The Most Diverse and Progressive Countries to Visit

Anyone who has visited Japan will attest to meeting some of the kindest people in the world, thanks to the country’s long-standing culture of welcoming guests with wholehearted hospitality – known locally as omotenashi. Discover one of the world’s most polite countries on this in-depth 12-day Rail Trip, where our Local Insider will show you the best of Japanese culture. From soaking in hot springs at a traditional ryokan to sushi making and sumo wrestling – don’t worry, you’ll only be spectating – in Tokyo, you’ll have a blast here.

According to surveys from InterNations and the Global Peace Index, Portugal is not only ranked the friendliest country in the world, but also the third most peaceful. Expats and retirees report feeling at home right away in the southern European country. Get a warm Portuguese welcome on Culture Trip’s leisurely eight-day Rail Trip, where you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto and venture into the dreamy Douro Valley to sip some of the continent’s finest wines. As soon as you take a seat on a sloping street and sink your teeth into a Pastel de Nata, you’ll feel like you’ve lived here forever.

Ireland ranks consistently highly with a range of social progression reports, usually scoring similarly to the UK and a little below the countries of Scandinavia. It’s one of the world’s youngest populations, with a forward-thinking attitude, but the idea of community spirit and a warm Irish welcome is nothing new here. You’ll get to see the many facets of this lovely island on our week-long loop tour, which goes from Dublin, down to the foodie town of Kinsale and up along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. Expect whiskey tastings, charming little villages and many a friendly pub across our week in Ireland.