'Best country in the world' may be a massive judgement to make, but if fans of Condé Nast Traveler are anything to go by, New Zealand wins silver.
As part of their annual Readers' Choice awards, the popular media company asked the public what countries they considered to be the 'best'.
Earning 94.1 out of 100, Portugal came out on top. It's a country that "keeps getting better" according to Condé Nast Traveler, who described seeing a growing appreciation among readers for its beaches, food and wine.
In second place by 0.06 points was Aotearoa. The country's "wild empty places" and fame as the location for the upcoming Lord of the Rings series made it a favourite among travellers around the world.
Condé Nast Traveler said there were no 'big surprises' in the rankings. However Spain and France were notably absent from the list while Australia came in at 16th with a score of 91.97.
Top 20 Countries in the World: Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2021
1. Portugal 94.1
Check out the five best towns to visit in this charming country.
2. New Zealand 94.04
Summer is coming, so find out where the best beach in Aotearoa is found.
3. Japan 93.82
Dan Carter shares the hidden gems every traveller has to see.
4. Morocco 93.41
Marrakesh may be the most famous city here, but we've got a nearby town that is a stunning escape from the crowds.
5. Sri Lanka 93.07
Named a 'top country' to visit in 2019, we've got the top 10 things you should do in this gorgeous historic location.
6. Italy 92.9875
If you pay a visit to Rome, here's why a guided tour can transform your stay.
7. Iceland 92.96
We can't travel there (yet) but we can reflect on epic past journeys in the land of fire and ice.
8. Greece 92.71
Ever travelled around Greece in an orange Volkswagen Kombi Camper? We have.
9. Croatia 92.51
There's only one way to properly explore the delights of the Dalmation coast.
10. Turkey 92.415
For the ultimate daydreaming, read out our love letter to Istanbul.
11. Norway 92.3
12. the Maldives 92.285
13. Kenya 92.14
14. Ireland 92.13
15. Israel 92.05
16. Australia 91.97
17. Switzerland 91.84
18. Indonesia 91.75
19. Botswana 91.645
20. Philippines 91.63
