a teenage boy hurling insults in broken english. I was pretty terrified and have since had an appreciation for some of the challenges gay people have to deal with just for being themselves.

One dude at a train station tried to forcibly 'help' my mom carry her luggage (aka run off with it).

When we visited the coliseum, a lady threw a bracelet at my sister then started yelling at her, saying she was a thief and demanding she pay for it.

Also, driving in Rome was terrifying - courtesy on the road does not exist there, and everyone drives extremely aggressively. I saw a guy in a van hit someone on a vespa, lean out the window and yell at him, then drive off. The vespa guy just got up and left as if it were a regular occurrence.

Absolutely a beautiful country and most of the people were lovely, but a person without 'street smarts' could have a bad time there. This was all more than 20 years ago though, so it may be different now.

omgpokemans , Pixabay Report

Final score:

62points

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quentariel 1 month ago

Rome has a hellish tourist spots, but it has also areas that are less like that. It's full of smaller historical sites, churches, statues and art which I absolutely loved. Just venture a bit farther from the main streets and squares and preferrably ditch the Colosseum alltogether. Just be prepared with the basic Italian skills as people rarely speak anything other than it.

19points

#12

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting 50ish countries (including egypt) across 6 continents.

Israel by far the rudest people

Morocco i felt the most harassed and unsafe

Australia, Malaysia (borneo) and India where friendliest

(I'm a 30s white lady from Canada for context).

batsicle , Kostiantyn Stupak Report

Final score:

58points

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Michael Largey 1 month ago

Aussies are very hospitable - always eager to relieve you of the burden of your end of the conversation.

48points

"If you’re looking for an underrated gem, I’d point you to Wistman’s Wood in Dartmoor, England," Jhona added. "We covered it in our post of hidden gems around the world. It’s like stepping straight into a fairytale. This ancient woodland, over 500 years old, feels otherworldly with its moss-covered trees and lichen-draped branches twisting into strange shapes. The dense understory barely lets any sunlight filter through, adding to the mystical vibe."

"But beyond the enchanting atmosphere, what really surprised me were the locals," the traveler continued. "Dartmoor residents are some of the friendliest people I’ve met. Whether it’s the pub owners who are happy to chat over a pint or the guides eager to share local legends about the wood, you get a real sense of community here. They make you feel welcome, which only adds to the charm of Wistman’s Wood—there’s not only a sense of magic in the air but also in the warmth of the people."

#13

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting The USA are definitely up there when it comes to entering the country, I have never felt the least bit welcome by TSA agents.

Once you’re done with that b******t and finally get out of the airport, that changes drastically.

the_che , Nout Gons Report

Final score:

55points

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Dusty's mom 1 month ago

The specter of 9-11 hangs heavily, as they're supposed to cull anything that can be used as a weapon, and assess potential threats. And the BS they deal with can be frightening. I wouldn't take the job if I were paid in gold bullion. Yeah, they're mean. They're protecting us. They're protecting you. We try to make up for it. But damn, we're scared.

32points

#14

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I've been all across North America, Europe, Africa and Asia and honestly the rudest people I encountered were in Wyoming (outside Yellowstone, everyone in Yellowstone was lovely)

...even the guys who tried to rob me in Lagos were more polite.

MagicBez , Blue Ox Studio Report

Final score:

52points

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Ken Schubert 1 month ago

Wyoming is where you live when you're radically antisocial.

34points

#15

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Jamaica, from friends being grabbed and dragged into stores and shops, to locals hip checking you out of the way. Only country that we didn't get more than 100' out of the resort before we turned around and went back in. People you are tipping with put a smile on but the second you walk away they are talking s**t about you.

glucoseintolerant , freepik Report

Final score:

48points

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Nerd Groupie 1 month ago

The locals selling their stuff are HIGH pressure. You have to give FIRM no's. I know it's their livelihood but it's very tough when you were raised in a VERY polite society and find it hard to say no.

24points

Finally, we asked Jhona if she could share advice for visiting places that don't have the best reviews from travelers. "As for places that don’t always roll out the welcome mat for tourists, I have one major piece of advice: do your homework," she says. "Travel research isn’t just about looking up the top attractions; it’s about learning the culture, understanding the norms, and, most importantly, checking if tourists are generally treated like guests or like inconveniences."

#16

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting As a young woman- Florence, Italy. Spent three months there in college.

First of all, you could feel the nasty demeanor the second you get off the train from any other town, very similar to a NYC vibe. Not in and of itself the deal breaker here though.

The issue was that I have never had SO MANY r*pey and violating things happen anywhere else. Walking around was *relatively* ok, it was Friday/Saturday night activities that were the most problematic. I’d be out with a group of women, and hordes of men would surround and try to grope us. Every weekend. I once had a man come up behind me and put his drink to my mouth. It was regular practice to have to pull friends away from handsy men or literally shove the men away when they didn’t respond to “NO.” Many of us just stopped going out unless our male friends were with us. It became too much work to constantly protect ourselves and each other.

