Countries With the Best-Looking Locals

Many travelers find something mesmerizing about the people of India, from bright-eyed children to the intense stares of the elderly. The rich diversity of the country’s culture, religion and traditions offers endless opportunities, although you may need to acclimate for a few days since the noise, crowds and pollution of India’s biggest cities can be quite intense for Western visitors.

The seductive tango is one of many talents that make the people of Argentina — and the country — so alluring. The beautiful coastline, cosmopolitan cities and world-class wines are some of the other reasons to visit this South American destination.

The beaches of Rio de Janeiro are packed with the beauties ofBrazil, an ethnically diverse nation that values all skin colors. One of the biggest tourist draws of the year is Carnaval, the nearly two-week period prior to Lent. In big cities and small towns around the country, parades and parties are filled with costumed revelers.

Bordering the Black Sea and surrounded by other former Soviet nations, Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Europe. Ukrainians are ethnically and linguistically different from Russians, and their colorful costumes and folk traditions celebrate the country’s unique — and beautiful — individuality.

Many travelers notice the apparent reserve of the people ofJapan. But their opinions often change dramatically once they experience one of the country’s many karaoke bars! Visit Japan in the spring to see the cherry blossoms burst into bloom. In autumn, parks, hillsides and nearby wilderness areas showcase a kaleidoscope of fall colors.

The tall, fair-haired beauties of Iceland can trace their ancestry back to the Vikings that settled here more than 1,000 years ago. Among the other attractions worth seeing in this country are its spectacular geothermal sites. The famous Blue Lagoon, near the capital city of Reykjavik, is said to heal skin conditions; judging by the healthy appearance of the locals, it’s probably worth stopping by for a dip.

The white-sand beaches, Buddhist temples and lush jungles are just part of what makes Thailand a popular tourist destination. Travelers often find the respect the Thai people show toward their elders, as well as their hospitality and generosity, equally beautiful.

Three reasons to love Spain: The food, the wine and the handsome conquistadors! The men of Spain are no longer conquering nations far and wide, but they are one of this country’s most attractive features. (And the women are gorgeous, too!) Actors Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz and Antonio Banderas, who all hail from Spain, are just three of the most celebrated beauties.

There’s a reason Venezuela has won the most combined Miss World and Miss Universe titles: The locals are gorgeous! Situated on the Caribbean Sea, on the northern coast of South America, this country’s natural beauty is also a big draw for tourists. Sights to see include Angel Falls, the world’s tallest waterfall, located near the northern edge of the Amazon River basin.

The people of Scandinavia are thought to be especially good-looking, especially those of Sweden. Visitors can also find beauty in the country’s vast forests, pristine water and spotless cities. Each year, the summer solstice is celebrated throughout the country in a tradition that’s believed to have pagan roots. Young and old dress in traditional costumes to dance around the maypole and sing by the bonfire.