Most beautiful countries ...

Old Aug 12th, 2024 | 05:21 PM
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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.

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Old Aug 12th, 2024 | 08:20 PM
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I have respected Rough Guides for decades. But these lists are soooo subjective.
I am done. the liszt
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Old Aug 12th, 2024 | 08:49 PM
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Good for a browse but these lists should be taken with a grain of Switzerland salt.
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Old Aug 15th, 2024 | 03:49 PM
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These lists are always fun but always subjective, too. I am surprised that Costa Rica is omitted from this list.

And I love Rough Guides guidebooks. So helpful in planning so many of my trips.
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Old Aug 17th, 2024 | 02:17 PM
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Yes, Spain should be a part of this list. Also, not seeing Brazil on this list is surprising too.
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Old Oct 3rd, 2024 | 02:43 AM
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A little surprised that the UK is 6th and "Amazing food" is definitely not how I would describe the British menu
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Old Oct 3rd, 2024 | 08:44 AM
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Originally Posted by babs5423
A little surprised that the UK is 6th and "Amazing food" is definitely not how I would describe the British menu
??? 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.
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Old Jan 10th, 2025 | 01:29 PM
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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.
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Old Jan 17th, 2025 | 07:52 AM
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Originally Posted by janisj
??? 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.
I second this, I always have great meals in London. And have had in other places in England as well.
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Old Jan 18th, 2025 | 04:45 AM
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Not Austria? Hmmm.
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Old Jan 18th, 2025 | 11:07 AM
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Originally Posted by pja1
Not Austria? Hmmm.
Well it does list Switzerland and under Italy, it cites the Dolomites so it covers the Alps.
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Old Oct 7th, 2025 | 01:31 PM
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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.
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Old Jan 28th, 2026 | 05:31 AM
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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.

Last edited by P_M; Jan 28th, 2026 at 05:33 AM.
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Old Feb 6th, 2026 | 04:09 AM
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You must add Austria i think it deserves to be a wonderful place.
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Old Apr 9th, 2026 | 04:52 AM
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"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!"
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Old May 11th, 2026 | 06:19 AM
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I thought England was beautiful when I went there many years ago. It is just my personal opinion;
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Old May 14th, 2026 | 02:01 AM
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Just goes to show beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Every country has some beautiful areas, and some truly ugly areas.
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Old May 15th, 2026 | 01:18 AM
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This lilst is just a nonsense, not worth the time to reed it.
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Old May 16th, 2026 | 07:19 AM
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Originally Posted by neckervd
This lilst is just a nonsense, not worth the time to reed it.
Agree!!! It's like asking "who is the most beautiful woman..."

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Old May 16th, 2026 | 04:13 PM
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Originally Posted by neckervd
This lilst is just a nonsense, not worth the time to reed it.
Originally Posted by ekscrunchy
Agree!!! It's like asking "who is the most beautiful woman..."
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:

  • 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]
You're welcome!
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