Outside of the weekends, you’d still get the creeper yelling (or worse, whispering) “ciao, bella” and following you across the plaza.

This all happened enough times that to this day, I get ANGRY whenever I see a touristy t-shirt that says “ciao, bella,” because that phrase dredges up memories all the violating behavior, and why the f**k would I want a shirt with the worst pick-up line in the world on it.

mintchocolate816 , Josh Hild Report

Final score:

47points

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Kris 1 month ago

Burying another comment with this Maya Angelou quote: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it—possibly, without claiming it—she stands up for all women.”

53points

#17

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting India is tough for solo travelers. I was being harassed and followed by cab drivers or salesmen for miles. I'm a guy. And everytime i took a taxi or tuk tuk they dropped me off at some random jelewery store or something because the driver gets a commission or free gas by doing so/if i buy anything. Also being white i stood out and was a big target. Couldn't imagine being a woman alone in New Delhi. I'm sure some areas or cities are better.

nerddadddy:

I have visited India a number of times. It's a magical place, very rich culture, and the people are very welcoming and warm. However, every time I have taken a bus, train, or airplane, when it's time to disembark, the oldest sweetest Indian grandmas will elbow you in the back and push you out of the way to be the first ones off. It's something cultural I think, but getting off any type of mass transport is a free-for-all where manners are out the window.

Healthyred555 , Chee Huey Wong Report

Final score:

45points

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Adam Benson 1 month ago

I would recommend skipping India instead and going to Sri Lanka instead. We went there in 2018. It's a poor country but very beautiful. The people were very friendly and almost everyone we encountered spoke perfect English. It's very clean too, and we saw the most amazing beaches and mountains. I'd definitely go back for another visit.

32points

#18

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I was in Greece, travelling with a male friend, and had an amazing time.

The second he left, and I was on my own, the way men started looking at me scared the s**t out of me. I am *never* cat-called at home, and am used to dudes basically ignoring me (I think I natively give off a 'f**k you, don't bother' vibe, and I'm average-looking) and nearly every dude in Athens gave me this down-up flick of the eyes, tits-hips-a*s, delivered with such menace, that I felt very unsettled. One day, after an early ferry arrival, I had a five hour wait to check into my accommodation, also in Athens. I went to a park, lay my head on my pack, put my hat over my eyes and had a nap. I woke up to find that every bench in the park was occupied by a man, and all of them were staring at me. One was flat-out masturbating. I looked around at the dead eyes of the other dudes, decided I wasn't going to get any support there, and noped the f**k out as fast as I could. This was in broad daylight, on a weekday. Wild.

somereasonableadvice , Pixabay Report

Final score:

41points

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Joey Jo Jo Shabadoo 1 month ago

My first thought was, "You napped alone in public?!" which tells you a lot about my expectations of safety as a woman in public.

72points

"Also, be prepared to adapt. Sometimes, things don’t go as planned—train strikes, language barriers, or the occasional scammer," the travel expert continued. "Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, even if it’s just how to say 'thank you' or 'sorry.' It can go a long way in making you seem less like a clueless tourist and more like someone who respects the place they’re in."

#19

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I was in Kazakhstan a few years back. The people there were extremely xenophobic towards me and the group I was traveling with. They called the military on us. Four soldiers on horseback showed up with AK47s and pointed them at our faces and told us to get the f**k out of where we were even though we had a right to be there and we weren’t doing anything bad. These people weren’t just rude, they were f*****g a******s. Needless to say I will never visit that country ever again.

Witty_Goose_7724 , envato Report

Final score:

40points

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Papa 1 month ago

Something about this one makes me wish we could get the other side of the story, especially the "we had a right to be there" part.

88points

LeggoMahLegolas , Marfil Graganza Aquino Report

#20

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting The Philippines probably has the worst traffic ever, and I don't even understand why there are so many damn cars on a tiny a*s island.

It makes a 20-30 commute turn into a 4 hour waiting game.

Final score:

39points

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Guess Undheit 1 month ago

That person obviously didn't leave Manila. Take the metro if you want to get around the city, but not at rush hour.

23points

Dutch Swimmer Goes Viral For Super Revealing Trunks During 2024 Olympics: “Is This Legal?”

See Also on Bored Panda

Thrill-Seeking Diver Jumps Down Extreme Waterslide, Ignoring The Strict Ban For Women

#21

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting In Croatia I've always met rude people despite I always tried to be kind, patient and used the please and thank you on a regular basis. Every waiter tried to scam us, every shop attendant ignored us (if not snorted when we entered), I just think they hate tourists.

anon , Luciann Photography Report

Final score:

37points

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P Peitsch 1 month ago

Yes, they do. Without any irony.

27points

"Oh, and always have a backup plan if the primary itinerary turns into a disaster. I once missed a bus in Thailand and ended up hitching a ride with a local fisherman. It was unexpected, yes, but sometimes those curveballs are where the real adventure starts," Jhona told Bored Panda.

