An Air New Zealand Plane Flies Over Mount Victoria
IN PHOTO: An Air New Zealand plane flies over houses in Mount Victoria as it approaches Wellington airport, October 7, 2011. Reuters/Marcos Brindicci

Travel+Leisure magazine has named New Zealand as the best country for independent and solo travellers. According to the travel magazine, New Zealand is where people can find adventure in the country's rainforests and glaciers. Travellers can go bungee jumping and trekking while meeting New Zealanders who are one of the "friendliest and most open-minded people in the world."

Reports said that aside from a certain country's safety and security, the magazine's editors also evaluated other factors that are considered important to solo travellers. People on vacation or adventure seekers usually want a "happy place" where visitors are welcome. Solo travellers want to places where they can easily interact and talk with locals. Magazine editors found solo travel is more rewarding if visitors feel a certain connection without feeling like an outsider.

In determining the list of best countries for solo travellers, editors also used the Happy Planet Index as a reference for a country's well-being and environmental impact. For safety indicators, the Global Peace Index was also used as part of the criteria.

Majority of the countries that made it to the list were from Europe, South America and Asia. The United States was surprisingly absent from the top 10 list because other countries did better in the evaluation.

According to reports, New Zealand continues to remain one of the most popular tourist destinations. Three of the country's luxury lodges were recognised as among the top 20 "international hideways" in the renowned Andrew Harper's Hideway Report.

Otahuna Lodge in Christchurch was second in the list behind Eden Rock in St Barthelemy in the French West Indies. Huka Lodge in Taupo, was ranked at ninth and Blanket Bay near Glenorchy in 16th place. The list was composed of countries selected by the publication's readers.

Reports said the Hideaway Report is recognised as a reliable source of information when looking for the best luxury travel and accommodations.

The late actor Robin Williams had previously stayed in Blanket Bay when he visited New Zealand. Prime Minister John Key had described the place as a "gorgeous five-star resort." He added that the resort was one of his favourite places to stay in New Zealand.

Travel+Leisure Top 10 Countries Best for Solo Travellers:

1. New Zealand

2. Norway

3. Switzerland

4. Costa Rica

5. Austria

6. Vietnam

7. Chile

8. Japan and Sweden

9. Indonesia

10. Germany