Is there anything sweeter than dulce de leche and the heart of a porteño? You might have thought not—or at least very few things—but it turns out that an international ranking has just named Buenos Aires the least friendly city in the world. It hit us like a bucket of cold water, and we needed to share it with someone (with the world).
According to a global ranking published by the travel platform Fernwayer, Buenos Aires was rated as the least friendly city in the world.
The study analyzed the experiences of international travelers by evaluating factors such as the welcome extended to visitors, ease of communication, and the general attitude of the residents. Based on all these factors, Buenos Aires came in last place in the ranking, landing at the very bottom of the list.
Have we really become unfriendly, or are tourists simply unprepared to understand the intensity of Buenos Aires life?
Why Buenos Aires Scored the Worst
The report examines several reasons behind the negative perception many international visitors took away from walking through our streets:
- The culture shock of “Buenos Aires bluntness”: What for us is confidence, irony, sarcasm, or simply speaking directly is interpreted by many travelers—especially those from Anglo-Saxon or Nordic countries, who are accustomed to a more “structured” form of courtesy—as arrogance, indifference, or plain and simple rudeness.
- The language barrier and the daily rush: Although Buenos Aires has a good average level of English compared to other countries in the region, in neighborhood shops, taxis, and public transportation, language remains a hurdle. Add to that the fast pace of life on our streets—who’s going to stop in the middle of rush hour on 9 de Julio Avenue to help a disoriented tourist?
- Protests, roadblocks, and everyday tension seem to have a direct impact on the social atmosphere perceived by tourists.
- Mistrust and “avivada”: Several respondents’ testimonies reflected the constant stress of having to be “on alert” about taxi fares or the constant warnings to watch their cell phones. We’re a stressful city!
The Hospitality Podium: Which Cities Are the Friendliest?
On the other hand, the cities that swept the top scores in the report stand out for two traits: extreme courtesy and order:
- Tokyo and Kyoto (Japan): They top the list thanks to the concept of omotenashi (hospitality and absolute respect for guests), their public safety, and the collective willingness to help.
- Taipei (Taiwan): Considered one of the friendliest cities in Southeast Asia due to the patience and kindness of its people.
- Dublin (Ireland): At the top. The tradition of its historic pubs and the culture of small talk.
- Singapore: Scored nearly perfectly for its impeccable infrastructure, fluent bilingualism, and visitor assistance.
Misery Loves Company: The Other Capitals That Landed at the Bottom
As a consolation to the Buenos Aires ego, Buenos Aires isn’t the only major city singled out by the most sensitive tourists. Also making an appearance at the bottom of the list were:
- Paris (France): The undisputed classic was the waitstaff-customer disdain. Its historic intolerance toward anyone who doesn’t speak French keeps it firmly at the bottom of these rankings.
- Milan (Italy): Noted for its coldness compared to the more expressive southern Italy.
- London (United Kingdom): Criticized for the individualistic indifference on the subway and the hurried pace of its people.
Is it just a bad vibe or a Buenos Aires quirk?
Buenos Aires may not be a theme park designed for you to wander around carefree and happy, waving your cell phone as if absolutely nothing could ever happen to you, but it’s undeniable that it’s one of the most vibrant, visceral cultural capitals you’ll ever find.
We may not have that Japanese smile, but if a traveler takes the time to sit down at a notable bar to chat about soccer, tango, or life, they’ll find a warmth that no algorithmic ranking can measure.