"Lastly, manage your expectations. If you’re visiting a place known for being tough on tourists, go in knowing that," she added. "Treat it like visiting a prickly aunt—don’t expect hugs, but if you can find some common ground, you might walk away with a good story."

And of course, if you're looking for more travel tips, don't hesitate to visit offMetro!

#22

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Many have mentioned Arab countries like Egypt or Morocco, or even India, which are usually regarded as rude countries to visit… but I’ve personally felt uncomfortable in Cuba. The country is extremely poor, frozen in time, and locals see you come and go with your expensive iPhone and cameras and everything they’ll never be able to afford. Scams are very common. People begging as well. Cuba is extremely safe (the govt makes sure every criminal disappears) but it just felt sad, and I could almost sense the resentment towards tourists, who are luckier than them.

LGZee , Yuting Gao Report

Final score:

37points

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TotallyNOTAFox 1 month ago

Well it was a communist country and only recently-ish became more socialistic, big part is the still existing US trade embargo that prevents goods reaching the island (food and medical equipment are exlcuded from it)

13points

Woman Put A Water Fountain With A Camera In Her Yard, Here Are 24 Photos Of Regular Visitors (New Pics)

See Also on Bored Panda

“Ma’am I Live Here”: Woman Refuses To Back Out Of Driveway, Learns A Lesson The Hard Way

#23

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I had a co-worker who traveled a bunch for various conferences.

The worst in his experience was Russia.

In most places he had been to, the locals were curious and happy to meet them; "Oh, how do you like it here? Where are you from? etc"

In Russia everyone he saw was hostile and irritated. The general vibe was, "Why the f**k did you even bother coming to this miserable s**t hole?"

END COMMUNICATION.

ZardozSama , Julius Silver Report

Final score:

36points

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P Peitsch 1 month ago

Believe them, they know what are they talking about .

52points

#24

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Israel. They seem to make a point of being as rude as possible.

scolfin:

Israelis don't believe in manners. No, it's not that they have different manners than Americans, they just straight up don't believe in them, liked the web-handed alien that hassled Whestley in that one Star Trek episode.

Ok-District4260 , Naya Shaw Report

Final score:

35points

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Bartlet for World Domination 1 month ago

Israel is the weirdest mix of Arabic, Ashkenazi, and Sephardic cultural norms. Most Israelis grew up in a country that's basically at war. They are tough (some would say harsh) even when they are being kind. Growing up there is not easy.

28points

#25

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Bulgaria, "Bloody Beach"

Mob/mafia controlled, lots of scammers. Even a worker at a club tried to extort me for money, threatening to call the mafia on me if i didnt pay up.

mrclockworkz , wirestock Report

Final score:

31points

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Dread Pirate Roberts 1 month ago

Too bad. Looks like a beautiful country

5points

50 Of The Most Incredible Shots That Were Submitted To The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

See Also on Bored Panda

French Diver’s “Jewels” In Tight Swimming Trunks Become Talk Of The Town At Olympics

#26

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Not me but I had a teacher in high school who taught world history who, well, traveled around the world. One of the students in the class asked what her least favorite country or place she's been to was, she said Poland. It's important to note that she's a black woman because she said no where else had she ever been called so many slurs and spat at like Poland.

Acceptable-Draft-163:

Spent the last 10 years more or less travelling and living overseas. The worst experience I've had was in Warsaw. Mind, I was only there for 4 days in the dead of winter, but the people were very cold and unfriendly. Not a single person seemed interested in life, the city was grey and miserable (mind after ww2, it was more or less rebuilt) and I had 2 attempts to rob me. The first one the guy locked me and my girlfriend in a taxi and charged 180€ for a 5 minute drive. The only way I got out was I started kicking the windows in the back and started yelling. Second time I was walking near the metro and some guy walked over and tried to grab my girlfriends bag and run off, I pushed him and he ran away. That was more or less my experience of Warsaw haha. I'm sure it's lovely In summer. Not going to lie, I had a better time in Egypt over Warsaw.

anon , Josh Hild Report

Final score:

30points

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Ece Cenker 1 month ago

I was in Poland for an entire moth in the ancient year of 1998 as a university student. My experience with Polish people has been one of the most positive in my life. I am sorry that these people came across some of the worst in the country

25points

Woman Moves Out Of Parents' Home After They Asked Her To Give Her Space To Brother, They Freak Out

See Also on Bored Panda

Mom Leaves $250k Inheritance To Son, Throws A Fit When Daughter Stops Looking After Her

#27

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Brazilians can be ruthless. Was blown away by how adept such a diverse population could be at identifying outsiders. Was in a group of about 6 college aged dudes studying abroad meandering Rio, and 3 teenagers followed us for about 10 minutes yelling "gringo!" lmao.

