[imagesource:here]

Cape Town is one helluva city, but are we really the friendliest people in the whole of Africa?

According to global travel website Big 7 Travel, yes, and we are actually the 14th friendliest city in the world.

Their recent survey, which covered 1,5 million people across various social media platforms, asked one simple question – “Where you would find the friendliest city in the world?”

Before we pick apart the results, here’s TimesLIVE with some Capetonians who are stoked with the outcome:

James Vos, Cape Town MMC for economic opportunities and asset management, said that being included on this list was “particularly special”.

“The natural beauty of our city is something we can take pride in, but we are only custodians of that beauty. However, to be known for our friendliness, something that is down to each person’s actions, is something I think each and every Capetonian should be proud of,” he said.

Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy added: “As a visitor walks through the streets of Cape Town, explores our national parks, enjoy our beaches, enjoys what our winelands create, they will undoubtedly enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Town. But what turns that enjoyment into a love for our city is what we as locals offer. Our warmth, passion, welcoming nature, our friendliness is the magic ingredient that keeps visitors coming back Cape Town year after year, after year.”

Something tells me the good people of Jozi might have something to say about this.

They come for the beaches, not our warm, welcoming attitudes over December and January when every day is a bunfight for a parking spot and a seat at a restaurant.

I think the responses to TimesLIVE’s tweet pretty much sum it up. The same thing with our tweet, and many have pointed out that Cape Town’s homeless population certainly wouldn’t agree.

Anyway, this is what Big 7 Travel said about Cape Town:

“Cape Town’s locals are full of life and warmth and instantly welcome visitors to the city. It’s a safe city for travellers (once you explore with some common sense!) with a diverse mix of locals and an exciting energy.”

“Our readers scored it highly on first impressions, putting it firmly as one of the friendliest cities in the world.”

Here’s a quick look at the top five:

1st. Vancouver, Canada

And the winner out of all the friendliest cities in the world? Vancouver takes top spot, thanks to its extraordinarily friendly residents. The city has an amazing multicultural community who band together to make visitors feel welcome and safe at all times. Locals are quick to offer assistance to tourists and the community vibe makes socialising in Vancouver simple.

2nd. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysians are naturally friendly and nice to strangers, and Kuala Lumpur is the best example of this. The easy-going temperament of locals and their friendliness towards visitors means that it’s easy to make friends here. KL is a top spot for both tourists and expats.

3rd. Bruges, Belgium

One of the friendliest cities in the world is Bruges, a fairytale place in Belgium. The charming atmosphere is hard to match, with a village feel and locals who go the extra mile to welcome tourists. From walking guides to the waiter who serves your hot chocolate and waffles, the people here make Bruges stand out.

4th. Taipei, Taiwan

Modern and beautiful, Taipei is an emerging tourist destination with locals who are embracing expats and visitors. Residents are extremely friendly to just about everyone. It’s also known as one of Asia’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities, so everyone will be made to feel welcome here.

5th. Hamburg, Germany

Residents of Hamburg are open and accepting of strangers, so Hamburg is an ideal city for tourists. It’s family-friendly and safe, with heaps of culture and makes visitors soon feel like locals. Although not as popular as other German cities, it has its own special charm.

Of course, a Canadian city came out tops.

For the full list of the world’s 50 friendliest cities, head here.

[sources:timeslive&big7travel]