For the first time ever, Spain tops theas the world's most tourist-friendly country. Spain’s leadership position is helped by a world-class ranking in cultural resources (1st globally), its ability to support online searches for entertainment (4th)—a measure of how well the country has adapted to consumption habits brought on by the digital revolution—as well as excellent infrastructure (4th).

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness report ranks 141 countries across 14 categories, including business environment, culture, safety and health, with the overall ranking determined by an average of scores received. View the slideshow above to see the Top 25 countries.

Aside from Spain, European countries had a strong showing in the report, with five countries in the Top 10.Infrastructure, excellent health and hygiene conditions were some of the categories where the continent had strong rankings.

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The United States ranked 4th in the list, making it the highest ranking tourist-friendly county in the Americas, receiving a record 74 million international visitors in 2014. It was noted for its culture, entertainment and natural attractions – making it the highest ranking tourist-friendly county in the Americas, receiving a record 74 million international visitors in 2014.

Of the large emerging markets, China (17th) and Brazil (28th) made it into the top 30, whereas Russia, South Africa and India ranked 45th, 48th and 52nd, respectively. While this made Brazil and South Africa the best placed in their region, Singapore (11th) emerged as the top country in South-East Asia, and the United Arab Emirates (24th) was the highest placed nation in the Middle East and North Africa.

"The diversity in the top 30 shows that a country does not have to be wealthy to have a flourishing tourism sector,” said Roberto Crotti, Economist at the World Economic Forum. “But many countries should still do more to tackle travel and tourism challenges, including visa policies, better promotion of cultural heritage, environmental protection and ICT readiness. This in turn would drive economic growth and the creation of jobs."

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Top 25 Most Tourist-Friendly Countries

1. Spain

2. France

3. Germany

4. US

5. UK

6. Switzerland

7. Australia

8. Italy

9. Japan

10. Canada

11. Singapore

12. Austria

13. Hong Kong

14. Netherlands

14. Portugal

16. New Zealand

17. China

18. Iceland

19. Ireland

20. Norway

21. Belgium

22. Finland

23. Sweden

24. UAE

25. Malaysia

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