The_Bran_9000 , wirestock Report

Final score:

24points

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Breadcrumb. 1 month ago

I had a school bus of elementary school aged kids yell at me "blonde b***h, blonde b***h" grinning, on my travels in rural Mexico. My Mexican friends were embarrassed and explained they likely don't know what it means..I don't take it personally it's a funny story now.

8points

#28

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting The airport I was in in Germany had the rudest attendants. The general people in Thailand are super friendly, but be careful in Bangkok, definitely some unsafe areas (especially for a woman).

she_who_walks , Martin Péchy Report

Final score:

22points

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JK 1 month ago

Airport attendants are rude everywhere. When you think of the $h1t they likely have to deal with every day, from people from all social/economical backgrounds, often with high tension, it makes sense

17points

#29

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I absolutely hated Sri Lanka. It was full of charlatans and cheats when I was there last.

Harkannin , Eugene Dorosh Report

Final score:

22points

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Adam Benson 1 month ago

We went there in 2018 and had a great time. The people were very friendly, with very good, cheap accommodation. Sure, there were a few people who tried to make money off us. But our driver was a very friendly, honest man who warned us about them in advance and helped us avoid them. I would definitely go back for a return visit.

16points

#30

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Every country has its good and bad parts!

For jerks to visitors, try some place like Iowa. If you are into what they like, its great. If you are a little different, forgot about it.

ooo-ooo-oooyea , TravelScape Report

Final score:

20points

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Brian Droste 1 month ago

I have friends in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Everyone I met and dealt with have been friendly. So I don't know about the rest of Iowa.

8points

Woman Refuses To Chip In For Babysitting Because She Doesn’t Even Have Kids, Asks If She’s A Jerk

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“This Breaks My Heart”: People Stunned—And Angry—After Woman Buys Lost Luggage From Airport

#31

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting For travelling/getting around:

Germany. I love Germany with all my heart but I mentally prepare to be treated like absolute garbage at airports and trains. I was yelled at at security checks and physically escorted off trains. I'd still go back, though. People were so friendly.

For meeting locals:

People from Mexico City seemed a little standoff-ish. Maybe it's just part of living in a big city, but nobody seemed to have any time and simply asking for directions seemed like a huge inconvenience.

For just walking around:

Any Italian big city. Love the country and had soooo much fun in small towns. But as soon as you get to a big city (Milan, Rome, etc) get ready to fend off scammers, pay attention to pickpockets, people cutting in line for transit, it's pure chaos.

Now for the good!! (To balance off the negativity)

For walking around and being a tourist:

Germany or Canada. It's incredibly safe, people are friendly, they seem genuinely interested that you have a good time in their country.

For meeting locals:

Toss up between Brazil or Ireland. You can go to a bar alone in either country and you'll end up making friends, locals are super friendly and are very interested in chatting with tourists.

pokemaster28 , Shvets Anna Report

Final score:

18points

POST

Savahax 1 month ago

In Germany you won't get yelled at, at airports and trains. Let the people get off the trains first before you get in, and when it comes to airports just follow the rules that apply on any other country's airports as well

56points

"I Didn't Start The Dryer": Karen Gets Taught A Lesson After Throwing Out Neighbor's Wet Clothes

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#32

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting As a British person I'm both surprised and pleased no one has said Britain yet. For my part I have no particular country to say is especially bad but people in Brussels were pretty rude.

I've been to Ostend in Belgium too and loved it, the people were lovely, everyone was accommodating and kind but I guess because it's a capital city people were just not like that in Brussels. For context I'm in a wheelchair and it was like I didn't exist for the week I was there, I was ignored, barged in front of through doors I was trying to open, and barged in front of in general more than I've ever been in my life. It was also pretty difficult to get people to talk to me instead of my grandma who I was with, which any disabled person knows is infuriating.

There were some nice people, at times it was nice to be ignored instead of fussed over as I am sometimes, and it's a beautiful city, but I'd definitely go elsewhere in Belgium over returning to Brussels. I'd especially recommend Ostend, I can't say enough how lovely it was there.

ViSaph , Pixabay Report

Final score:

18points

POST

Lindsay Ameye 1 month ago

My Ostend heart is melting now

12points

turk 1 month ago

Actually, having traveled a lot of Europe (and the UK back many years), I mostly don't want to run into British tourists abroad. The older ones are quite friendly, but the younger ones, particularly after dark, are almost all rude, crude, drunk and loud. Seems to happen in many larger European cities.

0points

OneHappyPuppy 1 month ago

Yeah, tbh I expected more from Brussels, luckily I didn't stay there too long

0points

Bat cat in a hat 1 month ago

I did not like Brussels at all, I was detained in the airport when I arrived for no reason, boring city, unhelpful people (even with a friend that spoke fluent Flemish). Had a friend with a very similar experience, so much she cut her holiday short. Brugge was so different and a lot of fun!

