Ghana's efforts to become a destination of choice for foreign tourists could get a big boost if tour operators and travel agents share with their clients a recent report from Forbes magazine, which ranked Ghana as the 11th friendliest country in the world. Ghana beat better-known African tourism destinations, such as Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt and South Africa, to become the highest ranked African country.

The Forbes survey which was done in consultation with a cross-section of world travellers in 2010, found that Ghana is one of the "most welcoming nations." Thailand came first, followed by Colombia, which was said to have very pleasant citizens and was a preferred destination, in spite of the perception of being a centre for drug cartel operations.

Australia took the third place, while Costa Rica, Canada, Greece and India, captured the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh spots respectively. The United States was adjudged the eighth friendliest nation, followed by Turkey in the ninth position, New Zealand, 10th, Ghana 11th, Fiji 12th and Vietnam in 13th position.
Reasons attributed to Ghana's ranking include the perception that tourism in Ghana is "driven by natural history, colourful festivals, historic sites and the hospitable people". Unlike in many other African countries, Ghana's different ethnic groups live side by side in relative harmony. "This sub-Saharan African country is renowned for its hospitability, friendliness, tolerance and patience," the Forbes survey said of Ghana.