I've always been comfortable with traveling and would go just about anywhere in the world, but for many, making that first step outside the United States can be stressful and nerve-wracking. Even my first long flight by myself was scary and hard to adjust to. So, if you are considering booking that first international flight, I have prepared some suggestions to help you ease your way out of your comfort zone and into the world of international travel. I chose these countries using several factors including personal experience, cultural differences, language barriers, and more. Overall, these are some of the best countries to move at your own pace in and explore without feeling lost and uncomfortable.
1. Great Britain
Whether you choose the bustling cities such as London and Glasgow or the gorgeous countryside, England and Scotland offer some of the most comfortable and exciting experiences for first-time travelers. With a large supply of castles, history, art, sports, and more, the UK has it all.
Pros for first-timers:
Service staff do not expect or rely on gratuity
English-speaking
London ranks #3 for friendliest locals according to Trip Advisor
Opportunities to experience familiar activities (pubs, plays, sports)
Variety of activities
2. New Zealand
With beautiful landscapes and a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere, New Zealand is perfect for adventurers. It is a favorite of new and experienced travelers alike, and offers activities that are exciting for both families and solo travelers, such as surfing, skydiving, and roadtripping the varying terrain.
Pros for first-timers:
Something for everyone -- city lovers, families, outdoorsy explorers, etc.
English-speaking
Friendly locals
3. Mexico
Mexico is a great place to tiptoe your way out of the "Florida every spring break" mindset. There are several resort areas in Mexico, in cities like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta for those looking for a beach location, but trips to Mexico City and other inland cities are also great choices. In choosing a resort, you have the comfort of being around other English-speakers and enjoying the beach, but also have opportunities to experience Mayan ruins, local markets, and other unique local activities.
Pros for first-timers:
Affordable
Some English-speakers
Beach vacation
Friendly locals
No need to exchange currency in touristy areas
4. Spain
Another possible beach destination, Spain is a country riddled with culture, friendliness, and comfort. Both Madrid and Barcelona are great city choices, and offer the history and architecture of Europe with the friendliness, comfort, and affordability of home. When I was in Barcelona, I was amazed at the mixture of great (and cheap!) shopping, relaxing comfort on the beach, and the characteristically European churches, art museums, and city streets. This is a definite must for those who love the beach, but want to expand their travel horizons.
Pros for first-timers:
Friendly locals
Variety of activities
Public beaches
Some English-speakers
Affordable shopping and meals
5. Canada
For your first time outside the U.S., why not visit our neighbors to the north? Larger than the United States by land area, Canada offers a wide variety of activities, from skiing and other winter sports to exploring the culture of the French Canadian city, Montreal, to watching the Toronto Maple Leafs and many more. There are options for every traveler in Canada, and the slight culture difference is enough to have new experiences without being so far from home.
Pros for first-timers:
Affordable travel prices
Variety of activities
Proximity to home
Friendly locals (of course)
Largely English-speaking
6. Ireland
Many Americans are interested in traveling to Ireland because a large percentage of Americans are of Irish heritage (myself included), and the country is perfect for Americans to travel to. It offers rugged countrysides, several castles, and is home to several pubs. According to Trip Advisor, Dublin is the friendliest city in Europe, so there are plenty of people to help when you feel lost or confused.
Pros for first-timers:
Friendly locals
Possible family ties
Quintessential architecture
Rich history
Pub culture
7. Germany
I have my fingers crossed on a trip to Germany soon, and it's a great place for people who are somewhat comfortable with the idea of traveling, but still want to experience something familiar. Many Germans speak English, and there are several German cities worth visiting. It sits in the middle of Western and Eastern Europe, and generally has cheaper flights than cities like London and Paris. Germany offers several opportunities to explore beautiful churches and classically modern cities like the rest of Europe, but has its own incredibly unique culture, cuisine, and history that is unlike the rest of Europe.
Pros for first-timers:
New experiences
Variety of cities and activities
Unique culture
Some English-speakers
8. France
I cannot talk about France without my mouth watering a little, and the food is a huge bonus to traveling there. While many people already have their City of Love fantasies, France has a countryside that is well-loved by travelers who want to escape the bustle of the city. While France has a respectable English-speaking population of about 40%, it pays to do your research before booking your fight. In the same way that many Americans get frustrated with non-English speakers, the French greatly appreciate any effort to speak French. Even a quick "Bonjour!" as you enter a shop or telling your waiter, "Désolé, je ne parle pas Français," before you order is a sign of respect. And, if you speak French for them, the locals are far more likely to speak English for you.
Pros for first-timers:
Amazing culture and cuisine
Practice for passably speaking new languages
That one Eiffel Tower picture that's probably on your bucket list
Never-ending activities
9. Netherlands
I really try not to have a huge prioritized list of places I want to go, but if I did, the Netherlands may have the number one spot. Amsterdam's history, nightlife, and gorgeous canals provide the perfect combination for a culture-filled vacation, and the city is much smaller than other European hotspots. 90% of the Dutch population speaks English, and the locals are notably helpful and friendly. Noted in popular novel The Fault in Our Stars, and home to Anne Frank's hiding place during the Second World War, it attracts literature lovers, and the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are just a couple of the art museums the city has to offer.
Pros for first-timers:
Friendly locals
Unique and culture-filled activities
Large English-speaking population
Smaller cities
10. Italy
Italy may be the country I have people tell me they want to go to the most, and there are several good reasons why. Like Germany, there are many unique and exciting cities in Italy, from Milan to Florence to Rome to Venice, and the country is often explored via train. Italy has it all: history, art, cuisine, architecture, coastline, fashion business, countryside... the list goes on. About a third of Italians speak English, but much like France, tourists benefit greatly from learning some of the local languages and customs. Italy also varies throughout its regions, so make an effort to understand what separates Romans from Venetians in language and culture.
Pros for first-timers:
Variety of activities and cities
Excellent cuisine
Some English-speakers
Coastline (and some islands!)