0points

Abdullah Abd Rahman 1 month ago (edited)

By and large, the UK has the most polite people, after Japan.People say "please" and "thank you" all the time. Both countries may not have the friendliest people, though.Studied in the UK and have stayed for some time in Japan. So I know a bit about people in both countries. Wonderful countries to visit, that's for sure !

0points

Kelly Scott 1 month ago

I don't know - I use an electric cart when I shop in the US and you'd think I was invisible for all the attention people pay to me. I've had to stop that cart on a dime many times because people would walk right out in front of me and never even look. I understand it's like that for a lot of wheelchair users, too.

0points

Aidan Campbell 1 month ago (edited)

I didn't like Brussels at all. The best city in Belgium is Bruges.

0points

supertall 1 month ago

Belgium is one of the only places I've been in 50-someodd countries that I've genuinely disliked. I encountered very rude people, including chefs at a week-long business retreat (we were the only guests, 30 ppl) who flat-out refused to cook meals without pork - literally, we were served pork in EVERY DISH 3x DAILY FOR 10 DAYS - when we had 10 Muslim guests. Rude ppl in bars, public transportation, I was told off in French (gentleman didn't realise I spoke it), almost run over in a car park... not happy memories of a smaller city. Brussels was no better. A shame.

-1point

B 1 month ago

As ever, it depends where you go in any country. I have been verbally threatened in various places in the UK, yet felt absolutely safe in places like Albania, Guatemala and South Africa.

-1point

T'Mar of Vulcan 1 month ago

As a Brit who grew up in South Africa, I found the vibe in London (the only place I went as I was there to visit my BIL, not tour) very off-putting. I kept saying people are rude, and it does seem that way, but I realized it's because South Africans always look people in the eye, smile, etc. when they pass them. Londoners just walk without even looking at you. I don't know how they don't bump into each other all the time.

-3points

Eastendbird 1 month ago

Nearly 9 million people live in London and we get 30 million tourists visiting in a year. Is it really surprising that most Londoners are just getting on with their own lives, getting to and from their jobs and don't really have the time or energy to smile and interact with everyone they meet? My experience is that if you need help most Londoners will step up and do what they can politely. The one time I was verbally attacked by a man (a tourist BTW!) on the tube, I was immediately surrounded by my fellow travellers who told the guy exactly what they thought of him and comforted and protected me until he left.

4points

Julie S 1 month ago

London is a whole other vibe to the rest of the UK

3points

Nikole 1 month ago

Why would anyone look every stranger in the eye and smile??

0points

Guy Divorced 3 Years Ago Drops Off 3 Y.O. With His Ex-Wife Completely Out Of The Blue

See Also on Bored Panda

“All Three Shot Out Pink”: Triplets' Baby Shower Turns Sour, Pregnant Wife Wants A Divorce

#33

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting I've been on five continents, and you couldn't pay me to go back to the island of Java in Indonesia.

SunsetIndigoRealty , Tom Fisk Report

Final score:

16points

POST

Kitty1019 1 month ago

Why

24points

UmlautsAndRedPandas , Tranmautritam Report

#34

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Switzerland was the rudest (so far)! Specifically the German speaking part.

I went on a school trip there when I was 11 and cashiers/shop workers showed absolutely no signs of warmth or friendliness. The worst interaction I had was when I accidentally bought two of the same metal walking stick badge (they were stuck together and I didn't realise until after I'd bought them), and the gift shop flat-out refused to give me a refund for the second badge. Basically just made a face at me and shrugged her shoulders as if to say, "Tough, now f**k off".

I've always wondered why people working in shops in Switzerland were such bastards because I've met and befriended lots of Swiss people since (from the German, French *and* Italian parts) and all of them were absolutely lovely. I've flown with Swiss Air, they were great, and transferred through Zurich Airport which was also great...

Were me and my other 11 year old classmates unknowingly committing cultural faux-pas? Are kids expected to be quiet and whisper in shops and not talk at a "kid volume"? Was it the fact that we were visibly and audibly English and couldn't speak German? Are kids going out and about without parents/on large school group trips with teachers not the done thing? Are refunds not really a thing, and by extension, you're thought to be a c**t if you try to change your order/items that you buy at the last minute? Is Swiss culture funny about the exchanging of money generally?

I've never understood what went wrong on that trip.

Final score:

14points

POST

Skara Brae 1 month ago

I understand the frustration, but perhaps the shops were overloaded with too many people and not enough workers.

12points

#35

“So Many Douchebags Concentrated In One Area”: 35 Countries People Regretted Visiting Iraq. I was stationed in Kuwait but travelled up north, often. The amount of flak we got was ridiculous.

Also, South Korea, I loved it there, but there were riots and protests of people that hated us.

Dyerdon , Pixabay Report

Final score:

13points

POST

FaceTime Audio 1 month ago

I'm really not sure why you expected to be welcomed warmly in Iraq as a member of the (presumably US) military.

86points

Note: this post originally had 45 images. It’s been shortened to the top 35 images based on user votes.

