San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Just four hours northwest of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende jumped into the list after not appearing in 2016, and readers had plenty of great things to say about the "quaint, yet culturally dynamic Spanish Colonial town with glorious weather, wonderful restaurants, and activities available for all ages." Thanks to a vibrant ex-pat community (with its own classical music society) that mixes with residents and Mexican families on holiday, the city keeps "the ambience lively and interesting," according to our reader. They also advise to visit in April, when "jacaranda blossoms adorn the city, dressing the Centro Historico in purple."

Perth, Australia

While Sydney and Melbourne have forever gotten plenty of attention, Perth has put itself on the map in recent times, becoming Australia's rising star, thanks to a boom of hip restaurants and lodging, and by adding the world's longest flight. As one reader said, "I've never said wow so many times," one vistor said. That alone says volumes.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg might make you do a double-take with its Amsterdam-esque canals—but rest assured, it's fully Swedish, with excellent Swedish coffee (they love the stuff) available for free in many places. Our readers said the city's "beauty is unmatched and the people are friendly," and even better, it's walkability is a joy. Or, if you prefer, "take a Hop on/Hop off tour and a Paddan boat tour," to get a better sense of the river city. It's great for kids, too, as there's "everything from amusement parks to aquariums, but just visiting the city centre is a joy for the small ones."

Evora, Portugal

Portugal's been trending for years now—but don't just stick to Lisbon and Porto. Evora, in central Portugal, has readers raving about the old town, saying its "food is superb" and the wine among the world's best. After you polish off that Madeira, take a stroll around town, since it's an "easy walk to the Roman Aqueduct and Temple," or, if you're in for something a bit off-kilter, visit the Chapel of Bones, "where not only the walls, but all pillars consist of human bones."

Chiang Rai, Thailand

As one reader put it, Chiang Rai is "an oasis of peace, temples, and lush greenery." If that doesn't sell you, well, elephant rides and the "great night market with friendly vendors and wonderful food" should help push you over the top. Chiang Rai belongs on any Thailand itinerary that takes you to Chiang Mai, as the two cities are only about three hours apart by car or bus.

Auckland, New Zealand

We hear a lot about “the friendliness of the Kiwis”—Auckland is no stranger to this list—but cleanliness and convenience also earn this North Island city points. “It’s an easy place to get around and has everything you need." And whether you’re seeking out the Sky Tower or great wines on Waiheke Island, the “residents are very friendly and helpful. A bus driver even got out of his bus to show us how to get to our destination.”

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Simply put by one reader, "Angkor Wat at sunrise is an experience unmatched by anything else in the world." Taking a tuk tuk to the cultural touchpoint is clearly worth the ride, but as another reader said, the Cambodian people make the country's third-largest city such a memorable visit. "They are the most beautiful and nicest locals that I have ever met. Always eager to share their story, share with you the beauty of their country, and help you navigate, but never expecting anything back."

Porto, Portugal

Portugal gets high marks again with the charming northern city of Oporto, which one reader describes as "An old, romantic, poetic, intimate, bohemian, coast city that has a lot of soul and it will make you feel alive." There, you'll be able to walk the many bridges and leave a love lock, or "learn all about Port wine and enjoy the various vintages." It has all that waterfront city nostalgia, while being a "less expensive destination than Venice with similar atmosphere," according to our readers.

Beirut, Lebanon

"Despite the political turbulence, it's always been the land of rich culture, heritage, history, art, nature & hospitable warm locals," says one astute reader. "Behind every tired sinking sun, is the rise of the Phoenix. Similarly, the love-of-life spirit of the Lebanese people... gives this beautiful city an incomparable lively soul."

Dublin, Ireland

"The people make the place" here, with "pubs and restaurants filled with locals and tourists alike, coming together to celebrate life." ("I've never been somewhere with friendlier drinkers.") "The Irish are so much fun," and "there's always a smiling face to talk to." "We had best recommendations on where to go and what to see from the locals… better than any guide book." In short (and again, in caps): "LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT IRELAND. THE PEOPLE ARE THE NICEST IN THE WORLD."

Malmo, Sweden

One of Ikea's most popular sellers draws its name from this Swedish city—but there's hardly anything cookie-cutter about the art- and design-loving city. "Sunshine, a gorgeous park, very friendly English-speaking people, small cafes, beautiful stores, a beautiful theater, clean and neat—we plan on returning soon," says one of our readers. Malmo makes itself an easy city to love.

Halifax, Canada

"There's an aura of happiness in Halifax," according to one of our readers, and you feel it in the Nova Scotian capital's European-feeling streets, and in the demeanor of the friendly residents. But plenty of readers said you go for the vibes on land and stay for all things marine, with lobster and seafood "right out of the cold north Atlantic... as fresh as you would ever get." If you're more into observing than eating, of course, Halifax is one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, and "you can whale watch, go deep sea fishing, or just watch the 78th Highlanders in kilts do their drills at the Citadel."

Wellington, New Zealand

“Wellington is just completely stunning, period.” Doesn’t leave much room for us to argue, but why would we? It’s a “beautiful port town with a vibrant waterfront, many dining options, and friendly people." It’s also “eco-friendly” (a new kind of friendly on our list) and offers great “exposure to the Maori culture.”

Luang Prabang, Laos

While the Kuang Si Falls might be the highlight of Luang Prabang, according to one reader, it's the small size and peaceful charm of Buddhist temples that make Luang Prabang so wonderful. "Sleepy, little Luang Prabang is a gem that hasn't yet been over discovered by throngs of tourists. It was our favorite place by far when traveling to Southeast Asia this year!"

Hobart, Australia

Never heard of Hobart? Well, it doesn't matter if you're a stranger to Tasmania, according to our readers. One says the "Museum of the Old and New Art is not to be missed," while a day trip to Port Arthur lets you "learn about the experiences of the convicts who came to Australia." All in all, readers said "Hobart is a wonderful little city on the water that is very easy to explore," and "if you want good seafood, pick a restaurant on the waterfront, and you will find great offerings!"