Kevin Garrett for VisitTheNorthshore.com
Southerners are known throughout the world for being friendly.
That said, some places in our region go above and beyond when it comes to friendliness.
The survey was fielded from July 12 to August 23, 2023, and had more than 20,000 respondents.
Credit:Kevin Garrett for VisitTheNorthshore.com
Fernandina Beach, Florida
According to our readers, Fernandina is a little slice of Old Florida paradise.
And, not surprisingly, spending time in paradise tends to put people in a good mood.
And all that friendliness can turn visitors into locals.
Credit: csfotoimages/Getty images
We decided to move back to Florida and retire.
The Paducah Ambassadors are key to welcoming visitors to our beautiful river town, said one reader.
This is the most welcoming town Ive ever experienced, another reader said.
Credit:Henderson Tourist Commission
Ive begun calling it the town with no outsiders since I learned that the experiences of others match mine.
But readers say that isnt the case here.
Auburn is a special placea small college town known for its friendliness, said a reader.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
People frequently exchange hey to each other and not just on Auburn University’s Hey Day.
Rivals from other schools that attend an Auburn game frequently mention the friendliness of the Auburn people.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
This coastal town may be small, but it’s got a lot of fans.
Credit: Photo: Art Meripol
One said: Absolutely beautiful and the store owners are the friendliest people I have ever met.
Another said the same thing, adding: Many shops offer coffee or lemonade to customers.
Just another way Ocean Springs makes people feel at home.
Credit: Stephen Devries
Tourism brings in a lot of new people, said a reader.
We are excited about seeing our city being loved by all."
Several readers noted how dog-friendly it is, especially downtowns quaint Main Street.
Credit: Peter Frank Edwards
Every person I’ve met there is so warm, friendly, and accommodating.
The downtown area is divine, with each establishment being locally owned and operated, said one reader.
If that doesnt put you in a good mood, time spent outdoors hiking and boating will.
Credit: Henderson County Tourism Development Authority
But a tourist destination doesnt become famous by putt putt courses and roller coasters alone.
People are always willing to talk a little.
Open and welcoming to all, is how one reader put it, and others agree.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Every business there is inclusive of all and pet-friendly.
There are events there welcoming every group from bikers to the LGBTQ community, said another.
But a friendly, open-hearted spirit is what sets Eureka Springs apart from similar towns.
Credit: Wesley Hitt / Getty Images
Any and all are welcome.
And according to readers, that community spirit is apparent in good times and bad.
Making memories is what Carolina Beach is all about.
You can reach the shore from any of Carolina Beachâs 44 designated public access points.Credit:LISA CORSON
Another person put it even more simply: Everyone loves living here, so everyone is friendly.
As one reader said: The locals are so welcoming to all visitors.
And that friendliness translates to the visitors as well.
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Go into a restaurant and by the end of your meal you will have 10 new best friends!
Added another person: They appreciate everyone that comes to visit.
You dont feel like a tourist.
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You feel like a guest.
The store keepers were very pleasant.
The RV resort was extremely helpful!
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Or as one reader put it: They make you feel like family.
One that gets along.
Round Top is like coming to the table at grannys house, said one reader.
Credit: Wynn Myers
You cant wait to get there and share stories, slow porch swings, and the best food.
You never want to leave!
When readers described this coastal town, the word fun came up again and again.
Credit:City of Southport, North Carolina
It doesnt hurt that its incredibly beautiful, too.
The downtown shops greet you like old-time acquaintances, even if they have never seen you before.
New neighbors visiting, offering information about the city.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Offers of assistance in getting around the city and info on places to shop were abundant.
As one person said, They have great shopping downtown and friendly staff.
The library is fantastic and worth visiting to look around.
OneSpartanburg, Inc.
The staff there is also helpful with local history.
All around great experience.
Another simply said: We moved here for retirement and have been warmly welcomed at every turn!
Credit: Benjamin Callahan
Fairhope, Alabama
2.
Beaufort, South Carolina
This Lowcountry gem has made our annualSouths Best Awardslist for several years running.
The city itself is like a warm hug, her people are icing on the cake.
Credit: Peter Frank Edwards
Its just a lovely corner of home in this crazy world.
Covington, Louisiana
The secrets out about this lovely little town.
It seems like everyone is looking for ways to verify everyone is having a good time.