Howdy, I'm Adelaide! I'm originally from Texas, but after graduating from university with an acting degree, I relocated to sunny Los Angeles for a while. I then got a serious bite from the travel bug and found myself moving to Sweden and England before settling in Lithuania about two years ago. I'm passionate about animal welfare, sustainability and eating delicious food. But as you can see, I cover a wide range of topics including drama, internet trends and hilarious memes. I can easily be won over with a Seinfeld reference, vegan pastry or glass of fresh cold brew. And during my free time, I can usually be seen strolling through a park, playing tennis or baking something tasty.

Read less »

Photo Editor Assistant at Bored Panda. In 2023, Evelina graduated from the Photography Technology Studies at the Vilnius College of Technology and Design. Photography caught her eye since high school, so after 4 years of spending her free time with a camera and photographing her friends, she decided to turn her hobby into a job she likes. However, as usually happens after the studies, Evelina felt that she lost herself in photography and decided to take a break on that, but not completely abandon photography itself. Besides photography, Evelina also found another hobby - embroidery. She creates tote bags with her embroidered designs, so as you can understand, she loves arts and crafts. Also, Evelina spent all her 12 years at school with music by her side, which is still one of the most important things in her life.

Read less »

What do you think ?

POST

Gavin Johnson 1 month ago (edited)

This article should be called ‘I had an image in my head about a country I wanted to visit, I am incapable of using all of the information provided about that country and I went there with my utopian view of it, when I got there my utopian vision was crushed by reality, I am a doofus’.

49points

UncleJohn3000 1 month ago

With a byline - "Privileged people sh1it on everybody."

8points

John Harrison 1 month ago

If you have absolutely nothing better to do with your life, you can read this. But as far as being practical or informative, it's completely worthless.

30points

Koala ala ala 1 month ago

Sounds like it's for me then 🙃

9points

KYLE 1 month ago

So after reading all of these, the gist is every country has a******s.

24points

Bernd Herbert 1 month ago

Some have more than others though, and some cultural peculiarities are flat out s**t. But this article was still absolutely pointless

5points

Verena 1 month ago

"I visited a country totally different from my own culture and habits, and was shocked that my culture and habits did not sync". This even applies when travelling within ones own country. Even if it is small like the Netherlands. A person from Zeeland might find some common base with somebody from Friesland, but Amsterdam?

13points

Pencil McGovern 1 month ago

Plus: "We don't have mosquitos where I'm from so the mosquitos in your country are clearly a reflection of your inferiority". Sure, buddy, that's not a "you" thing at all. /s

7points

Edward Finger Hands 1 month ago

Yikes…I’ve been to many places on this list and did not experience anything like these anecdotes. Not saying they didn’t happen, just don’t judge a country and its people based on a couple tourists’ negative opinions.

7points

Selina Ali 1 month ago

Another hate spreading article...do better

7points

Guess Undheit 1 month ago

A big problem people have as tourists is they go there expecting the idealized and romanticized story of the place. Understand that people and places are the same everywhere - most good, some bad, some really suck. Just like where you're from. Go abroad expecting occasional problems instead of a "magical experience" and you'll have a much better time.

7points

Guess Undheit 1 month ago (edited)

My biggest issue with Japan was their attitude towards tattoos, "you can't be here!" at beaches or swimming pools, as if it taints the water or something. You have to cover up constantly. I live in Taiwan where you see old grannies with armlength tattoos, and nobody bats an eye.

1point

Patricia Steward 1 month ago

Wow, this was depressing. Just stay home.

4points

JohninND 1 month ago

Everyone likes to c**p all over America all the time: leave. Go for it. Nobody's stopping you. Like anywhere else there's good and bad.

4points

Auntriarch 1 month ago

Anyone who expects customs or immigration officers in any country to be cute and cuddly is going to be disappointed.

8points

David 1 month ago

Most of these are non-White countries and the criticisms seem to be mostly through the lens of a White American/European lens, and a lack of caring about other cultures.

3points

SanFrancisco Professor 3 weeks ago

That's a cheap shot, David, and untrue. My Chinese wife routinely experiences bigotry when not with me in foreign countries. "Multiculturalism" is not respected as it is in America.

0points

Bilja M 1 month ago

I didn't like Cyprus because it's so obvious there is kind of war there, between Greeks and Turks, and it's not comfortable at all. There are army and police all around, Greek hate the Turks (and with a reason) and it's pretty obvious animosity on every corner. Also, they dumped garbage in the sea and it was all over the water on our beach which is inexcusable!

2points

David Paterson 1 month ago

With only one exception, all of these countries are heaven on Earth compared to the worst parts of Africa.

2points

Dean H 1 month ago

I'm sure there are people who have visited every single one of these countries and had an amazing time as well. Other than occupied Palestine which is currently suffering through an ongoing apartheid and genocide by violent Israeli settlers, you'll find different experiences by different people in different countries.

1point

Mimi M 1 month ago

A divisive post, not interested, just came here for the comments. Do better, BP.

