Since we had a post about the most friendliest countries, we should look at countries that have unexpected friendly people, not the usual answers like Ireland, Scotland, Canada, Taiwan, etc. For me it’s Montenegro. Londoners are considered to be cold and rude but I find them to be very pleasant with me.
For me it was Russia when I spent aroubd 9 days there (in and around Moscow). The people were genuinely friendly and there we not the scammers/tourist traps like in most of Europe and Asia.
The markets were as interesting as any I’ve been to in Asia/North Africa.
Back when the world is simpler (because I was young and ignorant mostly) Moscow shocked me too. Had to study there for a few years and despite their gruff outward look they are some of the friendliest I’ve met at that time.
Only exception is riding the metro/tram during rush hour. Those babushkas aren’t playing around and will tackle you down
I must say its 20 odd years ago that we went, I’m sure the world was a simpler place