Touriest countries:

When you're picking your next travel destination, remember that friendly countries can make the difference between a great trip and a truly terrible vacation. Tourist-friendly countries carry similar qualities to what we'd want from the country we live in -- appreciation for the company of other people, low crime rates and love for tourists. Let's see which 10 countries are up to the task.

Tourists in Germany become connected to the country's warm and cultured atmosphere through numerous museums, classical opera houses and big-scale events like the Oktoberfest fair. Germany is a large country with a fair amount of crime (incidents of aggravated assault have risen 30% in a seven-year period). Nevertheless, Germany's violent crime index is still lower than in the U.S., and most of its other crime rates are falling. If Germany maintains its friendliness and increases its safety, it will be that much more enjoyable.

Amsterdam receives 7 million international visitors every year. Violent crimes are low here, but pickpockets can be bothersome. What's most appealing about Amsterdam out of all the friendly countries on this list is that this place loves to have fun. In the city on the water, one of the main hooks that brings people together is dance. Amsterdam has a host of discos and dance halls that bring out fancy footwork from tourists and locals alike.

For the 16 million people who travel to Scotland every year, they have the pleasure of meeting a nation of well-educated locals who are rich with culture and know how to have fun. The chance to play golf at St. Andrews or some cricket in Edinburgh is also an opportunity to enjoy the company of the friendly people who live there. The festive Scottish spirit is also apparent in the regular arts and musical events, like the annual Highland Festival. Though Scotland is ripe with culture and most of the locals welcome visitors, the ones who don't can lessen the experience.