Most beautiful countries ...
#1
Original Poster

Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,235
Likes: 0
Most beautiful countries ...
Well, it's one list, from Rough Guides.
https://www.roughguides.com/gallery/...-world/#11-usa
I don't think anyone could question most of the ones in the list, but certainly differences of opinion on the order.
Hmm, one omission right away that is surprising is Spain. Have to say, have seen very little of Canada, despite being just 2 hour-flight away. Only transited through Vancouver.
https://www.roughguides.com/gallery/...-world/#11-usa
I don't think anyone could question most of the ones in the list, but certainly differences of opinion on the order.
Hmm, one omission right away that is surprising is Spain. Have to say, have seen very little of Canada, despite being just 2 hour-flight away. Only transited through Vancouver.
#7



Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 75,081
Likes: 50
??? That is such old news. Back in the '80's - sure. But food in the UK is absolutely great. So many creative chefs, wonderful fresh ingredients, great seafood, meat and game, a huge number of Michelin starred restaurants, influences from all over the Commonwealth - south Asian, East Asian, African, etc etc. One really has to try hard to have a bad meal in most parts of the UK.
Trending Topics
#8
Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Banff is the most beautiful place I've been to, so I can agree with Canada at #3. After recently being in Switzerland, I have no problem with that at #4.
UK at #5 seems odd to me. Not that it doesn't have its own beauty, but...
I haven't been, but my wife swears Costa Rica is beautiful.
As another commenter said, take with a grain of sand.
UK at #5 seems odd to me. Not that it doesn't have its own beauty, but...
I haven't been, but my wife swears Costa Rica is beautiful.
As another commenter said, take with a grain of sand.
#9

Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 8,583
Likes: 0
??? That is such old news. Back in the '80's - sure. But food in the UK is absolutely great. So many creative chefs, wonderful fresh ingredients, great seafood, meat and game, a huge number of Michelin starred restaurants, influences from all over the Commonwealth - south Asian, East Asian, African, etc etc. One really has to try hard to have a bad meal in most parts of the UK.
#12
Joined: Sep 2025
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
That was such a nice post about the most beautiful countries. I definitely agree that Morocco has some truly special places, and for me, Essaouira and Chefchaouen are my absolute favorites. Essaouira has that calm seaside charm with its fresh breeze and relaxed atmosphere, and those narrow white-and-blue streets that make every walk feel peaceful. Chefchaouen felt almost magical with the blue shades everywhere, the peaceful mountain setting, and the warmth of the local people made it one of the most unique and photogenic towns I had ever visited. Both cities had such a wonderful, laid-back vibe that left me wanting to go back someday.
#13


Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 26,204
Likes: 0
I always look forward to the food in the UK. If nothing else, I could survive on scones and clotted cream. (No jam for me, please)
My first trip was in 1980 and the food was bad then. I hope babs will give it another chance.
My first trip was in 1980 and the food was bad then. I hope babs will give it another chance.
Last edited by P_M; Jan 28th, 2026 at 05:33 AM.
#15
Joined: Mar 2026
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
"I'm surprised Poland isn't mentioned more often! It truly is one of Europe's most underrated beautiful countries. From the stunning Tatra Mountains in Zakopane to the crystal clear Mazury Lakes, the historic streets of Krakow and the gorgeous Baltic coastline — Poland has incredible variety.
And I agree about Spain — hard to leave it off any beautiful countries list!
Canada is breathtaking too, though vast. But Poland deserves much more recognition as a travel destination!"
And I agree about Spain — hard to leave it off any beautiful countries list!
Canada is breathtaking too, though vast. But Poland deserves much more recognition as a travel destination!"
#20
Original Poster

Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,235
Likes: 0
Since you guys love the list and this thread and I created it almost 2 years ago, I went and looked for more lists. This one from US World and News report, which is ranking by "Natural Environment" but also grades the countries by some other criteria so that they have "Best Countries Overall" rankings as well.
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-cou...al-environment
But when I Googled, the AI overview also came up with:
You're welcome!
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-cou...al-environment
But when I Googled, the AI overview also came up with:
- 1. Greece: Renowned for its iconic whitewashed architecture, mythological history, and the dazzling blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
- 2. New Zealand: Famed for its staggering density of contrasting landscapes, featuring glacial valleys, geothermal basins, and dramatic fjords all in close proximity.
- 3. Italy: Celebrated for its blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance art, stunning coastlines like the Amalfi, and vibrant cities.
- 4. Switzerland: A mountainous wonderland famous for its glacier-carved Alps, pristine lakes, and picturesque, highly scenic rail journeys.
- 5. Norway: Home to the world's most spectacular fjords, towering cliffs, and surreal lighting during the summer's midnight sun. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]



