You Are Welcome: 8 Countries That Still Love American Visitors in 2025

28 March 2025

In a world of ever-changing headlines, one thing remains constant: the joy of genuine hospitality. These eight destinations continue to greet U.S. travelers with open arms.

As global headlines grow more divisive, many U.S. travelers are feeling uncertain about how they’ll be received abroad. According to a Global Rescue Snap Survey conducted in March 2025, 72% of experienced travelers expect to face more negative perceptions and feel less welcome due to recent U.S. policy changes. Many are asking a new kind of question: "Am I still welcome abroad?"

The good news? In many countries, the answer is a resounding yes. These eight destinations (amongst many others) continue to offer a warm, genuine welcome to American travelers in 2025.

Global Destinations Welcoming U.S. Travelers

1. Portugal

Portugal is a top choice for American travelers in 2025, with over a million U.S. visitors in the first half of 2024 alone. Known for its safety, friendliness, and affordability, Portugal offers sunny weather, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Its English-friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions - from historic cities to world-class beaches - make it an irresistible destination.

"The Portuguese are warm and polite to all visitors. Ignore the newspapers, that's not how most locals live their lives. We have welcomed nearly a thousand American travellers in the last 5 years - and their experience has always been of warmth and openness."

Pedro, TravelLocal's local specialist for Portugal and the Azores.

TravelLocal offers a 2-week Portugal Grand Tour priced from US$6,000pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

2. Ireland

Ireland’s deep kinship with Americans, visa-free stays of up to three months, and breath-taking landscapes make it a perennial favorite. Visitors can enjoy its lively pub culture, explore historic sites like the Cliffs of Moher or Blarney Castle, and connect with their Irish heritage in this warm and welcoming country.

TravelLocal offers an 11-day discovery tour of Ireland & Northern Ireland priced from US$10,100pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

3. Poland

Poland is one of the most pro-American countries globally, blending rich history with modern charm. From the medieval streets of Kraków to Warsaw’s vibrant cultural scene, Poland offers affordable travel, stunning architecture, and a deep appreciation for American culture and people.

TravelLocal offers a 12-day highlights tour of Poland priced from US$4,190pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

4. Norway

Norway is among the safest countries in Europe and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its dramatic fjords, Northern Lights, and sustainable tourism focus, Norway promises unforgettable experiences. In 2025, unique events like the centennial celebration of the Norwegian Constitution add even more reasons to visit.

"Norwegians are not addicted to the news cycle - we basically just get on with life! We have strong historical ties with America, especially the Midwest, and there are statues and plaques around the country to commemorate the link. I wouldn't worry so much about the welcome - this is a safe and calm country. We don't get too worked up about things - we just take it in our stride."

Julia, TravelLocal's local specialist based in Norway.

TravelLocal offers a 9-day slow travel journey through Norway priced from US$2,470pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

5. Croatia

Recently crowned the best country to visit in 2025 by European Best Destinations, Croatia captivates with its stunning Adriatic coastline and historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split. Its UNESCO-listed natural wonders, such as Plitvice Lakes National Park, combined with its rich history and growing culinary scene, continue to win over American visitors on the hunt for that perfect Mediterranean lifestyle.

“We love hosting Americans. People here are curious and open-minded - there’s a natural warmth. I think visitors are surprised by how relaxed and welcoming it feels. Croatia is also ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Politics doesn’t really come up in daily life - we’re more likely to be talking about food, the sea, or the next good wine vintage.”

Antonia, TravelLocal's local specialist based in Split

TravelLocal offers an 8-day tour of Dubrovnik & Kotor in Croatia priced from US$1,340pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

6. Japan

Renowned for its politeness and hospitality, Japan offers a seamless blend of modern urban life and serene natural beauty. With a new fast-track immigration system for international visitors in 2025, Americans can easily explore iconic cities like Tokyo or Kyoto while enjoying Japan’s world-class food and cultural treasures. There is a longstanding cultural bond between American and Japan - and a mutual fascination and respect.

TravelLocal offers a 15-day trip through the cultural heart of Japan priced from US$3,810pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

7. Ecuador

Ecuador’s visa-free travel policy for U.S. citizens makes it an accessible destination in 2025. Many locals have family ties in the U.S., and there's a longstanding sense of connection. From the Galápagos Islands to the Andes Mountains, Ecuador’s diverse landscapes offer endless adventure. While urban areas like Quito require extra safety precautions, its natural beauty and rich culture are worth exploring.

TravelLocal offers a 19-day highlights tour of Ecuador incl the Amazon and the Galapagos Islands priced from US$6,000pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

8. Namibia

Namibia’s new visa-on-arrival initiative reflects its welcoming attitude toward tourists. Known for its vast deserts, wildlife safaris, and stunning landscapes like Sossusvlei dunes, Namibia offers unique experiences for adventurous travelers seeking something off the beaten path. It's a huge country, but sparsely populated - visitors are therefore welcomed, no matter where they're from. When you're in the wilderness, overlooking a remote watering hole, nobody cares where you're from.

TravelLocal offers a 10-day safari experience in Namibia priced from US$3,500pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights). All private trips are fully customizable and can start on any date.

Beyond our expectations! I have to admit that I was a little nervous to put so much trust in a person and company that I did not know, but we are so glad we did! Our trip was incredible. Every single thing that was planned was smooth and enjoyable. Every single person we dealt (drivers, guides) with was prompt, professional, friendly, and knowledgeable, and we had literally nothing we had to worry about for the entire 9 days. We felt like we got an unbeatable experience of the beauty and vibrancy of Croatia, thanks to Ingrid's suggestions and adaptations to our own preferences. I can't say enough positive things about this experience!

Deborah traveled to Croatia with TravelLocal in March 2025