Mzansi number 1 on 'world's friendliest nations' list

A win is a win and we'll take this one!

South Africa has taken the top spot as the world's friendliest nation... according to The Big 5 Personality Test.

The test is based on the scientific ‘Big Five’ model of the five key personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, and neuroticism.

The questions in our study are based purely on the ‘agreeableness’ aspect of the test, as it’s deemed the most effective way to gauge social harmony.

How it works: 

Thousands of respondents from all around the world were surveyed and asked questions to ascertain how much concern they feel for others, whether they take the time out for other people and whether they like to make people feel at ease.

Each question was presented as a statement with respondents asked to say whether they disagree, slightly disagree, were neutral, slightly agree or agree with the statement in question.

Countries attaining the highest score out of 40 were ranked in order of friendliness.

The higher their scores, the more they are deemed to be friendly, generous, helpful, and willing to compromise their interests with others.

People who score highly in this section of the test value getting along with others and have an optimistic view of human nature, meaning they’re likely to be warm and friendly to those they meet.

In terms of friendly, South Africa takes first place...

Mzansi scored a whopping 34.63 out of 40.

According to the survey, South African residents are known for being warm and welcoming, making it easy for travellers and visitors alike to feel at ease around them.

It’s not uncommon to be greeted by polite strangers while walking down the street, and South Africans are generally happy to socialise, by engaging in conversations and showing off their good humour, making plenty of jokes.

Other countries to make the list are: 

2. Greece: 33.71
3. Croatia: 33.50
4. Mexico: 33.47
5. Sweden: 33.30
6. Australia: 33.13
7. Canada: 32.84
8. Germany: 32.66
9. Estonia: 32.58
10. Belgium: 32.50

Find the full list of countries with their friendliness rated here.