1point

Trisec Tebeakesse 1 month ago

You need to do a little homework before you travel. I'm Filipino, but had never actually been to Manila. Was there a while ago now; spent the week in native dress and tried my best to blend in with the crowd instead of "sticking out like an American". It was a great trip.

1point

Alexandra 1 month ago

What I take from this is that you're better of staying home. Although, my neighbour rivals many other countries in rudeness....

1point

PattyK 1 month ago

Many countries, especially in Europe, are experiencing exponential increases is tourists. Maybe these places have tourist-overload syndrome, especially if the tourists are American. (I’ve read that Americans are the worst tourists in the world — rude, arrogant, insensitive, and demanding that everyone speak English.)

1point

sturmwesen 1 month ago (edited)

Reminds me of the American 50ish woman on a tour bus in Munich: instead of listening to the guide she was constantly complaining: the city is too old, too grey, too much construction,... she was bitching the whole hour. So you go to an old city that got bombed and complain about what's left and about what is newly built... what do you want?

2points

SanFrancisco Professor 3 weeks ago

I welcomed the chance to second what OPs had said about *specific* scams in Middle Eastern countries which I had experienced too. Perhaps advise posters that simply saying "rude" without at least a story to support it is a waste of their time and ours. Valuable article!

0points

Rich Black 3 weeks ago

This article made me ashamed to be a man, and a muslim

0points

Livingwithcfs 3 weeks ago

Every country has its good points and bad. What I've seen here are some real safety concerns, but far more often I've heard people complain about how they are treated. I ask - how are you treating those people? Being obviously from a country that has been recently been in conflict with your country then expect them to be happy to see you, it's not your per say but what uou represent. Also social expectations are probably very different from your own country - to them you are being rude by not following their local customs. If someone finds you rude they are extremely unlikely to be polite to you. So sorry, but I believe most of these complaints are coming from those who have no idea how incredibly insulting them and their culture

0points

Needie 1 month ago

Most were pretty accurate from my experience.

0points

James King 1 month ago

Some cultures are better than others.

0points

Palestine Will Be Free 1 month ago

Exactly! And I will continue to call Israel an apartheid state!

0points

General Anaesthesia 1 month ago

I am tempted to write a review of a few countries just to keep those doofuses away.

0points

S. K. 1 month ago

The U.S.. Not because of the people I interacted with (most of them were warm and friendly) but because it's just the most vanilla place I've ever been. Every shopping centre looks the same, there are few truly unique things to discover, and the religiosity is so over the top (bible texts on bread? Really???). Everything was dull and featureless and I won't be sad if I never go back.

0points

Teachzebra 1 month ago

Frankly most of these people seem like the kind of people that would complain about anything anywhere. Not to mention if you’re from a wealthy developed nation you shouldn’t be surprised that you’re not going to get the exact same culture in an underdeveloped nation with far less money than what you’re used to. There’s a reason people in those countries will go to great lengths to migrate to the wealthy countries.

0points

Bay Bo 1 month ago

Dominican Republic was incredible but creepy. Where grown men yell at 12 yr old blond girls "hey Americano, u so beautiful, I want to marry you.". N the traffic was scarier than a bloody a*****e. Cars n motorcycles passing busses around steep hills on corners

0points

Edward Shaw 1 month ago

First 8 being Muslim countries??? Just what is the woke panda agenda?

0points

kansasmagic 1 month ago

See, I mostly travel to get away from other people. My favorite place to visit in recent years is Flagstaff, Arizona. I live in California and it's an easy ~10 hour drive - though *hot* in the summer, with long desolate stretches across the Mojave. Last time we went we had a few hours to spare so we added a driving tour of the Grand Canyon. There are a half dozen more national parks and monuments within a short drive. It's about 7000 feet above sea level, so summer temperatures are usually mild. The town is small and spread out around the base of the San Francisco Peaks, an ancient volcano and the highest point in AZ. Cool little downtown, lots of good restaurants and breweries. It does attract a "vagabond" crowd but I've never had any direct encounters.

0points

Pernille 1 month ago

I wonder if most of these people were english speakers? English speakers can be horribly condescending. I've spent some time this summer working in the tourist trade, and as we are in France I've been speaking french, the amount of english speakers that was horrible was astounding. I mean most Europeans speak english, but only the native speakers have the gall to expect everyone else to speak their language.

0points

Diemond Star 1 month ago

And people really have the nerve to down the USA.

0points

cugel. 1 month ago

Well, we are not exposed to Moroccans saying that Moroccans are greatest people on Earth, and Morocco is the greast country in history, and that Moroccan culture is the envy of the world whether you think it is or not.

12points

Savahax 1 month ago

Yep. Because the c**p happening in that country stays in that country. The US cancer is spreading and infecting the world with degeneracy

3points

Endcensorship 1 month ago

Because you're dragging us down with you

0points

P Peitsch 1 month ago

Oh, a proud Murican. The worst of tourist everywhere!

