The beauty of a country is not always measured in economic figures or political indicators. Sometimes, what makes the difference is The mixture between natural landscapes, culture and hospitality of its people. A world ranking made from traveler voting presented the 20 most beautiful countries in the world. The result, as expected, has generated debate, pride and even some controversy among the followers of global tourism.
The Rough Guides site, dedicated to the popular opinion of travelers, It places New Zealand in the first place, recognized by its landscapes of fjords, volcanoes and beaches. In second place it appears Italythat has gained the reputation of being a complete country: gastronomy, history, coasts and mountains.
Completing the podium is Canadawith its majestic natural parks, its wild life and the modernity of cosmopolitan cities such as Toronto or Montreal.
The list highlights diversity as the factor that most captivates travelers. In the case of Swisslocated in the fourth position, the appeal is in the perfection of its alpine landscapes and its impeccable cities.
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Mexicoin fifth place, it stands out for the richness of its original cultures, the strength of its traditions and the variety of ecosystems that make it a versatile destination.
Norway, sixth on the list, surprises with its fjords and northern lights, while Madagascar (seventh) gained ground thanks to its unique biodiversity in the world.
Greece, in the eighth box, combines classical history and Mediterranean beaches, and South Africa occupies the ninth place, held by the mixture of deserts, mountains, coasts and safaris.
The complete list:
20. Japan
19. Slovenia
18. Portugal
17. Indonesia
16. India
15. Costa Rica
14. Croatia
13. Argentina
12. Iceland
11. Chile
10. Morocco
9. South Africa
8. Greece
7. Madagascar
6. Norway
5. Mexico
4. Switzerland
3. Canada
2. Italy
1. New Zealand
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Latin America also has a presence
Buenos Aires, Argentina
AFP
The Latin American region did not stay out. Chile, in position 11, was recognized for its variety of landscapes, from the Atacama desert to Patagonia.
Argentinain 13th place, he conquered voters with the imposing of Iguazu cataracts, Patagonian glaciers and the cultural energy of Buenos Aires.
Coast Richin box 15, stood out for its biodiversity and the ease of traveling its volcanoes, beaches and jungles in relatively short distances.
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In addition, Portugal (18) and Indonesia (17) reflect how emerging destinations are gaining worldwide recognition for their cultural and landscape offer.
A look at the top 3 of the ranking

Rome
Istock
The first place is occupied by New Zealand, considered by travelers as A country of contrasts. The possibility of walking on glaciers in the morning and bathing on turquoise beaches in the afternoon makes it an unrepeatable place.
Italy, second on the list, remains the jewel of the Mediterranean. Its historical cities, together with its gastronomic and cultural offer, keep it among the favorites of global tourists.
Canada, in the third position, combines the modernity of large cities with dramatic natural landscapes, which gives it a perfect balance for tourism.
The ranking not only reflects preferences, it also highlights how travelers value diversity, authenticity and cultural and natural preservation of each country.