0points

John Harrison 1 month ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Cooking Panda 1 month ago (edited)

The amount of islamophobia in this post is saddening. FYI not all country that claims to be an Islamic country represents Islam's value correctly. If only people would learn more about how Islam views woman. Also, some countries are huge (for example US & Indonesia). You can't visit 1 city and decide that you hate the entire country. That's not fair

-3points

Mimi M 1 month ago (edited)

I've travelled in majority Islamic countries as a Western female (dressed okay, but not in abaya). I can tell you the shock was very jolting. Being leered at - no, not the same as at home when someone looks at you admiringly - this was more being looked at like a piece of worthless, abandoned meat by stray dogs... Being hit as someone drove past on their scooter (I chased them screaming at them to come and face me like a man, not a coward), feeling unsafe in certain areas by gangs of men - not like rough areas of the US, which I have been in - this was different, more like a mob-feeling, like they could all turn on you in a moment. Also met some extremely kind people, but that was specifically among the more liberal, westernized people, the upper classes, the more open and sophisticated. So yeah - it was a definite challenge.

6points

POST

Gavin Johnson 1 month ago (edited)

49points

UncleJohn3000 1 month ago

With a byline - "Privileged people sh1it on everybody."

8points

John Harrison 1 month ago

If you have absolutely nothing better to do with your life, you can read this. But as far as being practical or informative, it's completely worthless.

30points

Koala ala ala 1 month ago

Sounds like it's for me then 🙃

9points

KYLE 1 month ago

So after reading all of these, the gist is every country has a******s.

24points

Bernd Herbert 1 month ago

Some have more than others though, and some cultural peculiarities are flat out s**t. But this article was still absolutely pointless

5points

Verena 1 month ago

13points

Pencil McGovern 1 month ago

Plus: "We don't have mosquitos where I'm from so the mosquitos in your country are clearly a reflection of your inferiority". Sure, buddy, that's not a "you" thing at all. /s

7points

Edward Finger Hands 1 month ago

7points

Selina Ali 1 month ago

Another hate spreading article...do better

7points

Guess Undheit 1 month ago

7points

Guess Undheit 1 month ago (edited)

1point

Patricia Steward 1 month ago

Wow, this was depressing. Just stay home.

4points

JohninND 1 month ago

Everyone likes to c**p all over America all the time: leave. Go for it. Nobody's stopping you. Like anywhere else there's good and bad.

4points

Auntriarch 1 month ago

Anyone who expects customs or immigration officers in any country to be cute and cuddly is going to be disappointed.

8points

David 1 month ago

Most of these are non-White countries and the criticisms seem to be mostly through the lens of a White American/European lens, and a lack of caring about other cultures.

3points

SanFrancisco Professor 3 weeks ago

That's a cheap shot, David, and untrue. My Chinese wife routinely experiences bigotry when not with me in foreign countries. "Multiculturalism" is not respected as it is in America.

0points

Bilja M 1 month ago

2points

David Paterson 1 month ago

With only one exception, all of these countries are heaven on Earth compared to the worst parts of Africa.

2points

Dean H 1 month ago

1point

Mimi M 1 month ago

A divisive post, not interested, just came here for the comments. Do better, BP.

1point

Trisec Tebeakesse 1 month ago

1point

Alexandra 1 month ago

What I take from this is that you're better of staying home. Although, my neighbour rivals many other countries in rudeness....

1point

PattyK 1 month ago

1point

sturmwesen 1 month ago (edited)

2points

SanFrancisco Professor 3 weeks ago

0points

Rich Black 3 weeks ago

This article made me ashamed to be a man, and a muslim

0points

Livingwithcfs 3 weeks ago

0points

Needie 1 month ago

Most were pretty accurate from my experience.

0points

James King 1 month ago

Some cultures are better than others.

0points

Palestine Will Be Free 1 month ago

Exactly! And I will continue to call Israel an apartheid state!

0points

General Anaesthesia 1 month ago

I am tempted to write a review of a few countries just to keep those doofuses away.

0points

S. K. 1 month ago

0points

Teachzebra 1 month ago

0points

Bay Bo 1 month ago

0points

Edward Shaw 1 month ago

First 8 being Muslim countries??? Just what is the woke panda agenda?

0points

kansasmagic 1 month ago

0points

Pernille 1 month ago

0points

Diemond Star 1 month ago

And people really have the nerve to down the USA.

0points

cugel. 1 month ago

12points

Savahax 1 month ago

Yep. Because the c**p happening in that country stays in that country. The US cancer is spreading and infecting the world with degeneracy

3points

Endcensorship 1 month ago

Because you're dragging us down with you

0points

P Peitsch 1 month ago

Oh, a proud Murican. The worst of tourist everywhere!

0points

John Harrison 1 month ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Cooking Panda 1 month ago (edited)

-3points

Mimi M 1 month ago (edited)

6points